SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — The Illinois State Board
of Education is giving taxpayers a chance to weigh in on school funding in the
next state budget.
The board said Monday it is launching a series of
public hearings to gather feedback.
Officials say hearings can provide insight into
local priorities and put a face on the two million students in Illinois public
schools.
State government provides about 30 percent of
school money in Illinois. Local funds account for 55 percent and federal aid
covers the rest.
The State Board of Education has consistently
recommended increased education spending, but Illinois has cut funds by $650
million the last few years.
Hearings are scheduled for Springfield,
Edwardsville, Champaign, Wheeling and Chicago.
Copyright
2011 The Associated Press.
