Metro East Sun

Jennifer Korte, vice chairwoman of the Madison County Republicans, said that lowering academic standards in Illinois is a misguided attempt to conceal systemic failures. She emphasized to Metro East Sun that real progress depends on parental involvement and accountability.

"The Illinois education system is failing students by considering reduced testing standards," said Korte. "True improvement comes from better teaching and stronger family involvement, not manipulating data. Lowering expectations won't make students smarter or more prepared. It only makes the system look better on paper while students fall behind."

According to Chalkbeat, Illinois education officials are considering lowering the score required for students to be deemed proficient on state standardized tests. The officials argue that current benchmarks are too high and do not accurately reflect students’ readiness for college or careers. State Superintendent Tony Sanders said that many students are unfairly labeled ‘not proficient.’ The Illinois State Board of Education began crafting new potential testing systems on May 14, which would include setting lower score benchmarks. If approved in August, the new scores would affect spring 2025 test results.

The Illinois Policy Institute reported in August that Illinois faces persistent academic challenges. In 2023, only 35% of elementary students read at grade level, and 27% met math standards. Proficiency rates remain below pre-pandemic levels, with 81 public schools reporting no third-grade students reading at grade level—51 in Chicago alone. Despite record education funding of $10.9 billion for 2024-2025, proficiency and enrollment continue to decline. Topics for school leadership to address include low academic performance, absenteeism, and other critical issues to ensure students graduate equipped for future success, emphasizing the importance of foundational skills like reading by third grade.

Korte was first elected as Vice Chairwoman of the Madison County Republicans in 2024. As Vice Chairwoman, her focus is boosting the party's communication, helping new candidates, and educating the public about various legislation impacting the community. She is an advocate for children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. Korte and her family reside in Edwardsville.