State Senator Ed Maloney (D-Chicago) passed a bill in the Illinois Senate Tuesday that will provide more opportunities for students to attend the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences and study agricultural science and business.

Senate Bill 1226 expands the enrollment size from 600 to 720 students. CHSAS opened in 1985 to provide a curriculum to Chicago area high school students who are strong in math and science studies and have potential in the agriculture business and science fields. Students there have opportunities for college and university scholarships and internships, and the focused curriculum provides motivation and prevents dropping out. The school also provides much-needed opportunities for special education students.

“Demand has been increasing because the Ag Science School appeals to students interested in advancing their knowledge and skills in agriculture, one of our state’s most important industries,” said Senator Maloney. “Expanding the enrollment maximum will give Principal William Hook greater capacity to give area students an opportunity to get engaged in this recognized program of academic excellence and hands-on learning.”

Two House Amendments this week added stipulations that at least half of enrollment positions in each incoming class must be reserved for students who live within proximity to the school (all areas within the existing city limits of Chicago located south of 87th Street and west of Wood Street).

CHSAS has garnered national attention as the premier model for secondary agricultural education and a benchmark for potential schools like it in other US cities. The bill now goes to the Governor’s desk.