Bill > HB3326

This bill establishes a comprehensive Student Bill of Rights for public school students in West Virginia, detailing a wide range of protections and freedoms. The bill guarantees students the right to a meaningful public education that meets individual needs, access to and input on curriculum, and the ability to express their views on educational matters. Students are entitled to receive clear notice of all school rules and regulations, and will be provided a copy of the Student Bill of Rights upon registration. The bill protects students' physical safety, ensures equal access to school activities without discrimination, and safeguards their constitutional rights to free speech, assembly, and expression. Key protections include the right to respect from school personnel, protection from harassment and corporal punishment, the ability to review their own school records, and the freedom to participate in student organizations and seek leadership positions. Students are also granted the right to present grievances to school authorities, defend themselves from physical assault, and exercise their rights of expression through various means like wearing political buttons, organizing political groups, and distributing printed materials, as long as these actions do not substantially disrupt school activities. The bill emphasizes that students' expression should not negatively impact their academic standing or extracurricular participation.