This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish new requirements for public charter schools and high school graduation. It modifies the criteria for public charter schools, ensuring they adhere to specific governance structures and compliance with federal and state laws. Notably, it updates the language in section 18-5G-3 by replacing references to certain subsections and clarifying the oversight and operational autonomy of charter schools. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section, 18-2-46, which mandates that all high school students must complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as a prerequisite for graduation, unless they file a waiver indicating their decision not to apply.

The new section outlines the responsibilities of both the state board and local school boards in assisting students and their families with the FAFSA process. It also provides provisions for students who face extenuating circumstances that prevent them from meeting this requirement, allowing them to still receive their diploma if they fulfill other graduation criteria. The state board is empowered to adopt rules to ensure compliance with federal privacy laws regarding student information. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to financial aid for students while ensuring public charter schools operate under a clear regulatory framework.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5G-3, 18-2-46