Amends GS 115C-366 to include reference to a student attending public schools where a student is accepted, in addition to assigned. Includes a reference to the requirements of new GS 115C-366.5.

Enacts GS 115C-366.5 (Open enrollment), which outlines the procedure for a parent or guardian to request their student be enrolled in any school in the local school unit where they are domiciled. Requires local boards of education to adopt open enrollment plans, and sets minimum requirements for the plans, including an application process with two periods of enrollment, a process for declaring school preferences, a lottery procedure for schools that are beyond capacity, and availability of transportation. Specifies that if a student is registered at a school under the statute, they are allowed to continue attending the school without participating in open enrollment unless voluntarily unenrolled from the school. Requires local school administrators to publish the capacity of each school and maintain a waitlist. Clarifies that a local board of education is not required to establish or offer programs at schools where they are not currently offered or alter or waive eligibility criteria for existing schools. Permits local school administrators to deny enrollment under certain circumstances, including if the school does not offer appropriate programs, the student does not meet the criteria for enrollment, the school is subject to a desegregation plan, or the student has been suspended or expelled. Outlines an appeal process for denied enrollment, including appeal to the local board of education, and a subsequent appeal to the State Board of Education.

Directs the State Board of Education to adopt rules implementing the open enrollment appeals process.

Effective and applicable beginning with the 2025-2026 school year.