SPRINGFIELD – To raise awareness of the role that Career Technical Education has in preparing learners for college and career success, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is backing the effort to establish February 2022 as Career and Technical Education Month.  

“In communities throughout the state, CTE provides Illinois students with hands-on experience and real-world skills to better prepare them for jobs,” said Bennett, a chief co-sponsor of Senate Resolution 698. “The goal of this resolution is to raise awareness and recognize the important role CTE plays in our workforce.”

Career and Technical Education, or CTE, are programs designed to prepare students for careers in major industries, such as finance, health care, information technology, advanced manufacturing and education. Coursework includes both academic and technical materials, allowing many students to use their knowledge from the programs to earn industry-recognized credentials or college credits. This makes careers in these fields much more accessible for many students who may struggle to complete coursework in traditional academic programs.

SPRINGFIELD – To increase accessibility and attainability in higher education, Senate Higher Education Committee Chair Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is championing a measure that would make textbook and course materials free for in-state students at public universities and community colleges in Illinois.

“Textbooks are one of the most overlooked costs of going to college, but they can be a barrier to attaining a college education,” Bennett said. “This legislation would give our state a competitive advantage for students who stay in Illinois for their secondary education and would help relieve the financial burden associated with obtaining necessary course materials.”  

According to The College Board, the average student budget for college books and supplies during the 2020-2021 academic year was $1,298 at four-year public institutions. A survey conducted by the U.S. PIRG found that 65% of students decided not to buy a textbook because of the cost and 94% of those students worried it would negatively affect their grade.

DANVILLE – Illinois communities are preparing for a broadband infrastructure investment, and State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is pleased to see Champaign and Vermilion Counties receive a portion of $47 million in newly-announced broadband expansion funding.

“It became apparent during the start of the COVID-19 crisis that our communities were challenged with internet access,” Bennett said. “This funding is part of an overall effort to provide reliable, high-speed, affordable internet access to every home, business and community across the state.”

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced funding for 22 projects in every region of the state. The money is part of the second round of Connect Illinois, which is the state's broadband expansion plan, and the funding will help 14 different internet service providers, rural cooperatives and local governments.

CHAMPAIGN – In an effort to replenish the stock of the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen in Champaign, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is reminding residents to make a donation to his hygiene product drive by Monday, Jan. 31.

“Giving back is small way we can all make a big difference in our community,” Bennett said. “Please help our community by donating hygiene products to ensure no one goes without during the winter months.”

Bennett’s office is collecting new products including deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, shaving cream, razors, hand lotion, hand warmers, chapstick, gloves, hats, socks, scarves and small treats. Hygiene items can be dropped off at Bennett’s district office located at 45 E. University Ave., Suite 206 in Champaign.

PEORIA – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) accepted the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association/Ag-Solve’s Friend of Agriculture award in Peoria on Wednesday.

“It’s a privilege to advocate for our farmers and farm families at the state level,” Bennett, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said. “I would like to express my appreciation for this award in recognition of the work we’ve been able to accomplish for the agriculture industry.”

Bennett spoke to IFCA/Ag-Solve members about his legislative work advocating for the agriculture industry and was later recognized for his support. IFCA/Ag-Solve represents the crop production supply and service industry and promotes sound stewardship and utilization of agricultural inputs.

CHAMPAIGN – Local libraries in Champaign and Catlin will receive nearly $65,000 in combined grants to grow and enhance their services, thanks to the support from State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign).

“Our libraries serve as pillars in our communities, bringing people together by providing programs and services,” Bennett said. “These grants will help us preserve these important institutions and support their initiatives to educate and enhance our communities.”

Three area libraries are set to receive a total of $64,469 to respond directly to difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant provides nearly $6 million in funding for libraries to modify services, transform spaces and develop resources for their local recovering workforce and to ensure all operations can be provided safely and effectively as the pandemic continues.

CHAMPAIGN – To highlight older adults who have contributed to their communities through service, education, the workforce or the arts, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is asking residents to submit their nominations to the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame.

“The members of the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame stand as an example to each of us,” Bennett said. “Let’s take this opportunity to acknowledge an older family member, friend or neighbor who goes out of their way to make our neighborhoods a better place by nominating them to the hall of fame.”

The Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame celebrates outstanding accomplishments in community service, education, the labor force and the arts. Each year, four candidates — one from each category — are inducted.

Eligibility is based on an individual’s past and present accomplishments, and the candidate must be a current Illinois citizen or a former citizen for most of their life. Posthumous nominees are also considered.

Nominations for 2022 inductees must be submitted by June 1. For more information or to submit a nomination, visit www2.illinois.gov/aging/HallofFame.

DANVILLE – In an effort to lift the spirits of local older Illinoisans, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) invites people of all ages to get creative and donate homemade or store-bought valentines to support long-term care facilities in Vermilion County.

“Life is still very isolated and sending a special valentine to someone living in a long-term care facility is a wonderful gesture that is sure to put a smile on their face,” Bennett said. “Please consider taking a few minutes to create a Valentine’s Day card with a personal message to spread love to these folks.”