The embattled Regional Offices of Education in Illinois will be consolidated under a measure (SB 2706) headed to the governor's desk.
Nearly a quarter of the state's 44 offices would be cut. Representative Linda Chapa LaVia (D-Aurora) said it's remarkable that the superintendents cooperated with lawmakers to come up with a reduction plan.
""Its almost as if, you're going to be sitting next to a person, and you know they're going to be -- you're going to have to get rid of them -- you're their friend. But they sat at the table and helped us come up with a great plan," she said.
The regional offices are a go-between for local school districts and the State Board of Education. They handle truancy issues, administer GED programs and oversee teacher certification.
The offices to be consolidated are in some of Illinois' least populous areas, including in western Illinois.
Thanks to Illinois Public Radio
