It appears Ohio still doesn’t do a very good job of assessing and monitoring the non-public schooling options available to families. Lessons that should have been learned over and over — remember the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow? — just aren’t sinking in.

Most recently, we learn three of the ACCEL schools that opened in Ohio have had to be shut down because of lead paint and asbestos concerns. According to a report by WKBN, it was the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that finally took action. ACCEL says the issues were “never brought to their attention or reported to school staff,” according to WKBN.

For the Youngstown Academy of Excellence, Niles Preparatory Academy and STEAM Academy of Warren, ACCEL says it is now awaiting inspection results. That investigation began only after the EPA took notice.

How did state education officials not notice something was amiss in the paperwork?

Parents of students who took classes in the buildings are being advised they can contact a health provider for information on blood lead testing.

It’s frightening to consider the damage that might have been done had federal officials not stepped in when they did.

If parents are to have real education options in Ohio, they must be confident there is someone keeping an eye on whether those options are safe, and will truly provide a better educational experience. Parents and guardians look to the alternatives that are available here because they want the best option — the best education — for THEIR children. They want their kids to learn and grow in an environment where they will be happy and safe.

If we are failing them (repeatedly) on that front, we are failing ourselves.