The Illinois State Board of Education is looking for seven new members to serve on its advisory council for bilingual education.

The council was established more than 40 years ago by state law. It recently contributed to recommendations for teacher standards, qualifications and evaluations. Officials say that developing recommendations and advice for the state board concerning English learners is a key point of the council's focus.

The new members would serve three-year terms and be expected to attend four meetings per year, and participate in additional gatherings and special projects. Bilingual program directors, superintendents, parents, university faculty and members of community organizations have served as council members.

Candidates must apply to the state board by July 28. The new terms begin in September.