SERVICE ANIMALS IN SCHOOLS

Recognizes and affirms the profound importance of service animals in supporting the safety, health, independence, and academic success of students with disabilities across Illinois. Encourages all Illinois school districts to continue fostering respect for individuals who use service animals and to promote awareness of the rights and responsibilities established under federal and state law. Urges state agencies, including the Illinois State Board of Education, to review existing policies, administrative rules, oversight practices, and enforcement mechanisms to ensure that all Illinois schools fully comply with disability rights laws governing service-animal access, including appropriate staff training, consistent implementation, and timely resolution of barriers or complaints.