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Chicago Public Schools (CPS) joined students, educators, families, and school districts from across Illinois in Springfield to advocate for increased state funding for public education. This initiative is part of the statewide coalition "Funding Illinois’ Future," which urges the state to fulfill its commitment to Illinois students.
The call for increased funding comes amid rising operational costs, potential deficits, and the possible loss of federal funds. In 2017, state leaders passed legislation aimed at making education funding more equitable. However, school districts are now pushing for this formula to be fully funded.
"Today we stand shoulder to shoulder with school districts across Illinois to make our case loud and clear: our students deserve better," said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. "CPS remains committed to working with state leaders to find real solutions together — and we won’t stop advocating until every child, in every community, has access to the resources they need to thrive."
CPS outlined several key actions it wants the state to take in the upcoming budget:
- Increase Evidence-Based Funding (EBF) for public education by $550 million annually.
- Allocate $165 million statewide for student nutrition, special education, and transportation services.
- Invest an additional $75 million in early childhood education.
Among those who traveled to Springfield was Salvador Alfaro-Fernandez, a senior at Hubbard High School. He emphasized the need for more resources so that students can achieve their full potential. "Every student possesses amazing potential, but we need more resources to help everyone achieve it," he said.
CPS highlighted past successes achieved through increased investment. With federal support during the pandemic era, CPS reported gains in reading scores on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness Exam, a record graduation rate of 84.1 percent, a college enrollment rate of 70 percent, and an increase in students earning college or career credentials while still in high school.
As part of advocacy day efforts, CPS encouraged families and community members to contact elected officials and share their stories. Information is available on CPS's website (cps.edu/AdvocacyDay).
"We know what’s possible when our schools are funded fairly," Martinez stated. "Now it’s time to come together — as a city, as a state — to ensure that possibility becomes a reality for every child in Illinois."
