TRANSFORMATIVE INVESTMENTS IN EDUCATION FROM THE FY 2024 BUDGET!
By Joanna Williams
Following the passage of the FY 2024 budget, Governor Pritzker held events in Springfield and Champaign to highlight key investments in all stages of education: early childhood, K-12 and higher education.
- Early Childhood: Investment of $250 million in the Smart Start program to eliminate preschool deserts, stabilize the childcare workforce and expand early intervention.
- K-12: Funding for the new teacher vacancy grant pilot program.
- Higher Education: Historic increases in funding for public universities and financial aid. With $100 million in MAP state-funded, need-based grant funding, virtually everyone at or below the median income can attend community college for free. Additional increases in AIM High merit-based scholarships by $15 million to reach $50 million.
“Access to education has the ability to change the trajectory of an individual’s life, but also the trajectory for their families and communities. Illinois is building on our commitment to quality education for all with historic investments, and we will continue to work to ensure the people of our state are supported from cradle to career so everyone has the tools to reach a bright future.” – Lt Governor Juliana Stratton.