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Board of Education Voices Opposition to “Divisive Topics” Legislation

The Shaker Heights Board of Education has formally voiced opposition to two Ohio House bills that could outlaw teaching certain concepts around race and other “divisive topics.” The Board sent letters to House Speaker Robert Cupp and Representative Phil Plummer strongly condemning the two pieces of legislation now being considered, or any other efforts to remove local control of schools from districts, educators, school boards and parents. 

 

Here is a copy of the letter: 

 

Dear Speaker Cupp and Representative Plummer, 

 

We are writing to you, a leader of the Ohio House of Representatives, to ensure that honesty and accountability are infused throughout our education system and government agencies. This is the only path towards Ohio’s growth, economic development, and long-term sustainability. 

 

We strongly condemn HB 322 and Sub HB 327, and any like-minded language that serves to censor education by policing how educators discuss “divisive topics” like nationality, race, color, ethnicity, religion, or sex. We also strongly oppose any legislation that removes local control from school districts, educators, school boards, and parents.

 

Further, we condemn any subversive legislative action that denies Ohioans the opportunity to voice concern and opposition to these bills (and associated amendments) by denying public opponent testimony. Any attempt to bury this legislation and language as amendments without public opposition testimony is an egregious assault on the open legislative process.

 

We strongly urge you to oppose both bills and ANY like-minded language -- and also guarantee that this legislation (and any like-minded bills) is allowed to receive opponent testimony!

 

Sincerely,

 

Heather Weingart

Ayesha Bell Hardaway

Lisa Cremer

Emmitt Jolly

Jeffrey Isaacs

 

Members of the Shaker Heights City Schools Board