Eggs and Advocacy: The Elev8 Legislative Breakfast

On February 18th, Elev8 Chicago students ate breakfast with Congressional staff.

Over bagels and cream cheese, Elev8 students, their families, and community members spoke about the impact Elev8 has had on their lives.

Eighth grade Reavis students Brianna Reed and Rhonda Washington polish their speech. Photo: Gordon Walek

Brianna Reed, a student at Reavis, told congressional staffers, “when I was a part of the summer program, I went to so many places I thought I’d never be able to see. I did so many new things and learned so much.”

Rolanda Washington, another Reavis student, talked about how Elev8 has strengthened her connection to school. “I am a member of the mosaic class during extended day, and when I see the mosaics in the hallway, I feel proud.”

Other students reflected on participating in an Elev8 Youth Forum and traveling to Springfield to talk to legislators about the importance of school-based health centers.

Teachers and administrators told Elev8 Chicago's story within the context of the community school movement in Illinois.

Legislative staff Listen to Reavis Students. Photo: Gordon Walek

Orozco Principal Coralia Barraza spoke about the transformation of Orozco into an "Elev8 School." She underscored how important the transformation has been to their students, families, and community, saying, “since we started this transformation, we have a healthier school climate conducive to learning."

Barraza also noted that administrators "have seen a decrease in discipline issues and a dramatic increase in parental involvement. We are able to provide a safe place and space for young people after school, and we know our students will now never be left behind.”

Eighth grade Reavis Students Brianna Reed and Rhonda Washington present speech to legislative staff. Photo: Gordon Walek

Jamanika Chillis, whose children attend Marquette, emphasized the ways in which having her children at an Elev8 school has improved their academic achievement, and the family's engagement with the school.

She also told the legislative staff about how important it is to her family to have access to physical and mental health supports through the school-based health center at Marquette.

Congressional offices represented at the breakfast briefing included United States Senator Richard Durbin; United States Senator Roland Burris; United States Representative Luis Gutierrez; United States Representative William Lipinski; United States Representative Janice Schakowsky; and State Senator Kwame Raoul. Also in attendance was Alderman Toni Foulkes.