Springfield Day

 

As president of the Illinois Association for Gifted Children, I had the opportunity to spend April 17th in our state capitol with 1,000 students, their parents and teachers from across the state. The students came to Springfield to meet with their legislators to advocate for funding so that school districts can meet their learning needs. 

About 60 students actually met the Governor during an impromtu visit to his office.  A group of parents from District 74 drove down with their children and met with Senator Ira Silverstein. 

The legislature eliminated over $19 million in funding for gifted education in 2003 and removed gifted education from the school code. The language was reinstated in 2005.  The legislature passed the 2008 budget to include $5 million for gifted education. Due to a budget deficit, the $5 million has not been released. Those visiting Springfield asked their legislators to include this year's $5 million plus an additional $5 million for 2009 in the next budget. 

Students got a firsthand look at the state legislature in action by visiting the Senate and House chambers. They got a lesson in advocacy and learned that their collective voices can make a difference!