NC H357

Requires school principals to authorize a minimum of two excused absences per academic year for religious observances required by a student's faith, with written parental notice allowed to be requested a reasonable time in advance.

Allows students to make up any tests or other work missed due to excused religious observance absences.

Directs the State Board of Community Colleges and Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina to adopt similar policies authorizing minimum two excused absences annually for religious observances at community colleges and constituent institutions.

Requires the State Board of Education to develop recommended instructional programs for students to understand the meaning and importance of Memorial Day, with schools required to instruct students on Memorial Day's significance.

Effective beginning with the 2010-2011 academic year, with the State Board of Education required to report on Memorial Day instructional programs by January 15, 2011.