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Standards proposal sent to legislature FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS (5/13/97) COLUMBUS - Ohio students would be required to show competency in 10 subject areas if state legislators approve a proposal accepted in principal by the state board of education Monday. Over the objection of local board of education member Diana M. Fessler of Miami County and others, the state board voted to send the proposal to the Ohio legislature. The standards would set proficiency requirements for English, health and physical education, math, science, social studies, arts, foreign language, family and consumer services, business and technology. The standards would also replace rules telling districts how much class time they must spend on subjects. The Ohio Department of Education hopes to implement the standards in the 1998-99 school year. Supporters said the proposal provides for a well-rounded education but opponents argue that it takes away local control. Fessler said the requirements that students be proficient in arts and a foreign language could prevent some students from graduating and landing jobs. "Do you believe one cannot have a happy and full life without art? she asked a proponent of the plan. "I have a lot of difficulties with denying someone a diploma (just because they aren't) competent in health, a foreign language and art." Pam Young, director of curriculum in Springfield city Schools, said art education provides students important tools for their futures. "Students in arts education attend school more regularly and have fewer discipline problems," she said. The board adopted an amendment recognizing the full number of gifted students in the state, Opponents said it could cost the state $95 million. Schools would have their own standards of achievement, based on attendance, graduations, dropout rates and other measures. James May, director of vocational and adult education for Kent City Schools, said a similar program has been in place in his northeast Ohio district for about a year. |
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