SPRINGFIELD– Earlier this month, State Senator Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) welcomed dozens of high school students from across the 51st Senate District to the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield to learn more about the state’s legislative process as part of his Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program.
“This is a great opportunity for students to engage themselves in the legislative process,” said Sen. Rose. “These students are our future, and I am grateful I am able to speak with them and offer my knowledge and guidance.”
Sen. Rose’s YAC program allows local high school students to learn more about our Illinois State Government. During the recent YAC meeting, students took on the various roles involved in the legislative process for a mock committee hearing in an actual committee room at the Capitol Complex. The students served as lawmakers, reporters, concerned citizens and lobbyists, advocating for and against a mock legislative proposal in a simulated senate committee hearing.
“I thought it would be a great opportunity to come to Springfield to see how my state government works and further educate myself,” said Jack Patterson Lawrenceville High School. “I have learned interview tactics, how to answer questions, how things work, and potential career fields.”
Sen. Rose’s YAC program is open to high school students in the 51st Senate District each year. He encourages interested students to ask their teachers and/or principals to take part in future YAC programs.
It is important for young people to understand how the legislative process works so they know what they are voting for,” commented Shiloh High School Student Briana Reese.