The bill introduced by Senators Cutrona and Smith seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code, focusing on the dissolution of academic distress commissions and the establishment of student support teams for low-performing schools. Key changes include the repeal of sections related to academic distress commissions, which are deemed unnecessary, and the introduction of provisions for creating student support teams that will consist of stakeholders such as school board members, teachers, and parents. These teams will assess student needs and develop recommendations to improve academic performance, addressing areas like family engagement, attendance, and graduation rates. The bill also streamlines the process for school districts to incur indebtedness, allowing them to access funds for improvements without the previous requirement for approval from academic distress commissions.

Additionally, the bill modifies regulations regarding school district financing and police department operations. It permits school districts to incur net indebtedness beyond specified limits for classroom facilities and allows those with project costs over $100 million to issue general obligation securities without voter approval, contingent on necessary board approvals. The legislation also enables police departments in townships to provide school resource officer services to chartered nonpublic schools without a contract, pending board approval. Furthermore, it outlines training requirements for school resource officers and clarifies that chartered nonpublic schools can utilize these officers without adhering to the same regulations as public schools until the 2026-2027 school year. Overall, the bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and support while ensuring safety within school environments.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 133.06, 505.431, 3302.036, 3302.042, 3302.16, 3302.17, 3310.03, 3311.29, 3313.951, 3314.102, 3302.10, 3302.103, 3302.11, 3302.111, 3302.12, H.B