Starting in January 2022, the State of Illinois will recognize “Mental Health Days” as an excused absence. A mental health day can be taken if a student experiences concerns such as anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms (headache, throwing up).

According to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), 

“Public Act 102-0321 (Senate Bill 1577) amends the compulsory attendance article of the School Code by allowing students to take up to five mental or behavioral health days per year. A student is not required to provide a medical note and must be given the opportunity to make up any schoolwork missed during such absences. Following the second mental health day, a student may be referred to the appropriate school personnel” (Public Act 102-0321 - FAQ). 

Public Act 102-0321 permits students to take mental or behavioral health days. 

• Attendance on these days will be coded as an “illness” or sick day that is specifically taken to support mental and behavioral health. These days will be distinguished from traditional sick days. 

• Unlike other days taken that are related to an illness/sickness, after the second “mental health” day is taken by a student, Hillside School will contact the parent regarding this absence and a follow up meeting with social worker. 

• When school personnel requests a counseling and support meeting, it is not an optional request. Students are expected to participate. Students will need to be responsive to the outreach and attend the meeting to ensure that students have the social, emotional, and behavior support they need. 

• If a student's concerns warrant parent notification, a phone call or email would be made directly to that parent.

Health Services

Health Documents & Forms

CPR\AED Training

Concussion Information and Forms

Student Services