BASA Member Update 3.13.2020

New Competency Scores Posted As part of the new long-term graduation requirements, Ohio law directs the Department of Education, working with the Ohio Department of Higher Education and Office of Workforce Transition, to establish a competency score on Ohio’s English language arts II and algebra I end-of-course tests. The competency score was set at 684 for each test. The Department also has developed frequently asked questions about the competency score for districts and schools. Purple Star Award Applications Open through May 1 The Purple Star Award for military-friendly schools honors learning communities that show a major commitment to serving students and families connected to our nation’s military. Awardees receive a special recognition to display in their buildings. A school will be honored with the Purple Star Award if it completes all the required activities, plus one optional activity. The Purple Star Advisory Board — formed by the Ohio departments of Education, Higher Education, Veterans Services and Adjutant General — helps support schools through activities like sharing best practices, showcasing school events and offering guidance for schools during the application process. The Purple Star Designation Application now is open through May 1. The Purple Star School program will announce recipients in August. More program details, including how to apply, are available on the Purple Star webpage. Ohio Attorney General Offers Threat Assessment Training Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s staff worked with staff of the Ohio Departments of Education, Public Safety and Higher Education to develop a guided online training program for Ohio’s local law enforcement officers and school threat assessment teams. The training highlights best practices for violence prevention. The training is open to all district and school personnel. Information about the program is available here. Ohio’s law enforcement officers will begin training in this prevention approach in March.