Sangamon Sun

Gov. Bruce Rauner stopped by Herrin Junior High School last week while promoting a bipartisan equitable school funding formula, a plan that would give more money to low-income, high-poverty schools.

"No. 1 priority is to make sure we have the best schools in America in every county, not just in some communities," Rauner said.

The proposed spending framework would increase funding to Illinois schools by at least $3.5 billion annually. Rauner told the school that by becoming more business friendly, the state would increase the tax base. The increased revenues would provide the additional funding for education.

Rauner also met with students for a question-and-answer session. One Herrin student asked about Rauner's role model. The governor spoke eloquently of his grandfather's words to the students.

"He taught me the value of hard work, and he said, 'Bruce, whatever you choose to do, give it 100 percent, your best effort every day,'" Rauner said. "The second thing he said is, 'Bruce, do really well in school. Get a good education because education is the key to being whatever you want to be and having a good quality life and a better future.' So, he said hard work and education."

Rauner's grandfather also told him to give back to the community. During his visit, the governor promised to increase funding for schools in the upcoming year -- fulfilling his grandfather's teachings on education and giving back to the community.