Illinois State Board of Education

Leaders at Belleville Township High School District 201, East St. Louis School District 189 and Belleville School District 118 say they have not received any indication that the federal reimbursements they receive for providing free or reduced price meals are in jeopardy.

The completion of major heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades in all 10 of District 189’s schools hinges on this funding.

East St. Louis School District 189 stood to lose the most money — $19 million for a major HVAC project — of any Illinois district. The district's spokeswoman said the judge's decision is "encouraging."

Five schools in East St. Louis are all set to lose their after-school programs. If that happens, just two of the district’s programs will be left, and approximately 300 students will be impacted.

Edwardsville and East Alton will see new board leadership as school districts have struggled to navigate budget shortfalls after pandemic-era relief money dried up last year.

State funding for many school districts in the Metro East have been increasing since Illinois revamped how it funds education under former GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner.

The report card is a big part of Illinois' school accountability system and assigns schools one of five categories according to their performance.

Proponents said consolidating the two small districts would reduce overhead costs, increase financial stability and improve the schools’ academic and athletic opportunities for students.

A former school administrator and a regional superintendent pitched the benefits of a merger to members of both boards this week.

Illinois high school students will begin taking the new exams in Spring 2025.