We need reliable funding for schools

Albert Einstein once said, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."

As the Daily Herald editorialized ("Shattering the 'lottery-for-schools' myth," Aug. 5), state leaders have been trying to solve Illinois' school funding crisis through the same gimmicks and financial sleight of hand for years.

The result? The widest achievement gap between rich and poor schools in the country, and a growing number of students who cannot compete for the skilled jobs of the global economy.

If we ever hope to bring Illinois schools into the 21st Century, lawmakers need to get serious about finding a permanent, reliable source of funding for education and other vital state services, such as an increase in the state's income tax (currently the lowest in the nation).

True reform also means coupling better funding with higher standards for academic and fiscal accountability - improved student achievement must always be our bottom line.

When it comes to school funding and quality, we know what works and what doesn't.

Reliable state funding and accountability standards work; shell games and gimmicks do not.

Other states and nations are busy preparing their young people for the jobs of the 21st Century. Will Illinois be left behind?

Mary Ellen Guest

Campaign Manager

A+ Illinois

Chicago