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
Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced more than $7 million in federal funding is being awarded to support early childhood education programs in Western Illinois. The grants, provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will help children and families get the strong start they deserve through high-quality Head Start and Early Head Start services.
Grant recipients include:
Rock Island-Milan School District – $3,277,131
Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) voted no against Republican’s partisan big billionaire bailout that makes massive cuts to the SNAP food assistance program and Medicaid health insurance to pay for a huge tax break for billionaires.
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) applauded the recent announcement of a $999,764 federal grant awarded to Monmouth College to fund scholarships for low-income students interested in pursuing a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree. The funding will help prepare students for careers in high-paying STEM jobs.
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) has joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to reintroduce the Youth Lead Act, a bill aimed at helping youth organizations like the Future Farmers of America (FFA), 4-H, and the Scouts continue to grow and thrive. The legislation highlights the importance of building leadership and life skills in young people across the country.
ROCK ISLAND, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) announced a $400,000 grant to Augustana College to support efforts to combat domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking on campus.
ROCK ISLAND, IL – Today, Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) joined students at Rock Island High School for a discussion on the importance of voting and getting involved in the democratic process.
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.









