Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has recognized 2,422 high school graduates from the Class of 2024 for earning College and Career Pathway Endorsements on their diplomas. This achievement signifies a student's knowledge and practical experience in a specific area, similar to declaring a major in college.

Nearly half of the school districts have adopted the pathway endorsement program ahead of its statewide requirement. The number of endorsements for the Class of 2024 more than doubled compared to the previous year, highlighting the growth of this initiative.

State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders stated, “High school is a critical time for preparing students for their future. The College and Career Pathway Endorsement program plays a key role in ensuring they are ready for life after graduation. By connecting students with real-world experiences and specialized coursework, we are giving them the tools to thrive in both college and career."

By the 2026-27 school year, all high schools must offer at least one endorsement, with larger districts required to provide up to three by 2030-31. Currently, about half of Illinois' districts have already begun offering these programs.

In the last academic year, 94 districts offered endorsements across eight fields. Human and Public Services was notably popular, with 935 graduates specializing in areas like education and law enforcement.

The endorsements were established under Illinois' 2015 Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act to encourage early career consideration among students. They signal readiness for higher education or employment by demonstrating proficiency in relevant skills.

Students earn endorsements through individualized plans that include hands-on career exploration, internships, two years of related coursework with early college credit opportunities, and meeting non-remedial college standards.

Endorsements awarded included: Arts and Communications (60), Agriculture (168), Finance (376), Health Sciences (621), Human Services (935), Information Technology (81), Manufacturing (175), and Multidisciplinary (6).

For further details on this program or professional learning opportunities available for district personnel, visit ISBE's website dedicated to College and Career Pathway Endorsements.