Are Illinois Schools Wrong on Reading?
Some educators in Illinois are challenging the way reading is traditionally taught in schools. They say a more evidence-based approach would get more kids reading at grade level. Cassie Walker Burke is an editor at WBEZ and recently reported on how Illinois, including Chicago Public schools, could change the way they teach reading. She talks with host Jacoby Cochran about how reading is taught in Illinois and why some students might be falling behind.
Some good news: Catch a week of storytelling at the Fillet of Solo festival in Rogers Park starting Friday. Plus, catch Jacoby’s solo show “Lessons from Granny” on Sunday.
Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago
Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm
Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Your Guide to July 2026 in Chicago
As summer really takes off, the food fests, fireworks shows, and WNBA All Star Weekend have us really excited for July. Here’s your guide...

Extreme Heat, Indiana Fireworks, and 'The Bear' Finale
Extreme heat warnings, corn sweat, and potential thunderstorms could make this the most volatile weather week of the summer so far. Execu...

Seriously, More Parking Meter Drama? Plus, More Mayoral Candidates
Chicago’s infamous parking meters are up for sale. In a City Council committee meeting last week, alders got more insight into the mayor’...

How Quantum Is Already Changing the South Side. Plus, Heat Wave Approaching
Earlier this month, Advocate Health Care broke ground on a new hospital at the south end of the forthcoming 440-acre Quantum Shore Campus...

FCC Comes For ABC Chicago, The Bear is Back, and Get Free Coffee
The Federal Communications Commission has ABC 7 Chicago and other local stations in its crosshairs as the FCC has ordered an accelerated...

How Much To Run For Mayor? Plus, Elise Malary Plaza and City Hall Art Missing
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who has been floated as a potential candidate for mayor, recently received $255,000 from a local un...

Schools' Fundraising, Chicago’s Plan for 78, and ‘Ferris Bueller’s’ Turns 40
Principals, local school councils, and parent groups are getting increasingly creative with their fundraising. In 2025, Chicago schools s...

City Will Buy Greyhound Terminal, Chicago's 'Friendship Recession,' and We Want 4 a.m. Tacos!
Last week, the City Council voted to purchase the downtown Greyhound bus terminal. We discuss the details and what’s next for the critica...

So Everyone's Running For Mayor. Plus, How To Do Pride Fest!
We’ve got more mayoral candidates ahead of February’s primary after former Ald. George Cardenas (12th) officially launched his campaign....

Is Chicago Really Over Ye? Plus, Best Summer Museum Exhibits
A week before the Bears season kicks off, Soldier Field will be home to one of Chicago’s most controversial sons, Kanye West. The Bully t...

