Bill > HB2976

This bill amends the Illinois School Code to clarify and expand provisions related to student absences by adding a new definition and allowance for "civic events." Specifically, the bill defines a civic event as an event sponsored by a nonprofit organization or governmental entity that is open to the public, which may include inaugurations, artistic or cultural performances, or educational gatherings that support the sponsoring organization's mission. The legislation permits students in middle and high school to have one excused school day absence per year to participate in such a civic event, subject to guidelines established by the State Board of Education. Schools may require students to provide reasonable advance notice of their intended absence and documentation of their participation in the civic event. The State Board of Education is also authorized to adopt additional rules to further define what constitutes a civic event. This change aims to encourage student engagement in public and community activities while maintaining academic accountability by limiting the absence to one day per school year and requiring proper documentation.

Education

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2976&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HB&SessionID=114&GA=104