SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to prioritize educators, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel introduced a measure that would guarantee teachers have classroom planning time built into each school day.

“During my 15 years in the classroom, I experienced firsthand the struggle many teachers face when trying to find time to plan,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Teachers are often forced to plan lessons before or after school. By providing time during the school day, we can ensure better quality plans while avoiding extensive hours outside the classroom for educators.”

Senate Bill 2721 would guarantee that every teacher receives at least 45 minutes of continuous, uninterrupted individual classroom planning time per day. The requirement would apply to all public school districts in Illinois.

BOLINGBROOK – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel will host traveling office hours at the Fountaindale Public Library District on Monday, Jan. 22 to give residents a chance to receive direct assistance and have their voice heard.

“Traveling office hours are a great way for the community to receive accessible assistance to state resources and bring their ideas to the table,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). ”Some of my most vital legislation has come from concerns and ideas from residents.”

The event will be held on Monday, Jan. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Fountaindale Public Library District, located at 300 W. Briarcliff Rd. in Bolingbrook.

The free event is an opportunity for residents to get help from Loughran Cappel’s office, such as assistance with state resources. Coffee will be provided for attendees

People can contact Loughran Cappel’s office with questions or concerns by calling 815-267-6119 or visiting her website at www.SenatorLoughranCappel.com.

CREST HILL – In an effort to lift the spirits of seniors in the 49th District, State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel invites residents of all ages to get creative and donate homemade or store-bought valentines.

“Writing a card or small note to our seniors is an easy way to show our appreciation for them,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Each year we have dropped off hundreds of cards that truly make each and every one of them smile. Let’s come together to make sure our seniors know they are important to our communities.”

Loughran Cappel is encouraging community members in the area to write Valentine’s Day cards, which can be dropped off or mailed to her district office. Once all the cards have been collected, they will be delivered to various senior facilities in the 49th District.

CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel announced five school districts in Romeoville, Crest Hill, Plainfield and Shorewood have received more than $38,000 to provide resources to libraries through books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“As a former special education teacher, I have seen the educational value school libraries provide to a student’s success,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “Ensuring school libraries are equipped with fundamental resources allows students to expand their knowledge and interests.”

Based on a statutory formula, school districts receive $0.885 per student enrolled at each school with a qualified library. Funding for the School District Library Grant Program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.