OH HB397

School districts and chartered nonpublic schools may excuse students from high school physical education requirements if they participate in interscholastic athletics, marching band, cheerleading, a school-sponsored rugby club played as a team sport, or junior ROTC for at least two full seasons or years.

Students excused from physical education must instead complete one-half unit (at least 60 hours) of instruction in another course of study.

Students who participate in junior ROTC for at least two full school years may use that credit to satisfy the requirement for one-half unit in another course.

The bill adds rugby club participation as a qualifying activity alongside existing activities like interscholastic athletics and marching band for physical education exemptions.

This change amends Ohio Revised Code section 3313.603, which establishes high school graduation requirements and curriculum standards.