CHICAGO, Ill. – Sixteen High school students from Thomas Kelly High School visited the Illinois State Capitol on Tuesday, March 7, as guests of State Rep. Theresa Mah, D-Chicago, for the fourth year in a row.

“Students of all ages benefit greatly from seeing firsthand the way government operates,” said Mah. “Having the opportunity to come to Springfield may be just the motivation necessary to inspire future leaders.”

Students from Kelly High’s Advanced Placement Government Course were those who attended with Mah. The student’s teacher Brian Halberg collaborated with Mah to facilitate the trip. The student’s excellent scholarly performance has awarded them the opportunity to be in the course. Students were given a tour of the House Chamber, enjoyed a catered lunch in the Secretary of State’s ceremonial office, and heard many guest speakers who work in the field of government affairs, including some of Mah’s colleagues.

“Many of the students who go along for the trip have never been to the capitol building before,” said Mah. “It is my sincere hope that this trip will be a fond memory for the students, and stick with them as they go on to college and beyond.”