SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill on Gov. JB Pritzker's desk could require the Illinois State Board of Education to identify days where major school events may conflict with cultural or religious holidays.
Schools and the Illinois High School Association would have the option to use this online list as an advisory tool to help make the best schedules for their community.
The plan would not allow for school closures or excused absences due to cultural reasons, but sponsors said it could assist districts with planning events around the observances.
"We've got wonderful models. Washington state has a very easily accessible list," said Amy Zimmerman from Jewish United Fund. "Even Wilmette School District has a nice list as well. They not only have the date, they tell you a little bit about the holiday."
The proposal passed unanimously out of both chambers this spring. Senate Bill 1616 would take effect immediately if Pritzker signs the legislation into law.
"Providing schools, administrators and athletic associations with a list of dates indicating when portions of a student body may be absent will ensure better planning," said Sen. Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago).
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