Public schools in Illinois have seen significant funding increases in recent years, thanks to steady state revenue growth and an updated funding formula from 2018. However, upcoming fiscal challenges may threaten this trend as lawmakers return to the Statehouse in January.
Budget forecasters predict flat revenue growth and rising demands in areas like pensions and healthcare, leading to a projected $3.2 billion deficit for the fiscal year starting July 1st, 2025. Current spending on public schools is nearly $11 billion, about 20% of the state’s General Revenue Fund.
Key factors driving funding requests include the Evidence-Based Funding model, which mandates a minimum annual increase of $350 million, and mandatory categorical spending for essential services like transportation and meals. Advocacy groups argue that more than the minimum is needed, as many students remain in underfunded districts.
Illinois State Board of Education has received funding requests totaling about $2.2 billion, while Governor’s Office of Management and Budget anticipates a $444 million increase in school spending as part of its deficit projection. State Superintendent Tony Sanders will present his budget proposal on January 15th, with Governor Pritzker’s budget address scheduled for February 19th.
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