LM Feb 2025

funding for Illinois School Districts that did not exist prior to the enactment of EBF. To close, the implementation of Evidence-Based Funding has marked a transformative era in Illinois education financing, bringing unprecedented stability and equity to our school districts. While the system’s complexity may seem daunting to new administrators, understanding these seven key aspects of EBF enables superintendents to effectively advocate for their districts and make informed decisions about resource allocation. As we look toward the future, the $2.6 billion gap to reaching 90% adequacy for all districts reminds us that our work is not complete. However, the foundation built through EBF – with its predictable funding streams and focus on evidence-based practices – provides a solid platform for continued progress. New superintendents entering the field inherit not just a funding system, but a commitment to educational equity that stands in stark contrast to the uncertainty of the past. By maintaining this institutional knowledge and understanding of EBF, district leaders can continue to build upon these gains, ensuring that every Illinois student has access to the resources they need to succeed.

Utilize Data Comparison Tool and Adequacy Target Gap Calculator

There are two resources in particular a superintendent should be aware of. The Data Comparison tool that ISBE provides is a comparative analysis of changes to the Adequacy Target and the Final Resources that assist a Superintendent in understanding the changes to Tier Funding. The second resource is the Adequacy Target Gap Calculator. This tool provides a comparative of a district’s current staffing and spending levels to the 34 Cost Factors that can be utilized for benchmarking purposes and decision making. The design of EBF is to get every school district to 90% adequacy and currently there is a $2.6 billion gap to that goal, according to ISBE based on the Fiscal Year 2025 EBF Calculations. There have been significant investments made by the state and the need for significant investments needs to continue. It is important to realize that every school district in the state total EBF payment has not ever decreased due to the hold-harmless provision called the Base Funding Minimum in statute, which has brought stability in state

HELP SHAPE NEW VISION FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION

Visit IllinoisVision2030.com to:

• View Board Resolution Template • Let Us Know if Your District Passed a Resolution • Download Policy Framework • Access Toolkit • Read FAQ Click Here

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LM Feb 2025