The second semester is just underway for a group of Central Illinois high school business class students but its leadership is already looking ahead to next year.

Lisa Sheppard facilitates the Sangamon Valley CEO Program and indicates they have begun recruitment for next year's program.

During this time of the year, the CEO students are presenting to juniors in the Sangamon Valley program's footprint - Argenta-Oreana, Bement, Cerro Gorod, DeLand-Weldon, and Monticello. 

One of the benefits of the program is the growth of the students from the beginning to the end of the year. Sheppard says her eight students this year who represent all its districts, are making the most of the opportunity.

The Sangamon Valley CEO program is not a school-sponsored program but students do meet during the first hour of the school day. They meet off-site and businesses and locations in the community.

It is also paid for through investments by community members and businesses. 

Sheppard encourages following them on Facebook, Instagram or visiting sangamonvalleyceo.com.