The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to provide additional support for extremely remote schools, defined as schools located 20 miles or more from existing public or private schools and serving a minimum of 20 students. It establishes a new section, 18-9A-13, which outlines the purpose of providing extra state aid to these schools to address operational costs, prepare for extreme weather, and support professional development tailored to rural teaching environments. The bill prohibits county boards from closing an extremely remote school during any fiscal year in which they are receiving this additional aid.

Furthermore, the bill requires county boards to submit documentation to the State Superintendent to verify the status of their extremely remote schools and mandates annual reporting on the use and impact of the additional funding. The State Superintendent is tasked with compiling these reports and assessing the program's effectiveness, with the possibility of recommending funding adjustments. Additionally, extremely remote schools may request waivers from certain requirements, including those related to school personnel.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-9A-2, 18-9A-13
Committee Substitute: 18-9A-2, 18-9A-13