The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to redefine "excused absence" in relation to compulsory school attendance, specifically by including up to five educational leave days. It mandates that the child's parent, guardian, or custodian must submit a note within three days of the child's return to school, explaining the purpose of the educational leave. Additionally, the state board is required to establish rules defining what qualifies as educational leave, and school personnel have the authority to refuse to count a day as educational leave if the explanation does not meet the established criteria. The bill also excludes absences due to participation in 4-H, FFA, and other student organization activities from the existing 10-day limit on excused absences.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that the total number of excused absences related to school-approved curricular or extracurricular activities, college visits, and the newly defined educational leave days cannot exceed 10 per school year. It emphasizes the importance of regular school attendance and outlines the responsibilities of county attendance directors and their assistants in promoting attendance and addressing unexcused absences. The bill aims to enhance educational opportunities while ensuring that students maintain consistent attendance in school.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-8-4
Committee Substitute: 18-8-4