2026 Regular Session
SB 1020
Allowing up to five educational leave days within definition of "excused absence"
In Second Chamber
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill proposes to allow students in West Virginia up to five days of excused absence for educational leave. These days would be considered part of the student’s overall excused absence count, but require a note from the parent explaining the purpose of the leave. The state board of education will need to create specific rules defining what qualifies as ‘educational leave.’
Key provisions
- Allows students to take up to five ‘educational leave’ days.
- Requires a parent’s note explaining the reason for the leave, submitted within three days of the student’s return.
- The state board of education must establish rules defining what constitutes ‘educational leave.’
- Total excused absences (including those for educational leave) cannot exceed 10 per school year, unless supported by a physician’s note for students with chronic health conditions.
- School attendance directors must make contact with parents regarding excessive unexcused absences (three or more).
- Schools must credit students participating in sanctioned educational activities as if they were attending a field trip.
- A school principal cannot negatively affect a student’s grades due to absences related to sanctioned educational activities.
- The bill does not alter the existing regulations regarding the Every Student Succeeds Act.
Who is affected
- Students
- Parents/Guardians of Students
- West Virginia Public Schools
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