Samantha Smylie

Illinois is one of the few states that have not expanded their voucher-like program. During the veto session, lawmakers did not move a bill that would have extended the state’s program, known as Invest in Kids.

Senate Democrats put forward a plan that would allow residents in 10 of 20 districts — or only half of Chicago – to vote for school board members in 2024. Now, House Democrats want to pair the 20 districts so everyone could vote.   

State lawmakers put forward the new proposal late Friday ahead of next week’s veto session. It also creates ethics rules and a committee focused on Black student achievement.

Illinois students are starting to gain ground on learning recovery but test scores lag behind pre-pandemic levels and chronic absenteeism is still high.

State lawmakers have introduced a measure during veto session that would lift the ban on paying board members from Chicago’s elected school board.

Chicago teachers showed up at the Illinois State Board of Education’s monthly meeting to urge board members to help the city’s public schools with the ongoing migrant crisis.

At a town hall meeting Thursday, providers and parents appealed for funds to keep providers in business and services affordable for families.

At a Senate committee hearing, lawmakers hear conflicting views on when they should approve district boundaries.

The district said it will begin to mail out checks of up to $500 this week. Parents can pick up checks from their child’s school.