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Lake County Is Building the Future,
One Elementary School at a Time
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According to U.S. News & World Report’s latest rankings, 17 Lake County elementary schools are among the Top 100 in Illinois—a testament to the strength of our educational foundation. This recognition isn’t just a point of pride; it’s a strategic advantage for our entire region. High-quality schools attract families, support a stable and growing workforce, and contribute to the overall quality of life that businesses look for when choosing where to invest or expand. Strong early education also builds long-term human capital, ensuring Lake County’s future-ready talent pipeline remains robust. It’s a win for students, families, and the economic vitality of our community. See the full list here.
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Congratulations, Shannon Eady!
We’re thrilled to recognize Shannon Eady, one of our dedicated Truancy Outreach Specialists, who recently earned her Master of Science in Psychology (MS) from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ. This accomplishment reflects Shannon’s dedication to lifelong learning and her commitment to supporting the work we do here at the ROE. We’re so proud of you!
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Chasing Dreams with Illinois Virtual School & Academy
Meet Adrian, an IVSA Academy student playing soccer in Europe:
"Being a student-athlete is not an easy job, but IVSA has allowed me to chase my dream of playing soccer while getting my education. The staff and faculty have been flexible and supportive, helping me succeed both on the field and in life. Every day, I feel grateful for belonging in a community that believes in me and lets me work toward my goals."
IVSA’s flexible online programs make it possible for students to pursue their passions — from athletics to arts — without compromising their education. Learn more at ivsaschool.org
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Virtual Learning with IVSA Opens Doors for Students and Districts
Illinois Virtual School & Academy, operated by LCROE, offers reimbursable, flexible, high-quality online learning that helps districts expand options, keep students engaged, and support every path to graduation.
Our courses include:
- AP
- Dual Credit
- CTE opportunities
- World Languages
- Effective Credit Recovery
Broaden learning opportunities, keep students on track, and prepare them for future success with the IVSA’s cost-effective, ISBE-reimbursable model.
To read the latest IVSA newsletter, click here.
| | Lake County ROE Services & Contact Information | | At the Lake County Regional Office of Education, we are committed to providing a range of services to support education and community needs. Below is a list of the services we offer. Learn more or book an appointment by clicking the buttons below. | | Time is running out to register for the 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee! | | |
Lake County ROE is proud to serve as the official regional partner for this exciting academic competition — but the school enrollment deadline is fast approaching at the end of December.
Don’t miss this chance to give your students the opportunity to shine, strengthen their language skills, and represent your school on the national stage!
Register your school today at spellingbee.com
School champions will advance to the Lake County Regional Bee in Spring 2026, and our regional winner will compete in Washington, D.C., at the National Spelling Bee.
Let’s make sure every Lake County school has a chance to join the excitement — sign up now before the deadline passes!
| | Lake County Rising is once again hosting its annual youth contest, inviting middle school students to submit original artwork and high school students to share their creativity through art, essays, or poetry. This year’s theme—“Reclaim. Resist. Rise. Against abuse. Against toxic norms. For every girl’s right to be real.”—encourages young people to reflect on strength, empowerment, and change. Contest details and entry forms are attached; please help share this opportunity with students, teachers, and youth leaders. Submissions are due January 19, 2026, with winners notified by February 2 and recognized at the Lake County Rising program on February 9 at the College of Lake County. For more information | | |
Dolly Parton Imagination Library provides FREE books to Lake County residents (birth to 5)
All Lake County families can now enroll in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, thanks to the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation (LCROEF). This cherished program delivers free, high-quality books each month to children from birth to age five, regardless of income.
Enroll a child here.
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Supporting Well-Being
The Lake County ROE has partnered with ReferralGPS to help students, staff, and families find local mental health and substance use resources. The service includes a searchable database and Care Navigation for triage, appointment scheduling, and follow-up, complementing existing district supports.
School families may access ReferralGPS in two ways
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Administrator Academy
AA#1414 – Communicating with Staff Regarding Performance Assessments – December 11
This course equips administrators with practical strategies for delivering difficult performance feedback with confidence, respect, and professionalism. Participants will learn to build trust, anticipate challenging behavior, use effective listening and questioning techniques, and create action plans to address performance issues. Strategies for handling staff who resist improvement will also be provided. Presented by Susan Baker. [Register Here]
AA# 4150 Promoting Inclusivity and Equity: Understanding and Combating Antisemitism in Public Schools - January 28th @Stevenson High School
With antisemitism on the rise in the U.S. and worldwide, it’s more important than ever for schools to ensure students feel safe, included, and supported. This academy provides educators a brave space to understand Jewish identity, recognize and respond to antisemitism, and engage in meaningful conversations to foster inclusive learning environments PK-12.
Participants will gain tools to assess personal biases, address antisemitism in schools, and implement equity-based strategies for lasting change. Presenters: Dr. Dean Bell and Dr. Keren Fraiman. [Register Here]
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AI Symposium: Shaping the Future of Learning
Join us on Friday, Dec. 5 (9 AM–1 PM) at 1905 W. Field Court, Lake Forest for the AI Symposium, a free event hosted by LEAP Innovations in partnership with the Lake County ROE.
