CREST HILL — Rockdale School District 84 will be awarded $36,000 in state funds to expand an existing music program and add arts education to its STEM program, State Senator Pat McGuire (D-Crest Hill) announced today.

The Illinois Arts Council Agency Award is slated to extend the K-5 music program to allow sixth, seventh and eighth graders to participate, and the school’s STEM program will become a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) program, said Dr. Lori Gehrke, District 84 Superintendent.

“Bravo to the school board, administration and staff of Rockdale School for winning this grant,” McGuire said. “Rockdale School wisely recognizes the value of a strong music program – and that adding ‘A’ for the arts to its STEM curriculum draws more students to the excitement of learning and discovery.”

SPRINGFIELD — Secretary of State Jesse White has announced more than $15 million in funding to libraries statewide through Illinois Public Library Per Capita, including libraries in the 43rd Senate District.

“Libraries aren't what they used to be. They now encourage active learning using technology while still providing quiet spaces to read hard copies of books, magazines and newspapers,” State Senator McGuire (D-Crest Hill) said. “Grants from Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White bolster the traditional and modern work of libraries, ensuring every Illinois resident has a source of facts, knowledge and civic education.”

Per Capita grants like the ones awarded in the 43rd District help fund library expenses such as materials, personnel, equipment, electronic access, telecommunications and technology.

Libraries in the 43rd Senate District will receive the following grants:

Students from throughout the state visited Springfield Thursday for a Tech Day event, including schools from the 43rd Senate District.

State Senator Pat McGuire announced a local improvement plan funded through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) this week.

“This planned multi-use path will enable more people to enjoy the history and natural beauty of Channahon,” said McGuire (D-Crest Hill). “Projects like this that get people outside build healthier communities.”

ITEP’s recently announced programs include a $787,000 multi-use bike/pedestrian path along Bridge Street in Channahon. The project is made possible by federal funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

More information on the program and other such projects throughout the state can be found here.