Dupage Policy Journal

Students from the Prairie School of DuPage in Wheaton made history on Monday when Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 3514 into law. The bill designates the Calvatia gigantea, commonly known as the “giant puffball,” as the official mushroom of Illinois. State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) sponsored the bill on behalf of the students.

Starting in November 2023, Prairie School students conducted research, collected data, and surveyed over 100 stakeholders across Illinois to identify a suitable state mushroom. The giant puffball was chosen following a school-wide election. To see their proposal turned into law, they actively participated in the legislative process by presenting their findings to Lewis and seeking his support. Students traveled to Springfield to witness one of their classmates and their teacher testify before the Senate’s State Government Committee. Parents and students also submitted numerous witness slips in favor of the bill.

“It was a pleasure to work with students from the Prairie School of DuPage on this state symbol project,” said Lewis. “I was impressed with the amount of qualitative and quantitative data they collected and was proud to carry SB 3514 on their behalf. These bright students not only learned a great deal about various mushrooms native to Illinois, but through this process they received valuable hands-on experience in how an idea can be transformed into public policy.”

The giant puffball is found across grassy areas statewide and is notable for its size, sometimes reaching nearly 20 inches wide. Its large, round, white fruiting body is what people commonly see above ground while most of it remains hidden underground.

“I am pleased to receive the Governor’s support for Senate Bill 3514, which crowns the Calvatia gigantea, or ‘giant puffball,’ as Illinois’ new state mushroom,” said State Representative Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg), who carried Lewis’ bill in the House of Representatives. “This unique fungus showcases our rich natural heritage while providing a fun way for Illinoisans to learn more about conservation, biodiversity, and the environment.”

As part of celebrating their achievement, Prairie School students will join Senator Lewis and Representative Mussman for a behind-the-scenes tour of the fungi exhibit at Chicago's Field Museum on October 8.

“At Prairie School of DuPage, we strive to nurture life-long learners," said Liza Moraitis, Head of School at Prairie School of DuPage. "When one of our students asked about Illinois' state mushroom, it led us to investigate both fungal biomes and legislative processes."

Governor Pritzker remarked after signing the bill: “Today we celebrate not only a new state symbol but also recognize our young leaders' hard work and dedication."

With this new designation, Calvatia gigantea joins other officially recognized state flora and fauna listed on the Illinois DNR website.