Franklin County judge finds Ohio EdChoice program unconstitutional

According to a news release from School Choice Ohio (SCO), a Franklin County judge has ruled that the Ohio EdChoice voucher program is unconstitutional.

According to the release, Judge Jaiza N. Page handed down the ruling, asserting that the EdChoice program unlawfully diverts state funds from public schools.

The EdChoice program, or the Education Choice Scholarship, provides students from designated public schools the opportunity to attend designated private schools, according to the Ohio Department of Development website.

The program, according to the website, is available for students in kindergarten through the 12th grade based on different eligibility requirements.

Some Ohio schools joined the lawsuit challenging the EdChoice voucher program, including districts in Trumbull County and Mahoning County, such as:

• Bristol
• Boardman
• Canfield
• Youngstown
• Several others

The Vouchers Hurt Ohio coalition, which includes over 300 districts statewide, claims that the program weakens public schools by reducing their funding, making it harder to provide quality education.

Supporters of the program believe it gives parents more control over their children's education and provides an alternative to struggling public districts.

According to the release, SCO strongly disagrees with the decision made by the court, believing it fails to consider the fundamental rights of families to choose the best educational setting for their children.

According to a news release from the Ohio Christian Education Network regarding the court decision, althought the program has been ruled unconstitutional, Judge Page stayed the order until a final verdict is reached.

As a result, EdChoice scholarships would continue while the case is appealed.

The decision is expected to be appealed.

Related Coverage

Local school districts join lawsuit against Ohio's voucher program

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