Fully Fund Ohio Public Education

I am writing in response to Ohio House Speaker Huffman's comments this week indicating that funding our state's public schools is "unsustainable" and to express my strong opposition to any proposed cuts to funding for public education in Ohio. As a parent, concerned citizen, and a staunch advocate for our children’s future, I believe that public education is a cornerstone of our democracy and a vital investment in the future of our state, and I support fully funding our public schools. Currently, approximately 90% of students in Ohio attend public schools. These institutions are essential for providing quality education to our youth, preparing them to be informed citizens and contributing members of society. Cutting funding for public education would not only jeopardize the quality of education that these students receive but also widen the existing gaps in educational equity across our communities. Moreover, it is alarming that the state government has already allowed $1 billion of taxpayer money to be diverted from public education to support private schools in the form of the EdChoice voucher program - particularly since there is no transparency or accountability attached to those dollars as there is with public schools. This diversion of funds undermines the very foundation of public education, which is designed to serve all children, regardless of their background or circumstances. Instead of further eroding public school funding, we should be prioritizing our public education system and ensuring it receives the full financial support it deserves. Also importantly, a strong public education system is directly linked to a robust economy. Well-educated individuals are better equipped to contribute to the workforce, drive innovation, and support local businesses. Workers will also be willing to move to a state with a strong public education system, which would make Ohio an attractive place to do business. By investing in public education, we are not just investing in our children; we are also investing in the economic future of Ohio. Quality public education fosters skilled workers who can meet the demands of a changing job market and attracts workers to come and stay, ultimately benefiting our state’s economy. I urge you to stand against any funding cuts to public education, and rather than supporting an uncapped voucher program with no income limits and no accountability, advocate for a budget that fully supports our public schools. Investing in our public schools is investing in the future of our children and our state. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I hope to see our state government prioritize the needs of public education and the students who rely on it and look forward to your response with your position on this matter.