Dupage Policy Journal

On January 13, 2025, we at the DuPage Policy Journal sent a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Center Cass School District 66 in Illinois. The request was made to obtain information regarding the number of non-U.S. citizens, often referred to as "migrants" or "illegal aliens," currently enrolled in the school district.

The request was made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, and we expressed our preference for receiving the data in an electronic format. As a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, access to such public records is crucial for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities.

Our work includes holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.

In relation to this request, it's worth noting some statistics about education in Illinois. According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, and the state average Administrative Salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is 141:1, and the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Interestingly enough, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.

We will continue our pursuit of transparency and accountability from public institutions like Center Cass School District 66 and look forward to sharing more information with you as it becomes available.