The House Education Committee met this afternoon.
Markup & Passage
House Bill 4573 ensures that children in West Virginia foster care receive clear and consistent information about education, job training, housing, healthcare, and independent living support before graduating from high school.
House Bill 4598 adds colleges and universities to the school safety mapping data.
Committee Hearing
House Bill 4817 creates the Charter School Startup Fund, which would be funded by appropriation, grants, and gifts. The bill requires submission of an application to the West Virginia Professional Charter School Board to receive funds from the Charter Schools Startup Fund.
House Bill 4995 amends special education laws to protect nonverbal and autistic children by installing cameras in support areas and rooms connected to self-contained classrooms. The bill requires staff escorting students to the restroom to wear a recording device and requires records to be maintained.
Opponents of the bill believe it needs a fiscal note, as the changes will entail high financial costs. Additionally, they believe it will cause an unreasonable administrative burden without enhancing child safety. Proponents of the bill feel this is important as some children cannot report when there is an issue, and they want to ensure their child is always safe.
House Bill 4485 allows educators in the public or higher education systems to donate leave to employees on maternity leave.
House Bill 4591 recognizes School Athletic Directors who have achieved a nationally recognized professional certification through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA). The bill states that athletic directors shall be reimbursed for expenses and be provided with a salary bonus for the certification.
House Bill 5212 restructures code relating to the higher education grants, scholarships, loans, and financial aid for postsecondary education, workforce development initiatives, and workforce grants.
