Education

We need to invest in our public schools, students, teachers, and volunteers to ensure that any child from Central and Northwestern Illinois can make the world’s next great discovery, regardless of their ZIP code.
That includes offering more Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education so students have the tools to better understand the world around them.
Because the early years of development are so critical, I believe investing in high-quality child care is essential for setting our kids up for success and supporting our economy in the long-term.
More on Education
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is now accepting applications from high school students in Illinois’ 17th Congressional District seeking nominations to a U.S. Service Academy for the Fall 2025 term. The deadline for applications is Friday, November 1, 2024, at 5:00 P.M CT.
PEORIA, IL – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced that he helped secure over $22,000 for Illinois State University (ISU) Police. The money will be used to improve relations with underserved communities on campus.
ROCKFORD, IL – As we approach the start of National Crime Prevention Month, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is announcing $500,000 for the City of Freeport to improve security of their schools and school grounds.
On Thursday, August 8, 2024, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) appeared on WQAD to discuss his efforts to announce a $1.8 million Head Start Grant for Project NOW in Rock Island, that will provide families in the Quad Cities with access to early childhood education.
WQAD
MOLINE, Ill. — On Wednesday, Aug. 7, U.S Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Rock Island) toured Project Now's Esperanza Center, a facility dedicated to providing early childhood education and support for families in the Quad Cities. The organization's Head Start Program is receiving a grant from the Department of Health and Human Services worth $1.8 million, and officials said the money will help enhance the educational programs offered at the center.
Central Illinois Proud
PEKIN, Ill. (WMBD) — A Pekin high schooler’s painting is making a trip to the nation’s capitol after winning an art competition.
According to Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Pekin Community High School senior Rachel Fry won the 2024 Congressional Art Competition for the 17th District. The art was selected by local leaders in the district.
Her winning piece, called Clownish Tomfoolery, will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol Building for a year.
ROCK ISLAND, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) congratulated Pekin Community High School senior Rachel Fry on winning the 2024 Congressional Art Competition for Illinois’ 17th District. Her winning submission, Clownish Tomfoolery, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for one year.
Rock River Current
The city will replace a 105-year-oldbridge across the street from Constance Lane Elementary School next year in order to provide a safer connection for schoolchildren and neighborhood residents.
My Stateline
Congress Eric Sorensen announced a nearly $8.6 million grant for the City of Rockford to administer early childhood education to families in Northern Illinois.
“Making sure our kids have access to the classroom is a critical step to putting our children on the road to success,” said Sorensen. “I’m proud to see our tax dollars coming back to my hometown of Rockford to support working families in Northern Illinois and contribute to our region’s growth.”
PEORIA, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is announcing over $8 million for Peoria Citizens Committee for Economic Opportunity (PCCEO) to administer early childhood education to families in Central Illinois.
"Making sure our kids have access to the classroom is a critical step to putting our children on the road to success,” said Sorensen. “I’m proud to see our tax dollars coming back to Peoria to support working families in Central Illinois and contribute to our region’s growth.”








