South Dayton News

State Representatives Tom Young and Melanie Miller have introduced new legislation aimed at expanding Ohio's physical education waiver policy. The proposed House Bill 304 seeks to include club sports and other athletic activities as eligible for fulfilling graduation requirements.

Currently, Ohio students must complete a half-unit of physical education, equivalent to 120 hours of instruction. Existing law permits high school students to bypass this requirement through participation in certain school-related activities like interscholastic athletics or marching band. However, club sports are not currently recognized under this waiver.

House Bill 304 proposes that students engaged in club sports or similar extracurricular athletic activities outside of school can also be exempt from the physical education requirement. To qualify, they must meet the same 120-hour participation threshold and provide appropriate documentation.

Representative Young highlighted the bill's potential benefits: “We have an exciting opportunity to expand upon students’ current ability to receive credit for their extracurricular involvement that may be independent of their school district.” He emphasized that it ensures student athletes receive academic recognition for their efforts.

Representative Miller pointed out the need for inclusivity: “While this waiver is well intentioned and helpful for students who are active in school-sponsored sports and teams, it alienates students who are just as active and playing the same sports but on a club or individual level.” She expressed hope that the changes would make meaningful adjustments to existing policies.

The bill is currently awaiting further hearings in the House Education Committee.