State Government Issues
ODACS Legislative Update, 2012 Session
Following is a summary of some bills that ODACS is following during the current session.
School Choice
HB321 and SB241 would provide tax credits for donations to scholarship organizations. The nonprofit scholarship foundations could then disperse funds in the form of tuition scholarships to low-income families.
ODACS Supports HB321 and SB241!
Government Reform
HJ49 and SJ66 summarize Governor McDonnell's plan for restructuring and streamlining certain segments of the state government. Section 30 of both bills recommends elimination of the Child Day Care Council, a regulatory body that has included an ODACS seat since its formation. ODACS is supporting section 30 of both HJ49 and SJ66 since that section states that "[t]wo seats should be added to the Board of Social Services to represent the day care industry." ODACS is working to secure a position in one of those seats representing religiously exempt child day centers.
ODACS Request for Specific Language in HB 1291
Graduation Requirements, Definition of High School Credit, and Other State Standards
While private schools in Virginia are not legally bound to the same graduation requirements as public schools, Christian schools should be aware of changes in state requirements and understand how their own requirements compare. AACS accredited schools must meet the state's graduation requirements. Use the following links to learn more.
2011 Virginia Standards of Accreditation
2011 Guidance Document for SOA
Department of Education, SOA Web Site
