COLUMBUS, Ohio-Major school districts across Ohio are encountering significant challenges, with factors such as low enrollment and reduced state funding playing key roles. Cincinnati’s school board is finalizing its budget following the superintendent’s resignation, while Columbus is considering consolidating buildings, and Cleveland is proposing a levy.
Experts point to declining enrollment and diminished COVID-19 relief funding as primary contributors to these issues. With fewer students enrolled, districts receive less funding, impacting budgets. The loss of COVID-19 relief funding exacerbates these challenges. Greg Lawson, a research fellow with The Buckeye Institute, suggests that navigating these issues requires resource management strategies like consolidation and repurposing funds.
