Hearings have started in the Ohio House Finance Committee to review Governor Mike DeWine’s budget proposal. A significant portion of the discussion focused on education.
Ohio’s Department of Education and Workforce Director, Stephen Dackin, remarked that the budget aims to advance key policy goals. DeWine proposes $12.4 billion for schools in fiscal year 2026 and $12.6 billion in 2027. This plan includes the last two years of a funding formula for public schools that has drawn criticism, particularly from House Speaker Matt Huffman, who labeled it “unsustainable.”
Additionally, DeWine’s proposal increases funding for community schools and maintains access to five scholarship programs, including a voucher system for private schools.
House Finance Committee members expressed concerns about foundational funding for schools. The budget suggests a state contribution of 35% without adjusting for inflation in education costs. Some Republican committee members questioned the fairness and effectiveness of the current Cupp-Patterson funding formula and raised issues about property taxes in their districts. Representative Tom Young described the funding formula as “inadequate and inequitable,” suggesting it doesn’t consider the quality of educational outcomes.
Dackin mentioned he supports performance-based funding but highlighted the budget as a starting point that will be open to modifications.
Democrats on the committee voiced worries regarding the oversight of private schools compared to public ones, particularly about how funds are utilized. House Minority Leader Allison Russo emphasized the need for accountability for state funds used in private education.
Dackin acknowledged some measures are in place for schools receiving scholarship funds but emphasized that parents ultimately decide where to send their children based on various factors.
Focus on Literacy
A crucial part of the budget focuses on improving literacy. The plan includes continuing the ReadOhio program and implementing an Ohio Literacy Coaching Model, in addition to enhancing training on the Science of Reading.
As of January 15, nearly 72,000 educators have completed training in reading instruction, with 84 literacy coaches supporting 93 districts during the 2024-2025 school year. Dackin emphasized that reading skills are essential for students’ success, stating it is Ohio’s responsibility to improve literacy rates.
Moreover, there is a goal to enhance kindergarten readiness by increasing the number of children in licensed early care settings that use a curriculum aligned to reading standards. Plans also include expanding the Childcare Choice Voucher Program.
While details on program expansion remain unclear, families with children in licensed childcare programs can qualify based on income and family size. For example, a family of four could qualify with an annual income between $45,552 and $62,400.
Federal Education Concerns
During discussions surrounding the budget, lawmakers raised concerns about the future of federal education funding, especially in light of President Donald Trump potentially dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. Representative Adam Bird queried if changes at the federal level might impact funding for Ohio schools.
Dackin expressed uncertainty about any forthcoming guidance from the U.S. Department of Education regarding funding impacts. Prior to the hearings, he joined other state education leaders in a letter to the Trump administration, urging policies that allow states more control over educational funding and priorities.
The budget hearings will continue in Ohio House committees before the Ohio Senate begins its review. A final budget is expected by July.
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education,executive budget,Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine,Ohio House Finance Committee
