ISBE Invites Community Input in FY 2027 Public Education Budget Process

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) is now accepting input on state funding for public education for fiscal year 2027. Members of the public can submit funding requests in writing on the ISBE Agency Budget Information webpage. ISBE is inviting Illinois' school leaders, teachers, parents, and community advocates to make budget proposals that will have the greatest impact on their students. Past requests have led to increased investments in Career and Technical Education, National Board Certification, alternative education, and more

"Even though this school year is just starting, it's already time for school leaders to begin taking stock of their fiscal priorities for next year," said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. "We're asking anyone with a hand in public education to share with us what statewide programs we should ask the legislature to prioritize and what will help maximize our state resources. While we are heading into another tight fiscal year, we want public input to shape our annual state budget recommendation."

"The Board greatly values the insights and perspectives of community members in shaping the state's education budget," said ISBE Board Chair Dr. Steven Isoye. "Every submission and testimony helps us understand the needs of students and educators across Illinois. We also want to thank Governor Pritzker and the members of the General Assembly for their ongoing support of public education, which allows us to continue investing in programs that make a difference in classrooms and communities statewide."

Feedback from community members, educators, students, families, and advocates will help guide ISBE's advocacy for equitable funding for all Illinois students and form the basis for the board's budget recommendation to Governor JB Pritzker and the General Assembly in January 2026.

Anyone with a funding request must submit their written testimony via the Budget Hearing Form. More information, including detailed instructions, is available on the ISBE Agency Budget Information webpage. Individuals who have submitted written testimony may also speak at one of three budget hearings. ISBE will give equal consideration to all written and oral testimony.

ISBE will host hearings:

• 4-7 p.m. Sept. 30 - This is an in-person hearing that will be held in the Board Room at 100 N. First St., Springfield, IL 62777.
• 1-4 p.m. Oct. 16 - This is a virtual hearing. (Members of the media can listen in by registering here and selecting "listen only attendee.")
• 4-7 p.m. Oct. 21 - This is a virtual hearing. (Members of the media can listen in by registering here and selecting "listen only attendee.")

ISBE is committed to providing equitable opportunities for participation. Persons who need special accommodations, including language translation services, should contact ISBE's Language Access Coordinator Diana Torres at [email protected]​ or (312) 814-5818 at least two weeks in advance of the event.