Education (Teachers)

SB 988 requires West Virginia county school boards to submit annual staffing plans by May 1, detailing all covered employees (including teachers and support staff) by category, justification, and budget impact. The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE) will then issue annual staffing recommendations and maximum funded allowances by April 1, based on enrollment, special education needs, and other objective criteria. County boards can request exceptions to these limits by submitting a written justification and funding plan, but must receive WVDE approval to hire above recommended levels. If a county exceeds the limit without approval, WVDE can order corrective actions like eliminating unfunded positions or suspending hiring until compliance is restored.

HB 4077 would eliminate standardized testing requirements in all West Virginia public and private schools by directing the State Board of Education to stop administering such tests. The bill takes effect for the 2026-2027 school year and all subsequent years. This change would directly impact every student, teacher, and school administrator in the state by removing a longstanding assessment requirement. The policy shift specifically targets the administration of standardized tests, without specifying alternative evaluation methods.