The ArtsEd Lab
Building a stronger future for arts education in Illinois.
About the ArtsEd Lab
Working together, The ArtsEdLab advances strong public policies, increased funding, and expanding public will for arts education through state advocacy efforts, data collection, and robust narrative building.
Since 2024, the ArtsEdLab has been working closely with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to develop the Illinois State Seal for Excellence in the Arts, which will roll out from 2027-2030, and into the future recognizing school, district, and student excellence in the arts to guide continuous improvement and leverage additional funding for school arts programs.
Who is in the ArtsEdLab?
The ArtsEdLab is composed of a number of statewide stakeholders, convened by Arts Alliance Illinois, with a shared commitment to the goal of every Illinois student having consistent access to a robust high-quality arts education supported by funding, policy and data.
The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Department of Arts Education works to ensure that every Chicago Public Schools student receives a high-quality arts education by creating conditions at the classroom, school, district, and state level that allow the arts to grow and flourish. Learn more about CPS Arts.
The Illinois Dance Education Organization (ILDEO) is the Illinois affiliate of the National Dance Education Organization and supports dance educators throughout the state of Illinois through professional learning opportunities, community engagement, and advocacy. Learn more about ILDEO.
The Illinois Art Education Association advances excellence in art education through advocacy, professional development, innovation, research, and collaboration. The association supports quality art instruction while strengthening its membership, cultivating leadership, and promoting effective organizational operations. Learn more about IAEA.
Illinois Thespians Society enriches theatre education by honoring student achievement, supporting teachers through professional development and resources, and influencing public opinion on theatre education as essential, lifebuilding skills. Learn more about ITS.
The Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) is the statewide organization for music educators in Illinois dedicated to promoting lifelong music learning and providing comprehensive leadership for music education. Learn more about ILMEA.
Founded to bridge the gap in arts education access, Ingenuity is dedicated to ensuring that every student can discover a creative outlet to fully express their artistic potential. We’re driven by a passion for equity, collaboration, and transformative learning experiences that empower students, educators, and communities alike. Learn more about Ingenuity.
