“Our state government is fascinating, and I am pleased to be an integral part of the lawmaking process,” said Leitch. “That is why I am sharing this website with our local youth, teachers, parents, and any one who wants to learn more about Illinois government. It is my hope that the site will help students learn more about the legislative process, aid them in studying for the constitution test, and perhaps draw them into a more active role in our democratic system.”
The learning tool can be accessed through Leitch’s website at www.davidrleitch.org by clicking on the large Illinois State Seal. Among other aspects, the web link guides visitors through the Illinois Constitution, explains how the legislative process works, and offers photos of the Illinois State Capitol and other important state government buildings.
Leitch said educators are using the site as a teaching aid for the Illinois Constitution test and government classes. Ryan Koehler, a government teacher at Fieldcrest Middle School in Wenona, said the website has been a valuable resource for his curriculum.
“Currently, there is not a good text book that covers the Illinois Constitution,” said Koehler. “I have used the site as a sort of teaching guide for the state constitution, and it has provided me with real examples of what is happening in Springfield and in our legislative district. Plus, the site has been another place for me to send my students to read up on the subject. I think it helps bring state government to a level they can associate with.”
Leitch will visit Koehler’s classroom on March 10 to enhance to the learning experience students have received through the website.
“Rep. Leitch will be talking to the students about his job as a legislator, and it is my hope the experience will encourage kids to be less apathetic and more involved in the voting and governmental processes.”
Leitch said he hopes more educators will take advantage of all the tutoring support the website has to offer and invite him to their classes to speak about state government.
“My office has placed a lot of work into creating this informative, user friendly website, and I encourage teachers to utilize it as an instruction tool for government classes,” said Leitch. “In addition, I urge parents, or anyone who is curious, to visit the site and become more knowledgeable about government in the State of Illinois.”