Letter makes clear it is unconstitutional to close schools while keeping casinos open

COLUMBUS – Citizens for Community Values’ Ohio Christian Education Network retained legal counsel today and sent a letter to the Lucas County Health Board, calling on the Board to reverse its order ending in-person education for students in grades 7-12 from December 4 – January 11. If the order is not rescinded, the letter informs the Board that legal action may be taken against the County. 

The letter makes it clear that the order violates the First Amendment freedoms of the religious schools in Lucas County. Writing on behalf of CCV, Brian Fox, Corporate Counsel at Graydon Head & Ritchey LLP, said:

“On the one hand, the Board’s President indicated “there is enough community spread going on that the coronavirus could move into schools.” On the other, the Board does not address community spread, apparently having decided social distancing protocols are sufficient for offices, laundromats, liquor stores, or even casinos (Hollywood Casino Toledo remains open for business).

“In other words, if you’re interested in playing a couple of hands of blackjack, just wear a mask, observe social distancing protocols, and good luck! If, however, you’re interested in preparing 11th graders for the SAT (or life after high school), your only option is to roll the dice with remote learning...”

Read The Full Letter Here

Citizens for Community Values operates the Ohio Christian Education Network, a network of more than 60 Evangelical and Catholic schools, many of which are in Lucas County and have been safely providing in-person education this fall.

“Medical experts across the country have made it clear: In-person education is not leading to the spread of the virus,” said Aaron Baer, president of Citizens for Community Values. “Not only is this order a blatant violation of the First Amendment, but it is also based on medically-flawed reasoning.”

“We can’t continue to expect children to bear the brunt of fighting the virus by denying them access to in-person education,” said Baer.

You can read the Lucas County Health Department’s order here.

For more information, contact CCV at 513-733-5775 or info@ccv.org.

As Ohio’s Family Policy Council, Citizens for Community Values seeks the good of our neighbors throughout Ohio by advocating for public policy that reflects the truth of the Gospel. We endeavor to create an Ohio where God’s blessings of life, family, and religious freedom are treasured, respected, and protected.

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