IL HB0628

Amends Section 14-8.02 of the School Code regarding identification, evaluation, and placement of children with disabilities in special education programs.

Requires State Board of Education to establish definitions for "qualified professional" including individuals with credentials to evaluate children, interns under direct supervision, and master's or doctoral degree candidates.

Grants parents, independent educational evaluators, and qualified professionals reasonable access to school facilities, personnel, classrooms, and buildings to observe children and conduct evaluations, subject to advance notice and school safety policies.

Specifies that independent educational evaluators and qualified professionals may conduct child evaluations, observe educational programs, interview school personnel, and assess placements at mutually agreed times that do not interfere with school operations.

Requires visitors to comply with school safety, security, visitation policies, and privacy laws including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and Illinois School Student Records Act.