Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the state budget's impact on education, changes to the State Teachers Retirement System and new legislation affecting higher education in Ohio.
The finalized Ohio state budget, signed by Gov. DeWine on June 30, has dealt a significant blow to public education. Cropper explained that the budget dismantles the Fair School Funding Plan, which she said underfunds school districts by $2.8 billion. This shortfall comes alongside a new flat tax system that primarily benefits the wealthy, funneling over $1 billion in tax savings to high-income earners, Cropper said. The budget's impact is far-reaching, with over 200 schools expected to lose money this year. Cropper emphasized that this underfunding, coupled with potential federal funding freezes, creates a dire situation for Ohio's public schools.
Changes to the State Teachers Retirement System (STRS) board composition have raised concerns about democratic representation. Cropper detailed how the current board structure of four appointed and seven elected members will shift to eight appointed and seven elected members by September, and further change to eight appointed and only three elected members by 2028. This restructuring significantly reduces the voice of contributing members in decision-making about their retirement benefits. Cropper highlighted the uniqueness of this change, noting that among Ohio's five public pension systems, only the teachers' system was targeted for such a dramatic shift in board composition.
Senate Bill 1, introduces sweeping changes to Ohio's higher education landscape. Cropper outlined how the new law subjects public colleges and universities to legislative micromanagement and over 100 unfunded administrative mandates. Key provisions include banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and removing collective bargaining rights for professors. These changes have sparked concerns about academic freedom and the potential exodus of students and faculty from Ohio institutions, Cropper said. She warned that these policies could lead to a brain drain, with talented individuals seeking education and employment opportunities in more supportive environments outside the state.
To hear more about the challenges facing Ohio's education system and the potential long-term impacts of these policy changes, listen to the full episode with Melissa Cropper on America's Work Force Union Podcast.