Under current law, GS 115C-84.2(d) provides authority to local boards of education to determine the opening and closing dates for public schools under GS 115C-84.2(a)(1). However, the local boards must comply with specified parameters for the opening and closing dates of public schools as provided. Subsection (d) also provides criteria under which the State Board of Education may waive those requirements upon a showing of good cause by a local board of education. 

Amends GS 115C-84.2(d) as the title indicates. Allows Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools to open as early as August 10 (currently, no earlier than the Monday closest to August 26), excluding year-round schools. Deletes the provisions of subsection (d) concerning waiver of the requirements upon a showing of good cause. Adds new language to GS 115C-174.12 permitting assessments to be given before the conclusion of the fall semester for local boards in Kannapolis City Schools and Cabarrus County Schools that have implemented a school calendar that concludes the fall semester prior to December 31.

Applies beginning with the 2021-22 school year.