SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A new Illinois law will create a task force to analyze how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted chronic absence of students.

This group will identify strategies and approaches to help families, teachers, principals and superintendents address chronic absence for K-12 students.

The state’s previous attendance commission’s work ended in December 2020, but lawmakers intended to bring a task force back to better understand the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

"Since then, chronic absenteeism has remained at historically high levels, particularly amongst early learners, students from low-income households, students with disabilities, multi-lingual learners and those experiencing homelessness," said Rep. Michael Crawford (D-Chicago).

This law passed unanimously out of both chambers this spring. Senate Bill 407 will take effect Monday. 

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