Chambana Sun

State Senator Chapin Rose of Illinois State Senate District 51 recently expressed his support for students in the Lawrenceville High School Fire Science Class. In a Facebook post dated December 1, Rose said, "Lawrenceville can be proud of these kids!"

"Lawrenceville can be proud of these kids," said Rose, according to Facebook.

According to a September 19 Facebook post shared by Rose from the Lawrenceville High School Fire Science Class, the instructors highlighted the importance of projects such as bridges and roads and their funding in downstate Illinois. They also discussed funding for K-12 public education, including special education and Career and Technology Education (CTE), which encompasses their Fire Science Program. The instructors noted that "State Senator Chapin Rose has been working tirelessly on the K-12 budget funding with special focus on CTE Programs." Rose praised the fire science students for addressing gaps in emergency services in Illinois and encouraged them to volunteer in their communities or pursue careers in fire service.

Screenshot of State Senator Chapin Rose's Dec. 1 Facebook post | State Senator Chapin Rose Facebook page

Illinois Career Technical Education programs are integral to the state's college and career readiness initiatives. According to the Illinois State Board of Education’s CTE website, these programs aim to prepare students for careers in "high-wage, high-skill, and in-demand occupations." Completion of these programs may facilitate students' transition into post-secondary education or employment.

The instructors further elaborated on their message in the September 19 post. They conveyed that Rose challenged students not only to vote but also to engage actively in their communities through city or county government involvement and participation in committees and boards. The instructors used this opportunity to emphasize professionalism, professional development, attention to detail, morals, ethics, and appropriate conduct within a professional setting. Students were required to wear class uniforms, maintain a clean-shaven appearance, have hair neatly styled, and demonstrate professional demeanor when interacting with the senator.

Senator Chapin Rose has represented the 51st District since January 2013. Prior to this role, he served constituents of the 110th District for ten years. A lifelong resident of Illinois, he resides with his family in Mahomet.