Gov. Strickland proposes corporal punishment ban in Ohio schools

COLUMBUS (AP) — Gov. Ted Strickland’s budget bill will contain a statewide ban on corporal punishment in schools, a change that would take the decision on whether to allow spanking and other forms of physical discipline out of the hands of local school boards.

Strickland’s education policy adviser, John Stanford, said during a Thursday press briefing that the administration views the change as key to creating ideal learning environments for Ohio children.

The proposal will be part of sweeping education reforms the governor announced during his recent State of the State speech, according to Amanda Wurst, a spokeswoman for the governor.