KIDS COUNT data ranks Illinois 7th in the nation in education
The report looks at dozens of indicators including high school graduation rates, standardized test scores, and chronic absences.
Federal indictment alleges a former Champaign County Board member wrongfully collected unemployment benefits
The State Attorney’s office said Ammons falsely certified to the Illinois Department of Employment Security that she did not work and did not receive any wages while receiving benefits.
Family advocates praise Illinois bill that gives parents more transparency in child abuse investigations
The bill requires child abuse pediatricians — investigators at the hospital who look at medical records to determine if there is potential child abuse — to state who they are to parents as they start an investigation.
As people protest data centers across the Heartland, lawmakers rush to regulate development
Development of large-scale data centers is booming across the Midwest and South. As some communities push back, local and state governments are trying to catch up on how to regulate the new development.
Violence kills Champaign teen, large fight in Urbana results in two arrests
Someone shot and fatally wounded a 16-year-old in Champaign early Saturday morning.
Combe Incorporated invests $30 million to expand Rantoul facility, with $5 million state grant
Combe’s expansion in Rantoul is expected to create more than 20 new full-time jobs in the village and retain 100 existing full-time jobs.
Rantoul Township High School superintendent ‘pleased’ with state budget, hoping for more transportation funding
Rantoul Township High School Superintendent Scott Amerio said he is pleased with the increase to the evidence-based funding formula. But he would like to see additional funding for transportation services.
Glock ban, prescription drug board among measures that stall in final days
Multiple bills that did not advance in the General Assembly are likely to be discussed throughout the summer for possible revival in veto session.
These junior high students championed the black and gold bumblebee. Now it’s the Illinois state bee
While most student research projects end up in a storage bin in the attic, one that 8th graders at Naperville’s Lincoln Junior High worked on is now state law.
Illinois treasurer’s gift to Pope Leo? $8.65 of pontiff’s own money
Robert Prevost had money in unclaimed property from closed PayPal account.
Central Illinois dragonfly enthusiasts can take part in unique learning opportunity
The program is geared towards children in grades 6-10, but can be adjusted for other grade levels.
Illinois Supreme Court to implement a new transparency policy
Effective July 1, the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts will publish data from Circuit Clerk Offices, Court Services/Probation, Juvenile Detention Center(s), the Supreme and Appellate Courts, and the Illinois Office of Statewide Pretrial Services.
Champaign County carbon sequestration task force submits final recommendations
The Champaign County Carbon Sequestration Activities Task Force wrapped up its work Wednesday night, submitting final recommendations to the county.
Lawmakers approve bill to regulate e-bikes, scooters
Senate Bill 3336 would establish regulations on “micromobility” transportation such as e-bikes and e-scooters that include age requirements, speed limits and rules on where they can be operated.
Illinois bill limits how social media companies can target feeds to children
The bill passed the Senate unanimously on Monday with a vote of 57-0. It passed the House a second time on Monday with a 113-0 vote.
Top Illinois Democratic and GOP leaders discuss state budget on 21st Show
Illinois leaders from both sides of the aisle joined the 21st Show this week. They shared their views on taxes, federal policies, education funding, and tech.
Urbana becomes first city in Illinois to adopt ethical investments policy
The new rules prohibit the city from investing in certain companies that profit from war or conflict.
City of Urbana honors former member city council member Chaundra Bishop following her death
The city released a statement on Wednesday paying tribute to Bishop. She was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2016, according to the city.
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