Quinn Proposes Oft-defeated School Consolidation

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn wants to increase public school spending slightly in the coming year. But he would save state money by consolidating schools and cutting spending on regional offices of education.

The Democrat outlined his budget proposal for the coming year Wednesday.

Elementary and secondary education spending would be up about 3 percent.

But the governor is proposing mergers to reduce the 868 school districts across the state - an emotional issue that has failed in the past.

Quinn also wants to cut $14 million the state spends on 45 regional education offices. He says the State Board of Education can take up their tasks.

And he would reduce state spending on bus transportation for students by $95 million. He says local school districts should shoulder that cost.