August 31, 2023 – Three Macon County schools, including Decatur Public Schools, will receive over $1 million in state funds to address the financial challenges of recent years.
Over $350 million set aside in the state’s fiscal year 2024 budget will be invested in schools across Illinois, allocated by the evidence-based funding formula. DPS 61 will receive just over $1 million in funding, with the Macon County Alternative School receiving over $100,000 and nearly $50,000 being awarded to the Macon County Safe School.
The evidence-based funding method calculates the individual needs of school districts and bases each district’s state revenue on those needs. By considering each district’s total enrollment, poverty rate and number of special education or ESL learners, among other factors, Illinois politicians said state funds can be distributed more equitably.
“We have made it a priority to set students on a path to be lifelong learners,” said Illinois Sen. Doris Turner in a press release. “Students deserve to have every opportunity. Continuing our commitment to invest in our schools ensures students have a well-rounded learning environment for years to come.”
For more information about the evidence-based funding method, click HERE.
