Oral arguments in U.S. Supreme Court case on school prayer

Last Monday, the Supreme Court of the United States heard oral arguments in the case of Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, which asks whether it is constitutional for school employees to pray on school grounds, at a school event, with students and other members of the school community present.

Week of April 25, 2022

State Board of Education
The State Board of Education voted to advance the following candidates to a second-round interview:

  • Stephen Dackin, former state board vice president, by a 17-2 vote;
  • Larry Hook, superintendent, Springboro Community City, by a 14-5 vote;
  • Thomas L. Hosler II, superintendent, Perrysburg EV, by a 13-6 vote.

The second-round interviews will be held during the May 9-10 board meeting.

Week of April 18, 2022

Redistricting
A federal court panel issued an opinion directing the Ohio Redistricting Commission to approve a new set of state legislative maps by May 28, or the panel will order the use of the commission’s third set of previously approved maps for use in the Aug. 2 primary.

Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine signed into law House Bill (HB) 126, which modifies the board of revision (BOR) process by doing the following:

New email management training modules

The Ohio Electronic Records Committee (OhioERC) recently pushed out a new online training series for state and local governmental officials and employees. The training provides information and best practices on managing email as a public record and includes four training modules:

Making sure field trips are inclusive of students with disabilities

Spring is field trip season for many school districts. Whether it’s the annual overnight pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., or a day trip closer to home, it’s important to make sure you are thinking about the unique needs of students with disabilities who will be participating in those trips.

Week of April 11, 2022

Ohio Supreme Court
The Ohio Supreme Court ruled 4-3 that the House and Senate state legislative maps approved by the Ohio Redistricting Commission are unconstitutional. The Ohio Redistricting Commission has until May 6 to approve new maps.

Earn STARs for your commitment to your district

OSBA's STAR Awards program recognizes school board members’ commitment and service to Ohio’s children. Earn awards for your service, training, aptitude and recognition of your dedication to being a model board member.

Hosting a candidates' night

The best way to learn a candidate’s views and positions on education is to host a “Meet the Candidates” event. Invite those running for Congress, the Ohio General Assembly, Ohio Supreme Court and other statewide offices as well as candidates for the board of education to address education issues before an audience of voters. The candidates will appreciate the exposure, and the voters will be informed when they go to the polls.