Senate bill seeks to give West Virginia private schools ‘freedom from government oversight’

By: Amelia Ferrell Knisely

Outlets: West Virginia Watch

Published: February 2, 2026

Words: 464

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 2 days ago

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The Senate is advancing a GOP-backed bill that strikes out many current requirements for West Virginia private schools in an effort to give them freedom from governmental oversight, including making standardized testing optional.

The measure is called the “Restoring Private Schools Act of 2026.” It is sponsored by Sen. Craig Hart, R-Mingo.

“As autonomous entities free of governmental oversight of instruction, private, parochial or church schools may implement such measures for instruction and assessment …

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