For the second consecutive year, the Illinois Council on Women and Girls is inviting girls in grades 5 through 12 to apply for the Illinois Girls Lead Program, a job shadowing and mentoring opportunity designed to connect students with women leaders in state government.

The Illinois Girls Lead Program offers a chance for young students to witness firsthand the impact women have on shaping Illinois. Participating mentors come from different areas of state government and serve in various leadership roles, including elected General Assembly women, policy directors, general counsels, chiefs of staff, agency directors, and more.

The shadowing opportunities are tailored by grade level, as follows:

• 5th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader in state government, followed by a short reflection on what each participant learned.
• 6th-8th Grade: One day of shadowing a female leader, accompanied by an essay written by each participant on their mentor’s role, the office shadowed observed, and key leadership lessons.
• 9th-12th Grade: A minimum of three days shadowing a female leader and learning from her team. Participants will select an ongoing policy topic and write a research paper offering personal recommendations for solutions.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong desire to learn about the inner workings of state government. Applications are due by the end of the day on October 20^th. To apply, visit the State Board of Education’s application page.