Why 4/5: Directly impacts the annual school calendar and planning for students, parents, and teachers across Virginia.
This bill allows Virginia school boards to start the school year up to two weeks earlier than currently permitted, specifically no earlier than 14 days before September 1 instead of 14 days before Labor Day. This change provides local school divisions with greater flexibility in setting their academic calendars, potentially allowing for earlier end dates or more balanced schedules.
First reading
Read first time
Referred to committee
Referred to Committee on Education
Cleared committee
Reported from Education (21-Y 0-N)
Second reading
Read second time
Third reading
Read third time
Passed a chamber
Passed House (96-Y 0-N 0-A)
Update
Fiscal Impact Statement from Department of Planning and Budget (SB815)
Enrolled
Enrolled
Passed a chamber
Bill text as passed Senate and House (SB815ER)
This bill has passed its votes and is headed to the Governor's desk. You still have a say — the Governor's office reads messages before deciding whether to sign.
New to all this? See how a bill becomes law →
Summarized from the official bill text (“School bds.; opening of school year, certain alternative schedules & schedule flexibility permitted.”) · Read the actual bill →
Passed a chamber
Signed by Speaker
Passed a chamber
Signed by President
Enrolled
Enrolled Bill communicated to Governor on March 14, 2026
Sent to the Governor
Governor's Action Deadline 11:59 p.m., April 13, 2026
Signed into law
Approved by Governor-Chapter 522 (effective 7/1/2026)
Update
Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0522)