Kane County Reporter

As the Chicago Teacher’s Union (CTU) demands an additional $1 billion in state funding for Chicago Public Schools, Senate Republican Caucus leaders argue that recent funding numbers contradict many of the CTU’s claims. This comes as 600 members of the CTU took a taxpayer-funded day off at the Capitol to press their demands.

Senate Republican Deputy Leader Sue Rezin (R-Morris), State Senator Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles), and State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) claim that Chicago Public Schools have received numerous special financial deals in recent years, which other schools have not been privy to. They further note that several other school districts throughout Illinois are grappling with more severe financial challenges.

Rezin stated, “I am a strong supporter of investing in our public schools which is why I had an active role in the bipartisan Evidence-Based Funding formula that I voted for seven years ago. EBF took years of hard work and negotiations from countless advocates and stakeholders and ensured that no school district was a winner or loser. Every district was guaranteed the same level of funding that they received before EBF was implemented.” She added that this law aimed to provide all schools in Illinois with adequate resources.

Under the Evidence-Based Funding (EBF) model, school districts are divided into a four-tier system, with Tier One school districts being those most in need of new state funding for adequate student education. Since the funding formula's implementation, along with additional state support, CPS has already advanced to Tier 2.

Senator DeWitte noted that CPS has received a disproportionate share of the state’s education resources through special carve-outs and unique grants over many years. He criticized both the Mayor and CTU for attempting to pressure lawmakers into providing funds they claim they are being shortchanged on.

Senator Lewis expressed concern about the demands made by Chicago Mayor and CTU members amidst tight budget constraints faced by Illinois while crafting the Fiscal Year 2025 budget. He criticized their tactics and urged Chicago to start paying its own bills, suggesting that when there is a financial need within a school district, they should go to referendum like the suburbs do.

The Senate Republican Caucus leaders have vowed to continue advocating for taxpayers and ensuring equal funding for schools throughout Illinois.