Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

Illinois Senate Bill SB2132

Introduced
2/10/23  
Refer
2/10/23  
Refer
2/28/23  
Report Pass
3/22/23  

Caption

SCH CD-FFH/4H ABSENCES

Impact

This amendment has implications for school attendance laws, potentially increasing student engagement with agricultural and community service organizations. By officially recognizing participation in these programs, SB2132 encourages students to partake in educational experiences outside of the classroom, enhancing their learning through practical applications. Furthermore, parents or legal guardians are tasked with the responsibility to ensure that their child obtains any missed assignments from teachers, thereby maintaining the educational standards while allowing for flexible absence.

Summary

SB2132, introduced by Senator Doris Turner, aims to amend existing provisions of the Illinois School Code regarding compulsory school attendance. The bill stipulates that students who are absent from their regular school due to participation in scheduled organized activities of the Future Farmers of America Organization and 4-H programs—such as competitions or exhibitions—will be considered as being in attendance. This provision highlights the importance of extracurricular involvement and the recognition of such academic extensions as valid reasons for school absence.

Contention

While the bill may foster interest in agricultural education, there may be discussion around the balance of school responsibilities versus extracurricular activities. Critics could argue that allowing more exemptions for absence could interfere with the educational process, as regular school attendance is crucial for academic success. The bill attempts to strike a balance by placing the onus on parents and students to manage missed assignments, which may mitigate potential concerns regarding educational disruption. Overall, the bill represents a progressive step towards incorporating practical learning experiences into the educational framework, although it may raise questions about the extent to which schools should accommodate such absences.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IL HB3814

SCH CD-FFA/4H ABSENCES

IL HB2460

SCH CD-STUDENT ABSENCE-FAFSA

IL SB1628

SCH CD-MENTAL HEALTH ABSENCE

IL HB5501

SCH CD-ABSENCE-APPRENTICESHIP

IL HB3143

SCH CD-COMPULSORY SCHOOL AGE

IL HB1204

SCH CD-STUDENT ABSENCE-PARENT

IL HB5416

SCH CD-ATTENDANCE-MEDICAL NOTE

IL HB5113

ELEC/SCH CD-HIGH SCH VOTE REG

IL HB5434

SCH CD-ENROLLMENT-CONFIRMATION

IL HB2802

SCH CD-STEAM ABSENCE EXEMPTION

Similar Bills

CA AB1958

The Community College Student Access, Retention, and Debt Cancellation Program.

CA SB622

Educational equity: sex-segregated school programs and activities: sex at birth.

IL HB3814

SCH CD-FFA/4H ABSENCES

CA AB844

Educational equity: sex-segregated school and athletic programs and activities: use of facilities.

CA SB704

Telecommunications: Moore Universal Telephone Service Act.

IL HB1204

SCH CD-STUDENT ABSENCE-PARENT

IL HB2802

SCH CD-STEAM ABSENCE EXEMPTION

SC H3255

Uniform Athlete Agents Act