Illinois education board wants $730M more pre-K-12 funding

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois State Board of Education is asking lawmakers to provide an additional $730 million in fiscal year 2016 for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade funding.

The board on Wednesday approved the recommendation, which would fully fund general state aid for schools.

Officials say even with the increase, the inflation-adjusted budget would be 5 percent less than in 2009.

State education Superintendent Christopher A. Koch says general state aid comprises the majority of the state board of education budget. School districts have received less than they're owed for the past four years, and Koch says many are struggling to get by.

He says the board understands the state's financial difficulties but education "is the smartest investment" the state can make to improve the economy and the quality of its workforce.