Faith's Law: Protecting Students in Illinois Schools

Faith’s Law is named after Faith Colson, a prevention advocate, child sexual abuse survivor, and board member of the National Center to Stop Educator Sexual Abuse, Misconduct, and Exploitation.

 

As a high school student in Illinois, Faith was abused by a teacher. Years later, she learned that adults in her school had concerns about the relationship but never reported it. Determined to create change, Faith worked to strengthen state laws to protect students from educator sexual misconduct.

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The Illinois General Assembly passed two laws known as Faith’s Law:

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• Public Act 102-0676 (effective Dec. 3, 2021):

  • Added a clear definition of sexual misconduct to the School Code.

  • Required schools to post codes of professional conduct.

  • Directed the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) to create a resource guide for students, parents, and teachers.

  • Expanded the definition of “grooming” in state law and updated training requirements for educators.

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• Public Act 102-0702 (effective July 1, 2023):

  • Requires schools to review employment histories during hiring.

  • Ensures parents and students are notified of sexual misconduct allegations.

  • Provides a process for reporting and acting on misconduct, including revoking educator licenses when warranted.

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To learn more or access official resources, visit the State of Illinois Faith's Law website.