STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
​Resolution to Condemn Racism...

In July 2020, the State Board of Education adopted the Resolution to Condemn Racism and Advance Equity and Opportunity for Black Students, Indigenous Students, and Students of Color.

The Resolution is a comprehensive framework that addresses the racism, bigotry, hatred, and bias that impact Ohio's 610+ school districts and some 2 millions students across the state. It specifically highlights disparities in academic performance and discipline; the need for internal examinations of district operations to identify disparities and inequities; and the need for Courageous Conversations around race.  The resolution also calls for internal examinations of bias within district standards, curricula, testing, and practices. 
​
​Four members of the 2020 Board drafted the resolution after studying data across all 610+ school districts that exposed overwhelming disparities in academic achievement, discipline, and attendance for students of color. The members felt districts needed an immediate framework to address the systemic nature of these disparities and ensure every student has the opportunities and resources to thrive in their district.

Since its adoption, there has been some opposition to the ​Resolution and
​ongoing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, including:
Misrepresenting what the Resolution entails, e.g., Critical Race Theory
Claiming racism and discrimination are not issues within Ohio schools
Denying that systemic racism exists in the country
Requesting withdrawal of the resolution
Challenging the resolution's legal authority*
*On July 13, 2021, Board member John Hagan, who strongly opposed the resolution to condemn racism, proposed his own resolution requesting a formal opinion from Attorney General David Yost as to the legal authority, or lack thereof, of the resolution to condemn racism. Hagan's resolution passed by a 14-4 vote after incorporating an amendment proposed by member Antoinette Miranda, which eliminated inaccuracies and unnecessary editorial comments. The Board awaits the formal opinion.
TAKE ACTION TODAY
Learn more about the Resolution to Condemn Racism ongoing efforts to advance
​Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Ohio schools

RESOLUTION TO CONDEMN RACISM...


​Resolution to Condemn Racism and Advance Equity and Opportunity for
​Black Students, Indigenous Students, and Students of Color
Adopted July 14, 2020
Vote: 12-5, 1 Abstention

Originally Drafted By
President Laura Kohler
Meryl Johnson, District 11
Stephanie Dodd, Former Member, District 9
Linda Haycock, Former Member, District 1

Watch State Board Meeting with Adoption of Resolution
Part 1  |  Part 2
Resolution Addresses:
​
​Disparities in Academic Performance 
Need for Culturally Responsive Curriculum
Disproportionate Discipline of Black Male Students
Systemic Inequity & Under-Resourced Schools
Racism, Bigotry, and Hatred
White Supremacy Culture
Need for Courageous Conversations Around Race
Need for Internal Examination of District Operations to Identify Inequities

Calls For Examination Of Bias In:
Academic Standards, Model Curriculum, State Testing, Curriculum, Hiring, Training/Development, Student Discipline