Stadelman: Students need to understand the consequences of sexting

SPRINGFIELD – Schools that teach sex education would be required to include a lesson about the risks of sexting under a measure sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford), which passed committee Tuesday.

“The last time this curriculum was updated, technology was not as advanced as it is today,” Stadelman said. “This measure would modernize our state’s education standards to include sexting so our children know the long-term effects and consequences of what may seem like a harmless act.”

The measure would require schools that offer a sex education course or unit to modify their current curricula to include an age-appropriate lesson on sexting and its potential consequences.

Read more: Stadelman: Students need to understand the consequences of sexting

Cullerton demands answers following release of report on LaSalle Veterans Home COVID-19 outbreak

VILLA PARK – Following the release of a report from the Office of the Inspector General on the COVID-19 outbreak at the state-run LaSalle Veterans Home in November 2020, State Senator Tom Cullerton (D- Villa Park) called for hearings to further investigate the issue, discuss the obvious mistakes that occurred and how to move forward.

“It breaks my heart and I can’t imagine what the loved ones of those lost during this outbreak must be feeling,” said Cullerton, chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee. “This report will give me, my colleagues and our veterans’ families an opportunity to seek understanding of what occurred plus offer clarity on what can be done to prevent this situation in the future.” 

Read more: Cullerton demands answers following release of report on LaSalle Veterans Home COVID-19 outbreak

Joyce, Hastings invite high school students and residents to virtual Careers in the Trades event

PARK FOREST – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) and State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) are partnering to host a virtual workshop on Monday, May 3 at 10:30 a.m. to encourage Illinoisans to pursue careers in the trades.

“A career in the trades gives a person the opportunity to gain experience and education, learn practical and useful skills, and avoid student loan debt,” Joyce said. “With so many jobs in the trades in high demand, I encourage those looking for an alternative career path to sign up for this virtual event.” 

Attendees will be able to learn about the skilled trades and find out how to join a union, as well as connect with apprenticeship directors and contractors. 

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Belt joined by governor to announce $7.5 million investment in SWIC’s Belleville campus

BELLEVILLE – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) was joined by Governor JB Pritzker on Friday to announce a $7.5 million investment from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to build an advanced manufacturing training academy on Southwestern Illinois College’s Belleville campus to help train Illinoisans for new manufacturing jobs.

“I’m thrilled that SWIC was chosen for this project,” Belt said. “This equity-based program will provide residents with opportunities to develop specialized skills for careers in manufacturing.”

The funding will be used to create a new manufacturing training center on SWIC’s Belleville campus with new computers and other specialized equipment to prepare local residents for careers in electricity and welding.

Read more: Belt joined by governor to announce $7.5 million investment in SWIC’s Belleville campus