Ellman measure expanding access to high school coursework for middle schoolers advances

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure that more students can get ahead academically while maintaining strong instructional standards, State Senator Laura Ellman advanced House Bill 4239, which would expand access to high school-level coursework for seventh and eighth grade students.

“Students learn at different paces, and our policies should reflect that,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This measure ensures that motivated middle school students have clear, equitable access to high school coursework, without unnecessary barriers, while maintaining the high standards families expect.”

House Bill 4239 would clarify that middle school students may enroll in high school courses offered by the high school they would attend, so long as the course is taught by a properly licensed educator and can be taken at the student’s current school.

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Castro leads charge to deliver critical care for newborns

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Cristina Castro advanced a measure that would develop a program to increase care for newborns.

“The postpartum period is a critical phase of newborns’ well-being,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Delivering needed care in that time period will ensure their health is not compromised.”

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Morrison leads legislation that would bolster law enforcement use of the CODIS database

DEERFIELD — State Senator Julie Morrison is leading legislation that would ensure the Illinois State Police utilize the national DNA profile database CODIS to notify investigating agencies if a consistent DNA profile has been identified.

“The CODIS database is a valuable tool for law enforcement agencies to ensure our safety and seek justice for victims of crimes,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “It is imperative that we continue to provide the administrative tools needed to ensure the Illinois State Police is able to utilize and contact investigating law enforcement agencies if a match is identified.”

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Glowiak Hilton prioritizes railroad safety for students

SPRINGFIELD — In an effort to keep students safe, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is leading a measure to include railroad safety information in student handbooks.

“Student safety has to be at the forefront of our priorities,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Our residents have expressed concern about schools near railroads and ensuring students understand the protocols in place to keep them safe.”

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