By Illinois Radio Network
SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ State Report Card can tell parents all sorts of things about students, from reading proficiency and math scores to how many are chronically absent.
When it comes to principals, superintendents, and other administrators, the Report Card only shows one salary and two ratios.
State Representative David Olsen, R-Downers Grove, wants to change that. His plan to have schools publish the true costs of administrators made it through the Illinois House and Senate this spring.
“If administrative costs are more than in other districts, why is that? There may be a good reason,” Olsen said. “But let’s prompt those questions so they can be asked.”
Olsen noted parents, particularly those new to a school district, use the Illinois State Report Card to help them find the best school. He also wants parents to be able to use the Report Card to make sure they are getting the most out of their schools.
“I think, absolutely, we need to do more to make people aware of the State Report Card,” Olsen explained. “Because it is a great wealth of data that helps the public hold their school boards and school districts accountable.”
Lawmakers unanimously approved the plan, SB3236, in the spring legislative session. Governor Bruce Rauner’s office has not yet said what he will do with the legislation.
