SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) voted to expand the collective bargaining rights of Chicago teachers today.

“I am a product of Chicago Public Schools,” Villanueva said. “I knew the look of stress on my teacher’s face when they had to handle 30-plus students. We need to give teachers the power to advocate for our students and our communities.”

House Bill 2275 would once again make major factors like class size, staff size and length of the academic year subject to collective bargaining. Teachers in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), particularly in Black and Latinx communities, have suffered class sizes that exceed CPS’s established limits and staff shortages including nurses, special educators and social workers.

Read more: Villanueva stands up for Chicago teachers’ rights as major reform passes Senate

CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) released the following statement after the passing of former State Senator Martin Sandoval:

“COVID-19 is real and continues to devastate communities across the Southwest side.

“Please show compassion for your neighbors and wear a mask, social distance and listen to the health experts who are desperately trying to save lives. Not taking these basic precautions has real consequences felt by thousands of families across the state.

“My deepest sympathies go to Martin’s family during their time of loss.”

Read more: Former lawmaker’s passing sheds light on scope of virus

CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) is encouraging residents to apply for two new housing programs designed to help communities of color across the state achieve the dream of owning a home.

“Communities of color have been hit hardest by the pandemic both in terms of our health and economic wellbeing,” Villanueva said. “Take advantage of these programs and get on a path toward homeownership so that you can build generational wealth and keep our communities strong.”

Read more: Villanueva: Home ownership programs available to DACA recipients

CHICAGO – With $50 million in funding available through the Connect Illinois broadband expansion program starting Dec. 1, 2020, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) urged small businesses and residents to see if they qualify for help with their internet.

“With more of our lives taking place online during the pandemic, reliable Internet access is more important than ever,” Villanueva said. “I encourage small business owners, students and all community members to take advantage of this opportunity to get connected.”

Read more: Villanueva urges small businesses, residents to apply for broadband grant