State report card reform
Reps. Don Jones (R-Freeport) and Phillip M. Robinson, Jr. (D-Solon) announced at a press conference the introduction of House Bill (HB) 200. The bill would revise the state report card and school accountability systems. OSBA participated in the press conference.
Congress
President Joe Biden…
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine announced the procedure to rescind all health orders as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic. He indicated that once the number of new cases drops below 50 per 100,000 citizens over a two-week period, all health orders will be rescinded.
Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud signed an amended revised executive order to limit and/or prohibit mass gatherings in the state of Ohio, with exceptions. Click here for a link to…
United States Department of Education
The United States Department of Education (USDOE) sent a letter to the chief state school officers that provided guidance on federal assessments. The letter indicated that federal assessments are still required but USDOE would provide states with flexibilities that they can implement in how those tests are administered. The letter also indicates that states could request a waiver for the 2020-21 school year of the accountability and school identification requirements in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA).…
House activity
The House passed House Bill (HB) 2 by a vote of 91-5. The bill establishes the residential broadband expansion program. The bill was amended in committee to provide additional funding of $150 million in fiscal year (FY) 2022 and includes an emergency clause.
Senate activity
The Senate…
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine asked school districts to design plans to help students make up for any lost learning due to the pandemic. Those plans may include extending the school year, beginning the new year early, extending the school day, summer programs, tutoring or remote options. School districts should provide their plans to the public and General Assembly no later than April 1. The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) has provided information regarding planning for extended learning. Click…
House Finance Committee
The committee held testimony on the executive budget proposal for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. Click here for information on the executive budget proposal and here for district-by-district simulations for Student Wellness and Success Funds.
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine announced that K-12 schools will be permitted to start receiving school staff COVID-19 vaccinations Feb. 1. Click here for the list of schools. The vaccination plan for all schools is expected to be released today.
DeWine signed an executive order that partially restores the K-12 payments for fiscal year (FY) 2021. K-12 education will see a net $140 million reduction for FY 2021 as opposed to the $300 million…
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine announced the extension of the order that requires all persons to stay at home during specified hours. The signed order is forthcoming.
Presidential inauguration
President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris each took the oath of office commencing their terms as president and vice president.
Ohio Department of Education
The Ohio Department of Education released information regarding the extension of Pandemic EBT program. Click…
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law House Bill (HB) 409. The bill modifies student attendance requirements at certain e-schools; changes education law for the 2020-21 school year to provide school districts continued flexibility and relief during the COVID-19 pandemic; and provides flexibility to school districts regarding educational requirements of substitute teachers for the 2020-21 school year.
DeWine signed into law…
Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law House Bill 231. The bill requires the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) to compile and publicize a list of entities that provide free and reduced-price epinephrine autoinjectors and permits school districts to create training for staff and instruction for students on food allergies and allergic reaction treatment. It also permits schools and camps to procure and use injectable or nasally administered glucagon in accordance…
