NEWS

from the Illinois Senate

State Senator Susan Garrett

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 15, 2007

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Susan Garrett (847) 433-2002

GARRETT TO DONATE HER PAY RAISE TO FUND
LOCAL SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPS

HIGHWOOD, Illinois – State Senator Susan Garrett (D-Lake Forest) announced today that she will not accept the pay raise for legislators signed into law by Governor Blagojevich this week.

Instead, she will work with local high schools to develop and fund a scholarship program for special education students who will be going on to college. Each year, high school seniors in Garrett’s district will be chosen to receive a scholarship to put toward their college education.

“My intention with this scholarship is not just to help fund a college education for a special education student, but to recognize the unique abilities and challenges of these students,” said Senator Garrett. “In order to complete high school and move on to college, many of these young people have overcome obstacles that are unimaginable.”

Garrett added, “I did not approve of this pay raise, and I don’t feel that it would be appropriate to put the money to personal use. I think it’s much better spent to encourage and support the efforts of deserving special education students.”

Garrett will work directly with community high schools to determine the scholarship criteria. Anyone interested in the program should contact Senator Garrett’s office at (847) 433-2002.