SCH CD-CULTURAL/RELIGIOUS DATE Senate SponsorsSen. Laura Ellman, Mattie Hunter, Rachel Ventura and Adriane Johnson 2/10/2026SenateAssigned to Education 105 ILCS 5/2-3.208105 ILCS 5/26-1from Ch. 122, par. 26-1Amends 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. 1/29/2026SenateFiled with Secretary by Sen. Laura Ellman 1/29/2026SenateFirst Reading 1/29/2026SenateReferred to Assignments 2/10/2026SenateAssigned to Education 3/13/2026SenateRule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As March 27, 2026 3/16/2026SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Mattie Hunter 3/26/2026SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Rachel Ventura 3/27/2026SenateRule 2-10 Committee Deadline Established As April 24, 2026 3/31/2026SenateAdded as Co-Sponsor Sen. Adriane Johnson