State Senator Jil Tracy welcomed more than 60 high school students from 14 schools across the 50th Legislative District to her annual Youth Advisory Council in Springfield on April 13.
The event aimed to provide students with direct exposure to the legislative process and encourage civic engagement among young people. The council included tours of both the Senate and House floors, meetings with lawmakers, and participation in a mock committee hearing.
“It is always inspiring to see so many young people take an active interest in how their state government works,” said Senator Tracy. “The Youth Advisory Council gives students a firsthand look at the legislative process and encourages them to become informed and engaged citizens.”
During the morning session, Assistant Secretary of the Senate Scott Kaiser spoke to participants alongside Tracy and other legislators. Students also met State Representatives Kyle Moore and C.D. Davidsmeyer during their visit to the House floor. Parker White of Routt Catholic High School said, “It sounded like a good opportunity to go somewhere, meet state representatives, and get a good glimpse into what they do. I just didn’t really understand much about the entirety of how the state government works. They directly make decisions that lead to the laws that are implemented that directly affect me.”
In addition to learning about government operations, attendees assumed various roles such as lawmakers, lobbyists, proponents or opponents of legislation, and members of the press during an afternoon mock committee hearing. Kasen Humke of Unity High School said, “It’s a great opportunity just to get in and see what government is really like…to have the chance to see other people and network with more kids our age who want to get into leadership roles.” Royal Wolf from Brown County High School commented on his experience: “I feel like it’s a longer process than I expected it to be…there are different people for different jobs that need to be done.”
Students also heard from Miss Quincy Shelby Rose as well as media specialist Mark Hepsen before participating in a photo contest called “Capture the Capitol.” Maddie Bodenbach from Jerseyville High School reflected on her interests: “I like government as a whole because it’s the basis of our society, but law is my passion…I liked seeing where our Senators and House members are from and what they do on a day-to-day basis.” Refreshments were provided by Meridian Health Plan of Illinois.
Tracy was elected as Republican senator for Illinois’ 50th Senate District in 2023 after replacing Steve McClure according to reporting.
