Decatur student Jamarion Marshall advocates for scholarship awareness with proposed legislation

A groundbreaking initiative to enhance student engagement and access to higher education took center stage at the Decatur School District 61 Board of Education meeting on March 18, 2025. The discussion highlighted the impactful internship program that empowers local students to participate in substantive work, including legislative processes.

During the meeting, a student intern, Jamarion Marshall, shared his experience working on a bill aimed at improving scholarship accessibility and educating families about the importance of higher education. Marshall emphasized that the program is not just about busy work; it provides students with real responsibilities that contribute to their personal and professional growth. "This is really substantive work that these students are able to do," he stated, underscoring the program's commitment to meaningful engagement.

Marshall's bill, which has already passed the Illinois Higher Education Committee, focuses on creating a centralized database for scholarships and increasing awareness among students and parents about available financial aid. He expressed pride in the collaborative effort that led to this legislative milestone, stating, "It has a pretty good chance, I believe, of passing."

The board members praised Marshall's initiative and the broader internship program, which selects three to four students each year from Decatur Public Schools and Springfield's School District 186. This program aims to cultivate future leaders by providing them with hands-on experience in public service and legislative processes.

As the meeting concluded, Marshall shared his aspirations for the future, expressing a desire to continue his work in public service, inspired by the support he received from the district and local leaders. "I believe the first way to make higher education more appealing would be to make money more accessible," he said, highlighting the importance of scholarships in reducing college debt.

The board's recognition of Marshall's efforts signals a commitment to fostering student leadership and ensuring that educational opportunities are accessible to all, potentially changing the trajectory of many young lives in the community.