Latest news with #OhioDepartmentofHigherEducation
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Voter Guide: Meet 10 candidates for Columbus school board in May 6 primary
Voters in the Columbus City Schools district will choose from a crowded field of 10 candidates for the May primary election. None of the current board members whose terms expire this year, President Michael Cole and members Ramona Reyes and Christina Vera, are seeking reelection. On Election Day, voters will choose up to three candidates. The six top vote-getters in the primary will move on to the November general election for the three positions. Ohio's primary election is on May 6, with polls open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The information below was supplied by candidates responding to a questionnaire. May 6 election: What's on the primary ballot in your central Ohio county? Here's the rundown Age: 31 Campaign website: Key issues: Quality education for all students, transparent accountability and strengthening community connections. Background: Works with nonprofit educational organization, Communities In Schools. Special education assistant and classroom educator at Southwestern, Hilliard, Whitehall and Columbus City Schools. Leadership intern at Columbus City Schools. Assistant principal and program manager of postsecondary and technical education at Ohio Department of Higher Education. Regional director at Sylvan Learning Centers of Central Ohio. Why are you the best candidate? "I know firsthand how critical it is for students to have the right support to succeed. Growing up with dyslexia taught me that every child's path is unique, but that success is possible when we work together. That experience shaped my lifelong passion for education and commitment to ensuring every child has access to fair, equitable opportunities. For nearly a decade, I've worked to bridge gaps in education — between schools and families, policy and practice, tradition and innovation. Whether in my role as a senior program manager at the Ohio Department of Higher Education or through my service on Columbus City Schools' Academic and Facility Alignment Committee, I've focused on creating real solutions prioritizing equity, transparency and student success. As someone who has worked in classrooms, supported teachers and advocated for students at the state level, I will bring personal passion and professional expertise to the board. Every student's path is unique, and with proper support, success is always possible. I'm committed to fighting for smaller class sizes, stronger partnerships and innovative solutions that prepare our students for bright futures while honoring our schools' role as neighborhood anchors." Campaign website: Key issues: Equity in education: ensuring all students have access to high-quality learning opportunities and support. Career readiness and student achievement: expanding pathways for trades-skill, increase graduation and college to prepare students for life beyond high school. Transparency and trust: rebuilding trust through open communication, accountability and stronger community engagement. Background: Founder of STEPP Forward LLC, education support services, dedicated to supporting K-12 students and families. Over 30 years of experience in information technology, education, project management, paralegal studies and community engagement. Worked in public, private, charter schools and with the Aspire Adult Workforce Readiness Program. Served as a parent consultant, advocates for family engagement and adult learners and volunteers for Report Card Conferences. Has not held elected office. Years of leadership, collaboration and service dedicated to all students in Columbus City Schools district. Why are you the best candidate? "My wife and I have three kids in the district — we will be in the district for the next 14 years. We need people with skin in the game on the board. I've spent the last 10 years working on large public-sector planning and building projects. These involve bringing together government and the community to plan, design and build things like community centers, city halls, libraries, and cultural facilities. A great example is the recently opened Fran Ryan Center, which was built on the site of the closed Douglas Elementary. I want to bring my experience in public facilities and collaborative planning to the school board to work on the district's facilities realignment process. Before that, my time in the Statehouse gave me an understanding of what successful advocacy on Capitol Square looks like, and part of our job will be continuing our fight there. I've been endorsed by the CEA (teacher's union), OAPSE-AFSCME (classified school employees), the Equity Now Coalition/Urban League, Columbus Building Trades, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Council President Shannon Hardin, Council Pro Tem Rob Dorans and other organizations and elected officials." Age: 40 Campaign website: Key issues: Creating a pragmatic, progressive and stable board of education. Addressing the school facilities situation in a way that brings the families, schools, teachers, classified school employees and everyone else impacted to the table together to figure it out. Partnerships with labor unions for workforce development, and partnerships with the business community for advocacy at the Statehouse. Background: Earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio University in 2006 and a Master of Business Administration from The Ohio State University in 2010. LSC intern, legislative aide, policy analyst and senior policy analyst under Joyce