Lilly Introduces Measures to Expand Junior High Civics Education

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.  – Students in junior high would learn more about the importance of civic engagement and the workings of government under legislation introduced by state Rep. Camille Lilly, D-Chicago.

“When it comes to local, state, and national government, we are seeing an alarming lack of disengagement among our younger generations. I think we can change that by educating students about government and how it affects their daily life,” said Lilly. “Educating and engaging our students at a younger age on the importance of civic engagement will hopefully drive them to have a greater interest in how government works.”

Lilly is sponsoring House Bill 2265, which calls for public elementary schools serving sixth, seventh or eighth grade students to include a one semester course dedicated to civics education in their curriculum with the goal of inspiring students to take an interest in the governance and welfare of their communities. The proposal allows schools to consult with civics education stakeholders and involve service learning and simulations of the democratic process. This legislation builds on a Lilly-supported law passed during 2016 that requires students in Illinois’ high schools to take one semester of civics education during their studies.

“As an elected official, one of my top priorities is makings sure our students are prepared to become tomorrow’s leaders,” Lilly said. “Having a better understanding of how our government works will only help make our students more prepared for their lives outside the classroom.”