The proposed bill aims to establish the Academic Quality in Public Education Act in West Virginia, introducing new standards for public schools that align with those required for private and religious schools. It includes provisions for a minimum instructional term of 180 days, maintenance of attendance and immunization records, compliance with health and safety regulations, and the establishment of crisis response plans. Additionally, the bill mandates that public schools administer a nationally normed standardized achievement test annually, with specific requirements for test administration and reporting of results to parents and the State Superintendent of Schools.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that if a public school's composite test results fall below the fortieth percentile for two consecutive years, the school will be required to implement a remedial program. If the school fails to improve above this threshold, students will no longer meet the compulsory attendance requirements, and they will be classified as delinquent. This legislation seeks to enhance the quality of education in public schools by ensuring accountability and setting clear performance standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2L-1, 18-2L-2, 18-2L-3