House Bill 214 created a new section in the Ohio Revised Code regarding guidelines for how schools will accommodate student absences due to sincerely held religious beliefs and practices. This language does not replace existing requirements for students to be excused for religious purposes. It does, however, allow parents to notify schools of up to three days for their child to be excused for religious expression.
Effective January 13, 2025, Big Walnut Board of Education Policy and Guideline 5200-Attendance has been revised to include:
Students may be absent for up to three (3) religious expression days each school year to take holidays for reasons of faith or religious or spiritual belief system or to participate in organized activities conducted under the auspices of a religious denomination, church, or other religious or spiritual organization. Students shall be able to participate in athletic activities or other extracurricular activities on days they are absent due to religious observation.
Students who are absent under this provision shall be provided with alternative accommodations with regard to examinations and other academic requirements missed if, no later than fourteen (14) days from the start of the school year, or the date of enrollment for transfer students, their parent or guardian provides the school principal with written notice of up to three (3) specific dates for which alternative accommodations are requested if a religious observance day conflicts with academic requirements. Questions regarding this policy can be directed to Superintendent Ryan McLane.
Email Superintendent Ryan McLane
Religious Expression Days List
