Gifted Rule Change – ODE is seeking input on three changes to the gifted operating standards (a.k.a. the gifted rule). The changes have the support from OAGC, BASA (Superintendents), and the AHQE (High Quality Schools). The changes are required to provide some more time to districts trying to meet the gifted professional development standards. SB216 was amended last week to require the state board of education to make these changes. The proposed revisions to this rule include:
- For general education teachers who are designated providers of gifted services, decreases professional development clock hours from 60 clock hours over two years to 60 clock hours over four years, with a focus on the eight gifted education competencies.
- For general education teachers who are designated providers of gifted services and who have 24 hours of certified Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate training within the preceding five years, decreases professional development clock hours from 60 clock hours over two years to 30 clock hours over four years, with a focus on five specified gifted education competencies.
- Adds flexibility for carry over of hours in excess of minimums.
You may provide comments about this rule by email to [email protected] no later than Feb. 28, 2018.
HB512 Agency Consolidation – A huge new bill was introduced this week that would significantly alter education policy and governance. HB512, sponsored by Rep. William Reineke, would consolidate the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE), the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation and much of the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) and State Board of Education. The agencies would be combined under a new, cabinet-level agency, the Ohio Department of Learning and Achievement. The State Board of Education as the State, which is required under the constitution would find its responsibilities significantly reduced as would the State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The reasoning behind the bill is that the new merged department would be more efficient, though it is unclear how those efficiencies will be achieved. The bill co-sponsors indicated the change was needed to be more responsive to workforce needs in Ohio. Again, it is uncles how the combined agency would be more responsive.
While OAGC has no position on the bill at this time, we have significant concerns about how responsive this new agency will be to advocates seeking changes that would benefit gifted students. The Speaker of the House has indicated that this bill is a priority and hopes it will pass the House before the end of May.