COLUMBUS, Ohio – A controversial proposed rule change in an Ohio schools policy that could open the door for elimination of art, gym and other classes took a step forward this week.
A State Board of Education committee approved a change in administrative code that requires school districts to have certain number of elementary art, music and physical education teachers, counselors, librarians, nurses, social workers and visiting teachers.
The proposed change eliminates the so-called “5 of 8” rule from the Ohio Operating Standards which mandate that schools must have five of eight of those positions per 1,000 students.
Some, including the state’s largest teacher’s union, fear the change would allow elementary schools to do away with those classes and support staff.
Ohio Education Association Vice President Scott DiMauro told the board at a meeting on Tuesday that the existing rule does not need to be changed and, if it was eliminated, school districts would “have the incentive to focus personnel and other resources only on tested subjects,” especially in poorer districts, depriving students a “well-rounded education.”
A final vote on it won’t happen until March.