Governor JB Pritzker declared April 22-26 as the first Illinois Science Education week. April 22 marks the 50th anniversary of the first-ever national Earth Day. Illinois adopted new learning standards in science in 2014 that build on children’s inherent curiosity. Today, science education in Illinois emphasizes an engaged, hands-on learning experience, in which teachers facilitate student-led inquiry, discussion, research, and real-world experiments.

Illinois Science Education Week celebrates science educators across the state for their work in developing the innovative thinkers and problem-solvers Illinois needs to lead the country and the world. Engage in the celebration by tweeting about your activities for Illinois Science Education Week with #ILScienceWeek!