SPRINGFIELD – High-poverty suburban school districts, shortchanged for decades under Illinois’ worst-in-the-nation education funding formula, could see a significant influx of funding to level the playing field with wealthier suburban districts under a landmark school funding reform measure that recently passed in both houses of the legislature.

“I eagerly joined my colleagues in support of a plan that fixes the inequitable way we fund public schools in. It also makes sure no schools see any loss of funding and offers property tax relief to struggling homeowners. There is no reason Governor Rauner should not sign this legislation as soon as it gets to his desk,” Illinois said State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey).

SPRINGFIELD- State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey) issued the following statement after supporting a property tax freeze that was approved in the Senate today:

“This is a first step to offering struggling middle-class families some relief as our state heads toward recovery. We need reforms that not only alleviate taxpayer burden but also ensure that the needs of our most vulnerable populations are being met.”

SPRINGFIELD- State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey) released the following statement after supporting a number of measures approved in the Senate today that would enact a full balanced budget for the first time in nearly two years:

“Our governor promised to shake things up, and that is exactly what he has done. Our state has fallen into disarray without leadership from the executive branch. Today, we took a step toward repair by approving a plan that brings relief and predictability to people who desperately need it.”

CMAP has extended the deadline for high school students to apply to the Summer 2017 Future Leaders in Planning (FLIP) program to Friday, June 9.

Each summer FLIP teens from across the region learn about urban planning, solve real-world problems, take field trips, and get involved with issues that will shape the future.  The 2017 week-long summer program will focus on how to plan for Alternative Futures that could affect our region, including issues such as changed climate and innovative transportation.

Local high school students looking for an enriching experience can learn about the program and watch a behind-the-scenes video from previous students in the program.  Encourage a high school student you know to apply soon.

Apply for the program.