SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Ram Villivalam is spearheading a measure aimed at providing schools with calendar dates indicating when a portion of students may be absent due to cultural or religious reasons ─ further assisting schools when scheduling major school or athletic events.

“Illinois is home to many diverse communities, which means portions of a student body may be absent due to a cultural or religious holiday at various times throughout the year,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “No student should have to worry about missing an important event, and providing our schools with this information is imperative.”

Currently, the Illinois State Board of Education provides a guide for school districts regarding attendance days, holidays, special circumstances and frequently asked questions about school calendars.

Senate Bill 1616 would require ISBE 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 measure would not allow for closures or excused absences due to cultural reasons but would assist school districts with planning events.

“Providing schools with the information they need when looking to schedule major school or athletic activities helps ensure better planning, streamlines administrative processes and help prevent our youth from having to miss important events,” said Villivalam. 

Senate Bill 1616 passed the Senate on Friday and heads to the House for further consideration.