Beatty for the Ohio House of Representatives from 2006-2009. Special assistant, economic development for the Office of Governor Ted Strickland from 2009-2011. Policy director for Obama for America in 2012. Managed the design and construction of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams scoop shops as shops director from 2013-2015. Has managed public-sector and nonprofit building projects through planning, design, construction and turnover as senior project manager for Pizzuti Solutions since 2015. Wife, Liz, works for the YWCA. Three kids: Carolyn (9), Russell (7), and Maribell (4). Why are you the best candidate? "My wife and I have three kids in the district — we will be in the district for the next 14 years. We need people with skin in the game on the board. I've spent the last 10 years working on large public-sector planning and building projects. These involve bringing together government and the community to plan, design and build things like community centers, city halls, libraries, and cultural facilities. A great example is the recently opened Fran Ryan Center, which was built on the site of the closed Douglas Elementary. I want to bring my experience in public facilities and collaborative planning to the school board to work on the district's facilities realignment process. Before that, my time in the Statehouse gave me an understanding of what successful advocacy on Capitol Square looks like, and part of our job will be continuing our fight there. I've been endorsed by the CEA (teacher's union), OAPSE-AFSCME (classified school employees), the Equity Now Coalition/Urban League, Columbus Building Trades, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Council President Shannon Hardin, Council Pro Tem Rob Dorans and other organizations and elected officials." Age: 43 Campaign website: Key issues: Advancing educational equity by ensuring all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality learning, support and opportunity. Strengthening community trust and transparency in district decision-making through authentic engagement and clear, consistent communication. Expanding career and college readiness pathways that connect students to real-world experiences and future success. Background: Educator, youth development leader and currently the chief program officer at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Ohio. Earned doctorate in educational administration from The Ohio State University and brings over 20 years of experience in youth development, education leadership and community engagement. CCS parent, former Family Ambassador in the district and lifelong advocate for equity. Running for office for the first time, driven by deep commitment to students, families and building a school system that works for everyone. Why are you the best candidate? "I'm running for the Columbus City Schools Board of Education because I bring the lived experience, leadership and deep community roots that this moment demands. As a former educator and principal, I understand the realities of the classroom. As a parent of two CCS students, one a graduate and one still in school, I know the concerns families face. And as chief program officer at BGCCO, I've built partnerships and programs that serve thousands of young people across the city. I'm not new to this work. I've spent over 20 years focused on youth development, educational equity and building systems that help students succeed. What sets me apart is my ability to listen, collaborate and lead with both compassion and clarity. I believe in a school board that reflects the voices of the people it serves, and I'm ready to bring my full self — educator, parent, advocate and bridge-builder — to this role. Rooted in community. Focused on students. Inspired by learning. That's not just my campaign slogan; it's the foundation of the leadership I intend to bring to Columbus City Schools." Age: 56 Campaign website: Facebook page Key issues: Chronic absenteeism: addressing barriers to attendance by engaging families, supporting educators and implementing data-driven solutions. Student achievement and support: ensuring all students have access to quality education, mental health resources and career pathways. Family, teacher and community engagement: strengthening partnerships between families, teachers and the community to create a more supportive learning environment. Background: Director of Provider Experience for Ohio's Bureau of Workers' Compensation, ensuring medical professionals are trained and supported. Holds a master's in public administration and leadership and a bachelor's in strategic communication. Dedicated education advocate. Raised four Columbus City Schools graduates while working multiple jobs. Appointed commissioner of the City of Columbus' Development Commission in 2022 by Mayor Andrew Ginther. Equipped with leadership, strategic planning and firsthand experience as a parent to drive meaningful change on the Columbus City School Board. Why are you the best candidate? "I am the best candidate for the Columbus City School Board because of my personal experience, professional expertise and deep commitment to student success. As a single mother who raised four Columbus City Schools graduates, I understand the challenges families face, and the support students need to thrive. My years of volunteer work in Columbus City Schools, combined with my leadership as director of Provider Experience for Ohio's Bureau of Workers' Compensation, have equipped me with skills in policy implementation, stakeholder engagement and strategic planning all crucial for improving education