SPRINGFIELD – Taking a significant step toward ensuring all students have access to high-quality reading education, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford’s measure implementing a statewide literacy plan is now law.

“By developing a comprehensive and equitable literacy plan, Illinois is making it clear that we are committed to closing the achievement gap,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Reading and writing is essential, and every child — regardless of their background, ZIP code or circumstances — deserves to have the tools they need to succeed.”

Lightford’s measure requires the Illinois State Board of Education to create and implement a comprehensive literacy plan by Jan. 31, 2024. The plan calls for increasing research-aligned, developmentally appropriate reading instruction in schools, as well as expanded training opportunities for teachers and a curriculum rubric to help guide school districts.

SPRINGFIELD – The Fiscal Year 2024 budget was signed into law today with plans to prioritize education and expand the workforce. In response, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) released the following statement:

“I am proud to support a balanced budget that invests in students, families and communities across Illinois. The Fiscal Year 2024 state budget invests in the future of Illinois, providing record funding for early childhood education, higher education and trade schools.”

“I am pleased to see investments prioritizing early learning for all Illinoisans by removing systemic barriers that disproportionally impact underserved populations by expanding programs, and improving the early education workforce to support retention efforts and promote job growth.”

“Thousands of marginalized, first-generation students will have the opportunity to continue their education through grants for college costs outlined in this budget plan. Further, the budget includes valuable investments in workforce training programs for teens and young adults after high school.”

“My commitment to providing quality and affordable education opportunities from birth to college for families in Illinois is backed by this budget. I am proud to support a budget that is responsible, compassionate, and provides our youth with greater opportunities for success. With this budget plan, we are promoting diversity in a skilled workforce prepared to meet the needs of our communities and ready to be frontrunners in the industries of the future.”

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford championed legislation in 2021 to ensure that the people of Illinois understood that Black history is American history. This year she is building upon that monumental measure by encouraging people to celebrate Juneteenth and reminding them of the reason for the holiday.

“Juneteenth being a state holiday reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “This day gives everyone an opportunity to celebrate Black culture, Black achievements, and learn more about Black history.”

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) declared the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget a positive investment for our state’s children – prioritizing education, youth employment and mental health.

“A person’s educational success begins the day they are born. The quickest way to fail a generation is by failing to prioritize their education,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “In Illinois, I am proud to say we took a positive step toward ensuring our students aren’t failed by an unjust system.”

The budget – backed by Lightford – includes a $250 million investment into early childhood education. The funding will be used to expand preschool, stabilize the child care workforce, and provide more early intervention and home visiting programs.