Ohio’s school districts have long recognized the requirement not to discriminate against employees on the basis of certain protected classes. Discrimination related to pregnancy, childbirth or maternity/parental leave constitutes discrimination on the basis of sex. Schools have to treat a woman who is temporarily disabled due to pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions the same as any other disabled employee.
OSBA has resources you can use to share information with your community for National School Bus Safety Week, Oct. 17-21.
National School Bus Safety Week is celebrated the third full week of October each year. During this week we have the opportunity to increase the attention to the incredible resources inherent in school transportation services.
OSBA has a tool kit of materials to help you promote student success in your district.
House activity
The House passed Senate Bill (SB) 26 by a vote of 90-0. The bill permits teachers to deduct from their state income taxes up to $250 for out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies and professional development. The bill returns to the Senate for a concurrence vote.
For school districts in Ohio, one of the most consequential acts passed last year was HB 318. Among other things, the act:
INFOhio has partnered with Scholastic, the Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio, Stark County Educational Service Center and the Great Start for Great Futures Coalition to offer a day of free professional development for teachers, administrators, curriculum directors, school librarians and other educational staff working with preK-5 students.
On Wednesday, an Ohio appellate court ruled that the media was not entitled to the education records of a deceased former student.
House activity
The House passed House Bill (HB) 123, sponsored by Reps. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville) and Glenn Holmes (D-Girard). The bill requires public schools to implement certain programs on and provide instruction in suicide awareness and prevention and violence prevention. The bill now goes to the Senate.
House Primary and Secondary Education Committee
The committee conducted sponsor testimony on:
Senate Judiciary Committee
The committee conducted a second hearing on Senate Bill 144, sponsored by Sen. Sandra R. Williams (D-Cleveland). The bill requires student instruction on the prevention of and disciplinary procedures for harassment, intimidation or bullying and creates the offense of aggravated bullying as a third-degree misdemeanor.
