SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois’ Republican lawmakers are again looking at school choice, and choice in who governs the Illinois State Board of Education.
“[It] ought to be made permanent, and ought to be available to more families who are in need of a high-quality education,” said State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington).
Barickman, whose district includes part of the Peoria area, is talking about legislation that would make permanent a policy allowing for low-income Illinoisans to send children to private schools through donations, with the donor then getting a tax credit, called the “Invest in Kids” program.
Republicans also want five new seats on the state Board of Education to be elected by voters, not appointed by the Governor.
There’s also a proposal to make schools post all curriculum materials online.
