From the Illinois Policy Institute…
SB 2494 passed out of committee just moments ago. This bill, sponsored by the Rev. Sen. James Meeks, would create a pilot school voucher program for students in struggling Chicago public schools.
This new power for parents promises that many children can enroll in schools that are better able to meet their needs. It promises that surrounding public schools will improve, and it promises that everyone in Illinois, as taxpayers, will benefit.
This is landmark school choice policy in the making.
News from the Capitol is that this legislation could get a full floor consideration within 24 hours. You can let your state senator know what you think about this critical issue.
The Illinois Policy Institute has been active in this issue for some time and has recently issues reports on the research supporting charter schools, the positive fiscal impacts of school choice legislation, and the constitutionality of voucher programs.
Kids Win. Taxpayers Win: The Fiscal Benefits to State Government of a School Voucher Program
The Jury on School Vouchers: A Pilot Voucher Program Passes State, Federal Constitutional Muster