IL HB5838

Amends Section 2-3.66 of the School Code to allow dropout recovery programs to serve students up to age 23 (instead of age 21) if the program operates at a separate facility from regular public school education programs.

Amends Section 2-3.66b to establish the Illinois Hope and Opportunity Pathways through Education (IHOPE) Program administered by the State Board of Education to re-enroll high school dropouts in programs leading to diploma completion.

IHOPE Program awards grants to educational service regions and school districts organized under Article 34 to establish instructional programs and services for dropout re-enrollment, with up to 5% of funds available for State Board administrative costs.

IHOPE funding must be distributed proportionally based on dropout rates by region or district, and programs may include full-time year-round, part-time work-study, online, and dual enrollment options with community colleges.

Programs funded through IHOPE must include small program sizes (70-100 students), performance-based goals, experienced staff with professional development, voluntary enrollment, comprehensive support services, paid mentors, and technology learning centers.