Governor’s Office Daily COVID-19 Q & A
April 25, 2020
Medical
Q: Could pedicures be available for those who consider it a medical necessity to maintain proper foot health (i.e., a person with diabetes)?
A: Nail Salons are required to remain closed under Executive Order 2020-10 and as extended by Executive Order 2020-18. For people who receive services from Home Services Agencies, individuals may ask a home services provider to cut their nails or help them maintain foot health.
Education
Q: Will students currently enrolled but not graduating this Spring be required to take the constitution test in future years?
A: The constitution test, as required by 105 ILCS 5/27-3, is suspended for the duration of the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation (Executive Order 2020-15). Once the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation ends, the requirement will be reinstated. Therefore, students who are not currently seniors will be required to take and pass a constitution assessment in order to graduate.
Districts can offer non-senior students an opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the content required by 105 ILCS 5/27-3 through remote learning or provide students with an opportunity to take a constitution assessment when in-person instruction resumes. School districts have flexibility on the type of “examination” administered and may certify students based on satisfactory completion. For example, consider a teacher-created assessment, a project, or a presentation that requires the student to demonstrate understanding of the U.S. Constitution as part of the current course in which the student is enrolled. Completion of this type of assignment can qualify as “passing a satisfactory examination upon such subjects” and can meet the requirement in statute for graduation.
Q: Can districts hold in-person graduation ceremonies?
A: No, in-person graduation ceremonies are not allowed through the end of the academic year. The Governor’s Stay-at-Home Executive Order 2020-10 and as extended by Executive Order 2020-18 prohibits group gatherings. While there may be a time when large events can be held, it is not known when that will be safe. We encourage districts, if possible, to find other ways to honor 8th grade students and seniors through virtual ceremonies and celebrations.
Q: Can students enter the school building to gather personal belongings? A: Yes, after May 1. Students and families should check with their local school to find out the plan and procedure for gathering belongings. School districts should consult with their attorneys, the county health department and Illinois Department of Public Health in ensuring that individuals safely enter the building to gather personal belongings. For more information, please review the updated guidance issued by ISBE.
Professional Licensure
Q: Will candidates for initial teacher licensure and subsequent endorsements be required to
complete all requirements to be issued a teaching license?
A: Due to recent limitations that prohibit candidates from completing their preparation program requirements the Governor issued Executive Order 2020-31, which will enable candidates to still receive licensure this spring and summer and gain employment this fall. Additional information will be forthcoming.
Census
Q: How can I view the Census response rate in my county?
A: If you are interested in viewing Census response rates, the US Census has launched an interactive tool. You can view response rates by date and geographic region. For more information about the US Census, please visit www.2020census.gov.