SB 171
Creating WV Released Time Education Act
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill, the West Virginia Released Time Education Act, aims to establish a framework for students to participate in religious instruction outside of regular school hours. It requires school districts to create policies allowing students to be excused for released time courses, which are courses in religious instruction offered by independent entities. The bill also outlines procedures for awarding academic credit for these courses, ensuring a neutral evaluation process based on secular criteria.
Key provisions
- School districts must adopt policies excusing students for released time courses for at least one hour per week.
- Parents or legal guardians must provide written consent for students to attend released time courses.
- Sponsoring entities are responsible for transportation and liability for students during released time instruction.
- School district funds cannot be used to provide released time courses (except for minimal administrative costs).
- Released time courses cannot be held on school property unless a neutral policy allows it.
- Students are responsible for any missed schoolwork when excused for released time.
- School districts must award academic credit for completed released time courses, using secular evaluation criteria.
- The evaluation of released time courses must be neutral to religious content or denominational affiliation.
Who is affected
- Students
- Parents/Guardians
- School Districts
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