As you are aware, today HLERK sent out three separate email blasts covering the most recent developments affecting schools due to the Coronavirus pandemic. We have consolidated all three blasts into a printer-friendly document located on our website HERE.

Minutes ago, the Governor also granted greater flexibility for upcoming Board meetings. The relevant excerpt of his Executive Order is below, and further detail will be added to our website as soon as possible:

“During the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation, the provisions of the Open Meetings Act, 5 ILCS 120, requiring or relating to in-person attendance by members of a public body are suspended. Specifically, (1) the requirement in 5 ILCS 120/2.01 that “members of a public body must be physically present” is suspended; and (2) the conditions in 5 ILCS 120/7 limiting when remote participation is permitted are suspended. Public bodies are encouraged to postpone consideration of public business where possible. When a meeting is necessary, public bodies are encouraged to provide video, audio, and/or telephonic access to meetings to ensure members of the public may monitor the meeting, and to update their websites and social media feeds to keep the public fully apprised of any modifications to their meeting schedules or the format of their meetings due to COVID-19, as well their activities relating to COVID-19.”

We will routinely update our clients as we receive more guidance at both the federal and state level. We continue to be available to you 24/7 for your questions.