Illinois International Economic Summit

Trade alliances, World Bank loans, infrastructure, human and natural resources - all are part of an exciting curriculum and simulation being used by schools around Illinois to help students better understand trade issues and the benefits of trade in the global economy. The International Economic Summit™ (IES) is a world trade simulation developed by the Idaho Council on Economic Education, designed to educate high school students about essential economic concepts and the benefits of trade while exploring the controversies associated with globalization. Working in small groups, student teams adopt a country and take on the role of economic advisor for that country. Each team conducts extensive research on their country. The goal for each student team is to evaluate conditions within their country and develop a strategic plan to improve living standards.

The thirteen-lesson curriculum culminates in a one-day Summit event where all countries and their economic advisors implement their strategic plans through negotiation and trade. All Summer Academy 2003 and 2004 Illinois Global Economics & Finance High School (IGEF) teachers have been trained in implementing this program in their curriculum. Currently, ten high schools are incorporating IES within their current curriculums.

The Illinois Council on Economic Education will be sponsoring the first Illinois International Economic Summit (IIES) competition on May 20 at Kaneland High School in Maple Park. Seven schools will send their local teams of students to compete in this statewide event to demonstrate their knowledge of economics and geography. Participating in the inaugural event will be Athens High School in Athens, Bloomington High School in Bloomington, Bogan High School in Chicago, Harlem High School in Machesney Park, Joliet Central High School in Joliet, Kaneland High School in Maple Park, and Marshall Metro High School in Chicago. Businesses, education leaders, and public officials from participating communities are invited and welcome to participate in and observe this event.

For more information about IIES and to learn how your school can become involved in future events, please contact Terry Borg or Nancy Harrison at the Illinois Council office, 815-753-0356.