East Central Reporter

The Illinois General Assembly concluded its session without allocating funds for the Invest In Kids scholarship program, leaving the educational future of 9,600 economically disadvantaged children hanging in the balance. State Rep. Chris Miller (R-Oakland) expressed his dismay over the turn of events.

“Kids were yelling to save their scholarships. But, Democrats turned their backs on them, forcing them back into failing schools,” Miller said on Facebook.

Miller’s comments were made following the conclusion of the Illinois General Assembly's session that ended without funds being allocated to the Invest In Kids scholarship program. This decision places 9,600 economically disadvantaged children's education at risk.

The scholarship program faced significant opposition from teachers’ unions. The decision has a disproportionate impact on low-income minority students in failing school districts who relied on this program for access to better education opportunities.

State Rep. Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) passionately urged for an extension of this critical scholarship program and highlighted the importance of saving scholarships for deserving students. Niemerg voiced frustration with Speaker Welch's delay and urged him to act promptly. Despite support from Niemerg and others, Speaker Welch adjourned without calling a bill to extend the program. As a result, Illinois is now the only state that has rolled back public funding for school choice options.

Senate President Don Harmon and Gov. J.B. Pritzker, both known to send their children to private schools have also faced criticism over their stance on this issue.

With Invest In Kids' discontinuation, Illinois now stands alone as it becomes the only state retracting public funding meant for school choice which has led to disapproval from proponents of educational alternatives.

The termination of this program was celebrated by The Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT). IFT President Dan Montgomery spoke in favor of ending Invest In Kids while emphasizing prioritizing public education and channeling resources towards public schools. Notwithstanding, teachers’ unions opposed this decision, shedding light on the division within the education community regarding this matter.