NW Illinois News

Not long ago, Illinois had a tax credit school scholarship program known as "Invest in Kids," which provided state tax credits to donors contributing to scholarship-granting organizations (SGOs). These SGOs offered scholarships that enabled students from low- and middle-income families to attend private schools. The program was particularly beneficial for students from low-income families who were in underperforming public schools.

Despite its success and support from parents, students, and community leaders, the program expired at the end of 2023. Efforts by families and Republicans to continue the program were unsuccessful. They pointed out its success in Democrat-held districts but faced opposition due to political pressure from teachers' unions.

A new opportunity has emerged with a federal school choice scholarship tax credit program included in the "Big Beautiful Bill" signed by President Donald Trump. This national initiative provides a 100% federal tax credit for donations up to $1,700 to SGOs assisting families earning up to 300% of the area median income. For Illinois families to benefit, Governor Pritzker must opt-in and list compliant SGOs.

Participation would not cost the state financially since scholarships are funded through private donations incentivized by federal tax credits without affecting public education budgets. However, opposition persists among teachers' unions and their allies who argue such programs divert resources from public schools despite separate funding sources.

The decision now lies with Governor Pritzker and his legislative allies on whether they will support educational freedom or align with union interests. The outcome will indicate priorities regarding education policy in Illinois.