Illinois' regional school superintendents may not be getting paid for much longer.
That's the word from Democratic senator Mike Frerichs of Champaign. He says he expects Governor Pat Quinn will propose closing the regional offices of education during his budget address on Wednesday.
Quinn eliminated the superintendents' salaries over the summer, only to have them reinstated on a short term basis late last year. Most superintendents continued to work without being paid.
Frerichs said lawmakers want more of a long-term solution.
- Hear from Mike Frerichs.
Frerichs said he's not aware of any specific proposals regarding superintendents' pay.
Meanwhile, Regional Superintendent for Champaign and Ford Counties Jane Quinlan said a commission made up of lawmakers and educators has been formed to make a recommendation to the governor on how to handle the matter. That's expected to happen in early April.
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These hardworking superintendants must feel caught up in political machinations, and I salute their professionalism for continuing to get their jobs done despite the hangups in the State. I do suspect, however, that there might be more sympathy for them if we knew just what it is they DO. Teachers we understand. Janitors we understand. Even principals. But regional superintendants? It would be really nice if the News-Gazette would interview one or two of them and explain to the rest of us what they do and why it's important. Then we'll know what we've lost when they're gone--or we'll have motivation to push for their preservation. Otherwise it's very easy to simply say "trim the fat" or "eliminate administrators". The same goes for a number of our elected officials and local administrators. The N-G could really improve its service to the community by reminding us of these important functions.
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Mike Howie
online editor
Thanks for the link.
I'm sorry, but those regional superintendents are just a waste of money. I grew up living with a teacher, one that was very active in the DEA and NEA. I've heard several of her teacher friends say the regional offices are just a waste of money and resources that would be better spent on the schools themselves.
I tend to agree with that assessment. Just one more level in bureaucracy that isn't needed.
Quinn, do something right for this state. Cut these positions and start saving money.