(Belleville, IL) — Governor Bruce Rauner urged students at Belleville West High School to take more advantage of the advanced-placement and international baccalaureate courses available to lower-income students. During a visit Tuesday, Rauner said the program called the Lead Higher Initiative is designed to close the race and income gaps that have prevented low-income students from taking these courses, which may lead to college credit. Meanwhile the president of the Belleville Federation of Teachers issued a statement criticizing Rauner’s support of Betsy DeVos, who was confirmed Tuesday as U.S. Education Secretary.