Illinois State Rep. Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights) | repschmidt.com
Illinois State Rep. Kevin Schmidt (R-Cahokia Heights) | repschmidt.com
Illinois State Rep. Kevin Schmidt is working with his GOP colleagues to develop a sweeping package of bills that are aimed at improving educational outcomes across the state.
According to a press release from Schmidt's office, as a member of the Literacy Improves Future Endeavors (LIFE) working group, he and fellow GOP members have been working to put together an extensive legislative package designed to improve education, boosting literacy, and addressing the current teacher shortages across Illinois. During the decision-making process, the group took testimony from educational advocates and stakeholders.
“The lockdowns that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic have affected the development of our youth,” Schmidt said, according to the press release. “The legislation we’ve proposed as a working group will help get kids back on track so they can receive the education they deserve for their future.”
To date, the legislation backed by Schmidt and the LIFE working group includes eight bills aimed at overhauling and improving the state's overall educational system. As part of his work with LIFE, Schmidt introduced House Bill 4068 which seeks to extend the sunset date for additional return to service for retired teachers.
According to a press release, earlier this year, Illinois House Republican Leader Tony McCombie appointed State. Rep Dave Severin (R-Benton) as the House Republican chairman of the Literacy Improves Future Endeavors (LIFE) working group.
“Republicans are here to work and these groups reflect not only that commitment but also our governing priorities,” Leader McCombie said, according to a press release. “We are ready to be part of the solution to some of our state’s biggest challenges. These working groups are our first steps toward solving the problems impacting residents throughout Illinois.”
The LIFE working group includes Republican State Reps. Schmidt, Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur), Amy Elik (R-Fosterburg), Travis Weaver (R-Edwards), Dan Swanson (R-Alpha) and David Friess (R-Red Bud).
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