SB0444 Summary

• Establishes evidence-based funding formula for Illinois K-12 public education beginning 2017-2018 school year, with full implementation target by June 30, 2027.

• Creates four-tier system distributing state funding based on each school district's "Adequacy Target" (research-based costs for essential educational elements) minus local capacity and existing resources.

• Funds essential elements including core and specialist teachers, instructional support staff, professional development, technology, maintenance and operations with salary amounts adjusted by regional wage differences and inflation.

• Allocates new state funds with Tier 1 receiving 50%, Tier 2 receiving 49%, and Tiers 3-4 receiving 0.9% and 0.1% respectively, targeting least-funded districts first.

• Requires school districts to submit annual spending plans identifying use of low-income, English learner, and special education funding, with oversight by Professional Review Panel that studies formula effectiveness and recommends modifications.