South Dayton News

State Representatives Andrea White and Tom Young have successfully amended HB312 into SB208, which was signed by Governor Mike DeWine. The legislation, finalized in the last weeks of the 135th General Assembly, aims to bolster Regional Education Partnerships across Ohio.

Since its inception in October 2023, the bill has been crafted to foster local partnerships among educators, businesses, and community stakeholders. These partnerships target pre-kindergarten to postsecondary education, intending to improve key performance indicators. Tracking metrics like kindergarten readiness and workforce readiness, the Regional Education Partnerships set out to promote lower poverty and higher financial security for Ohio communities.

Prior to 2022, the state had four Regional Education Partnerships. However, with a $2 million investment made through HB169, the number increased to 10 partnerships covering 20 counties. Among the initiatives:

- The Gallia-Jackson-Vinton-Meigs Partnership appointed career coaches for middle and high school students, aiding in job readiness.

- The Northwest Ohio Partnership introduced a universal pre-k program impacting college application rates and scholarship access.

- The Southern Ohio K6 program launched Careers in My Community, enhancing career awareness for younger students.

- The West Central Ohio Partnership focused on career pathways and engaged with numerous local businesses.

- Cradle to Career Cincinnati formed alliances with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital to cultivate early childhood education.

Andrea White stated, "Continuing to expand and sustain Regional Education Partnerships throughout Ohio is a key strategy that works." She emphasized the significance of HB312 in advancing educational and economic outcomes for Ohio's students.

The success of existing partnerships and the establishment of new ones are central to the bill, anticipated to become law in 90 days, with the objective being community-level solutions for educational challenges.