More Ohio school districts are joining a lawsuit challenging the state’s EdChoice voucher program, arguing that it unfairly redirects public funds to private and charter schools. The Vouchers Hurt Ohio coalition, which now includes over 300 districts statewide, claims that the program weakens public schools by reducing their funding, making it harder to provide quality education.

Locally, districts in Trumbull and Mahoning counties—including Bristol, Boardman, Canfield, Youngstown, and several others—have signed onto the lawsuit. Bristol Local Schools Superintendent Christopher Dray says his district could lose a significant amount of funding over the next two years due to the program.

"Initially, it's showing, based on reductions, we're going to lose roughly $160,000 the first year of the budget, which will be this coming year, and then another $190,000 the second year," Dray explained.

The EdChoice Expansion Program allows families earning up to $150,000 per year to qualify for state-funded private school tuition assistance. School officials argue that this change extends vouchers beyond lower-income families—its original intent—and instead helps families already choosing private schools.

Supporters of the program believe it gives parents more control over their children’s education and provides an alternative to struggling public districts. However, public school officials say it shifts money away from the 80-90% of Ohio students who attend public schools, making it harder to maintain teacher salaries, student programs, and classroom resources.

"At the end of the day, we just would like to see our schools funded appropriately where they need to be," Dray said.

The lawsuit, filed in Franklin County Common Pleas Court, is expected to continue into 2025 as more districts join the legal battle.

School leaders hope the case will force changes to Ohio’s funding system and prevent further losses for public schools.