Dupage Policy Journal

Stephanie Trussell, a candidate for the Illinois House of Representatives District 42, has called for Chicago schools to address inefficiencies and low enrollment before seeking additional taxpayer funding. Her statement was made on the social media platform X.

"Chicago media is laser focused on JB-Brandon vs. Trump as little is being said about the battle over tax payers money, Brandon-CTU vs. JB," said Trussell. "Many schools are nearly empty? Smart businesses would close those schools. Cut waste before demanding more of our money."

Debates over school funding in Illinois have become more intense as Governor J.B. Pritzker, the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), and city leaders dispute resource allocation. The CTU has accused Pritzker of not prioritizing education despite providing tax breaks to corporations. In response, Pritzker argues that the state does not have the capacity for significant new spending. This ongoing conflict highlights the tension between fiscal constraints and demands for equitable investment in public schools.

According to a report by the Civic Federation, Chicago Public Schools (CPS) currently enroll approximately 325,000 students, but there is uneven use of school buildings. The report indicates that 58% of CPS schools are underutilized, with 154 facilities operating at less than 50% capacity. Meanwhile, 37% of schools are efficiently used and 5% are overcrowded. These figures highlight how declining enrollment has led to disparities in resource utilization across the system.

Studies on CPS financial efficiency reveal significant gaps between costs and outcomes. Average per-pupil spending is about $18,700; however, under-enrolled schools spend much more. For instance, Frederick Douglass Academy spends over $93,000 per student for just 28 enrollees, while DuSable High School costs nearly $50,000 per student. According to ProPublica, these inefficiencies result from declining enrollment and excess infrastructure.

Trussell was previously the Republican lieutenant governor nominee in 2022 alongside gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey. A conservative mother and grandmother, she was selected to enhance the ticket’s communication strategy and grassroots appeal. Despite having limited prior elected experience, she was recognized for her political commentary and activism.