HB 4395
Relating to investigations of allegations of child safety violations for school personnel.
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill updates West Virginia law to ensure that investigations into allegations of child safety violations against school personnel continue even if the employee subsequently leaves their job or transfers to another school. It requires school boards to investigate such allegations, potentially suspending or dismissing employees, and establishes a process for reporting these investigations to higher authorities. The bill also clarifies the duties of school principals and county superintendents in reporting potential misconduct and maintains a confidential database of investigated personnel.
Key provisions
- School boards must continue investigations of child safety allegations even after an employee transfers or resigns.
- Principals are required to report allegations of jeopardizing student health, safety, or welfare to the county superintendent.
- County superintendents must report suspensions or dismissals related to such allegations to the state superintendent.
- A confidential database will be maintained by the state superintendent to track investigations and personnel actions.
- Employees facing such allegations will be suspended or reassigned pending investigation completion.
- Employees are granted a five-day window to request a level three hearing.
- The bill clarifies that performance evaluations are the sole basis for ‘unsatisfactory performance’ charges.
- Suspended employees may still attend school events unless their presence jeopardizes safety or interferes with investigations.
Who is affected
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