Pictured, from left to right, are Associate Dean of Adult Education Val Harris, Rep. Amy Elik, L&C President Ken Trzaska, Director of Pathway Resource Development Sabrina Davis and Vice President of Administration Lori Artis.ALTON Illinois State Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) was recently presented the “Legislative Champion Award” from the Coalition on Adult Basic Education (COABE) at Lewis and Clark Community College’s Scott Bibb Center.

Elik received the award for her sponsorship of legislation (SB 3792) that will help erase the stigma of a high school equivalency diploma versus a high school diploma. “I am proud to be the House sponsor of this new law which will encourage more individuals to complete their GED because their achievement will be the equivalent of a high school diploma,” said Rep. Elik.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Article continues after sponsor message

“This will increase job opportunities and improve the future for people and their families.” SB3792 signed into law on June 24th, amends the code of multiple acts and agencies to replace references to high school equivalency certificates with State of Illinois High School Diplomas. This change recognizes the equal value of a State of Illinois High School Diploma and will aid Illinois graduates in establishing reciprocity with educational requirements in other states.

“I applaud Representative Amy Elik, recipient of the Legislative Champion Award, for her outstanding contributions and support for adult education! The prestigious “Legislative Champion Award” is granted for distinguished leadership and support for adult education,” said Sharon Bonney, CEO of COABE.

State Representative Amy Elik’s legislation helped to erase the stigma of a high school equivalency diploma versus a high school diploma, and also reduced the cost of GED exams for adult education students. These changes in the law have been essential to adult education programs throughout Illinois. The new law takes effect January 1, 2023.

More like this:

Mar 21, 2024 - Sen. Harriss Welcomes Metro East High School Students to the Illinois State Capitol during her Spring Youth Advisory Council

Feb 8, 2024 - Rep. Amy Elik Supports Illinois Manufacturers’ Plan to Strengthen Workforce

Mar 6, 2024 - Rep. Elik Honors Two Local Guests At Emerging Women Leaders Conference

Mar 13, 2024 - Spring Enrollment At Illinois Community Colleges Climbs For Second Consecutive Year

Aug 29, 2023 - State Representative Amy Elik Announces Re-Election Campaign