NC H981

Directs the Department of Public Instruction to study how local school administrative units can allow students to attend any school within their district, rather than only their assigned base school

Requires the study to review existing voluntary open enrollment and freedom of choice plans currently in place

Mandates examination of mandatory open enrollment implementation considerations including enrollment periods, application processes, school capacity issues, waitlist options, and transportation for students choosing non-assigned schools

Study must address permissible reasons for denying transfer requests and establish appeals processes for denied school assignment requests

Department must report findings and recommended legislation to the Joint Legislative Education Oversight Committee by April 15, 2026