Trouble Ahead?

The main topic at the Joint Conference last weekend was that financial trouble is headed for Illinois schools. While this is hardly a revelation given the economic crisis that the country is experiencing real problems could lie ahead this spring. The State of Illinois has a tremendous backlog of bills and debt that is expected to reach nearly $5 billion by March 2009. Public schools have fared very well under the Blagojevich administration escaping the hurt that has been heaped on other state agencies. Given the current situation there is a great deal of talk about reduced or eliminated state aid payments in the spring as the budget crisis deepens. Such a cut could have a drastic impact on many school districts.

While this is the reality, it does strike me as odd that our state leaders have chosen to take no action to deal with the issue of state finances. The legislature adjourned last week until January when the new session will begin. If there is any hope in this situation it is that with new leadership in the Senate by Senators Cullerton and Radogno will help to improve communication between the two chambers and perhaps even with Governor Blagojevich. We will need to pay close attention to all levels of government as they try to deal with the impact of the financial crisis in our land.

I hope that everyone has a peaceful and restful Thanksgiving!