Illinois School Funding Debate: Challenges and Perspectives

Governor JB Pritzker recently accepted support from the Illinois suburban teachers’ union while expressing doubts about another union’s request for increased funding for Chicago Public Schools (CPS). Pritzker, highlighting the state’s financial constraints, questioned where additional funds could be sourced if Chicago alone receives them without statewide allocation.

Pritzker noted, “If you’d like, I can pull the pockets out of my trousers to show you that the state does not have dollars that are just laying around.” This response was directed towards the $150 million CPS funding proposal, which has become a contentious issue ahead of the General Assembly’s fall veto session.

The Illinois Education Association (IEA), the state’s largest union representing educators outside Chicago, recently backed Pritzker. This endorsement came after the CPS board, led by the Chicago Teachers Union’s advocacy, passed an almost $10 billion budget, anticipating $150 million in state funding not currently allocated.

Pritzker emphasized that any decision to increase CPS funding should include funds for schools across Illinois. He stated, “Remember, it’s near impossible to decide you’re going to do that and not also provide resources for schools all across the state of Illinois.” Pritzker highlighted the difficulty of finding $450 million to $600 million to cover both CPS and other important budgetary priorities.

IEA President Karl Goeke clarified that their union’s endorsement didn’t suggest conflict with the Illinois Federation of Teachers or Chicago Teachers Union, indicating their endorsement follows a separate process. He mentioned the strong working relationship among the unions while avoiding direct comments on the CPS funding push, stating a lack of detailed knowledge.

The proposed changes would require three-fifths supermajority approval in the Illinois House and Senate. Some lawmakers, including Democrats, expressed doubts about passing the supplemental budget for CPS. State Rep. Daniel Didech criticized the CPS board’s reliance on state budget changes, warning of possible implications for other local governments and nonprofit organizations.

Pritzker had previously warned of the lack of revenue for the CPS plan. The Board, backed by CTU, aims to use the budget pressure to urge state lawmakers into action. Their argument focuses on the chronic underfunding of CPS and the necessity to restore numerous positions and protect classroom budgets.

Concerns were raised by Macquline King, CPS CEO, about the risky budget decision made following Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch’s suggestion for potential additional funding. However, the source of this funding remains uncertain. Welch’s comments also stem from his efforts to maintain political support amidst a separate investigation.

Pritzker has kept pressure on Welch, stating a plan for the expected revenue is not yet clear. He noted he did not seek endorsement from the CTU, nor participated in any related endorsement processes. Pritzker’s opponent in the upcoming election is Darren Bailey, known for founding a “Christ-centered” private school.

The CPS Board’s push for more state money is grounded in the state’s funding formula, which aims to prioritize needier districts. However, consensus on obtaining additional funds remains elusive. State Rep. Rita Mayfield, from a low-income district, plans to advocate for her schools during the upcoming veto session. Similarly, State Rep. Bob Morgan supports a statewide funding focus, echoing concerns from other suburban Democrats.

State Rep. Will Davis, chairing the House Appropriations Committee for K-12 education, stressed the need for discussions to support all schools eligible for evidence-based funding, pointing out the impracticality of focusing solely on Chicago during the veto session. He advised the new CPS board members about the complex nature of governmental procedures.