IL SB1616

Adds Section 2-3.206 to the School Code requiring the State Board of Education to identify dates of cultural or religious significance when students may have out-of-school commitments

Requires the State Board to post and distribute a nonexhaustive list of cultural, religious, or other observance dates to school districts by July 1 each year as guidance for scheduling major school events

Defines "major school event" as school-sanctioned events on the local school calendar, including activities that would be difficult for students to make up

Clarifies the list is for scheduling guidance only and does not affect students' existing rights to be excused for religious holiday observances under Section 26-2b

School districts may add additional dates to their local calendars based on community feedback or demographics, and the State Board must distribute the list to relevant associations or entities