Pritzker signs bill requiring climate change education in Illinois public schools

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A new law will require students in Illinois public schools to learn about climate change starting with the 2026 school year.

The law calls for instruction on identifying environmental and ecological impacts of climate change on people and communities. It also requires education on solutions to address and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Sen. Adriene Johnson (D-Waukegan) said schools will have flexibility to include the climate change information in existing science classes.

The Illinois State Board of Education could prepare multi-disciplinary instructional resources and professional learning opportunities for teachers that may be used to meet the requirements. Although, that provision of the law is subject to appropriations.

"Illinois continues its record of leading on climate and energy policy by becoming the fifth state in the nation to adopt legislation that incorporates climate change education into school curriculum," said Jen Walling, Executive Director of the Illinois Environmental Council. "By equipping young people with knowledge about the climate crisis, we are combating misinformation and inspiring future generations to not only be informed about the climate emergency, but to take action to address it."

This law will take effect on July 1, 2025.