In Illinois, a growing number of school districts are recognizing the importance of providing equitable access to district activities for all resident children, regardless of whether they attend public, private, or homeschools. This shift acknowledges that taxpayers should benefit from the services they fund through property taxes, which contribute significantly to local education budgets. Despite this trend, many districts still exclude nonpublic school students from participating in extracurricular activities, creating an unfair system. This article explores the reasons behind this disparity and highlights successful examples where districts have implemented inclusive policies.

Illinois residents bear one of the highest property tax burdens in the country, with nearly 60% of these taxes allocated to local school districts. However, thousands of families who opt for alternative educational paths find themselves paying for services they cannot fully utilize. These parents choose different schooling options based on various factors such as academic, health, or religious considerations. While their children may not attend full-time public schools, they still deserve access to extracurricular programs funded by their taxes. Some forward-thinking districts have already addressed this issue by adjusting their policies to include all resident children in district activities, often requiring minimal attendance.

The financial implications of this policy change are noteworthy. Districts do not lose state funding when families choose alternatives to full-time public schooling. Instead, they can gain additional revenue through registration fees and other charges associated with participation in activities. The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) both permit nonpublic school students to join sports and other activities under certain conditions, further supporting this inclusive approach. For instance, a homeschooled student enrolled in just one class can participate in band practice after school if it is part of the course requirements.

Legally, there are no prohibitions against allowing nonpublic school students to join extracurricular activities. In fact, current laws and association guidelines facilitate this inclusion. For example, IHSA requires only that students attend one course at the member school each semester, while IESA has even fewer restrictions for middle school students. Moreover, the Illinois General Assembly has shown interest in codifying these practices into state law, as seen in House Bill 5880 introduced in 2024. This legislation would mandate interscholastic athletics associations to allow students attending just one course to participate in team activities within their district.

Pioneering districts like Adlai Stevenson High School District 125 and Washington Community High School District 308 have set positive precedents by adopting policies that require minimal attendance for participation. These districts recognize the value of inclusivity and the benefits it brings to both students and the community. Conversely, some districts remain resistant, maintaining policies that exclude part-time students from activities. This exclusionary stance not only disenfranchises families but also overlooks potential financial gains and the broader educational benefits of diverse participation.

To ensure fairness and maximize the use of taxpayer funds, more Illinois school districts should follow the lead of those that have embraced inclusive policies. By doing so, they can create a more equitable environment where all resident children, regardless of their educational path, can enjoy the benefits of extracurricular activities supported by their contributions. This approach not only aligns with legal frameworks but also fosters a stronger, more unified community.