Illinois Schools Face More Financial Cuts (IL)

February 18, 2011

Proposed cuts in education spending have many Metro East school officials fuming and searching for a ‘plan B.’

Nearly half of the 7,000 students in the Granite City School District ride buses to and from school. Some parents are concerned about plans to reduce transportation because of the state’s budget woes. Governor Pat Quinn’s proposal would strip about $ 95 million from school transportation.

District officials say they cut back on personnel and transportation last year. Now they are facing the same issues with even fewer dollars from the state.

The proposed budget would cancel state funding of regional education offices. But educators say the agencies provide needed services including teacher certification and GED programs.

There is some talk among lawmakers that consolidating or merging school districts would save money.
But many educators, including Granite City Superintendent Harry Briggs, say such moves could cost more money if the consolidated districts are too far apart geographically.

A consolidation would requirement agreement from voters in both districts.

Governor Quinn’s proposal would increase the amount of money that goes into the general education fund, but it would still be lower than it was two years ago.