This bill amends West Virginia Code §18A-2-8 to ensure that investigations into allegations of misconduct by school personnel, specifically those that jeopardize the health, safety, or welfare of students, continue even if the employee resigns, transfers to another school, or obtains another job. The bill mandates that county superintendents report any employee who is suspended, transferred, or resigned during the course of such an investigation to the state superintendent within seven business days, including the rationale for the action taken. Additionally, a database will be maintained by the state superintendent to track individuals investigated for these serious allegations, which will be confidential and accessible only to specific education officials.

Key changes in the bill include the insertion of language that clarifies the continuation of investigations despite an employee's resignation or transfer, as well as the establishment of a confidential database to document these cases. The bill also removes the term "or" from a previous provision regarding reporting, replacing it with "transferred," thereby broadening the scope of reporting requirements. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the accountability of school personnel and ensure a safe learning environment for students.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18A-2-8