Almost 90% of Ohio’s children attend public schools.  However, Governor DeWine’s budget proposal contained in House Bill 96, cuts funding to public school districts by $103 million over the next two years compared to current funding levels.  Approximately 343 school districts (56%) will experience a decrease in state formula funding from FY 25 to FY 26 and 360 districts (59%) in state formula funding from FY 26 to FY 27.

The proposal continues the phase-in (years 5 and 6) of the Fair School Funding Plan but uses base cost components from Fiscal Year (FY) 22 data. In contrast, the property and income values (i.e. local capacity) are based on more current data. Thus, our schools will be forced to continue over-relying on local tax levies, which are becoming harder to pass amid rising costs and property values.

Now, it’s time for legislators to fully fund our public schools, using data based on the current costs of school district expenses. Act now by contacting your Ohio legislators and urge them to prioritize public education students by updating and supporting the Fair School Funding Plan.