Prohibit for-profit operators of community schools
Impact
If enacted, this legislation will significantly impact the landscape of community schools in Ohio, particularly those currently operated by for-profit entities. By shifting to a nonprofit model, the bill seeks to enhance accountability and redirect the focus of community schools back to serving their communities rather than generating profits. This change could lead to a reduction in the number of for-profit schools and may influence the funding and resources available for community schools.
Summary
House Bill 561 seeks to amend sections of the Ohio Revised Code related to community schools by explicitly prohibiting for-profit operators from managing these schools. The bill mandates that any entity operating a community school must transition to a nonprofit model by July 1, 2026. If an operator does not comply with this requirement, the governing authority of the school must find a new operator, which would typically be an educational service center, by July 1, 2025. This legislative move is aimed at ensuring community schools operate under a model that prioritizes educational goals over profit motives.
Contention
The bill's provisions have drawn attention and raised concerns among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that the transition to nonprofit management will increase the quality and accountability of community education, ensuring that funds are utilized for educational purposes rather than shareholder returns. However, opponents may contend that such a mandate could disrupt operations for existing schools and limit the options available for community governance. Additionally, the timeline for compliance could pose logistical challenges for schools accustomed to for-profit management.
Authorizes use of competitive contracting and extended terms for lease and purchase contracts for electric school buses; permits New Jersey School Boards Association to serve as government aggregator to obtain electric school buses.
Authorizes extended terms for lease and purchase contracts for electric school buses; permits New Jersey School Boards Association to serve as government aggregator to obtain energy services for local units.