State Rep. Avelar Backs Bill Establishing High School To Training Program Pipeline

ROMEOVILLE, IL — State Rep. Dagmara ‘Dee’ Avelar is supporting new legislation that would establish a high-school-to-training-program pipeline with grants from the Illinois State Board of Education, according to a news release from her office.

“Legislation like this helps students be guided to actively hiring long-term careers, providing more stable employment and financial security,” said Avelar. “Students should not have to choose between ‘getting by’ and pursuing a meaningful career. Young adults deserve the opportunity to build a future that aligns with their goals while still supporting themselves and their families.”

Avelar supports House Bill 4354, which would help establish public-private partnerships with employers, public community colleges and school districts. Both ISBE, as well as the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity would need to approve programs and implementation. They would also jointly maintain a registry of participating schools and employers.

For each participating employer, ISBE would provide a $1,000 grant per student, up to $50,000 per year, according to a news release.

“The financial burden that high school students can potentially go through, especially coming from low-income households, can limit their ability to pursue any form of secondary education and career training,” said Avelar. “This legislation helps reduce some of that burden and creates more affordable training programs while strengthening the workforce with qualified workers.”

The bill is currently assigned to the House Appropriations-Elementary and Secondary Education Committee, awaiting an initial public hearing.