ROCK ISLAND – In an effort to address the ongoing teacher shortage, State Senator Mike Halpin joined the Illinois State Board of Education in announcing $7.4 million in grants to help prepare high school students for careers in education.

“Children deserve to learn in schools that have adequate resources to bolster their education,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “With this funding, we are not only enriching the lives of current students, but expanding opportunities for all youth.”

ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin announced that area school districts will receive over $8.8 million thanks to the evidence-based funding formula.

“Each school has diverse needs to best assist students with the proper support and resources,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “With the evidence-based funding formula, our students, teachers and districts will see the benefits of investing into their future and meeting these diverse needs.”

ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin announced Wednesday that Rock Island County will receive $562,325 through the Job Training and Economic Development Program.

“Continuing to support those who are seeking employment is important,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “The Job Training and Economic Development program will provide essential resources to our residents who have been struggling with employment opportunities.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to create a Community-Based Corrections Task Force to research the benefits of specialty courts and community-based correctional centers was signed into law on Friday.

“Listening to the experts and community residents is how we create common-sense laws that are fair to everyone,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This task force will show us how folks struggling with mental illness or addiction interact with our criminal justice system so we can achieve better outcomes for these individuals while keeping our communities safe.”