SPRINGFIELD - As the ongoing teacher shortage persists, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III is leading a measure to allow retired teachers to return to the classroom for a longer period of time. 

“The ongoing teacher shortage is affecting our children but allowing retired teachers to bring their expertise back to the classroom for longer would help students thrive,” Harris said. 

Senate Bill 3201 allows retired teachers to return to the classroom for 150 days or 750 paid hours. Currently, retired teachers are only allowed back in the classroom 120 days per year. 

CHICAGO – State Senator Napoleon Harvey, III (D-Harvey) is encouraging local businesses to attend free virtual workshops provided by the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program to strengthen their skills and participate in federally and state funded highway, transit, and airport contracts. 

“Businesses run by minorities and other disadvantaged groups deserve as much opportunity as their counterparts to thrive in our community,” Harris said. “These businesses are part of the larger economic web that allows the district I represent to enjoy the pleasures of a diversified stream of commerce.” 

HARVEY – With many businesses struggling with reopening due to the the pandemic, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey) is congratulating several local businesses that were awarded grants from the latest round of the Back to Business program.

“Our local businesses deserve to have support to keep their doors open,” Harris said. “I am proud to see these businesses obtain this funding and get some relief as our state does its part in moving back to normal.”

THORNTON – Hoping that local students will take advantage of resources at their local library, State Senator Napoleon Harris, III announced the Thornton Public Library District is set to receive $14,000 from the Project Next Generation grant.

“Keeping our students in learning atmospheres and not on the streets will help change the trajectory of their lives,” Harris said. “I strongly support supplying our local libraries with funding to create new resources that engage our students.”