Ventura passes measure to mitigate climate change

SPRINGFIELD – To tackle growing emission rates from automobiles and trucks, State Senator Rachel Ventura spearheaded legislation through the Senate that would create a grant for local governments to help mitigate the impact of climate change.

“By encouraging local governments to plant native trees and grasses, which are proven to help mitigate climate change through carbon capture, we can aid the process of healing our planet for future generations significantly,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This grant opportunity would make a big difference in every corner of the state – tackling the deterioration of the planet head on.”

The ramifications of the climate crisis are felt across all tiers of government. With heightened frequency and intensity of storms, local administrations face the imperative of managing flooding and devising solutions for dirt and snow drifts. Moreover, the escalating emissions from transportation and fossil fuel sources demand urgent attention. Scientific research underscores the efficacy of native grasses and trees in carbon capture. In response to these pressing needs, this bill endeavors to establish a grant program tailored for local governments.

Read more …

Ventura measure to enhance physical, emotional health in schools passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD – School has become increasingly stressful for students, leading State Senator Rachel Ventura to spearhead legislation that would help students reduce anxiety and focus on their physical and emotional needs during school time.

“A student’s life consists of a variety of stressors – from homework to friend groups and life at home. Giving them at least 20 minutes to relax and focus on their mental health will help them feel less stress and in turn produce better outcomes in the classroom,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Helping students identify ways to manage stress and anxiety is just one benefit that could come from this legislation.”

Read more …

Ventura commends local school district on receiving $40k grant through Illinois Art Council

ROMEOVILLE – State Senator Rachel Ventura recently announced that Valley View Community Unit School District 365U received a $40,000 grant to expand arts or foreign language classes.

“As a mother, I know the importance the arts can have in a child’s life – allowing them to freely express themselves in an often stressful environment,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I commend the Illinois Art Council and Illinois State Board of Education for putting a focus on such an important program that will give thousands of students a better school experience and make memories for a lifetime.”

The Arts and Foreign Language Education Grant is a joint initiative through Illinois Arts Council Agency and the Illinois State Board of Education. Its purpose is to support arts and foreign language education in schools, with an emphasis on ensuring that these areas become part of the school’s core curriculum.

Read more …

Ventura announces new adult and career education center at St. Charles

ST. CHARLES – State Senator Rachel Ventura has two young adults serving as interns through a program she started in partnership with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice at the Illinois Youth Center - St. Charles Facility.

Ventura’s internship uniquely serves as the only DJJ internship with a state legislator – in addition to her internship through the Stateville Correctional Center. Due to privacy concerns, names have been taken out of the quotes.

One of the interns – who goes by D.W. – wrote the following release as part of his internship to commemorate the grand opening of the PEACE Center, which the internship is ran through:

Read more …