Illinois teachers often pay out of pocket for school supplies, with many classrooms in low-income areas struggling to provide students with basic materials such as pencils, paper, and notebooks. In response to this issue, Rep. Jed Davis (R-Yorkville) has introduced House Bill 3008, which would create a Classroom Supply Assistance Program to help teachers afford necessary classroom items without using their own salaries. The bill seeks to address the financial strain on educators while ensuring students have access to essential learning tools.
Under House Bill 3008, the Illinois State Board of Education would administer the Illinois Classroom Supply Assistance Program, distributing funds to teachers through a Classroom Supply Assistance Card (CSAC). The funds would be allocated at the beginning of each school quarter, starting in the 2027-2028 school year, and distributed based on a needs-based formula. Factors such as school district funding, poverty rates, Title 1 status, per-pupil spending disparities, student performance, and teacher-to-student ratios would determine the amount teachers receive. By prioritizing areas with the greatest need, the program aims to reduce educational inequities and provide direct financial relief to educators.
Over 90% of teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies, according to the National Education Association. A federal Department of Education survey from the 2014-2015 school year found that teachers spent an average of $479 out of pocket annually. With rising costs, that amount has likely increased. The proposed legislation seeks to alleviate this burden by ensuring teachers have direct access to state-funded resources.
To prevent misuse of funds, all purchases made with the Classroom Supply Assistance Card would be electronically tracked and monitored to ensure compliance with a preapproved list of school supplies. Teachers would have access to an online portal where they could manage funds, review balances, and track purchases. The program would also require annual audits to maintain transparency and accountability. These measures are intended to ensure that funds are used exclusively for classroom needs and prevent potential financial mismanagement.
Before full implementation, the bill calls for a pilot program in high-need districts during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. This trial phase would test the funding model and distribution process, allowing adjustments before the statewide rollout. The Illinois State Board of Education would be responsible for managing the pilot program, assessing its effectiveness, and reporting findings to the Governor and the General Assembly.
House Bill 3008 is part of a broader legislative package introduced by Rep. Davis, known as the Protecting Kids Bill Package. This collection of proposals includes measures requiring online platforms distributing adult content to implement strict age verification and mandating human trafficking awareness training for various professionals, including teachers, bartenders, and taxi drivers. These initiatives aim to provide stronger protections for children and vulnerable communities throughout Illinois.
Rep. Davis introduced House Bill 3008 on February 6, and it was referred to the Rules Committee on the same day. As lawmakers consider this legislation, the bill’s supporters argue that it presents a practical solution to a long-standing problem. If passed, the program would provide much-needed relief to teachers while ensuring that Illinois students have the supplies necessary for a successful education.
