The Chicago Tribune doesn't seem to think so. They opined:
One advantage of the new education conversation is that legislators know they can make a measurable difference, regardless of whether spending increases are modest or monumental. It's not just about the need for more money, it's about how to spend money wisely.
This page made that point in a seven-part series earlier this year. "From Here to Excellence" detailed how Illinois can get more productive and more accountable schools.
Lawmakers can still do that. For instance, they could decide to invest $60 million to develop a statewide program of intensive mentoring and induction for new teachers. Such programs improve the quality of teaching and keep good teachers in the classroom. Legislators could help local schools pay outstanding teachers more, develop better ways to track student progress and fine-tune curricula throughout the school year.
Don't give up on education. The ideas are there, with or without a lot of cash.