| Future Leaders Take the Capitol: Over 80 Students Engage in Senator Plummer’s Youth Advisory Council Program Dozens of students from across the 55th Senate District gathered in Springfield this week for an in-depth learning experience about government, public service, and the legislative process. The event was part of State Senator Jason Plummer’s (R-Edwardsville) Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program. “Getting people engaged in government at a young age is vital to ensuring their voices are heard in policies that affect them,” said Senator Plummer. “This program empowers students to realize their influence in government and inspires them to actively shape their state’s future.” The students toured the Illinois State Capitol, exploring the Senate chamber and learning about the history of state government in the morning. They met with legislative staff and professionals who provided insights into the legislative process and the importance of youth participation. “What I was so interested in was seeing the state capitol and learning the details of government,” said Kenzie Harris, a student at Ramsey High School. “Getting to meet Senator Plummer and seeing how down-to-earth he is was cool.” In the afternoon, students participated in a mock committee debate, taking on roles as legislators, lobbyists, and concerned citizens. They discussed and voted on a bill they had developed earlier in the YAC program during the fall, experiencing firsthand how legislation is shaped and debated. | |
| “It was interesting learning the basics of our government because it’s different at the state level, and it’s more complicated than most people think,” said Abby Tate, from Vandalia High School. “I now know it’s important to get involved because all opinions matter, and engagement is crucial to a functioning government,” said Easton Johnson, from Odin High School. Senator Plummer praised the enthusiasm and participation of the students. “The energy in the room was fantastic, and it’s inspiring to see so many young people eager to make a difference. This gives me hope for the future and the next generation of leaders.” Plummer’s YAC program is open to all high school students in the 55th Senate District. Students interested in joining are encouraged to contact their principal or superintendent. |
| Republicans Push for Fairness in High School Sports with New Letter to IHSA During the week, State Republican lawmakers sent a letter to the Executive Director of the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), urging the organization to clarify its policies regarding transgender athletes in high school sports and ensure fairness for women who have worked tirelessly to compete. The letter, signed by members of both the Illinois Senate and House Republican Caucuses, calls on the IHSA to align its policies with recent federal guidelines that protect the integrity of women’s sports. The lawmakers emphasized that federal law clearly mandates that participation in women’s sports should be based on biological sex, in order to preserve fairness and competitive balance. In their letter, lawmakers requested an update on how the IHSA plans to revise its policies to comply with federal requirements while ensuring a level playing field for women in sports. They are standing up for the women who dedicate themselves to training, sacrificing, and competing, ensuring they are judged on their skill. Republican lawmakers are committed to protecting the opportunities that women athletes have worked so hard to earn. The message is clear: they are demanding transparency, accountability, and a commitment to maintaining fairness in Illinois sports. |
| Homeschool Families Pack Illinois Capitol to Defend Education Freedom Thousands of homeschooling families packed the Illinois State Capitol this week to protest House Bill 2827, which advanced out of the Education Policy Committee on an 8-4 vote with all House Republicans voting against it. Known as the “Homeschool Act,” House Bill 2827 would impose new regulations on homeschooling families, including mandatory forms, educational portfolios, and potential criminal penalties for non-compliance. The bill has sparked widespread concern among parents who view it as a direct attack on their rights to educate their children without government interference. Opponents argue that it would undermine parental control and open the door for further restrictions on homeschooling. According to Senator Plummer, the bill threatens to undermine the freedoms of parents who choose homeschooling, with many concerned it marks the beginning of broader government intrusion into private education. | |