We are proud to share that HB 4536 officially passed the Illinois Education Committee on February 25, 2026.

This important legislation strengthens school-based trauma-informed training by explicitly recognizing relational and developmental trauma and the unique needs of adopted, foster, and kinship students. It marks meaningful progress toward ensuring schools are better prepared to support children whose stories include loss, disruption, and resilience.

We are especially grateful to Representative Michelle Mussman, who championed this bill and helped bring greater awareness to the importance of adoption- and foster-informed practices in our schools. Her leadership reflects what is possible when policymakers listen to lived experience and work collaboratively across systems.

HB 4536 now advances to the Illinois House and then the Illinois Senate for consideration.

It is a significant step toward stronger families, more prepared schools, and better outcomes for children across Illinois. The work continues, and we are encouraged by this momentum.

We believe the outcomes for children should not depend on luck, a caregiver’s ability to advocate, or access to private services.