Public education in Illinois is managed by the Illinois State Board of Education, which oversees K-12 schools across the state. The system includes a mix of public school districts, charter schools, and alternative education programs. Funding primarily comes from local property taxes, state funding, and federal grants, which can lead to disparities in resources among different districts. Illinois has a diverse student population and offers various educational programs to meet different needs, including special education and bilingual education. The state also emphasizes standardized testing to assess student performance and ensure accountability within schools, aiming to improve educational outcomes for all students.