As most of you know, Governor Kasich recently signed HB64 (Biennial Budget) legislation into law. There were 44 items stricken from the budget using line item veto; items relevant to public education include school funding and student assessments.
School Funding:
According to the new legislation, all school districts will be held harmless in year one of the funding cycle, receiving funding at the same level as 2014/15. The original bill submitted by committee extended this funding level through 2016/17; this language was vetoed. This allows for the TPP (Tangible Personal Property) Phase Out to continue in 2016/17, resulting in a net loss to Huron Schools of $562,000. According to Governor Kasich, continuing the guarantee would undermine the school funding formula.
Student Assessments:
Language in the new legislation prohibits the use of PARCC assessments. State Superintendent Ross announced the intent to partner with the American Institute for Research (AIR) to develop Math and ELA assessments. Further changes to assessment protocols include shorter tests given in the second half of the year in one round vs. two. More information regarding assessments will be forthcoming.
District Response:
What has been our response regarding the budget bill? In an effort to voice our concerns and review options, Mrs. Jacobs and I met with Senator Gardner as well as representatives from OSBA, BASA, OASBO, and area administrators of districts negatively impacted by the legislation. The group discussed calling for a veto override; a grass roots effort essentially overturning specific language vetoed by the governor. While this course is a long shot, the group has been reaching out to elected officials from regions where school districts would be negatively impacted by the bill. As of this writing, there has been limited action, but we will keep you posted if anything develops.
While information regarding funding is not promising, we will not allow this to impact what we do for our students everyday. There is no doubt Huron Schools will continue to offer quality educational opportunities for all children. We have the best students, best teachers/support staff and the best community!
Enjoy the remaining days of summer and we will see everyone in August.
GO TIGERS!
Denny