Budget Deficit Sends Illinois Network of Charter Schools to Springfield

CHICAGO, March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS), charter school leaders from across Illinois, and a delegation of education stakeholders and advocates will travel to the Capitol Building in Springfield to advocate for fair funding for charter schools. The day will start with a rally at Soldier Field; addresses by CPS CEO Ron Huberman and charter school supporters are expected. More than 200 charter school parents and supporters will then travel to Springfield to educate legislators about the need for budget reform and equitable charter school funding.

"The Illinois charter sector has created high-quality public schools for students across Illinois and is on the front lines serving students every day," said Andrew Broy, President of INCS. "The proposed 18% cut to the CPS per-pupil funding formula, if enacted, will have a dire impact on our charter schools next year. Because charter school funding is more likely to be spent directly in the classroom, cuts to central office programs and administrative funding will affect charter schools' core operations -- the delivery of student instruction." Broy added, "The only way to ensure quality public education for all students is to build upon a strong foundation. That's why we support efforts to reform our pension system -- to sustain and strengthen public schools in Illinois."

The event in Springfield, called the 2010 Statehouse Charter Showcase, includes information tables in the Rotunda and a rally in the Capitol Building. Mayor Morrissey of Rockford and Mayor Sabonjian of Waukegan, two public officials who understand the importance of charter schools, will speak. Supporters will have a chance to meet with their state legislators to explain what their charter school means to them.

"This isn't an issue that's going to disappear -- everyone needs to get involved," said Broy. "Each school in the district will feel the cuts; the charter sector, of course, is willing to do its part, but these cuts must be equitable. Even some of the most robust charter schools in Chicago could close under the weight of these proposed cuts. Parents, teachers, students and supporters will continue to advocate for real funding reform throughout the legislative session."

The Illinois Network of Charter Schools (INCS) is dedicated to improving the quality of public education by promoting and invigorating the charter school concept. The voice of the state's charter schools, INCS advocates for legislation to strengthen charter schools, educates the public about the value of charter schools, and supports the dissemination of best practices throughout the system.

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SOURCE Illinois Network of Charter Schools