Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is inviting public input on state funding for public education for fiscal year 2026. The ISBE Agency Budget Information webpage is open for written submissions, which have previously influenced funding in areas such as Evidence-Based Funding and early childhood education.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders emphasized the importance of public involvement: “Public advocacy is crucial in shaping the education experiences for all students." He noted that the fiscal year 2025 budget reflected significant investment in public schools and encouraged continued participation to advance educational equity.

ISBE Board Chair Dr. Steven Isoye highlighted the value of community insights, stating, “The Board carefully reviews and considers each funding request with a focus on enhancing educational opportunities for all students." He acknowledged collaboration with the Governor's Office and lawmakers, appreciating public contributions to the budget process.

The feedback will guide ISBE's budget proposal aimed at equitable student funding for FY 2026. Recommendations will be submitted to Governor JB Pritzker and the General Assembly in January.

Submissions require a Budget Hearing Form, available online. Participants can also present their cases at one of three hearings scheduled by ISBE. Both written and oral testimonies will receive equal consideration.

Hearings are set as follows:

- October 8, from 4-7 p.m., an in-person session at 100 N. First St., Springfield, IL.

- October 10, from 4-7 p.m., a virtual hearing accessible via registration.

- October 28, from 1-4 p.m., another virtual session requiring registration.

For those needing special accommodations or language services, contact ISBE Director of Family and Community Engagement Carolina Fabian or use TTY/TDD services.