outcomes. Additionally, my service as a commissioner on the Columbus Development Commission demonstrates my dedication to community growth and equity. With a master's in public administration and leadership, I bring data-driven decision-making to the board. My ability to navigate complex systems, advocate for students and collaborate with educators and families makes me the strongest choice to drive meaningful change in Columbus City Schools." Campaign website: Facebook page Key issues: Community partnerships that benefit all students, workforce development and seizing on opportunities for graduates through economic growth. Background: A 34-year employee of the Ohio Attorney General's Office. Received a Bachelor of Arts in business management from Ohio Dominican University. Married to Douglas Lumpkin and proud mother of two sons and two grandchildren. Spent 34 years as an OCSEA board member and seven years as a Union Steward. Why are you the best candidate? "I understand from working for the Ohio Attorney General's office for 34 years, the power of taxpayer money if it is focused on a defined outcome and goal. I also understand as a union steward that success requires collaboration and working together toward our common goal. And having served in the Attorney General's Crime Victim's Unit, I understand that even in the worst of circumstances, there is hope and opportunity for a brighter day, and a future of success. As a board member, our focus should be on the outcomes we need to achieve and working collaboratively to give employees the tools they need to succeed, so that our students reach their full potential." Age: 28 Campaign website: Key issues: Creating empowering, affirming learning environments; dismantling barriers to student achievement and outcomes; and centering students, staff and families in decisions that shape public schools. Background: Public health educator and community organizer with a background in community engagement in education and health care. Works at AndHealth helping community health centers facilitate infectious diseases prevention programs and engaging patients. Serves on the Board of Directors for the Abortion Fund of Ohio. Extensive experience on political campaigns and as a classroom educator. During time as a community health educator at Planned Parenthood, taught in nearly every CCS middle and high school, for upward of two weeks at a time. Holds a Bachelor of Science in public and community health promotion and education and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Cincinnati. Why are you the best candidate? "I bring a unique perspective informed by both lived experience and multifaceted professional expertise. As a proud graduate of Columbus City Schools, I understand both the triumphs and the challenges of our district. As a public health professional and former classroom educator, I've worked to address those challenges head-on. I've led efforts to improve student well-being, supported schools in becoming safer and more inclusive and partnered with our community to build systems that work for everyone across disciplines. I know how to navigate complex institutions such as those within public health while centering the voices of those most impacted, and fight for solutions that reflect our values. I bring the perspective that as someone who has advocated for CCS since childhood, the way things have worked traditionally has left our community behind, leaving us unprepared for a new economy, and lagging in student performance. Although being young has been attributed to recent difficulties on the board, I bring a fresh perspective while also being genuinely prepared, educated and ready to work. I am the candidate that will best help navigate this community through years of uncertainty and threats to our district. I will strive every day to make Columbus City Schools the best place to work and learn." Campaign website: Facebook page Key issues: Workforce development: redesigning pathways that are clear and strategic in delivering curriculum that provide hands-on, meaningful learning so future leaders can gain the tools they need to thrive. Strategic conversations: cultivating synergistic relationships and cross-sector partnerships uniting educators, families, community organizations, and local stakeholders. Community investment: ending corporate handouts and redirecting those funds into an endowment sourced from businesses receiving tax abatements, offering abatements to community and nonprofit organizations who work directly with Columbus City Schools. Background: Over 17 years of experience across diverse industries, including mental health, financial services and higher education. Broad and adaptable skill set that is well-suited for leadership roles. Equipped with the ability to navigate complex systems, communicate effectively and manage teams to achieve strategic goals. Holds a master's in public administration with a concentration in organizational leadership, providing strong academic foundation in governance, policy analysis and leadership practices. Parent and taxpayer within the district with a vested interest in the community's growth and well-being. Why are you the best candidate? "I understand that to support people of all backgrounds and create systemic change, you must have a servant leader who is willing to prioritize growth and the well-being of individuals and communities over their own ambitions. My experiences as both a professional and a community member give me a unique perspective on the needs and challenges of the people I aim to serve. Whether it's advocating for mental health support, financial