Black Caucus: State has made great strides, but there’s work still to be done

• Black Caucus
• State of the State

SPRINGFIELD—The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus (ILBC) responded to Gov. JB Pritzker’s State of the State address on Wednesday.

Leaders of the Black Caucus discussed key issues brought up by the governor’s address that specifically affect black communities throughout the state, including early childhood education, health care and criminal justice reform.

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Lightford applauds Pritzker’s commitment to education

• State of the State

SPRINGFIELD – Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) responded to Gov. JB Pritzker’s State of the State Address on Wednesday with the following statement:

“Last year, the governor gave the General Assembly an extra push to get some big items done, and I look forward to building on such a successful session. I am particularly excited about investing in early childhood education and working to make college more affordable.”

“Education is a vital tool in lifting people out of poverty, and I am glad Governor Pritzker shares my commitment to the children of Illinois.”

Lightford heartbroken by the loss of Trooper Rieves

MAYWOOD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) released the following statement following the tragic loss of childhood friend and retired Illinois State Trooper Greg Rieves this past weekend.

“Greg was the kind of person you never saw angry. He was a peacemaker who was always smiling. We have been friends since we were in kindergarten, and it feels like losing a brother. When he was in the Illinois State Police Academy, I was working on my Master’s at University of Illinois at Springfield, and I was so honored to have the opportunity to attend his graduation.”

“Our community and the Proviso East Class of ’86 is hurting in the loss of a local hero and inspiration. This tragedy has left us heartbroken, and we will honor our brother Trooper Greg Rieves’ legacy by coming together with love and support for one another. The entire Proviso East community bleeds blue for our fellow Pirate.”
“I wish the two injured troopers a safe and speedy recovery, and extend my deepest condolences to Greg’s family and friends.”

Lightford announces ISBE applications for early childhood funding for FY 2021

SPRINGFIELD – Applications for early childhood funding are being accepted by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) for the 2021 fiscal year, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) announced Friday.

The governor, General Assembly and Lightford have dedicated themselves to early childhood to make Illinois the finest state for families to raise young children.

“Early childhood education is an essential part of a child’s life,” Lightford said. “It is important we invest in strong educational beginnings that will give our children more opportunity for success in their future.”

Early childhood programs are a factor in closing challenging gaps that ensure children entering school are prepared for successes that lasts a lifetime. The 2018 Kindergarten Individual Development Survey showed that only 26% of students in the state enrolled in kindergarten with math, literacy and social-emotional learning skills expected for children at their age. Investment in early childhood programs is necessary in order to improve the quantity of enrollment and the quality of support.

Applicants in the geographic areas that are considered Tier 1 or Tier 2, which are in the greatest need of additional resources, will be a funding priority for ISBE.

Nearly 40 percent of ECBG funds will go to Chicago Public Schools, and 25 percent will go to Prevention Initiative programs, according to state statute.

Applicants are required to receive a quality score of at least 60 to be eligible for funding. Further criteria for eligibility and the Request for Proposals can be found at www.isbe.net/ecbg.

Applications are due no later than 4 p.m. on March 23.