Pritzker signs Manar’s paraprofessional bill.

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Thursday signed legislation to strengthen the pipeline of paraprofessionals serving students in schools across the state.

“Paraprofessionals play a vital role in classrooms and in our children’s lives, particularly for students with special needs,” said Pritzker. “This new law ensures that qualified aides get the opportunity to support our hardworking teachers and help our kids reach their potential, as we work to address teaching shortages across the state.”

The new law reinstates the opportunity for individuals who hold a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent to become licensed after passing a paraprofessional competency test. Many paraprofessionals serve as aides to special education students. The legislation also makes various changes to address teacher licensure.

“As we work to build a robust teacher workforce in Illinois, this bill ensures a merit-based route to licensure for paraprofessionals who are looking to advance their careers,” said Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill, the Senate sponsor of the measure.

Senate Bill 10 takes effect immediately.

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