Rep. Jehan Gordon (D-Peoria) wants local residents to know about a new survey to help submit their ideas for cost saving measures in education

“We tackled many of the state’s harsh budget realities when the House of Representatives went line-by-line through the budget in a bi-partisan manner this session and passed a budget that prioritized our limited tax dollars. Many difficult decisions were made about where funding cuts would be and were made by both parties. Those same sort of touch decisions are being made by every elected officials at every level of government,” Gordon explained. “To fully address our fiscal challenges, a full examination of spending must occur, and we can’t be afraid to think outside the box. To help look at ways to save money when it comes to education, the legislature established a commission to take public input and put money-saving ideas into practice.”

The Classrooms First Commission was created through the passage of House Bill 1216 to study ways school districts across the state are saving money. This commission will solicit opinions from education and community leaders, as well as students and parents, through an online survey.

“Many school districts have already made cuts to help make the dollars they have go a little further. Sharing cost saving measures will help school districts and the state make sure that our children have the best education possible and a more stable school system in which to learn,” Gordon said. “I urge anyone with ideas on how to save tax dollars to visit the Classrooms First website or call my office.”

The Classrooms First Commission Survey can be completed at http://www2.illinois.gov/ltgov/Pages/ClassroomsFirstCommissionSurvey.aspx.

Gordon was a co-sponsor of HB 1215 that created the Classrooms First Commission. She also sits on the Elementary and Secondary Education Committee. For more information about this or other pieces of legislation, please contact Gordon’s constituent services office at (309) 681-1992.