On March 26, 2026, a group of 22 students from Manual, Richwoods, and Peoria High Schools traveled to Springfield to participate in Student Advocacy Day. This inspiring event, coordinated by Advance Illinois and the Funding Our Future coalition, provided students with the opportunity to advocate for equitable K-12 school funding and observe democracy in action. The day was marked by passionate speeches, impactful conversations with legislators, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Capitol's inner workings.
This journey began months ago, when Dr. Desmoulin-Kherat, Superintendent of Peoria Public Schools, was approached by Advance Illinois. The organization offered Peoria students an opportunity to attend Advocacy Day and provided resources such as transportation, training, and meals to ensure the event was accessible to all. Recognizing the value of this experience, Dr. Desmoulin-Kherat worked closely with Education Pathway Coordinator, Kimberly Jones, to make this opportunity a reality.“ Dr. Kherat’s commitment to empowering students and fostering civic engagement is what made this trip possible,” said Jones. “She immediately saw the potential for our students to grow as advocates and leaders from the beginning.”
The students began their journey with a sunny spring morning that perfectly set the tone for the day. After weeks of preparation—including a focused training session on March 12 led by Advance Illinois—they arrived ready to share their stories. During the training, students learned how to engage with legislators, understand evidence-based funding (EBF), and make a persuasive case for why equitable funding is critical for their schools and communities. Their preparation culminated in a friendly competition during breakfast, where students gave impromptu speeches to determine who would represent Peoria on the rally stage later that day. While Antonio (Manual High), Carolina (Richwoods High), and Darick (Peoria High) were selected after their heartfelt and compelling presentations, all students participated in meaningful discussions throughout the day.
At the rally outside the historic Lincoln statue, the three student speakers captivated the crowd of over 200 attendees. Antonio, known for his school leadership and vibrant personality, delivered a powerful message that became part of the student’s mantra for the day: "Take care of us now, so we can take care of you in the future." That mantra really connected with legislators throughout the day. Antonio also highlighted the inequities faced by students in underfunded districts, explaining, “Where I’m from, a lot of us—especially Black students—don’t always get the same opportunities as other schools. And it’s not because of talent or potential—it’s because of resources.”
Darick and Carolina shared equally moving stories to highlight how equitable funding could unlock opportunities. Carolina, a senior at RHS, shared her personal story of how the bilingual education program shaped her journey. As the daughter of immigrants, she spoke about how these programs helped her become biliterate, which she plans to use in her future career as a dual-language teacher. “Today, I ask: Should access to education be considered a privilege? Or should every child, regardless of neighborhood or district funding, have access to the programs they need to succeed?” Carolina’s words underscored the urgency of investing in all students, and she called for a $550 million investment in equitable education funding.
Darick brought the audience’s focus to the real, tangible effects of funding disparities. “Imagine walking into a classroom where the books are falling apart, the computers haven’t been updated, and the teacher is trying to manage 35 students alone,” he said. “Now, imagine different classrooms with specialized technology, smaller class sizes, and teachers who have the resources to help every student thrive.” His speech painted a vivid picture of the challenges students face daily in underfunded schools and the transformative potential of equitable funding.
Their passion and determination are sure to inspire you.
After the rally, the students had the unique opportunity to tour the Capitol, guided by an Advance Illinois representative who had previously interned there. This behind-the scenes tour gave them access to areas usually off-limits to the public, including workrooms where representatives draft and debate legislation. They also explored the governor’s hall and legislative chambers, gaining a deeper understanding of the policymaking process. These experiences made the day even more memorable and inspiring for the students.
The students met with legislators, including Representatives Jehan Gordon-Booth, Maurice West, and Carol Ammons, as well as Senator David Koehler. Each legislator took the time to engage with the students, answering questions and listening to their concerns. Jehan Gordon-Booth, in particular, connected personally with the students, saying, "This is a remarkable group of young people who know their stuff. I want to keep this conversation going because their voices truly matter." Her commitment to continue the dialogue inspired hope for ongoing collaboration between students and lawmakers.
Throughout the day, the students exhibited teamwork and mutual support, working together to represent Peoria with pride. Their respectful demeanor, polished speeches, and quick thinking earned praise from chaperones, legislators, and organizers alike. Beyond the formal meetings, they also took the initiative to engage with other attendees, sharing ideas and learning from their peers in districts across Illinois.
Participants included:
o Manual High: Antonio, Christian, Denmark, Jaden, Jalen, Kalayah, Moesha, Neriah, and Sarai
o Richwoods: Addison, Ameerah, Angel, Carolina, Chloe Cl., Chloe Co., and Wendye
o Peoria High: Aaliyah, Darick, Gakarias, Jazlynn, Nakiyah, and Ty’Sean
Special thanks to our chaperones for the day: Alania Rice, Ashley Renick, Kimberly Jones, and Neil Payne.
This experience was more than just a field trip—it was a lesson in empowerment and advocacy. The students’ voices carried a message of hope for the future, reminding us all that they are not only the leaders of tomorrow but the change-makers of today. As one legislator remarked, "These students aren’t just asking for change—they’re showing us how to make it happen."
For parents and teachers, this is a reminder to listen to what our students have to say, support their efforts, and encourage them to participate in events like Advocacy Day. If your high school student wants to learn how they can make a difference and help their community through civic activities, reach out to Kimberly Jones, Education Pathway Coordinator, at Kimberly.Jones@psd150.org. Let’s keep helping our students grow—because when we invest in their future, we invest in a better future for everyone.