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All new and existing employees of public and private elementary and secondary schools must complete this training. This includes teachers, staff, and administrators.
Racism-Free Schools Training
This training helps school employees create safe, inclusive learning environments free from racial harassment and discrimination.
What This Training Covers
The training includes the following topics:
- Laws against harassment and discrimination based on race, color, and national origin
- Recognizing harassment and discrimination in school settings
- Protections for people who report incidents
- Identifying and reporting incidents appropriately
- Accessing civil rights protections and support
- Real-world scenarios through video interviews with Illinois educators
- Knowledge tests to apply what you learn
The training is interactive and self-paced. Most learners complete it in 90 to 120 minutes.
Who is This Training For?
All employees of public and private elementary and secondary schools in Illinois must complete this training, including:
- Teachers
- Staff members
- Administrators
- Support personnel
Private religious schools must also provide this training to their employees.
Training frequency: Employees must complete the training at least once every 2 years.
Initial deadline: Existing employees must complete their first training by July 31, 2026.
New employees: New hires must receive the training as part of their new employee program, then complete it again every 2 years.
Training Requirements for Schools
Elementary and secondary schools must provide either the IDHR Model Training or an equivalent training that meets minimum standards.
Minimum Standards
Any training program you use must meet the 11 minimum standards set forth in Section 5A-103 of the Illinois Human Rights Act. These standards ensure comprehensive coverage of:
- Legal protections against racial harassment and discrimination
- How to identify prohibited conduct
- Reporting procedures and responsibilities
- Available remedies and support systems
- Prevention strategies
- Rights of students and families
If your school uses an existing training program, you must verify it meets all 11 minimum standards. School districts must provide documentation of training compliance to Regional Offices of Education.
How to Provide This Training
Schools can provide this training in multiple ways
Ed Leaders Network (ELN)
Public school educators in Illinois can access the IDHR Model Training for free through the Ed Leaders Network.
ELN is an on-demand professional learning platform developed by the Illinois Principals Association.
The Illinois State Board of Education provides free ELN access to all public school educators through a partnership with the Illinois Principals Association.
Professional development hours
Individuals seeking access to the training for awareness and personal use only, may download the public version of the training.
IDHR Website (for schools without ELN access)
Elementary and secondary schools without ELN access can access the IDHR Model Training through our website at no cost. This option is available for private schools and any schools that do not have ELN access.
Complete the request form to receive access to the training materials.
Use Your Own Training Program
Your school may use an existing or newly developed training program if it meets all 11 minimum standards required by law. You are responsible for verifying compliance and providing documentation to Regional Offices of Education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Racism-Free Schools Training
Public and private elementary and secondary schools are responsible for providing their employees access to the IDHR Model Training or an equivalent training.
Existing employees must complete their initial training by July 31, 2026. After that, all employees must complete the training at least once every 2 years. New employees must receive the training as part of their new employee training program, then complete it every 2 years.
The IDHR Model Training is self-paced and typically takes 90 to 120 minutes for most learners.