Bill > HB1387

This bill amends the Illinois School Code to introduce several significant changes to charter school regulations. The bill prohibits granting a charter to any organization that operates a private, parochial, or non-public school or child care facility. It mandates that charter schools spend at least 90% of their budget on direct-service costs for students. The bill establishes comprehensive requirements for school transition plans in the event of a school action (such as closure or consolidation), including detailed provisions for supporting students, providing enrollment options, and ensuring transparent public engagement. Charter schools must now prepare and publish annual school action guidelines, provide extensive public notice and hearings for any proposed school actions, and use independent hearing officers to conduct public hearings. The bill requires charter school governing bodies to work collaboratively with local educators and families to ensure successful student integration during any school transitions, and guarantees that students will have a seat at a receiving school and teachers will be guaranteed a job if a charter school closes. Additionally, the bill removes previous provisions regarding charter school closure procedures and the disposition of unspent public funds, replacing them with more detailed transition and communication requirements. The legislation aims to increase accountability, transparency, and support for students and educators during potential charter school changes.

Education

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=1387&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104