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Virginia Administrative Code
Title 8. Education
Agency 20. State Board of Education
Chapter 671. Regulations Governing the Operation of Private Schools for Students with Disabilities
12/27/2024

8VAC20-671-370. School facilities and safety.

A. Each school shall be maintained in compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63).

B. Each school shall maintain a physical plant that is accessible, barrier free, safe, and clean.

C. Each school shall provide safe and adequate instructional areas, space for administrative staff, pupil personnel services, library and media services, and physical education. Schools established after the effective date of these regulations and classrooms added to existing buildings shall provide at least 50 square feet of classroom or instructional area per student excluding classroom fixtures.

D. Each school shall provide adequate, safe, and properly equipped classrooms and instructional areas, and where appropriate, laboratories, play areas, and dining areas that meet the needs of students and instruction.

E. Each school shall provide space for safe storage of items such as first aid equipment, medication, household supplies, school supplies, and equipment.

F. After the initial application, the school shall document annually that buildings and equipment are maintained in accordance with the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code (13VAC5-51) and maintain records of regular safety, health, and fire inspections conducted and certified by local health and fire departments.

G. Building plans and specifications for new construction, change in use of existing buildings, and any structural modifications or additions to existing buildings shall be submitted in advance to the department for approval.

H. Animals allowed on the premises shall be tested, inoculated, and licensed as required by law.

I. Swimming pools shall be inspected annually by the state or local health authorities or by a swimming pool business.

J. There shall be a written policy concerning the provision of safeguards for water-related activities and a provision that a certified lifeguard supervises all swimming activities.

K. There shall be a written policy regarding safeguards for school-sponsored activities including adventure and wilderness activities.

L. There shall be a communication system available to staff at all times in the classroom and during school-sponsored activities.

M. Schools shall have safeguards to be able to identify any visitor in the school building and on the premises during the school day.

Statutory Authority

§§ 22.1-16 and 22.1-321 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 31, Issue 24, eff. August 26, 2015.

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