Dupage Policy Journal

There is nothing new and improved in the school funding formula put forth by Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill), Rep. Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton) argues, according to a press release from her office.

According to the Illinois General Assembly, Senate Bill 1 resets the funding formula based on a school district’s evidence of need. The bill is part of the Senate’s “grand bargain” budget, which remains under consideration.

Ives, who agrees with the need for major school funding reform, said SB1 doesn't actually change the way funds are allocated to local school districts.

"Under Manar’s plan, over 90% of the General State Aid funding would continue to be spent under the old rules," she said, according to the press release. "Only new dollars would be spent under the new rules. In fact, the state would have to add over $5 billion in new education spending just to get to the point where the majority of education dollars were distributed under the new formula. The prospect of the state being able to afford such new dollars in the foreseeable future is nil.,

SB1 passed the Senate in mid-May; the House has a Wednesday deadline to pass or reject it before the legislative session ends.

"Manar’s bill is a disaster and moreover, it is deceptive," Ives said, according to the press release. "The new formula is actually worse than the old formula. Education funding is too important an issue to get wrong. Our students deserve better; whether they live in the city, suburbs, or a rural community. Let’s work together to agree on an education funding reform plan that lifts up every student in the State of Illinois."