(The Center Square) – An infusion of more than $4 million in taxpayer money into the Ohio State Board of Education is expected to prevent a potential 75% increase in teacher license fees.
The State Controlling Board approved more than $4.66 million for operations of the state board, which faced the potential of significant budget cuts and the possibility of raising teacher fees from $200 to $350 annually.
“I’m proud that, because of the work of House Democrats reaching across the aisle, we can more fully support teachers throughout Ohio and ensure children are in safe, supportive learning environments so they can reach their full potential,” said House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington. “Though there is still more work to do, today’s investment means a future where teachers aren’t burdened with increased costs, parents know qualified professionals are in the classroom, and students are better positioned to become the next generation of workers, leaders and innovators.”
The move came after the Senate failed to agree with the House in June on budget changes that would stabilize the board’s budget and stop staff cuts and fee hikes.
The money is part of the Teacher Certification and Licensure Fund, which handles educator licensure activities, the educator disciplinary process and management of the Retained Applicant Fingerprint Database.
State Democrats said the board has dealt with funding issues since 2017, when the GOP statehouse majority removed $10 million in revenue from the fund for other state obligations.
“Today’s cash infusion is a step in the right direction, but I am alarmed at the lengths it took to enact this stopgap measure,” said Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney, D-Westlake. “The fact that the General Assembly forced the state board to consider such a drastic fee increase is a slap in the face to Ohio’s teachers. The next state budget must include a permanent, long-term solution that supports the essential work of the state board, fully replenishes the $10 million that was taken from it, and stops overburdening our teachers.”
The fund comes from fees for teachers, principals, superintendents, school district treasurers and business manager licenses.