Starting January 1, 2025, schools across Illinois will be under new mandates and regulations that could significantly impact both students and educators. With over 290 new laws being introduced statewide, lawmakers aim to address a range of issues, from student well-being to safety protocols.
Relaxation Time for Students
One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a bill sponsored by State Sen. Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, which mandates that school districts must provide students with at least 20 minutes of relaxation activities each week. This mandate, which complements existing recess policies, is designed to help reduce stress and promote better mental health among students. The legislation allows districts to partner with community organizations and nonprofits to carry out these activities, alleviating some of the burden on teachers.
Senator Ventura emphasized the importance of relaxation time in schools, saying, “This is a small but impactful step toward supporting students’ mental well-being and academic success.”
However, not all lawmakers agree with the proposed changes. State Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield, voiced opposition, arguing that such regulations should be decided at the local level, giving schools more flexibility in managing their resources and time.
Prohibition of Corporal Punishment in Private Schools
Another significant new law targets corporal punishment in Illinois’ private elementary and secondary schools. Sponsored by State Rep. Margaret Croke, D-Chicago, the law aims to align the treatment of students in private institutions with the policies already in place for public schools. Croke was motivated by a renewed call from the American Academy of Pediatrics to ban corporal punishment, stating, “No child should experience physical punishment in a school setting—whether public or private.”
While the law is seen as a positive step by many child advocacy groups, some lawmakers, including State Rep. Daniel Swanson, R-Alpha, expressed concerns that the ban could inadvertently restrict athletic practices. Swanson worried that physical training activities, like pushups or extra laps in response to mistakes, could be perceived as punishment under the new rules. Rep. Croke responded, clarifying that the law does not target normal athletic drills but is intended to prevent physical punishment or abusive actions in educational settings.
Schools Must Be Equipped for Emergencies
A new regulation also mandates that all public schools in Illinois must have an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) on hand during school hours and for any extracurricular activities. This new safety measure is part of the state’s broader commitment to ensuring that students and staff are prepared for emergencies. Additionally, schools must provide training for staff and students in lifesaving techniques, including hands-only CPR, AED use, and the Heimlich maneuver.
“Emergency preparedness is crucial. These laws will help ensure that schools are better equipped to respond to emergencies and save lives,” said State Rep. Croke.
Support for Homeless Students
In a bid to support students facing housing instability, Illinois schools will also be authorized to use funds from the Education of Homeless Children and Youth State Grant Program for a variety of housing-related services. This includes student rental assistance, transportation to school, emergency shelter, and case management. The goal is to help homeless students stay in school and succeed academically, despite the challenges they face outside the classroom.
Transparency and Accountability in School Funding
The Illinois State Board of Education will also be required to develop an online tool that tracks the spending of state funds in public schools. This new tool is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution and use of educational resources. Additionally, both the Illinois High School Association and the Illinois Elementary School Association will be required to adopt new Spirit Rules, as outlined by the National Federation of State High School Associations, to promote consistency and fairness in extracurricular competitions.
Conclusion
With these new laws coming into effect in 2025, Illinois is aiming to create a safer, more supportive, and more equitable educational environment for students. While some of these changes are met with mixed reactions from lawmakers, the overall goal is clear: to prioritize student well-being, safety, and access to education. As Illinois schools adjust to these new requirements, it will be important to track their implementation and impact on local communities.
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