Tom Cullerton secures additional $14 million for DuPage County schools

SPRINGFIELD- DuPage County schools will see an increase in education funding for the fourth year in a row thanks to State Senator Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park).

Cullerton pushed for a bipartisan agreement between the Senate and governor to allow schools to open their doors on time this fall.

"The most important tool we can give our children is a good education," Cullerton said. "As a father of three boys in DuPage schools, I have continued to fight to increase education funding every year since I have been in the state senate."

Cullerton believes the reason we live and stay in these communities is to give our children the best educational opportunities possible.

"The only way to lower suburban property taxes is if we start funding schools properly," Cullerton said.

Under this plan, DuPage County High School District 88 would see a $310,848 increase in funding.

"I would like to thank State Senator Tom Cullerton for his leadership in passing this legislation," Scott Helton, Superintendent of Schools at DuPage High School District 88 said. "His (Cullerton's) continuous communication and availability to answer our questions is greatly appreciated. Sen. Cullerton's genuine care for all students is evident in all he does."

The mission of DuPage High School District 88, which consists of Addison Trail and Willowbrook high schools, is to work for the continuous improvement of student achievement.

Cullerton did not support the Illinois Senate Democrats' earlier plan, Senate Bill 231, which would pick winners and losers in schools across his district. He believes the legislature shouldn't be in the business of taking money away from one school at the expense of another.

"I refuse to support a plan that would advance one school, at the expense of another," Cullerton said. "It's important to give all students an opportunity to succeed."