Senate Finance Committee

Specifics of First Class Education’s “The 65 Cent Solution” that is being discussed in Ohio.
• Every school district shall achieve a minimum of 65% of their budget being spent on “classroom instruction” using the National Center for Educational Statistics definitions.
• School Districts that currently fall below the 65% goal shall be required to increase that percentage by a minimum of 2% a year until the 65% goal is met.
• School Districts would be required to send their annual proposed budgets to the Governor verifying that the 65% goal or 2% annual improvement is being made.
• School Districts that believe they can neither meet the 65% goal nor 2% annual improvement may petition the Governor for a renewable one-year waiver along with their proposal of what can be achieved toward reaching the 65% goal.
• The Governor shall have 30 days to either deny or grant the one-year waiver or grant a partial one-year waiver short of the 65% goal or 2% annual increase.
• The Legislature will be left with the opportunity to determine what punitive action may be taken if School Districts do not voluntarily comply with the requirements.

Definition of Classroom Instruction by the National Center for Educational Statistics

In the Classroom

Classroom Teachers, Personnel
General Instruction Supplies
Instructional Aides
Activities -- Field Trips, Athletics, Music, Arts
Special Needs Instruction
Tuition Paid to Out-of State Districts & Private Institutions for Special Needs Students

Outside the Classroom

Administration
Plant Operations & Maintenance
Food Services
Transportation
Instructional Staff Support
Student Support – Nurses, Therapists, Counselors,

Advocacy OSBA