What's Happening in Springfield?
Proposed Policy Affecting School Health
As the 2008 legislative session kicks in to full gear, we’re keeping our eyes on a number of interesting bills and issues in Springfield. Throughout Illinois, our partners and other organizations are advocating for polices that affect children’s health in schools. Take a look at the current legislative issues related to school health. If you are following any other legislation related to school health issues in your state, be sure to let us know!
First, we’re watching two sets of rules:
- Revisions to School Nutrition Standards – The State Board of Education is planning to put out for public comment a new set of nutrition rules that reflect a more health-based approach to school food. These standards include input from a wellness taskforce in which HSC participated and will be presented this month at the state board meeting. If approved, the rules will be open for public comment in April.
- Finalizing Green Cleaning Rules – Green cleaning rules are going to be presented to a joint legislative committee in April. These rules will set the standards for green cleaning programs in Illinois.
On the legislative front, a number of bills are of interest to school health supporters:
- HB4374 – Ensures children’s access to recess in Chicago Public Schools through eighth grade.
- HR1008 - Requests that the State Board of Education study and compile statewide data on school nurses and report its findings to the General Assembly, including an ideal ratio of students to school nurses.
- SB2083/HB5772 – Creates the Diesel Emission Reduction fund through related noncompliance fees to fund clean diesel retrofits for local governments, transit agencies, private companies and schools.
- HB5949 – Creates the Farm Fresh Schools Program Act, which creates a grant program for schools to implement Farm to Schools programs and connect locally grown produce to schools.
Lunch & Learn: The Power of Recess
HSC is pleased to welcome a diverse panel of experts leading meaningful change to make recess a reality for all children to a special Lunch & Learn on April 7. Don’t miss this informative, practical (and fun!) look at the power of play in combating childhood obesity, increasing student achievement, cutting down on behavior problems and engaging your community.
Critical Exposure Photo of the Month Highlights Need for School Building Funding
Our friends at Critical Exposure have launched a newsletter offering a glimpse of the powerful work students are doing around the country to document the conditions of their schools.
The photos highlight serious and all-too-common health threats – including dangerous indoor air quality – that children, teachers and school staff face on a daily basis.
At HSC, we advocate for funding to support adequate school building maintenance and repairs in all schools so that children can learn in safe, healthy environments.
Sign up for the photo of the month newsletter »
Plus: Read HSC Environmental Health Specialist Claris Olson’s blog on school building conditions and funding »
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