The bill amends sections of the Revised Code and enacts a new section focused on implementing implicit bias training for licensed educators in Ohio. Specifically, it mandates that all licensed educators undergo training to address implicit biases, promoting equity and inclusivity in educational settings. The bill also includes provisions related to community schools, emphasizing the importance of maintaining racial and ethnic balance, and outlines the responsibilities of governing authorities in managing school operations, including financial audits and compliance with educational standards.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for school districts and chartered nonpublic schools to reimburse 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 and establish minimum training standards. The bill also repeals existing sections related to community schools and sets new compliance requirements for STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools, with appropriations of $750,000 from the General Revenue Fund allocated for educator preparation in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24