Ohio Republicans Launch 2023 with Controversial Moves Against Public Education: What You Need to Know

As the legislative session kicks off in Columbus, Ohio’s public education faces serious threats. It all started with House Speaker Matt Huffman pushing for budget cuts that would hurt the 611 school districts serving 1.7 million students. Instead of ensuring schools have what they need, he seems more focused on private school vouchers.

Governor Mike DeWine joined in, hinting that a tighter state budget would mean sacrifices. His lackluster comments highlighted how the state is failing its responsibility to fund education properly. The Ohio Constitution clearly states the state’s duty to provide a solid education system. Yet, years ago, they started funneling money into private and often religious schools, ignoring the law.

It seems the state’s leaders don’t feel the need to follow the rules. Huffman, who has previously disregarded fair redistricting practices, is now targeting the funding for public education. His plan? Cut money for public schools while pouring funds into private school vouchers. Last week, he warned that public-school districts should prepare for another hit.

Huffman claimed the state can’t afford to fully support public schools or fix a school funding formula deemed unconstitutional nearly thirty years ago. The Ohio Supreme Court ruled in 1997 that relying too much on local property taxes was unfair and illegal. Still, lawmakers have avoided addressing the issue. School districts have been forced to ask voters for money repeatedly, leaving homeowners stretched thin with rising taxes.

In 2021, there was hope for change. A collaboration between politicians and education stakeholders brought about the Fair School Funding Plan, aiming to address long-standing inequities. This formula focused on actual costs of education and set a fair system for state support based on local community finances.

The Fair School Funding Plan marked progress in correcting the disparities in Ohio’s education funding. It intended to provide fair and reliable support for all districts, regardless of their wealth. The plan aimed to phase in full funding over six years, starting with a significant increase in state support.

Unfortunately, Huffman has now declared further funding as “unsustainable,” undermining the commitments made under the Fair School Funding Plan. He cites fewer state revenues and reduced federal pandemic aid as excuses, yet the money for private school vouchers continues to grow—reaching nearly $966 million for the upcoming school year, a sum that could easily support public schools.

Huffman’s actions suggest he plans to cut more from the Fair School Funding Plan, disregarding the financial struggles faced by many districts. The real losers in this scenario? The nearly 90% of Ohio students who attend public schools, facing reduced opportunities. The outlook for public education in Ohio is getting grimmer.