Understanding TIF & What It Means for Our Schools

Hosted by: Kids First Chicago, the Civic Federation, and the Coalition for a Better Chinese American Community

Languages: English, Spanish, and Chinese (Mandarin)

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is one of Chicago’s most complex—and important—tools for funding city infrastructure projects. But it also plays a major role in how much money Chicago Public Schools (CPS) receives each year.

Join Kids First Chicago (K1C), the Civic Federation, and the Coalition for a Better Chinese American Community (CBCAC) for a virtual conversation that breaks down what TIF is, how it connects to CPS budgets, and why TIF decisions matter for students and families.

After a short overview, stay for a powerful panel discussion featuring:

• Alderwoman Nicole Lee, 11th Ward, City of Chicago
• Joe Ferguson, President, The Civic Federation
• Moderated by Nell Salzman, The New York Times

You’ll also learn how to take action, including simple ways to advocate for a fair TIF surplus that ensures CPS has the funding it needs this year to avoid mid-year cuts or borrowing.

This webinar will help you understand where your city tax dollars go, how they impact schools, and what you can do to make sure every Chicago student gets their fair share. 

We hope you will join us!