Illinois has dramatically increased its education spending over the last five years, but student achievement has declined. According to state data, Illinois spent $35 billion on K–12 education in 2019, rising to $44 billion in 2024. Despite the additional funding, fourth grade reading proficiency fell from 35% to 30%, while eighth grade reading proficiency dropped from 36% to 33%. Illinois consistently ranks among the top states in per-pupil expenditures, yet remains in the bottom tier on student outcomes.
On Chicago’s Morning Answer, education policy expert Rick Hess of the American Enterprise Institute pointed to a very different trend in four southern states—Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Tennessee. While often overlooked, these states have made some of the strongest improvements in reading and math scores over the past decade, all while spending far less per student than Illinois. Harvard University’s recent national report on academic recovery placed all four states in the top ten for both reading and math.
Mississippi in particular has become a model for early literacy reform. In 2013, lawmakers passed the Literacy-Based Promotion Act, which required phonics-based instruction, statewide reading screenings, and individualized reading plans for struggling students. Third graders not reading at grade level were held back, while teachers received extensive training and support from literacy coaches. Louisiana followed with legislation banning “three-cueing,” a guessing strategy that literacy experts say undermines reading development, while also expanding phonics training requirements.
These reforms emphasize fundamentals—phonics, rigorous instructional materials, and early intervention—rather than experimental approaches. The results have been striking. Mississippi now ranks first in the nation for fourth-grade reading and math when adjusted for demographics, and Louisiana has led the nation in reading growth across two national testing cycles.
Hess also noted that teachers in these states report greater job satisfaction. With clearer instructional methods, stronger training, and state support to reduce classroom distractions, teacher vacancies have declined sharply in Louisiana, suggesting a more stable and motivated workforce.
By contrast, Illinois continues to debate funding formulas and political priorities while student proficiency slips further. As Hess observed, the southern states’ success shows that focusing on basics and accountability can make a measurable difference—even with fewer resources.