COLUMBUS, Ohio – State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) has introduced Senate Bill 293, proposing changes to how Ohio school districts handle released time programs for religious instruction.
Released Time Explained
Released time refers to a period during the school day when students can be excused to attend religious instruction classes offered by private entities off school grounds. School districts already have the authority to establish released time policies, but Senate Bill 293 seeks to modify the existing guidelines.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Mandatory Policy: School districts would be required to adopt a policy allowing students to be excused for released time religious instruction, subject to parental consent and other conditions.
- Parental Consent and Responsibility: Written permission from a parent or guardian would be mandatory for student participation. The sponsoring organization would be responsible for attendance records and student safety during the instruction period.
- Separation of Church and State: Public funding and involvement of school personnel in the religious instruction would be strictly prohibited. Students remain responsible for any missed schoolwork.
- Potential for High School Credit: The bill allows school boards to award high school credit for approved released time religious instruction courses. Credits would be determined using secular criteria, similar to how credits are evaluated for non-public high school courses. Religious content or affiliation wouldn’t be considered in the credit evaluation process.
Impact on Students and Schools
Passage of the bill could potentially broaden access to religious education for students during school hours. However, the credit-earning option and the mandatory policy requiring districts to offer released time are aspects likely to generate debate.
Bill Now Under Consideration
Senate Bill 293 is currently in the early stages of the legislative process. It awaits review by committees and potential amendments before a vote by the full Senate.