Ohio State BOE receives $4.66 million lifeline to avert teacher fee hike

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Controlling Board has approved over $4.66 million in emergency funding to support the State Board of Education’s operations, a move that will prevent a potential 75% increase in mandatory teacher licensure fees.

This funding aims to stabilize the Teacher Certification and Licensure Fund, which is crucial for educator licensure activities, the educator disciplinary process, and the management of the Retained Applicant Fingerprint Database (RAPBACK).

The announcement was made today by Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington), Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Westlake), and Rep. Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D-Gahanna), who highlighted the significance of this funding in maintaining the quality of Ohio’s education system.

“This investment ensures that teachers won’t face increased costs, parents can trust that qualified professionals are in classrooms, and students are better positioned to become the next generation of leaders and innovators,” said Leader Russo.

In 2017, $10 million in teacher fee revenue was diverted from the Teacher Certification and Licensure Fund to other state obligations under House Bill 49, further straining the Board’s resources.

Rep. Sweeney expressed concern over the situation, stating, “The General Assembly’s actions forced the State Board into a position where it had to consider a drastic fee increase, threatening the future of Ohio’s teachers. The next state budget must include a permanent solution that fully replenishes the $10 million taken from the Board and stops overburdening our educators.”

Rep. Brown Piccolantonio echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a long-term solution.

“I’m glad to support our teachers by ensuring that their license fees are not subject to unfair increases. We must address the remaining budget uncertainties for the State Board of Education in the next budget.”

The Teacher Certification and Licensure Fund, which relies on fees from various educational licenses, will continue to operate without passing additional financial burdens onto educators, thanks to this funding approval.