July Budget Update

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Dear Distinctive Schools Families,
I hope you’re all enjoying the start of the summer break — and that this note might make it even better.

Today, after months of negotiation and advocacy, our elected leaders in Springfield passed legislation that provides additional funding for our schools next year, and builds a foundation for finalizing education funding reforms in the coming year.

This is an exciting moment for our district, and for Distinctive Schools. The bills voted on today provide more than $600 million to our District, which means we can open school on time in the fall, and better protect our classrooms in the year ahead.

Your support played a crucial role in making today a reality, and I want to thank you for all you’ve done over the past year.  Despite the challenges, you’ve played an active role in our school community, showing up and speaking out; sending a loud and clear message for reform to Springfield, and showcasing our students’ accomplishments to demonstrate this is a school system worth investing in. Thank you.

So what happens now?

Next week I’ll learn more about the budgeting process for next school year from CPS, and I’ll be sure to keep you updated as that process gets underway.  The additional funding from Springfield will do so much to protect our classrooms, but it’s worth remembering that it does not entirely close the CPS $1 billion deficit.  As we work towards a balanced budget, strict spending policies will still be enforced and some strategic adjustments will still need to be made.   

We took a big step forward last week.  Not only am I more confident about the ability to provide for our students in the year ahead, but I know this momentum will help us continue our fight for permanent funding equality this fall.   
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Best,
Scott Frauenheim
COO/VP of Distinctive Schools