1. (a)

   1. (1) A public school shall establish a system of learning supports while operating under a virtual education plan by:

      1. (i) 1. Establishing a virtual tutoring system; or

         1. 2. Providing instructional time for virtual learning that is in addition to the daily and hourly attendance requirements under § 7-103 of this title; and

      2. (ii) Developing a plan to focus on students with the greatest need and the most learning loss, including:

         1. 1. Students with disabilities; and

         2. 2. Students in historically underserved groups, including:

            1. A. English language learners; and
            2. B. Students eligible for aid.
   2. (2) In satisfying its duties under this subsection, a public school may not require staff members whose terms of employment are subject to a collective bargaining agreement to work in excess of negotiated terms on work hours.

2. (b)

   1. (1) In compliance with public health guidance, a county board that has public schools operating under a virtual education plan shall establish learning centers in suitable unoccupied buildings, including State buildings that are not in use.

   2. (2) If funding is available during the prolonged school closure, a county board shall establish additional learning centers prioritizing:

      1. (i) Community schools eligible for concentration of poverty grants under § 5-223 of this article; and

      2. (ii) 1. Areas with high levels of absenteeism during the prolonged school closure; or

         1. 2. If the data under item 1 of this item is unavailable, areas with high levels of absenteeism during the previous school year.

Added by Acts 2023, c. 804, § 1, eff. July 1, 2023.