Education board optimistic about proposed budget increase

Posted on January 26, 2015

The Illinois State Board of Education is asking the state for $730 million more for fiscal year 2016. (WJBC file photo.)

By Joe Ragusa

BLOOMINGTON – The Illinois State Board of Education wants the state to start fully funding schools. That's why the board is asking for a $730 million increase in state funding next year.

The recommended $7.5 billion budget is still five percent less than the budget in 2009.

Spokeswoman Mary Fergus said the board expects the state legislature to approve the proposed budget increase, despite tough economic times.

"The board is really in the position to make the best case for these funds, to advocate for increased funding, to be able to fully fund General State Aid as required in law," Fergus said.

The state is mandated to fund schools at a rate of $6,119 per student. Fergus said lawmakers have failed to meet that requirement for the last four years.

Lawmakers aren't required to draft a budget until February.

Joe Ragusa can be reached at [email protected].

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