Creating Community School Parents' Choice Act

SB 223 requires West Virginia county school boards to follow specific steps before closing or consolidating any school (except when a bond issue already covered the closure). Before making a final decision, boards must prepare written reasons with supporting data, hold public hearings with adequate notice, and create an impact statement covering student transportation, financial effects, enrollment, staff impacts, and community consequences. The bill ensures parents and community representatives (through school improvement councils) receive notice and have opportunities to provide input during the process. It applies directly to students, families, school staff, and local communities affected by potential school closures or consolidations. The law includes a 10-year sunset date but focuses on procedural requirements for school board decisions.