AKRON, Ohio-Ohio’s shift to a phonics-based reading curriculum has seen significant state funding, with over $60 million allocated to help districts update their programs. However, an investigation by the Akron Beacon Journal revealed that Akron Public Schools, which had already implemented a phonics curriculum before the state mandate, received over $1 million for a new curriculum they didn’t need. Akron Public Schools admitted that incorrect information was submitted to the state, describing it as an oversight. The Ohio Department of Education is investigating the issue, and the district plans to follow state guidance once officially communicated.
