ISBE Engages Fairgoers with Interactive Trivia, Giveaways, and Family Resources, Celebrating 'Innovation in Illinois' at the 2025 Illinois State Fair

ISBE to showcase education's role in innovation in Lt. Governor's Tent at both Springfield and Du Quoin fairgrounds

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has announced its participation in the 2025 Illinois State Fair, where it will engage fairgoers with interactive trivia, giveaways, and family resources, celebrating "Innovation in Illinois." ISBE's booth in Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton's Tent will showcase education's role in innovation at both the Springfield and Du Quoin fairgrounds.

"Our booth will bring to life the connection between Illinois' innovative spirit and the vital role education plays in shaping future thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "We invite families to stop by the Lt. Governor's Tent as we offer fun and meaningful activities and giveaways for fairgoers of all ages."

Fairgoers can test their knowledge by matching Illinois innovators to their inventions and hometowns. Visitors also can pick up the new Family Engagement School Year Calendar, which includes helpful resources for families to celebrate special dates throughout the academic year, suggestions to spur innovative thinking at home, and tips to support their children's educational journey throughout the year.

As a special thank-you, educators who visit the booth will receive a gift in recognition of their role in inspiring innovation in the next generation.

ISBE's booth also will offer resources and giveaways that highlight the agency's work to support student success and well-being across Illinois. Visitors can pick up materials on school nutrition programs, how to access mental and behavioral health services through the BEACON care portal, and how to become a teacher in Illinois. Staff also will share career guides for middle and high school students and information about careers at ISBE, and will encourage fairgoers to celebrate Illinois educators by submitting nominations for the agency's Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year educator recognition programs.

Fairgoers can visit the Lt. Governor's Tent in:

• Springfield - Daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Aug. 7-17

• Du Quoin - Weekdays 4-7 p.m. and on weekends/Labor Day 11:30 a.m.-6 p.m., Aug. 22 - Sept. 1