Ohio lawmakers are taking a closer look at a 1941 state law that allows teachers to demand administrative hearings.
The discussion stems from the Mount Vernon school board’s efforts to fire a science teacher accused of preaching religious beliefs in class and burning students’ arms with the mark of a cross. The hearing process has cost the district $900,000 over two years.
The 8th grade science teacher, John Freshwater, was officially terminated by the school board last week following a recommendation from a hearing officer. Under the law, he can still appeal.
Gerald Stebelton, the new chairman of the Ohio House education committee, told The Columbus Dispatch that the law on administrative hearings would be discussed by the legislature this year in light of the case.
