Lawmakers encouraging conversations over education at public forum
Education leaders and state lawmakers spoke at a public forum with one goal in mind, supporting education.
This comes at a time where the future of public education funding remains uncertain.
Ohio lawmakers said every change regarding education, from federal to state, affects schools across the valley.
“So I'm here tonight to listen to you, and to listen to what your needs are, so I can go back down to Columbus to fight for it,” said Al Cutona, Ohio State Senator.
Cutrona joined other legislators in the discussion of the future of education. The hope was to encourage those with concerns to speak out.
Each speaker highlighted the influence policies and lawmakers have on education.
“We are at a tipping point in the state of Ohio, and there is a lot going on in education,” said Lauren McNally, Ohio State representative for district 58.
Lawmakers answered questions regarding the Department of Education, the fair school funding plan, DEI programs in schools and the current proposal in the state budget.
Many of the people asking questions at the forum, as well as the speakers, shared the same concern, uncertainty.
“There's been a lot of uncertainty since HB70 came into play where the state takeover began because it constantly brought change and uncertainty for teachers, for students, for districts. We didn't know about funding,” said Joe Miller, Ohio State Representative for district 53.
There was agreement across the table that it's time for a change.
“I'm going to do all that I can to bring back local control and make sure that local control gets youngstown city schools out of a state takeover. So, that's my hope, and that's what I'm going to be advocating for along with funding,” said Cutrona.
Miller said education is a pillar of the state.
“What really makes Ohio great is the fact that we invest in our children and when that stops, Ohio continues to drop to the bottom of the pack,” said Miller.
Speakers at the forum are encouraging anyone with concerns over education to speak out, and have future discussions with elected officials.
