Illinois Association for Gifted Children

800 E. Northwest Hwy
Suite 610
Palatine, IL 60074
Ph: 847-963-1892
Fax: 847-963-1893
E-mail: click This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Follow Us On:  facebook_icon  twitter_icon

events-news_masthead

 

Springfield Day - April 21, 2010

…was a day for gifted and talented children, their families, and their teachers to gather in Springfield, Illinois to advocate for funding.


Sponsored by the Illinois Association for Gifted Children

Thank you to Jill Ko for organizing this event.

springfield-dayHundreds of gifted and talented children, their parents, and their teachers from across the state visited their local legislators in Springfield, our state capital. The purpose of that visit was to meet with legislators to inform them about the unique needs of gifted and talented students and to demonstrate support for funding for Gifted Education. In addition, children experienced democracy in action.  They saw how laws are made, and visited the Lincoln Museum and other attractions. This event complemented the school curriculum. Families, teachers, parent organizations, and school groups were invited to participate. Thanks to everyone’s efforts in Springfield Day 2008, $5 million was funded for Gifted Education in the State’s Board of Education budget. These funds helped to support professional development for teachers so that they can recognize gifted students and differentiate curriculum to meet their needs. Advocating for funding continues to be necessary. Read why and how here.

Why Did We Participate In Springfield Day? We were able to—
   

  • Develop advocacy skills by meeting with your representatives in Springfield. This face-to-face meeting leaves a lasting impression on both the legislators and the participants.
  • Hear legislators speak on how laws are made, their roles in state government, and view the legislature in action. Both the House and Senate are scheduled to be in session that day.
  • Visit museums and learn about the history of our great state.
  • Watch legislative proceedings and/or visit Springfield attractions.