Discover how local educators and leaders are integrating AI to create equitable, innovative, and student-centered learning. Hear real-world case studies, gain practical insights, and connect with districts leading AI efforts across Lake County and Chicagoland.
Optional Deep Dive Session (1:30–3 PM) to explore AI integration in deeper, student-owned learning.
Featured Speakers:
Dr. Michael Karner • Dr. Danielle Arnold • Lisa Berghoff
Alexa Dunn & Dr. Bryan Zwemke • Dr. Mike Lubelfeld • Dr. Victor Wight • Scott Frauenheim
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The Raising Student Achievement Conference (RSAC) offers educators across Illinois a wonderful professional learning opportunity with excellent keynote speakers and timely, topical breakout sessions that provide attendees with a mix of reflection, inspiration, and practical strategies.
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Event: Internship and Career Fair
Date: December 11th, 2025
Time: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Location: 1200 University Center Drive Grayslake, IL 60030
Internship & Career Expo 2025
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Education leaders are continuing to look for clear guidance on how to help students and teachers thrive in an AI-driven decade. On January 8th, we're hosting a conversation with Superintendent Michael Lubelfeld, North Shore School District 112, explores how intentional AI use strengthens teacher readiness, supports multilingual and diverse learners, and creates measurable gains in classrooms.
You will also hear how educators are using MagicSchool to increase impact with ethical, structured AI practices.
Register for “Future-Ready Districts: Preparing Students and Teachers for the Next Decade with AI”
| Call for Speakers/Papers is now open! | The Lake County Regional Office of Education is excited to announce that the Call for Speakers/Papers is now open for our Third County-Wide Institute Day on Friday, February 13, 2026. With three conferences happening on one day—PK-5, Grades 6–12, and Special Education—we’re seeking dynamic educators and experts to lead engaging 50–60 minute breakout sessions. Each location will welcome over 1,100 educators and staff, offering a powerful opportunity to share your expertise in areas such as climate and culture, student engagement, multilingual learning, differentiation, DEI, special education, content-area instruction, and more. If you’re passionate about elevating educator practice in Lake County, we invite you to submit your proposal and be part of this impactful day of learning! For more information | |
February 27-28, 2026– Save the Date for Illinois Teacher Leadership Summit 2026!
The summit will be held February 27-28th, 2026, at the Holiday Inn in Normal, IL. Registration has begun and you can get an early bird special rate here.
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North Central College Offers Degrees, Certificates & Flexible Training for Every Educator
North Central College offers Lake County educators multiple pathways for growth—including leadership degrees, teacher licensure, PD workshops, special education endorsements, tuition discounts, and on-site info visits.
Questions? Email Us!
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SAVE THE DATE
Educators Rising Annual Conference
Thursday, April 9, 2026
Don't miss the opportunity to plan for your future as an educator while networking with leaders in education and fellow high school students from across the state! Middle/High School Students and their current educators can receive professional development from engaging experts. Attend the Future Educator Resource fair to visit with educational institutions from across Illinois. Take advantage of optional activities such as skills-attainment competitions and campus tours.
PLAN TO ATTEND THIS INSPIRATIONAL DAY!
For more information, email educatorsrising@ieanea.org or call (815)713-4788.
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Aspiring Educators
For those who have not completed a teacher preparation program but already hold a bachelor’s degree and are interested in changing careers, the alternative route to licensure may be right for you. Reach out to one of
the Illinois colleges listed here to inquire about completing such program. Work closely with the college throughout the entire process to gain initial licensure. Directory of Approved Programs
Important to watch expiration dates
The short-term approval for paraprofessionals is only temporary. It is valid for three years. The individual must complete requirements for the paraprofessional license before the approval expires if they wish to continue working. It is important for districts and educators to understand when the approval expires. It is no longer eligible for employment if it has expired.
TBE- Transitional Bilingual Educator
The TBE requires a bachelor’s degree and the target language proficiency test. This license type is only temporary, valid for five years. If not a PEL holder, the individual must complete an approved teaching
program with added bilingual and /or ESL (as needed) before the TBE expires. It is important to allow at least two years before the TBE is set to expire to complete requirements. If the individual already holds a PEL, they
must complete requirements for the bilingual and/or ESL endorsement (as needed) before the TBE expires. Employing districts should follow up with these educators to be sure requirements are on track for completion
before the TBE expires.
Licensure Support
If you have questions regarding licensure, you may email us at: licensure@lake.k12.il.us You can also book an appointment for licensure support on our website (Click Here) When booking, there is the option to select in-person, phone, or virtual meeting.
Substitute Training
Our office offers substitute training available on line24/7.
There is a $25 fee for this training. It is required for those with a short-term substitute license, however it is available for any substitute teacher. Some of the topics reviewed are school safety, professionalism, classroom
management, district operations, DCFS reporting, and bullying. More info here.
Changes to Reciprocity
Beginning January 1st, 2026, to qualify for reciprocity in Illinois will require passing the Illinois content area test(s) in addition to your official transcript and valid out of state license.
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Infant/Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (I/ECMHC) connects a mental health consultant with adults caring for young children in settings like child care, preschool, home visiting, and early intervention. It’s not therapy or behavior modification—consultation helps caregivers support children’s social and emotional development.
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