CHICAGO – In an attempt to protest the inequality of school funding at school districts in the Northern Illinois area, community leaders are asking students in the Chicago Public Schools district to skip the first day of school Sept. 2. Instead, students will attempt to enroll at the neighboring New Tier Township District 203, a more affluent district in a suburban town.

Currently, schools are allocated funds based on the local property taxes. Protesters want to dismiss this system, stating that institutions in more property-rich neighborhoods receive better funding.

As it stands, Chicago public schools spend around $10,000 a year per student, whereas the New Tier district spends around $17,000 on each student.

Those opposing the protest, however, believe asking students to miss the first day of class will send the wrong message to students. There are campaigns throughout the area encouraging students to attend the first day of school.

As for the New Tier district, Superintendent Linda Yonke is unsure if the district will be able to enroll any of the students from Chicago. Additionally, officials for Chicago Public Schools do not support the protest.

For more information:

• Call for Chicago students to skip 1st school day
  

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