The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to introduce new requirements for implicit bias training for licensed educators in Ohio, specifically through the enactment of section 3319.2214. This section mandates that educators receive training to recognize and address implicit biases, which is essential for creating an inclusive educational environment. The bill also sets forth requirements for community schools, including the specification of educational programs, performance standards, and compliance with various sections of the Revised Code. It emphasizes maintaining racial and ethnic balance within these schools and outlines policies for student attendance, financial audits, employee qualifications, and dispute resolution between sponsors and governing authorities.

Additionally, the bill mandates that school districts and chartered nonpublic schools reimburse licensed employees for the costs associated with completing a specified number of graduate-level credit hours or continuing education units in implicit bias training, effective July 1, 2025. The state board of education and the chancellor of higher education will determine the number of reimbursable credit hours, which will range from one to three, and establish minimum training content standards. The bill also repeals certain existing sections related to community schools and introduces new compliance requirements for STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools, while appropriating funds from the General Revenue Fund to support the reimbursement for implicit bias training, thereby promoting professional development among educators.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24