High school students from Carol Stream, Naperville, West Chicago and Wheaton recently had the chance to learn about public policy and the legislative process from local and state officials. 

On Nov. 29, Sen. Michael Connelly (R-Naperville) hosted the Youth Advisory Council on Nov. 29 at the DuPage County Administration Building, inviting 30 students from seven high schools to participate, according to a news release.

"Today, I had the opportunity to engage with some incredible students within the 21st district.” Connelly said, according to the release. “I am so proud of my school districts for generating such ambitious individuals.”

City of Naperville and DuPage County officials kicked off the meeting as guest speakers followed by student group discussions over potential legislative options.

Students took a popular vote and selected a mock legislative proposal that will be discussed in a mock committee hearing at the next Advisory Council meeting planned for the spring spring of 2018 at the state capitol in Springfield. 

“I hope that today's program provided them with not only the knowledge on how state government works, but also the skills to work together and to respect different opinions,” Connelly said.

Students from Neuqua Valley, St. Francis, Wheaton North, Glenbard North, Naperville Central, West Chicago Community and Naperville North high schools attended.

Guest speakers included DuPage County Chairman Dan Cronin, Naperville Township Assessor Warren Dixon, DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and Naperville Development Partnership President Christine Jeffries.