NC H86

Changes the earliest opening date for students from the Monday closest to August 26 to August 10, allowing schools to start earlier in the summer.

Removes the State Board of Education's authority to waive opening date requirements and eliminate the "good cause" exception that previously allowed earlier August 19 start dates.

Permits local school boards with calendars concluding the fall semester before December 31 to administer assessments prior to semester end, providing flexibility for early-semester testing.

Maintains existing closing date requirement of no later than the Friday closest to June 11 and allows boards to adjust closing dates to meet minimum instructional day requirements.

Effective beginning with the 2023-2024 school year.