Dozens of high school students from across state Sen. Sue Rezin’s 38th Senate District traveled south to Springfield on May 1 to participate in her Youth Advisory Council.
Rezin’s twice-yearly Youth Advisory Council gives students a hands-on and up-close experience in state government.
Rezin hosted the all-day Youth Advisory Council in both the Capitol and the Stratton Building next to the Capitol, talking with high school students from Hall High School, LaSalle-Peru Township High School, Ottawa Township High School, Reed-Custer High School, Serena High School, Streator Township High School, Coal City High School and Wilmington High School about Illinois government and how the legislature operates.
She shared stories of her experiences in the statehouse, discussed what it takes to become a legislator, talked about why public policy is important, and answered questions.
The students also toured the Capitol and spent time on the Senate floor. They also heard from state Sen. Tom Rooney, who is also currently a high school economics teacher, as well as lobbyists Abby Walsh and Jim Fletcher.
The students, who were selected by their teachers and principals to participate, later worked in small groups to propose mock legislation, and then discussed and debated their proposals with the entire group. Rezin moderated the debate, asking the students questions about their proposals.
Rezin will host another Youth Advisory Council session this fall in the 38th Senate District.
Rezin started her Youth Advisory Council in 2016.
Wilmington High School participants pictured with State Sen. Sue Rezin (center), R-Morris, were Sam Higgins, Lexi Orr, Kassidy Hansen and Claire Rink.
Reed Custer High School participants pictured with Sen. Rezin (second from right) were T.J. Sforza, Casey Cromp and Abbi Haley.
Coal City High School's Ryleigh Christensen is pictured with Sen. Rezin.