State grades financial practices of Illinois Valley schools

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) – Most school districts across Illinois are spending more than they’re taking in and dipping into reserves or borrowing to stay afloat.

The State Board of Education has released school financial reports to gauge the financial health of school districts. In La Salle County, Ottawa Elementary, Milton Pope, and Wallace schools are on the “Early Warning” list for finances while Streator Elementary is on the “Watch” list.

In Bureau County, Hall High School is on the “Early Warning” list while Cherry Elementary and Princeton Elementary are on the “Watch” list. It’s not all bad news however.

Illinois Valley school districts receiving financial recognition include the Putnam County School District and Dalzell Elementary, LaMoille Schools, Ladd Elementary, Malden and Ohio Schools, Princeton High School in Bureau County.

Several schools in La Salle County are getting “recognition” status for their finances including L-P, Dimmick, La Salle Elementary, Mendota Elementary and High School and Ottawa High School.

For the statewide report, click School District Finance Reports