Current Policy Initiatives

Teacher Education on Student Chronic Conditions (SB 2685)

In early 2008, the Stakeholders Collaboration to Improve Student Health submitted legislation (SB 2685) requiring instruction each year on student chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes and obesity) during teacher institute days. The goal of the legislation, which was sponsored by Senator William Delgado and Minority House Leader Tom Cross, is to make student health a greater priority in schools, which must happen to improve the health and academic outcomes of students.

The bill became law on September 25, 2008 and will take effect at the start of the 2009-2010 school year.

Supporters of the legislation included Children's Memorial Hospital, Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.