Illinois bill could help address school, athletic events conflicting with cultural, religious holidays

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan moving in Springfield could require the Illinois State Board of Education to identify days where major school events may conflict with cultural or religious holidays.

Sponsors and advocates told the Senate Education Committee Tuesday that many public school students have missed major events with their classmates because they were absent or unable to attend school that day.

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 local community. The plan would not allow for school closures or excused absences due to cultural reasons but would assist school districts with planning events around the observances.

"We've got wonderful models. Washington state has a very easily accessible list," said Amy Zimmerman from the 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."

Senate Bill 1616 passed unanimously out of the Senate Education Committee Tuesday afternoon. The measure now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration.

"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).