ILLINOIS STATE NEWS BRIEF (01/11/2024)

(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Supreme Court is reviewing a case about what makes someone an armed habitual criminal. Justices heard arguments this past Tuesday in a case against a man who argues his past crimes should not count due to age. Now in his 20’s, receiving his most recent conviction, the man’s first conviction came as a minor after violating probation twice. The Justices took the case under advisement with a ruling likely later this year.

(CHICAGO) Tens of thousands of computers are missing from the Chicago Public School System following the return from remote learning. According to an audit by the CPS Office of Inspector General, more than 77,000 electronic devices assigned to students and staff during the pandemic are listed as missing, all at a cost of about $23 million. The audit also found that 100% of the computers were missing from 36 of the total 638 schools in the CPSS.

(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for instructors for 2024 summer fishing clinics through the DNR’s Urban Fishing Program. The positions are temporary and will not exceed six months, therefore making them perfect for teachers, retirees, students, and others who are eager to help people learn more about fishing skills and ecology. The free clinics are hosted in communities throughout Illinois.