A student shall be released from school, as an excused absence, because of religious reasons, including to observe a religious holiday, for religious instruction, or because the student’s religion forbids secular activity on a particular day(s) or time of day. The student’s parent/guardian must give written notice to the Building Principal at least five calendar days before the student’s anticipated absence(s).
The Superintendent or designee shall develop and distribute to teachers appropriate procedures regarding student absences for religious reasons, including how teachers are notified of a student’s impending absence, and the State law requirement that teachers provide the student with an equivalent opportunity to make up any examination, study, or work requirement.
LEGAL REF.: 105 ILCS 5/26-1 and 5/26-2b.
775 ILCS 35/, Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
CROSS REF.: 7:70 (Attendance and Truancy)
Updated: January 2022