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Worthington board begins first reading of NEOLA updates, debates pause on release-time-for-religious-instruction policy
Summary
At its regular meeting, the Worthington Board of Education opened first readings of NEOLA policy updates and discussed rescinding the district's release-time-for-religious-instruction (RTRI) policy. Board members cited classroom disruption and staff workload and agreed to proceed with a standard first reading rather than immediate rescission.
President Nikki Hudson presided over a first reading of multiple NEOLA policy updates and a proposed rescission of district policy 5223, the board said at its regular meeting. Hudson said the rescission item was placed back on the agenda after consultation with legal counsel and that attorney-client privilege covered portions of those discussions.
Board members framed most of their concerns around local implementation of so-called RTRI programs if state legislation changes. "If 445 passes as currently drafted ... there would still be a 90-day window, from the date that the governor signs the bill," Hudson said, adding that that time should allow districts to update policies and minimize disruption. Several board members and staff told the board that local teachers and office personnel have described significant administrative burden tied to the program'for example, multiple sign-outs, bus loading and return logistics that can consume an estimated 45 minutes per student event.
Why it matters: State proposals discussed at the meeting could reduce local control over release-time programs; board members said they want time to prepare a Worthington-specific policy that protects instructional time and student safety. One board member summarized school concerns by saying the program is currently used by a small number of students (Worthington Park cited at about 21 students and expected to fall to 18), but that even limited use creates scheduling and supervision implications for teachers and office staff.
Board procedure and next steps: Members discussed legislative timing and the board's bylaw practice. Several members noted the board may suspend rules and act immediately by a four-member vote, but the board opted to follow its stated practice and treat the rescission as a first reading, not an immediate rescission. Kelly (board member) and other members said they would request counsel to confirm whether specific option language (for example, grandfather or guardian authority and whether psychological or medical approvals are covered) should be expanded or clarified. The board scheduled the second reading and possible vote for the next business meeting.
At the end of the discussion, no final rescission vote was taken; the item remains on the agenda for a later meeting so the board can receive counsel guidance and additional public input.
