By Benjamin Yount/Illinois Radio Network
SPRINGFIELD – In addition to math, science, reading, and gym class, Illinois high school students will soon have a financial aid requirement to graduate high school.
Every high school senior in the state of Illinois will have to apply for federal student aid before they can graduate.
Lawmakers approved the new law last week. Gov. J.B. Pritzker says he will sign it.
Under the plan, high schools in the state will be required to have seniors fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and if eligible a state student aid application as well.
State Rep. Katie Stuart says it will be easy for schools and kids, and could help some students get into college.
“This initiative will connect more students to the resources that are already available to help them get education or training after high school,” Stuart said. “But it’s flexible enough that we are not putting up any new barriers to graduation.”
Not all lawmakers are happy about the idea.
Opponents say there’s always a cost when the state requires local schools to do anything. And there’s a question about why all high school seniors need to fill out a FAFSA application.
But state Rep. Mary Flowers, who voted for the plan, said the requirement is aimed at the students who need extra help.
“You assume that all schools have the necessary counselors to take the time to educate the students, as well as the parents, about college and/or other programs,” Flowers told opponents of the plan.
Pritzker says the idea is critical for the state’s schools. He says he looks forward to signing the new law.
Once he does, the requirement will start in the 2020-2021 school year.
