Bill > SB2148

This bill amends the School Code to expand the ways students can be counted as present in school even when physically absent. Specifically, the bill allows students to be counted as in attendance for up to 5 days for mental and behavioral health reasons, when attending verified medical or therapeutic appointments, and when experiencing a death in their immediate family. These absences will be considered valid causes for attendance calculation purposes, meaning schools can still receive funding and students will not be penalized academically for these types of absences. The legislation recognizes the importance of students' physical and mental health, as well as their need to attend important medical appointments and support family during difficult times, by ensuring these absences do not negatively impact their educational record. The bill provides flexibility for schools in tracking attendance while acknowledging that students may need to be away from school for legitimate and important reasons beyond traditional illness or school-related activities.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=2148&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SB&SessionID=114&GA=104