East Central Reporter

An Illinois superintendent is receiving a substantial salary, raising questions as the school district faces significant educational challenges. In the Dolton School District 148, where approximately 2,000 children are enrolled, only 7% are proficient in mathematics. This contrasts sharply with a superintendent's salary of $480,000.

The Illinois Report Card and the Illinois State Board of Education provide critical statistics highlighting the district's issues. Only 19% of students read at grade level, and chronic absenteeism affects 47% of the student body. Meanwhile, 69% of teachers are absent for more than ten days, yet 97% receive ratings of "Excellent or Proficient."

These conditions emphasize ongoing issues in Illinois governance. According to the narrative, these include insufficient accountability in public schools, high property taxes, and an unfair pension system. State Representative Chris Miller criticizes the "Homeschool Act," HB 2827, suggesting it undermines homeschool parents' freedoms and distracts from more serious issues.

Miller states, "radical Democrats target homeschool families but turn a blind eye to illegal criminals in our communities."

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Democratic supermajorities are linked to several systemic issues, with annual superintendent salaries highlighting the broader challenges faced by the state's educational institutions. The discussions surrounding these points continue to draw attention at both state and national levels.