Despite a 75% increase in education funding between 2008 and 2024, Illinois public schools continue to show stagnant academic proficiency. According to Kelsey Bakken of Advance Illinois, only about one-third of students are proficient in reading and math, a trend that has persisted for 15 years. Governor J.B. Pritzker’s administration has added $2.8 billion to school funding, bringing the 2025–26 education budget to a record $11.2 billion. However, this investment coincides with a 10.3% drop in student enrollment statewide, raising questions about the effectiveness of spending and its impact on student outcomes.
In Kane County, these statewide trends are reflected in local challenges. Schools in the county have seen similar struggles with academic performance, despite benefiting from increased funding allocations. Chronic absenteeism, which has risen to 26% statewide, is also a concern in Kane County, where districts report rising rates of missed school days and declining student engagement. The drop in college and career readiness—from 38% in 2015 to 30% in 2024—suggests that students in Kane County may be entering adulthood less prepared for post-secondary success, despite the financial resources directed toward their education.
Political leaders and education advocates are divided on the path forward. While some, like Rep. Carol Ammons, call for targeted policy reforms to address racial and economic disparities, others, including Republican candidate Ted Dabrowski, criticize the elimination of school choice programs. Kane County residents are caught in this debate, as local schools grapple with equity gaps and the absence of alternative education options. The county’s experience underscores the broader tension in Illinois: rising investment without corresponding gains in student achievement.
Greg Bishop contributed to this story.
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NEWS ARTICLE FROM ADVANTAGE
