High school students from the 37th Senate District have journeyed to Springfield for State Senator Li Arellano, Jr’s inaugural Youth Advisory Council. The event offered nearly 50 students from 12 schools a window into the world of state governance. Attendees experienced the legislative process firsthand, engaging with representatives and participating in mock committee meetings. “It gives us a chance to learn how government works and meet peers from other schools,” remarked Allie Peterson from Indian Creek High School. Senator Arellano emphasizes the importance of educating youth as future stewards of the legislative legacy they will inherit. The Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is a two-part series that begins in the fall with a district meeting and concludes in the spring at the State Capitol.
“It was a great day having our future leaders here at the State Capitol and giving them a glimpse into state government,” said Senator Arellano, Jr. “The law-making process is incredibly important, and providing students the opportunity to see the work we do as legislators is a key part of our civic duty. Educating our youth is the first step in energizing constituents and giving these young citizens a voice–especially since they will be inheriting the results of our work.”
“I like meeting all of the other kids from different schools. I come from a really small school, and we really only talk to people who are in our school district or who are really close to us,” said Allie Peterson, Indian Creek High School. “It’s fun to meet new people who I haven’t spoken to before and talk about something that’s academic.”
“I have never been to Springfield and so this is my first experience,” said Norah Schultz, Princeton High School. “I really enjoyed seeing the Senate, the House of Representatives and seeing how everything comes together.”
“I got picked to be the sponsor for the bill so I have been researching to get what I know down about the bill so I can answer questions,” said Ian Gillespie, Illinois Valley Central High School. “It’s just more knowledge about how to pass a bill and gain some greater experience, only being in high school and learning more about what I want to do in the future.”
“In school I have always loved learning about government and history and coming here has taken it to the next level,” said Alayna Young, Polo Community High School. “A lot of kids don’t have the opportunity to learn about this at a young age and I think it is important to learn about the government process just to understand how everything works, when you go out into the world and will be able to vote.”