Illinois Federation of Teachers Statement on New Law Prioritizing Teaching Over Testing in Illinois Classrooms

Westmont, Illinois – Today, Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 28 into law, correcting flaws in the 2010 Performance Evaluation Reform Act. The Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) applauds this move to restore local control, allowing districts to decide if student test scores are used to evaluate educators. IFT President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement:

“SB 28 is a step forward in reducing the overreliance on standardized testing and recognizing that one-size-fits-all teacher evaluations don’t work. Not all educators, districts, or students are the same, and they shouldn’t be measured by the same metrics. This law restores trust in educators and school leaders to make decisions locally through the joint committee process, allowing teachers more time to focus on what matters most: teaching, supporting, and connecting with their students.

“As a former English teacher, I know firsthand that students need time between assessments to learn and grow. Teaching isn’t just about measuring progress, it’s about helping students make progress. That takes time, trust, and targeted support. Repeated standardized testing doesn’t give educators the space to do that. Teachers, students, and parents all agree there’s simply too much testing in our schools, and it’s getting in the way of real learning.

“We thank Governor JB Pritzker, the General Assembly, and our bill sponsors

State Senator Kimberly Lightford and State Representative Laura Faver Dias for their leadership in taking this important step to center our teachers and students. Their action sends a clear message: we trust educators, value student learning, and are committed to building stronger, more equitable schools.”

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