Press Coverage

Originally published on WPSD Local 6 on July 19, 2024

SPRINGFIELD , IL — An Illinois bill signed on Friday, July 19, will now require Illinois school districts to provide resources and services for special education students who do not have a guardian.

House Bill 4581 is a result of an issue brought to the attention of State Senator Rachel Ventura and State Representative Michelle Mussman.

According to Ventura, a student with no legal guardian was denied services by their school district and forced to move to another state.

"This law was crafted to advocate for special high needs education students who do not have a guardian to petition schools to provide resources for them," said Ventura (D-Joliet). "Everybody deserves an education that provides them the resources they need to succeed. We cannot in good conscience leave these students to fend for themselves if they need a specialized school to meet their needs so they can succeed."

Originally published on Herald-News Will County on June 22, 2024

“This is so exciting for our community,” said Ventura, who presented Johnson with a resolution from state leaders recognizing the museum. “This investment in tourism and history will be an economic driver in our community, and as someone who loves to sightsee, I’m excited to have another tourism destination in our backyard. This museum will become a cornerstone for the community – a place where we can reflect on our past, celebrate our present and look forward to a brighter future together.”