Ohio Policy Memo

Democrats face a critical juncture in education policy. Over the past decade, our party’s historical advantage on education has eroded due to a lack of vision and loss of public trust. Voters’ message is clear: They want something different, but Democrats have offered more of the same.

Ohio illustrates both the challenge and the opportunity. The state has low reading and math proficiency rates, misalignment between student performance and school accountability, and inconsistent funding from the state. With education likely to be a major talking point in the race for governor, policy approaches to these challenges will be essential for a successful gubernatorial candidate.

Without renewed urgency and a forward-looking vision, Ohio risks the futures of tens of thousands of its students. The state’s concerning academic outcomes demand immediate action to avoid a generational loss of student potential, socioeconomic mobility, and economic productivity.