COLUMBUS- State Representative Jennifer Garrison (D-Marietta) and State Senator Tom Sawyer (D-Akron) today introduced legislation that will bolster Ohio schools and promote student success. The companion bills in the House and Senate position Ohio to access a share of the $4 billion “Race to the Top” fund initiated by the federal government.
“The comprehensive education reforms we passed in this year’s state budget were the first step toward world-class education in Ohio,” Rep. Garrison said. “By competing for more resources through ‘Race to the Top,’ we will open the door to even more ways we can encourage successful schools and successful students – thus positioning our students and our state for leadership in the 21st-century economy.”
“Our bill will help aid Ohio in achieving 9 of the 10 ‘Race to the Top’ requirements. The longitudinal data system in particular places Ohio in a better position for this funding, as the program has emphasized preference for states with such a data system in place,” Senator Sawyer added. “Ohio already has an A; we want to make it an A+.”
The “Race to the Top” grant program is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009. The program aims to encourage and reward states that are creating conditions for education innovation and achieving significant improvement in student outcomes. Outcomes are measured by criteria such as substantial gains in student achievement, improved high school graduation rates, and better student preparation for success in college and careers.
Ohio is already highly competitive among states for this funding—currently meeting eight of the 10 eligibility requirements set forth by the ARRA. The companion bills from Rep. Garrison and Sen. Sawyer address the two areas where Ohio’s educational policies can be improved to ensure Ohio can obtain the valuable additional federal resources. Under the bills, the state will:
· Adopt standards of accountability for the operation of online schools, also known as eSchools, in Ohio. These standards were developed and approved by the State Board of Education in September of 2003 but have yet to be adopted by the legislature.
· Establish a Longitudinal Data System that would combine information currently gathered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Board of Regents. This data system, while respecting students’ privacy, will provide educators and policymakers with the necessary information to improve student achievement by analyzing their progress over time.
The bill now awaits assignment to both House and Senate committees.