literacy or educational access, my diverse background allows me to approach problems holistically, with practical solutions and a deep understanding of the issues at hand. I am also a community member who is action orientated and driven on bringing sustainable change. These qualifications, combined with my commitment to the district, make me well-prepared to serve effectively in this office and drive positive changes." Age: 66 Campaign website: Facebook page Key issues: Parent and community engagement, equitable resources and board leadership that displays integrity, transparency and accountability. Background: Professor of school psychology and chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning at The Ohio State University. Earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology, a Master of Education and a Ph.D. in school psychology from the University of Cincinnati. Served two terms on the State Board of Education representing District 6. Longtime resident of Columbus, whose children graduated from Columbus City Schools. Why are you the best candidate? "I am eminently qualified to serve on the school board because I have spent the past 37 years deeply engaged with Columbus City Schools in a myriad of ways both professionally and personally. My experience at OSU preparing school psychologists and educators has given me a broad perspective on education, and my longstanding connection to CCS has provided me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our urban schools. I believe in the capacity of every student and know that with strong leadership, transparency and a commitment to equity, we can provide a rigorous and high-quality education for all. I believe in our educators. Together, we can build a stronger, more effective school system that serves every child in our community. I believe in our students! And that is why I am your candidate for Columbus City School Board." Julie Trabold has not submitted questionnaire responses at this time. Debate: Columbus City school board candidates talk closures, budget at forum for crowded primary Legal threat: CCS board says district complies with racial discrimination law as feds threaten funding Endorsements: Franklin County Democrats endorse 3 in crowded Columbus City school board race CCS issue: Columbus police union, CCS at odds after officers responding to bomb threat stopped at door Investigation: Columbus City Schools superintendent apologizes, investigating after student info changes This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus school board primary election features 10 candidates
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
DeWine announces Super RAPIDS Grants to educational institutions
Apr. 14—CCTC to receive $113,582 COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey announced that $8.3 million was awarded to 39 universities, community colleges, and career technical centers across Ohio through the latest round of Super RAPIDS grants. In Lawrence County, Collins Career Technical Center was awarded $113,582. Awardees will use this funding to update equipment to enhance training opportunities for over 6,600 students — preparing them for careers in Ohio's expanding manufacturing industries. "We're seeing historic investments in Ohio that are creating thousands of new jobs, and we need a workforce ready to step into those opportunities," DeWine said. "This Super RAPIDS funding will ensure students are training on the same state-of-the-art equipment they'll use on the job, giving them a direct path to these careers." The Super RAPIDS grants were awarded through a competitive process that prioritized employer input. Over 130 businesses, spread across Ohio's seven JobsOhio regions, played a key role in shaping the proposals, ensuring that the funded projects address the specific skill needs of regional industries. This approach allows Ohio's training institutions to rapidly adapt to changing workforce demands and prepare students for the jobs that are most in demand in their region. The entirety of the $8.3 million available through this round of grant funding will be awarded to help schools upgrade their lab and classroom space with new, modern equipment. Ohio's Super RAPIDS program provides additional one-time funding to supplement ODHE's traditional Regionally Aligned Priorities in Delivering Skills grant program. RAPIDS grants are used to purchase equipment for use in classrooms specific to regional workforce needs. Equipment purchased by grantees is often shared among multiple campuses, expanding the reach of the equipment and allowing more students to get an affordable, high-quality education.
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
UD to receive $200K+ from ODHE Great Minds Fellowship
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — University of Dayton is receiving a substantial amount of money in a new grant to support the next generation of mental health counselors. According to a press release from the university, the school will receive $278,000 from the Ohio Department of Higher Education's Great Minds Fellowship Program. Locally produced film shows kids the legacy of HBCUs 'This additional funding not only supports our students financially but also strengthens the mental health workforce in Ohio,' said Susan Davies, chair for the Department of Counselor Education and Human Services. 'By easing the financial burden of graduate education, we are helping dedicated future counselors stay committed to serving communities in need.' Read more about the grant and what it means, here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
