IL HB2205

Chief executive officer must prepare and publish guidelines for school actions by October 1 each year, developed with involvement of local school councils, parents, educators, and community organizations, subject to at least 21 days of public comment.

Chief executive officer must announce all proposed school actions by December 1 each year and provide notice at least 30 calendar days in advance of public hearings, with no Board decision allowed less than 60 days after announcement.

For school closures only, the chief executive officer must publish a full financial report on the district's website 8 months after notice is given, including analysis of the closure's costs and benefits.

Chief executive officer must designate at least 3 opportunities for public comment, including at least one hearing at the Board's central office and at least 2 additional hearings or meetings at locations convenient to the affected school community.

Public hearings must be conducted by an independent, qualified hearing officer (licensed Illinois attorney with no conflicts of interest), who issues a written report on compliance with requirements; the report must be published on the district website within 5 calendar days and at least 15 days before any Board action.