summary
Introduced
01/29/2026
01/29/2026
In Committee
02/10/2026
02/10/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
104th General Assembly
Bill Summary
Amends the School Code. Provides that the statement included in the State Board of Education's list of the identified days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances shall also encourage schools to avoid, if possible, scheduling significant academic deadlines or major school events on the identified days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances. Provides that upon the posting and distribution of the list, a district superintendent shall distribute information to all faculty and staff about upcoming days and dates of cultural, religious, or other observances. Requires these days and dates to also be acknowledged and posted on official school or administrative calendars. With respect to a child being excused from attending school because of religious reasons, provides that if the exact date of the absence cannot be determined more than 5 days in advance due to the use of a lunar or other nonfixed calendar, notice of the child's absence shall be given as soon as reasonably possible. Provides that any child excused from attending school because of religious reasons shall be granted reasonable academic accommodations without penalty. Requires a district superintendent's procedures regarding a student's absence for religious reasons to include guidance on adjustments to academic schedules, assignments, or major school events.
AI Summary
This bill amends the School Code to enhance the recognition and accommodation of cultural and religious observances within schools. It requires the State Board of Education to not only list significant cultural and religious dates but also to encourage schools to avoid scheduling major academic deadlines or school events on these days whenever possible. Upon receiving this list, district superintendents must inform all faculty and staff about upcoming observances, and these dates must be acknowledged on official school calendars. Furthermore, for students absent due to religious reasons, especially when the exact date is uncertain due to non-fixed calendars (like lunar calendars), notice should be given as soon as reasonably possible, and students will receive reasonable academic accommodations without penalty. District superintendents are also mandated to establish procedures that include guidance on adjusting academic schedules, assignments, or major school events for students taking excused absences for religious observance.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Assigned to Education (on 02/10/2026)
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