Chapter 16 – School Districts
16.5 The Role of State Government in Ohio’s Education System
The operations of local school districts in Ohio are influenced by various governmental bodies, each playing a distinct role in shaping education policy and administration. The General Assembly, Ohio’s state legislature, has significant influence through its power to pass laws that affect education. They create laws that determine funding, set educational standards, and mandate statewide programs. The legislature’s decisions on budget allocations directly impact the resources available to local school districts, influencing everything from teacher salaries to classroom supplies.
Foundational Facts
The State of Ohio establishes its public school curriculum requirements through the Ohio Revised Code (ORC). For example, Section 3313.60 of the ORC mandates that local boards of education include subjects such as language arts, geography, history, government, mathematics, science, health education, physical education, fine arts, and first aid in their curricula. These requirements provide the foundation for preparing Ohio’s students for academic and personal success.
Section 3313.60 of the ORC is a law passed by the General Assembly. Laws like this are enacted by the legislature and signed by the governor. They establish broad requirements and mandates, such as the inclusion of specific subjects in public school curricula.
The governor of Ohio also has a substantial impact on local school districts. As the chief executive officer of the state, the governor can propose education budgets, suggest new educational initiatives, and sign or veto education-related legislation passed by the General Assembly. Additionally, the governor appoints eight members to the Ohio State Board of Education, which allows for influence over the board’s policies and decisions. The governor’s vision for education can shape the priorities and direction of education policy in the state.
The Ohio State Board of Education, created by the General Assembly through enabling legislation, is empowered to serve as a policymaking body of sorts. The board sets standards for curriculum, graduation requirements, and teacher qualifications. While they do not create laws, their policies significantly impact the daily operations of local school districts. The board works closely with the Ohio Department of Education to make sure that schools adhere to these standards, influencing the quality of education and ensuring consistency and accountability across the state.
The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) administers the policies set by the Ohio State Board of Education and ensures that local school districts comply with state and federal regulations. The ODE provides guidance, resources, and oversight to local districts, helping them implement state standards and improve educational outcomes. The department is also responsible for collecting data on school performance, which it uses to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of local districts and schools.
The courts also play a role in shaping the operations of local school districts. Legal decisions can impact various aspects of education, including school funding, student rights, and employment practices. For example, court rulings on cases related to school finance have prompted changes in how the state allocates funding to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources. The judiciary ensures that the laws and policies governing education comply with constitutional requirements, protecting the rights of students, teachers, and school districts.
