August 25, 2025 – Two new laws in Illinois, championed by State Senator Doris Turner, aim to expand opportunities for agriculture students while ensuring teachers are fairly compensated for extra instructional time.
House Bill 2802 allows student participation in supervised career development experiences and other approved work-based learning activities — such as FFA and 4-H events — to count toward the daily calculation of school clock hours. The change, effective Jan. 1, 2026, builds on legislation passed in 2023.
Supporters say the law helps students gain hands-on agricultural experience without being penalized for missing traditional classroom time. Illinois FFA and 4-H programs are widely recognized for teaching leadership, career development, and practical skills through events, competitions, and projects.
Also signed into law was Senate Bill 1605, which requires school districts to compensate agriculture education teachers at their full pay rate for additional instructional hours if they work more than 400 hours beyond their standard teaching schedule. The law took effect immediately.
Agriculture education often extends beyond the classroom, involving events, projects, and activities that require extra time from teachers. Advocates argue that the new compensation structure reflects the added responsibilities and helps sustain programs that prepare students for future careers in the agriculture industry.
