Metro East Sun

State Senator Erica Harriss recently facilitated an educational visit to Springfield for over 50 high school students and teachers as part of her Spring Youth Advisory Council (YAC). This initiative is designed to impart firsthand knowledge of state government operations to students.

"Each year, students from high schools throughout the district are nominated by their schools to visit Springfield and get an up-close look at how state government operates," Senator Harriss stated. "This is one of my favorite events because it helps empower the next generation by giving them firsthand experience with the legislative process."

The YAC is a two-part series. Students from the 56th District visited Lewis and Clark Community College in the fall to develop bill ideas that they would later debate during the spring.

Mayonna Jaggie, a student from East Alton-Wood River High School, expressed interest in learning more about the Capitol, the state, and the Illinois State Senate. "I think it is really important for people in my age group to understand what is going on behind the scenes," she said. She appreciated Senator Harriss' effort as an Illinois State Senator to engage with students. "It is really nice to see that they are interested in everyone’s voice and perspective," Mayonna added.

During the Spring YAC, the students took on various legislative roles to debate their proposed legislation in a mock committee hearing. Hannah Kypra from O’Fallon Township High School, who aspires to be a lawyer, participated actively. "I am really interested in policymaking and the legal system," she said, noting that the experience was beneficial for communication, public speaking, and debate skills.

The program also included a presentation by Illinois Supreme Court Judge David Overstreet, and a Capture the Capitol photo contest intended to foster students' creativity.

Anthony Adams of Madison Senior High School highlighted the insights gained from the experience. "I really enjoyed seeing both the Senate Floor and the House of Representatives Floor and how they operate," he remarked.

Macy Hart of Roxana Senior High School emphasized the importance of understanding government and being involved. "If we want change, it is up to us to get involved and get out there," she stated.

Meridian Health Plan of Illinois supported the event by providing refreshments and lunch for the Youth Advisory Council participants.