- Published: Friday, September 25, 2020 05:52 PM
CHICAGO –Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) joined the Senate Education and Higher Education Committees for a hearing focused on lowering the compulsory school age, determining metrics for advancement and building inclusive environments.
Thursday’s hearing was the second hearing dedicated to education and workforce development, the second pillar of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ agenda to rid Illinois of systemic racism.
“We learned so much about the opportunities missing for Black children in early childhood,” Lightford said. “It is appalling where Black children are in regards to literacy, mathematics and overall readiness to begin the first grade. Our state has a lot of changes to make to ensure our children are starting their education strong and have a fair chance at success.”