SB3642 Summary

• Amends the School Code to require the State Board of Education to develop and make available training opportunities for educators in teaching reading by January 1, 2025, aligned with a comprehensive literacy plan and supportive of Black English language learners

• Requires creation of an online portal to train educators in teaching Black English language learners and Black English as a second language, including instruction on the history and development of African American English vernacular

• Portal shall provide evidence-based methods for teaching literacy to students accustomed to using African American English vernacular and aid educators in teaching these students

• Requires State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive literacy plan by January 31, 2024, that includes core instructional literacy practices and support for special student populations including students with disabilities, multilingual students, and bidialectal students

• Effective immediately upon enactment