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SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is asking members of the public to give their input on state funding for public education. ISBE is accepting funding requests in writing on the ISBE Agency Budget Information webpage. Past requests have led to increased investments in Evidence-Based Funding, early childhood education, Career and Technical Education programs, and more. ISBE wants Illinois' school leaders, classroom teachers, parents, and community advocates to share what investments would make the biggest difference for their students.
After submitting a request online, individuals have the option to attend one of three budget hearings during the month of October. The first two hearings are next week on Oct. 3 and Oct. 5. The public’s input will inform the funding recommendation ISBE will provide to lawmakers for fiscal year 2025.
“Everyone has a stake in public education. We invite educators, parents, students, and community members across Illinois to participate in the budgeting process for Illinois’ public schools,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “We want to know what investments would make the biggest difference for the students and educators in each community. Advocacy matters and truly makes a difference in how state funds are allocated.”
“The Board thoroughly considers and evaluates the information provided to us through this budget engagement process. The input will help us advocate for equitable funding for all students,” said ISBE Finance and Audit Committee Chair Dr. Christine Benson. ”We will continue to align our budget recommendation to our Strategic Plan and goals – to provide each and every student in our state with safe and engaging schools, excellent teachers, and equitable learning opportunities.”
The input ISBE receives will inform the Board’s budget proposal for equitable funding for all students in FY 2025. ISBE will submit its recommendation for state education funding to Governor JB Pritzker and the General Assembly in January.
Individuals wishing to participate must submit their testimony in writing by completing the form on the ISBE Agency Budget Information webpage. After submitting testimony in writing, individuals are welcome also to speak at one of three budget hearings. ISBE will give equal consideration to all written and oral testimony.
ISBE will host hearings:
4-7 p.m. Oct. 3 – This is an in-person hearing that will be held in the Board Room at 100 N. First St., Springfield, IL 62777.
4-7 p.m. Oct. 5 – This is a virtual hearing. (Members of the media can listen in by registering here and selecting “listen only attendee.”)
1-4 p.m. Oct. 30 – This is a virtual hearing. (Members of the media can listen in by registering here and selecting “listen only attendee.”)
ISBE is committed to providing equitable opportunities for participation. Persons who need special accommodation, including language translation services, should contact ISBE Language Access Coordinator Ana Arredondo at [email protected] or 312-814-5818 or contact ISBE by TTY/TDD at 888-261-2708.