This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish clear guidelines for microschools and learning pods, which serve as alternative educational options for children. It exempts children participating in these settings from compulsory school attendance requirements, provided they meet specific criteria. The bill defines "learning pod" as a voluntary association of parents grouping their children for academic studies, while "microschool" refers to a school initiated by teachers or entities that charge tuition. Parents or guardians are required to submit a notice of intent to the state superintendent or board, detailing the child's information and the educational program specifics. Additionally, the bill outlines instructional and assessment requirements, mandating that instructors possess appropriate qualifications and that annual assessments be conducted to ensure acceptable student progress.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies the roles and responsibilities of state boards, parents, legal guardians, learning pods, and microschools regarding special education services. It requires the state board to notify parents or guardians about available services for assessing a child's eligibility for special education upon request, while also ensuring that identifying a disability does not hinder a child's participation in these educational settings. The bill allows for the submission of composite academic assessment results and mandates assistance from the state superintendent for those providing instruction. It also ensures compliance with specific provisions for students requiring special education, including the placement of video cameras for protection, and clarifies that students in microschools have the same rights as those in other non-public schools, distinguishing them from homeschool students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-8-1