Ohio House passes bill clamping down on poor-performing charter schools

COLUMBUS — The Ohio House moved legislation today aimed at clamping down on poor-performing charter schools.

The vote on HB 2 was a split 70-25, with many Democrats opposing, saying the package doesn’t go far enough.

The legislation was prompted by concerns about charter school oversight.

Rep. Mike Dovilla, R-Berea, a primary co-sponsor, said charter school enrollment has grown from about 2,200 students at 15 locations in 1999 to 120,000-plus students at about 400 charters today.

“Although community schools provide an important option for many Ohio students, there is an inconsistency with regard to the overall quality of community schools,” Dovilla said. “HB 2 offers viable and comprehensive improvements to Ohio’s community schools.”