Ohio receives nearly $105 million in federal grants for expanding community schools

Ohio has secured nearly $105 million in federal grants from the U.S. Department of Education to expand high-performing community schools, according to an announcement by Stephen D. Dackin, Director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

The state received $55.5 million through the 2025 Charter Schools Program (CSP) grant. The funds will be used over five years to support the growth of community schools that have demonstrated strong academic results. The funding aims to replicate successful school models and expand existing ones, particularly in regions with limited access to quality educational options, including rural areas and communities with a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students. It also targets innovative school models and those serving grades 9-12.

In addition, Ohio was awarded $49.2 million through the State Facilities Incentive Grant (SFIG). This matching grant is intended to help high-performing community schools cover facility costs. Priority for SFIG funding will go to schools in areas where many public schools have been identified for comprehensive or targeted support under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as well as locations where students have low performance on state assessments and communities with high concentrations of low-income students.

Governor DeWine stated, “This funding represents a significant investment in Ohio’s future and will give more Ohio families access to high-quality education options that meet the needs of their students.”

Director Dackin added, “We’re investing in schools that are making a measurable difference and bringing those successes to additional communities across the state, ensuring that more students benefit from high-quality learning environments.”

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon announced Ohio’s selection at a press conference held in Columbus on Wednesday.