SPRINGFIELD – As a strong advocate for ag education, State Senator Doris Turner spearheaded a measure through the Senate to expand hands-on learning for FFA and 4-H students to count toward school hours.

“Students have been jeopardized for missing school because of FFA and 4-H events, fairs and competitions,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “The hands-on experience there goes a long way in helping a student decide what to focus on in college and their future career.”

Building on Turner’s 2023 law, House Bill 2802 would allow participation in supervised career development experiences and other approved work-based learning activities to count toward the daily calculation of school clock hours.

Illinois FFA is a youth organization that prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. 4-H is the largest out-of-school youth organization across the state aimed at teaching practical skills to youth by offering lessons in communications, leadership, career development, livestock, home improvement and computer technology.

“This is one step forward to continue encouraging students to learn about agriculture and what the industry has to offer,” said Turner. “Our youth need to be able to learn both inside and outside of the classroom.”

House Bill 2802 passed the Senate with bipartisan support.