Marion School Dist. to receive $56.62 million | News

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, IL (KFVS) - Illinois school districts statewide will receive a total of more than $623 million from "Illinois Jobs Now!" to build new buildings or expand, repair and update existing ones.

Governor Quinn announced Thursday this capital funding will provide needed classroom space, while supporting an estimated 4,000 construction jobs throughout the state.

A Williamson County School District, Marion Community Unit School District 2, will receive $56.62 million.

"In order for our students to compete for the jobs of tomorrow, we must ensure they are receiving a quality education in quality school facilities,” Governor Quinn said. “This capital funding will help school districts across the state update their facilities and make critical repairs to improve the educational experience for our students,”

Quinn said 31 school districts statewide were approved for the state funding this fiscal year after their projects were certified by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Capital Development Board.

Other local school districts to receive funding include:

• Shawnee Community Unit School District 84 - $2.04 million
• Mt. Vernon Township High School District 201 - $47.62 million

Gov. Quinn also announced Thursday that the state is making available $50 million in School Maintenance Grant Program grants. The dollar-for-dollar state matching grant program provides up to $50,000 in matching funds for the maintenance or upkeep of buildings or structures for educational purposes. The grant applications for districts will be available soon.

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