SPRINGFIELD - Over 120 school superintendents, as well as business and community leaders, issued a call to action last week to Governor-Elect Bruce Rauner to support the School Funding Reform Act - a school finance re-shuffle that will cost suburban districts millions of dollars.
The reform plan the superintendents favor is contained in State Senator Andy Manar's SB 16, which will send more funds to Chicago and rural schools. While a vote was expected during the veto session, State Rep. Linda Chapa-Lavia said she would most likely not be calling it for a vote until after the new session begins next January.
“The time is now,” said Peoria Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan. “As the superintendent of Peoria Public Schools, it is my responsibility to speak up for the 13,976 students enrolled in our schools. Our district, like many others in Illinois, has been faced with an overwhelming challenge: providing our students with a great education in the face of growing needs and fewer resources.
Dr. Lathan went on to say, “We invite Governor-Elect Rauner not only to join our effort, but to lead the effort to change the funding disparity in how the state funds public education earning us the sad distinction of coming in last in the entire country. We want to work with him and his Administration to find a more equitable solution.”
Tony Sanders, Elgin U-46 CEO said “U-46 has been at a funding disadvantage for decades because Illinois’ funding formula provides the least for low-income areas.” Sanders went on to say, “Additionally, the state has not fully funded public schools for several years and our district has lost $36 million in state aid in the past four years alone. U-46 will be a vocal proponent for this reform bill because it creates a more equitable system for our students.”
