HB 968

Enacts Part 7, concerning instructional requirements, to Article 7B of GS Chapter 115C. Directs all public school units to provide instruction in emergency preparedness from kindergarten through high school in GS 115C-76.85. Requires the State Board of Education (Board) to adopt standards for instruction in emergency preparedness, differentiated between elementary school starting from grades three and up, middle school, and high school. Sets forth instructional criteria for the three groups, all of which include the school’s or local school administrative unit’s emergency response plan (in elementary school) and updated instruction in middle school and high school to reflect any changes that have occurred or to reflect the student’s new school placement. Authorizes local school administrative units to determine the appropriate courses during which instruction on emergency preparedness will be provided. Requires local boards of education (GS 115C-81.67), UNC School of the Arts (GS 116-69.05), and the NC School of Science and Mathematics (GS 116-235) to provide instruction in emergency preparedness in conformity with GS 115C-76.85.