On January 13, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Community Consolidated School District 62 in Illinois by North Cook News. The request sought information about the number of non-U.S. citizens, often referred to as "migrants" or "illegal aliens," currently enrolled in the school district.
As representatives of North Cook News, we are committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, under which this request was made, is a state statute that provides the public with access to government documents and records. We have requested these records preferably in an electronic format.
In addition to this request, we also mentioned our eligibility for a fee waiver as media professionals engaged in disseminating information to the public.
According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, and the state average Administrative Salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is 141:1, and the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Interestingly enough, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
As we continue our work at North Cook News, we will keep striving for transparency and accountability from all public institutions within our coverage area.
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