Illinois Lawmakers Propose Allowing Career Tech Classes Instead of Foreign Language in High Schools

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois lawmakers have introduced legislation that would allow high school students to take career technical education classes instead of foreign language instruction. State Sen. Willie Preston, D-Chicago, introduced Senate Bill 3070 to provide the CTE alternative starting in the 2028-2029 school year. The Technology & Manufacturing Association said the foreign language mandate taking effect in 2027 would limit the availability for students to take CTE classes.