HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 77

(BY Delegates E. Pritt, Dittman, Hornby, Statler, Toney, Tully, and Campbell)

[Introduced February 12, 2024; referred to the Committee on Education; then Rules.]

To request that the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the costs associated with establishing an alternative education program in each county that does not yet provide that option.

Whereas, Alternative education programs are authorized by West Virginia Code and West Virginia Board of Education policy, and must meet the standards and safeguards set forth in Board of Education and local policies related to curriculum, instruction, and student support services; however, not every county in the state has an established alternative education program; and

Whereas, West Virginia utilizes alternative delivery of education programs for students whose disruptive behavior places them at risk of not succeeding in the traditional school structure; and

Whereas, Public schools are expected to address the needs of all students, minimizing the likelihood that they will become at risk and giving additional attention to those who do; however, the circumstances involved with a student becoming at risk often are complex and may include influences both within and outside of the school environment; and

Whereas, A child who is at risk and is becoming a discouraged and defeated learner often lacks adequate support and may develop peer relationships that further exacerbate the difficulty of reengaging him or her in learning, school, and responsible social behavior; and

Whereas, the Legislature recognizes the need to provide alternative means by which students achieve the goals of each county within the state; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study the costs associated with establishing an alternative education program in each county that does not yet provide that option; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Regular Session of the Legislature, 2025, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report, and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.