Ohio House Bill 96 faces opposition over literacy and transportation provisions

Early literacy promotion and transportation issues took center stage at the Buckeye Valley Local Schools Board of Education meeting on March 19, 2025. The board discussed significant changes proposed by House Bill 96, which could impact how early literacy is assessed and reported.

One major concern raised was the removal of the option for students to be promoted based on their state assessment or alternative assessment scores. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining these assessments as part of the report card evaluation process. Additionally, there was a push to recognize college acceptance as a valid completion of workforce requirements, which currently does not count under existing measures.

Transportation was another key topic, with a request for the Ohio Department of Education to form a pupil transportation work group. This group would address the lack of coordination in transportation issues affecting students.

The board also expressed concerns about the implications of House Bill 96 regarding school facilities. The bill proposes that buildings with less than 60% maximum enrollment be classified as unused, which could lead to state reclamation of these facilities. The board is advocating for the removal of this provision due to potential legal complications.

In the realm of career and technical education (CTE), the board highlighted the growing demand for CTE facilities, noting that many programs currently have waitlists. They called for the creation of a study committee to explore investment recommendations to expand capacity in these vital educational areas.

Lastly, Howard Fleeter presented on property tax and utility changes and their effects on school funding, particularly focusing on the 20 Mil Floor. While the topic may seem dry, it sparked interest among board members as they navigated the complexities of school finance.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the board's commitment to advocating for policies that support student success and address pressing educational needs.