“My ears are always open on educational opportunities in Illinois. I joined my colleagues in hearing from The Ounce Of Prevention in West Chicago. The Ounce Of Prevention explained to us that one measure they focus on is expanding opportunities to prepare many toddlers from immigrant or refugee homes for kindergarten. This way they are ready and in equal footing with their peers. Opportunities for preschoolers and sharing ideas about Illinois educational future is vital for the next generation. Educational success will grow in Illinois, if Springfield implements ideas from varying minds around this diverse state, not just repeating the same policies of the last 25 years.”