Illinois' new school funding formula is drawing praise from media outlets throughout the state, the Illinois Republican Party reported recently.
The State Journal-Register gave reform advocates a thumb's up for taking the steps to change what the Springfield newspaper called the country's most-inequitable funding formula.
“One of the most important aspects of the new law is that it will direct more state resources to school districts in the most need,” the paper said.
Gov. Bruce Rauner
The Pantagraph reported that Sen. Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) credited Gov. Bruce Rauner for leading the charge on the bill, which will give more money to public schools as well as $75 million in tax credits toward private school scholarships.
The Chicago Tribune also noted the inclusion of fewer requirements on physical education classes and a property tax referendum option for voters in school districts that are well-funded.
Rauner called the legislation historic when he signed it during a ceremony at an elementary school on Thursday, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. Rauner was joined by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago) and other officials.
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