SPRINGFIELD — To assist schools when scheduling major school or athletic events, State Senator Ram Villivalam championed a law that will provide schools with calendar dates indicating when a portion of students may be absent due to cultural or religious reasons.
“The 8th District is a diverse community where portions of the student body may be absent due to cultural or religious holidays throughout the school year,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we continue to support our students and their ability to participate in events outside of the school calendar. This law ensures schools and athletic associations are provided with the information needed when scheduling events.”
The new law requires the Illinois State Board of Education to include on its website and distribute to all schools a list of days during the school year that a portion of the student body may be absent due to cultural or religious reasons. This law would not allow for closures or excused absences due to cultural reasons but would assist school districts with planning events.
“Too often, students are forced to choose between their education and observing their faith,” said Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, director of government affairs at Agudath Israel of Illinois. “This legislation is a meaningful step toward building a more inclusive educational environment for all Illinois students by equipping school districts with information to ensure that no child has to feel unseen or excluded simply because of who they are and what they believe.”
Currently, ISBE provides a guide for school districts regarding attendance days, holidays, special circumstances and frequently asked questions about school calendars. Villivalam’s law will provide the information schools need to make informed scheduling decisions.
“SB 1616 is a meaningful step toward equity in education, ensuring students aren’t forced to choose between practicing their faith and fully participating in school. In a state with the largest per capita Muslim population and deep racial, ethnic, and faith diversity, this bill helps align public institutions with the communities they serve,” said Amina Barhumi, advocacy and policy lead of the Muslim Civic Coalition. “Belonging starts with embedding equity into our institutions and aligning resources to meet the needs of all students. We continue to advance solutions that make our schools more responsive, inclusive, and reflective of Illinois’ diverse population.”
“SB1616 reflects the kind of thoughtful policymaking that strengthens the very foundation of our schools and affirms the diversity of school communities statewide. Too many students have been excluded from important events simply because those events fell on religious or cultural observance days. That is why this bill was a priority for JUF,” said Lonnie Nasatir, president of the Jewish United Fund. “By creating a statewide resource to raise awareness of these observances, we can prevent unnecessary exclusion and ensure that all students feel included and respected. We are deeply grateful to Senator Ram Villivalam and Representative Tracy Katz-Muhl for advancing an all-embracing vision for Illinois schools.”
Senate Bill 1616 was signed into law Friday and takes effect immediately.
