Summary of Education Forum with Rep. Sente

EDUCATION FORUM

VERNON HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

October 4, 2011

Meeting summary notes taken by Judy Egan, Oak Grove School Board of Education Member

Speakers: Carol Sente, Illinois State Representative

Erica Lindley, Exec Dir., ED-RED

Diane Rutledge, Exec Dir., Large Unit District Association

Dick Ingram, Exec Dir., Teachers’ Retirement System of the State of Il

On October 4, 2011, Representative Carol Sente held an Education Forum with other educational leaders, specifically on the topic of state legislative activities affecting education. Representative Sente indicated she plans to hold forums twice yearly. She also invited constituents to become members of Citizen Advisory Committees. There are several advisory committees covering a variety of topics, including education. The advisory committees meet twice a year. For more information, contact Rep. Sente at repsente@gmail.com or 847-478-9909.

The evening’s discussion focused on three pieces of legislation: HB 1216 and SB 7, both signed into law last year; and SB 512, pending legislation related to pension reform.

HB 1216 created a stakeholder commission charged with researching and developing a report and recommendations by July 1, 2012. The goal of the study is to look at how school districts might be better realigned or share resources to improve education in Illinois. In order for any recommendations in the study to be implemented, additional legislation would need to be drafted. Representative Sente is not on the commission; however, Representative Linda Chapa LaVia, one of the bill’s sponsor, is a member.

SB 7 requires principals’ and teachers’ evaluations to include student growth as a significant factor in evaluating performance. Moreover, SB 7 also addresses such topics as tenure and the collective bargaining process. Changes to the tenure process include performance requirements and eliminating seniority as a primary factor in teacher selection for open positions or when reductions in force are necessary.

SB 512 is currently making its way through the legislature. There is a bi-partisan group with stakeholders currently working on reforms.

SB 512 requires current state employees to make a one-time, irrevocable election to  one of the following options:

1.     Teachers would keep the same benefit structure but their contribution amount would increase to 13.77% in the first year and be recalculated every three years thereafter.

2.    Teachers would pay in 6% for a lower level of benefits. All benefits accrued to date would remain untouched.

3.     Defined Contribution Plan (similar to a 401k). Designed to be more of supplemental retirement income; levels of benefits not guaranteed.

It was noted that some senators believe there are elements in pension reform that are unconstitutional because the level of benefits constitute a contractual obligation. Therefore, a constitutional amendment for pension reform might be necessary.

Representative Sente stated she is undecided regarding her support for SB 512, but strongly feels those benefits previously earned by retired teachers should not be taken away or reduced. Neither Rep. Sente nor Mr. Ingram mentioned increased pension funding by school districts. However, Erica Lindley, Executive Director of ED-RED, referenced Senator Cullerton’s plan to increase school districts’ TRS contributions from .58% to 7%. She warned that the State might look to districts if the funding is not worked out with the teachers. She further noted that ED-RED member districts have stated that they cannot afford or absorb more mandated contributions.