Advocates and Educators call on Illinois to restore monetary award program for incarcerated students

Following the bipartisan reinstatement of Pell Grant access to incarcerated people which was signed into law in 2020 and went into effect this year, Illinois’ Back on the MAP campaign is pushing the state to restore Monetary Award Program (MAP) eligibility to people in prison by passing HB3740. The legislation sailed through the IL House and is waiting to be acted upon in the Senate. (Chicago Crusader)

Illinois weighs opening state financial aid to students in prison

Research shows higher education is effective at preventing people from re-offending. Legislation could give more people inside access to college classes. (Lisa Kurian Philip, WBEZ Chicago)

College MAP grants for Illinois inmates are a 'sound investment in public safety'

State Sen. Robert Peters wants to restore the grants for incarcerated people. Readers also comment on Mona Charen’s criticism of the Wall Street Journal, charrette-style meetings, the “Appeal to Heaven” flag and a need for U.S. intervention in Gaza. (Chicago Sun Times)