SPRINGFIELD --­ Governor George H. Ryan today announced more than $732 million in state school construction grants to 110 school districts throughout Illinois, marking the state's continued investment in providing modern and improved learning facilities for Illinois school children.

"Investing in the future of our children is one of the greatest responsibilities government has," the Governor said. "These grants reflect our commitment to quality educational facilities and quality education that will benefit today's students for the rest of their lives."

The school construction grant program is funded through Governor Ryan's Illinois FIRST program and helps local school districts relieve overcrowded classrooms and replace old and deteriorating facilities. To date, more than $2.1 billion in state funds have been awarded to school districts throughout the state through the state program, which is jointly administered by the Illinois Capital Development Board and the Illinois State Board of Education.

The grants announced today will help fund construction of 45 new schools and additions or renovations of 161 other out­dated school buildings.

"These grants represent the state's ongoing partnership with local school districts that will provide 2,900 new classrooms and educational opportunities for more than 73,500 students, giving both those students and the state a brighter future and a better ability to deal with the challenges of the 21st Century," Governor Ryan said.

The school construction program, authorized by the General Assembly in late 1997, is the first state building program to assist local school construction in more than two decades and is one of the largest such programs in the country.

Including the grants announced today, the program has benefited 367 school districts in every region of the state and has assisted in funding the construction of 211 new buildings and more than 9,700 new classrooms.

Under the school construction program, local school districts must receive a project entitlement and secure the required local share of construction funds before receiving any state grant funds. The grants range from 35 to 75 percent of eligible construction costs. Enhancements such as swimming pools, gymnasiums and auditoriums are not considered eligible project costs and are excluded from any grant calculations. By law, the Chicago Public Schools receive 20 percent of all grant funds.

Currently, only those projects that address emergency needs, crowded classrooms and old buildings are being funded.

For a list of grant recipients call 217-782-7355.