North Shore Group Pushes for Research on Education Funding Reform

North Shore Group Pushes for Research on Education Funding Reform

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.
On the first day back to school last September, State Sen. James Meeks led a group of Chicago Public School students up to New Trier Township High School in Winnetka. Meek’s goal was to raise awareness of inequities in the way Illinois funds its schools. Our system relies heavily on property taxes, leaving poorer areas with less funds per student. The protests spurred the formation of two groups dedicated to finding new solutions to funding disparities. Illinois Council of Students brings together suburban and CPS students to research and lobby for funding reform. Another group inspired by Senator Meeks’ protest is United We Learn. It was formed by New Trier parents who decided that reforming school funding required a little education on their parts. They’ve spent the past year talking to researchers and education leaders to get a sense of a possible fix for Illinois schools.

Today, they’re holding a forum to present what they’ve learned and where to go next. Tonight’s keynote speaker is former Illinois State Superintendent of Education and current President of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy Max McGee. He and Lali Watt of United We Learn join us.

Events:
The Future of Illinois Education and What We Can Do About It!
Tonight, May 14 at 7 p.m.
New Trier High School