Dupage Policy Journal

On January 13, 2025, we at the DuPage Policy Journal submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Butler School District 53. The request was specifically about the number of non-U.S. citizens, also referred to as "migrants," currently enrolled in the school district.

As a media organization dedicated to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe it is our responsibility to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency to the public. Access to such public records is essential for us to fulfill these professional responsibilities.

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, under which this request was made, provides a legal mechanism for citizens and organizations alike to access public records. We requested this information preferably in an electronic format for ease of analysis and dissemination.

In addition, we highlighted our eligibility for a fee waiver as a media professional involved in gathering and reporting news to the public.

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 look forward to sharing more information with you as we continue our work towards greater transparency and accountability within our local government institutions.