Embedded Files
Evidence-Based Funding FAQs
Evidence-Based Funding FAQs
What is Illinois' evidence-based funding (EBF)?
Evidence-based funding is a model adopted by Illinois to ensure that state funds are allocated to schools based on their specific needs. The goal is to provide more resources to the neediest districts, ensuring every student receives an adequate education.
How does the EBF model differ from the previous funding formula?
The old formula was based on a one-size-fits-all “Foundation Level” of per-pupil funding, which was both inadequate and inequitable. The EBF model, on the other hand, focuses on providing funds to districts furthest from their “Adequacy Targets,” ensuring that resources are allocated based on the specific needs of students.
What are "Adequacy Targets"?
Adequacy Targets represent the amount of funding research indicates is required for a district to provide the level of education its students need to succeed academically.
How has the EBF impacted low-income school districts?
In its first year, the EBF allocated over 89 percent of new school funding to “Tier I” school districts, which were furthest from having adequate funding. A significant portion of this funding went to districts serving predominantly low-income students, helping to address historic inequities.
What was the criticism against the old funding formula?
The old formula relied heavily on local property taxes, leading to significant disparities in funding between property-rich and property-poor districts. This made Illinois' school funding system one of the most regressive in the country.
What do supporters say about the EBF model?
Supporters argue that the EBF model is a significant step towards ensuring equitable funding for all districts, regardless of their property wealth. They believe it holds the promise of closing Illinois’ drastic funding and achievement gaps.
Are there any criticisms of the EBF model?
Some critics, including teachers' unions, have expressed concerns about certain aspects of the EBF, such as provisions that they believe could divert potential tax dollars away from public classrooms.
How does the EBF model impact Chicago Public Schools?
The EBF model provides additional funds to Chicago’s struggling school system, helping cover pensions and allowing Chicago to levy another property tax.
What is the future outlook for the EBF model?
While the EBF model has made strides in addressing funding inequities, there is still work to be done. As of a recent fiscal year, the majority of school districts in Illinois were still below their Adequacy Targets.
References:
Illinois Workforce Pipeline Funding: 2020-2025 Overview
Illinois Workforce Pipeline Funding: 2020-2025 Overview
In recent years, the state of Illinois has made significant strides in addressing workforce challenges and ensuring that its residents have access to quality education and training opportunities. This article delves into the various initiatives and funding mechanisms that have been put in place to bolster the state's workforce pipeline.
Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH)
The healthcare sector, already grappling with worker shortages, faced exacerbated challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To address this, the PATH program was introduced in 2023. With an anticipated annual funding over $10 million, the program aims to support individuals in nursing and select healthcare pathways. The funding methodology includes a base funding of $100,000 per district, with additional amounts based on program completions in eligible healthcare programs. The program also emphasizes equity, targeting underrepresented student groups and incumbent workers.
Illinois Educator Workforce Amidst the Pandemic
A report by Advance Illinois highlighted the state of the educator workforce during the pandemic. Surprisingly, the teacher shortage crisis showed signs of stability. Illinois now boasts more teachers, support staff, and school leaders than in the past decade. However, challenges persist in areas like special education, bilingual teaching, and paraprofessional positions. The report also underscores the need for a diverse educator workforce, as racial disparities continue.
Building Tech Talent in Springfield & Chicago
The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) has launched a program to nurture tech talent. Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC) in Springfield and City Colleges of Chicago play a pivotal role in this initiative, having developed the curriculum and serving as training hubs. Trainees receive a minimum annual salary of $54,000 from DoIT while specializing in areas like cybersecurity and networking. Upon completion, they are offered full-time positions with DoIT.
Workforce Development through Education (FY 2026)
Career and Technical Education (CTE): $1.3 million increase in Career and Technical Education programs administeredthrough ISBE to expand access for underserved students
Workforce Training administered primarily through the Department of Commerce and EconomicOpportunity (DCEO):
$20 million for the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program focused onconstruction and building trades.
$17 million in new funding for the Employer Training Investment Program.
$7.5 million for the Fast-Track Workforce Program (Workforce, Technology, andEconomic Development Fund).
$3 million for DCEO Job Training Program grants.
Related Higher Education
MAP Grants (Monetary Award Program):
Increased by $10 million, bringing the total to $721.6 million.
Represents an 80% increase since FY2019.
Estimated to support 151,000 students in FY2025 (up by 22,700 from FY2019).
Maximum award increased from $4,869 to $8,604
Workforce-Related Education Initiatives:
$15 million for the Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare (PATH) Workforce Program to support careers in nursing, medical assisting, laboratorytech, and EMTs.
Funding continues for dual-credit and non-credit workforce grant programs atcommunity college
References:
Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce (PATH) FY2024 Program Design (Illinois Community College Board)
Illinois WorkNet Notice of Funding Opportunities (Illinois WorkNet)
The State of Our Educator Pipeline 2023 (Advance Illinois)
Pritzker's Initiatives for Expanding the Healthcare Workforce (Capitol News Illinois)
Lincoln Land Community College's Role in Building Tech Talent (NPR Illinois)
Illinois Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Highlights (Governor's Office of Management and Budget)
Additional Resources & Information
Click Resource Topic Below for More InformationAdditional Resources & Information
Report abuse