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Funding, Performance Disparities Between Toledo City Schools
and Area Charters Highlight Need for Fairer Funding Model,
Says Area Lawmaker
Local charter schools underperforming, despite increased
state funding
Special to The Truth
Last week, State Rep. Teresa Fedor (D-Toledo) highlighted
recent findings that reveal a significant funding gap
between Toledo City Schools (TCS) and area charter schools.
These findings were compiled for the first time in a new
website—KnowYourCharter.com.
The site compares fiscal and performance information from
public schools and traditional charter schools using
detailed reports of state data.
“Ohio’s funding model has put our traditional public school
students and teachers at a major disadvantage,” said Rep.
Fedor. “And when charter schools siphon funds from public
schools, our students have even fewer resources. It’s clear
that our students are lacking equal access to educational
opportunities. Ohio’s funding model and charter school
accountability need to be addressed immediately—our
students’ success depends on it.”
According to the data, on average, Toledo charter schools
receive $8,770 per student while TCS students receive only
$6,497. Even with the additional funding, most area charter
schools continue to underperform, with more than half
earning a “D” or “F” rating on the state’s report card.
In total, over $73 million in state aid was deducted from
TCS last year and transferred to area charter schools.
“While these charter schools are underperforming, they are
also spending twice the amount as TCS on administrative
costs. It really calls into question where our state’s
educational priorities lie,” added Rep. Fedor.
KnowYourCharter.com was created by the Ohio Education
Association and progressive think tank Innovation Ohio in an
effort to increase financial transparency and
accountability. Data used on the website is taken directly
from the Ohio Department of Education and compares academic
performance among traditional public schools and charter
schools. |
