IL HB4029

School districts with 3,000 or more students must interview a minimum percentage of minority candidates for teaching positions, calculated by subtracting 10% from the percentage of minority students enrolled in the district.

English as a Second Language teaching positions are exempt from the minority candidate interview requirement.

Districts unable to meet the minimum percentage requirement for 2 consecutive years must establish a program to assist minority employees interested in obtaining a Professional Educator License.

Required programs must provide information about educator preparation programs, assist with enrollment, offer flexible work hours, and provide financial incentives to encourage minority employees to obtain licensure.

Programs developed under this requirement must be submitted to and approved by the State Board of Education prior to implementation; the act takes effect immediately.