The proposed bill, "Raylee's Law," seeks to amend the Code of West Virginia to establish stricter regulations surrounding home schooling, particularly in cases involving child abuse or neglect. It prohibits home schooling if there is a pending investigation for child abuse or neglect against either custodial parent or the instructor, as well as if either party has been convicted of domestic violence or child abuse or neglect. The bill requires the county board to provide written justification for any denial of home instruction requests, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process. Additionally, it outlines that home instruction must occur in the child's home or an approved location and be conducted by qualified individuals, with provisions for the county superintendent to seek court intervention if there is probable cause for educational neglect.

Moreover, "Raylee's Law" aims to enhance educational opportunities in learning pods and microschools, particularly for children with disabilities or those at risk of not making acceptable academic progress. It mandates that instructors initiate remedial programs if annual assessments indicate insufficient progress and requires the county board to inform parents about special education services. The bill allows for composite academic assessment results from learning pods or microschools and permits these students to attend county board classes, while clarifying that these educational settings are not classified as homeschooling. Importantly, it includes regulations for learning pods or microschools with students requiring special education, such as the placement of video cameras for their protection.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-8-1