Senator Lightford recently had the privilege of speaking to 7th and 8th grade students at Hillside School's Annual Career Day. Senator spoke to 60 students who were eager to learn more about civic engagement. The young scholars were even led in a mock civic engagement walk-through to gain a better understanding of the democratic process.

Students received free school supplies and water bottles for their participation. See the photos from the event below!

This week, Senator Lightford sits down to discuss her reaction to the governor’s budget address. She speaks on the importance of education not only being fully funded in Illinois, but also fundamentally rebalanced so that all students from all walks of life are able to achieve their academic dreams.

Sen. Lightford also shares her disappointment in the governor’s address failing to mention a bevy of critical areas of concern, including higher education, struggling human services programs and public safety.

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the President Barack Obama’s address given to the General Assembly, Senate Assistant Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D – Maywood) released the following statement.

“More than the words spoken, sometimes a tone that strikes the right chord can deliver the strongest message. Beyond the president’s message of principled compromise, which I believe we all gravely needed to hear, his hopeful, yet defiant tone is what I take away most from the speech today.

“To move past the gridlock, we have to defy the pervasive narrative that we cannot work together or that political interests are outweighing the interests of the people. Our leaders need to come together with a fresh outlook and a grounded understanding of the consequences of their motivations and actions. Then and only then, will we move forward in a democracy for the people, by the people.

"The president is a true gentleman and friend, the two of us serving together in the Illinois Senate together from 1998-2004."

For our students to succeed, we need initiatives and programs that unite the resources of local businesses and government, as well as every college and K-12 school in our community.

Only by harnessing the synergy of working together can we make sure every student is given the opportunity for success.

Take a look at the article below to read about how one California working-class, urban city saved its education system through harnessing its community's strength, becoming a model for the nation.

http://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2016/02/the-long-beach-miracle/459315/