Sen. Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) listens to Sen. Heather Steans (D-Chicago) during debate about Senate Bill 10, the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act, on Feb. 14 at the Capitol. (click to enlarge)

After the governor's State of the State address, Assistant Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford talked about the minimum wage and education funding.

Senator Kimberly A. Lightford hosted a Community Health Focus Day last month to provide much-needed health assessments for area residents. Senator Lightford partnered with Nurse Alicia Brown for the event at the Columbus Park District.

Students in Chicago Public Schools had until October 15 to obtain school physicals or they would not be allowed to return to class. The goal of the Health Focus Day was to make sure students received physicals and immunizations so they could return to class on Monday.

The Chicago Department of Public Health and PCC provided free physicals, immunizations, blood pressure and blood glucose screenings, and flu shots. Representatives from Hines Veterans Hospital provided information to veterans and registered those who did not already have health care providers.

Senator Lightford provided free lunch for all participants.

Senator Kimberly A. Lightford partnered with the Black Star Project to sponsor a free education program for children. The Kimberly A. Lightford Saturday University was launched on September 1 with over 200 students, parents and guests at the grand opening ceremony. This free community-based program provides opportunities for students, parent and community agencies to take control of children’s education.

The 12-week Saturday University features math, reading and writing courses taught by instructors who fully engage each student as an active learner. It is supplemental education designed to boost children’s academic success and to raise the community’s academic expectations and performance.

To date, the University has over 90 students registered with a waiting list. Due to the overwhelming success, the University will extend its fall semester an additional two weeks.

Plans are underway for a spring semester. Any parents interested in having their child enrolled may contact Senator Lightford’s office for additional information.