House Bill 2515 aims to amend and reenact provisions related to behavior intervention and safety in West Virginia's elementary and secondary schools. The bill clarifies that nothing in the new regulations conflicts with federal laws, specifically the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. It establishes specific requirements for teachers in grades K-6 when they identify a student's behavior as violent, threatening, or disruptive, mandating that such students be placed in a behavioral intervention program if available. If no program exists, the bill outlines a series of steps including immediate removal from the classroom, parental notification, and potential suspension while alternative learning accommodations are arranged.

Additionally, the bill sets forth a disciplinary procedure for students in grades 6-12, detailing the process for excluding students from classrooms for disorderly conduct and requiring communication between teachers and principals regarding such exclusions. It mandates that the State Board of Education adopt a statewide disciplinary policy, which must be approved by the Legislature. The bill emphasizes the importance of alternative disciplinary measures and the involvement of parents in maintaining school discipline, while also prohibiting corporal punishment. Overall, the legislation seeks to create a safer and more structured learning environment for students across the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-5-1