Under current law, GS 115C-84.2(d) sets the parameters within which local boards of education must determine the opening and closing dates of public schools under subdivision (a)(1) of this statute and provides for the State Board of Education (State Board) to waive the specified date requirements upon a showing of good cause.

Amends GS 115C-84.2(d) to provide the local boards of education for the Stokes, Surry, and Wilkes school administrative units with additional flexibility in adopting their school calendars. Establishes that if, during any four of the last 10 years, the number of days closed per year is eight days or greater because of severe weather conditions, energy shortages, power failures, or other emergency situations, the State Board may waive the requirement that the opening date for students be no earlier than the Monday closest to August 26, and allow the local board of education to set an earlier opening date as follows: (1) if the number of days closed per year is eight, nine, 10, 11, or 12, the opening date must be no earlier than the Monday closest to August 12; and (2) if the number of days closed per year is 13 or greater, the opening date must be no earlier than the Monday closest to August 5. Makes conforming changes. Applies beginning with the 2018-19 school year.