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Virginia Constitution of 1902

1902

This article outlined the framework for Virginia’s public education system in 1902, including the establishment of separate schools for white and Black children, reflecting the segregationist policies of that era.

The General Assembly shall provide for the maintenance of separate schools for white and colored children.

— ARTICLE IX, SECTION 133

VIRGINIA CONSTITUTION OF 1902

ARTICLE IX – Education and Public Instruction

Section 129. The General Assembly shall establish and maintain an efficient system of public free schools throughout the State.

Section 130. The supervision of schools shall be vested in a State Board of Education, to consist of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and such other persons as may be prescribed by law.

Section 131. The General Assembly shall provide for the appointment or election of such local school officers, including county, city, and district school boards, as may be necessary.

Section 132. The General Assembly shall provide for the compulsory attendance of children at public schools, and for the enforcement of such attendance.

Section 133. The General Assembly shall provide for the maintenance of separate schools for white and colored children.

Section 134. The General Assembly shall provide for the maintenance of public free schools for a term of not less than five months in each year.

Section 135. The General Assembly shall provide for the establishment and maintenance of such schools as may be necessary for the education of teachers.

Section 136. The General Assembly shall provide for the establishment and maintenance of such other schools as may be necessary for the proper education of the youth of the State.

Section 137. The General Assembly shall provide for the maintenance of the public school system by an annual tax upon the property of the State, and by such other means as may be necessary.

Section 138. The General Assembly shall provide for the apportionment and distribution of the school funds among the counties, cities, and towns of the State.

Section 139. The General Assembly shall provide for the investment of the school funds, and for the safe-keeping of the same.

Section 140. White and colored children shall not be taught in the same school.