State Senator Terri Bryant (R-Murphysboro) welcomed approximately 30 high school students last week from across the 58th Senate District to the Illinois State Capitol as part of her Youth Advisory Council (YAC) program. This hands-on experience provided students with an in-depth look at government, public service, and the legislative process.
Students had the opportunity to tour the Capitol, visit the Senate chamber, and learn about the inner workings of state government. They also heard from lobbyists and policy experts about how legislation is shaped before taking part in their own mock committee debate.
Senator Bryant noted that the wide geographic reach of the students made for engaging discussions and diverse perspectives throughout the day.
“These students are from all over the district, the 58th District stretches from Missouri to Indiana,” said Senator Bryant.
For many students, the event was a rare opportunity to experience government in action and gain insights beyond what they learned in the classroom.
Grady Simpson from Fairfield Community High School said, “The Capitol was extremely busy today. There were a lot of lobbyists and groups advocating for what they want,” “It was interesting to see how they’re lobbying and how that process actually plays out in real life.”
Students also learned that citizen engagement is a critical part of the democratic process.
Senator Bryant’s Youth Advisory Council provides students with a unique opportunity to engage with state government and develop a deeper understanding of how laws are made. The program is open to high school students across the 58th Senate District, and those interested in participating in future events are encouraged to contact their principal or superintendent for more information.
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