The bill introduced on February 28, 2025, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 18-5-13e, which establishes the Community School Funding Formula Revision Act. This act mandates the West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) to review school closures and consolidations that are being considered in the current year and the previous four fiscal years. Within 180 days, the WVDE is required to propose changes to the School Aid Formula that could have prevented the closure of at least 80% of the schools under consideration, focusing on those closures justified by financial and operational factors.

The new section will take effect upon passage, emphasizing the importance of addressing school closures and ensuring that funding formulas are adjusted to support the sustainability of community schools. The bill reflects a proactive approach to maintaining educational institutions by revising funding strategies based on historical data regarding school closures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5-13e