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Bill

36-0104

An Act amending title 17 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 11 by adding section 137 to allow a school district to accept volunteer school chaplains to provide support, services, and programs for students as assigned by the Board of Education

2025-2026 Regular Session

Virgin Islands school districts gain authority to employ volunteer chaplains providing student support services under Board of Education direction, raising religious establishment and accountability questions.

Introduced
0
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Bill Summary · 36-0104

Legislative bill overview

This bill amends Virgin Islands Code to formally allow school districts to accept volunteer chaplains who would provide support services and programs to students under Board of Education assignment. The chaplains would operate as volunteers rather than paid staff, expanding the types of support personnel available in schools.

Why is this important

School chaplaincy programs affect how schools address student mental health, spiritual needs, and pastoral care. This legislation determines whether schools can institutionalize religious or faith-based support roles and establishes the legal framework for their operation, raising questions about student access to diverse support systems and the separation of religious and educational functions.

Potential points of contention

  • Religious establishment concerns: Critics may argue that school-sponsored chaplaincy programs violate the Establishment Clause by endorsing religious perspectives, while proponents contend chaplains provide secular support services regardless of their faith background
  • Scope and accountability: The bill lacks specifics on chaplain selection criteria, training requirements, oversight mechanisms, and what "support, services, and programs" entails, creating potential for inconsistent implementation or mission drift
  • Student access and equity: Questions arise about whether chaplain services are available to all students equally or favor particular faiths, and whether families can opt their children out without stigma or access barriers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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