Topic: Can School District Consolidation Increase the Quality and Effectiveness of our Schools?

The event will feature an informal presentation by Mr. Laurence Msall, president of the Civic Federation, a non-partisan government research organization working to maximize the quality and cost-effectiveness of government services in Illinois.  Mr. Msall will begin his presentation at 6 p.m.

The League will use the event to share information and to gather local input prior to conducting a study of the possible financial and educational outcomes of district consolidation. The vast number of local governments in Illinois are often cited as a driving factor for Illinois’ high property tax rate.  Local school districts typically make up the largest share of a property owner’s tax bill.  As of July 1, 2021, there were 852 public school districts in Illinois -- the third highest number of school districts in the nation.  Only Texas and California have more school districts, however, their populations are more than double the population of Illinois.  The topic is timely given that House Bill 7, the Classrooms First Act, unanimously passed the Illinois House Elementary and Secondary Education Committee. House Bill 7, with 18 bipartisan sponsors, calls for community referendums on consolidating local school district administration and redirecting the resulting administrative savings to direct classroom spending. 

Come sample Wolfden Brewing Company’s offerings while learning if school district consolidation can increase the quality and cost-effectiveness of our schools.  Wolfden offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. The League supports a cooperative and transparent process around any government consolidation initiative and encourages citizen input, understanding, and review.

This event is open to the public and attendees do not need to become League members to attend.  We will be following the most current CDC COVID-19 guidance for outdoor events.

There is limited parking in front of Wolfden, a large lot at the northwest corner of Third and Schick, and plenty of street parking nearby.