On an invitation from State Senator Tom Bennett, four Coal City High School students spent a day at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield.
On Monday, April 8, Senator Bennett hosted his Youth Advisory Council that includes students from across the 53rd Senate District. Coalers Jared Counterman, Reis Scheer, Deborah Lynch and Katherine Promis were selected to represent their school. The students were provided an up close look at how legislation is made within the General Assembly.
The students also had discussions with the Senator and several other state representatives, lobbyists and legislative staffers.
As part of the program, the students conducted a simulated legislative hearing within the State Capitol complex.
“It was overall a great experience to learn more about civic engagement and advocacy,” said social studies teacher Ben Baer, who accompanied the students to Springfield.