Quinn Criticized For Plan To Merge School Districts

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CBS) -- Gov. Pat Quinn is drawing criticism for a proposal to cut the state's costs by merging school districts.

Quinn says Illinois could save $100 million by bringing the number of school districts in the state from almost 900 down to 300.

He believes by getting rid of unnecessary administrators, there will be funds to put more teachers in classrooms.

Quinn tells CBS affiliate WIFR-TV, Rockford, that at least 270 school superintendents receive a larger paycheck than he does, and he does not think the state needs so many.

Two hundred school districts in Illinois have only one school, WIFR reported.

Quinn has also pitched a plan to cut state support for school transportation, which he says would save $95 million, WIFR reported.

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• Pat Quinn