Climate Change and AI in Illinois K-12 Classrooms: A Statewide Survey of Teachers

A survey of Illinois K-12 teachers in late 2025 offers a snapshot of two forces reshaping classroom practice: the integration of AI into education and the upcoming 2026 implementation of the statewide CCE mandate. Taken together, the findings revealed that teachers are engaged in these contemporary issues and are concerned about their implications, but are left to decide how to incorporate each into their teaching practice and classrooms. The report (below) provides insights into the current patterns of AI use, teachers’ perceptions and practices related to CCE, familiarity with the upcoming state mandate, and perceived barriers to implementation. The report further highlights ongoing questions regarding teacher readiness, access to professional learning opportunities and resources, and makes recommendations for the supports educators may need as schools respond to these rapidly evolving educational and societal changes.

Team Members

Sam Lindgren

Aigul Rakisheva

Carine Verschueren



Sustainable Futures Lab
Email: salindgr@illinois.edu