The Garfield Heights Board of Education discussed on Nov. 10 whether to join a statewide legal challenge over expanded school vouchers that staff said has been filed by roughly 300to400 school districts.

Treasurer/administrative staff told the board the litigation challenges recent state policy expanding voucher eligibility. "The Ohio Constitution calls for a thoroughly efficient funded, public school system and vouchers are not public schools," a district presenter said while describing the premise of the litigation.

District impact: Staff said state data show about 500 to 600 Garfield Heights students attend nonpublic religious schools using vouchers (this figure excludes charter students). Local nonpublic schools named in the discussion included Saint Benedict (formerly St. Monicas) and Trinity High School. The presenter described the cumulative revenue loss as "millions of dollars," and discussed that the district receives a state base amount (speaker cited a commonly referenced figure of about $8,100) but noted actual per-pupil costs vary with special education and other needs.

Cost to participate and next steps: Staff said joining the multi-district suit would cost the board roughly $5,000, a sum several board members described as modest compared with funds the district loses to vouchers; members asked staff to provide a list of districts already involved and to consult the boards attorney about next steps. "I do believe that $5,000 is a small fee to join... compared to the amount of money that we're losing," said Missus Daniels.

Why it matters: If the litigation succeeds it could reduce state subsidy diversion to private schools and affect long-term district funding. Staff emphasized the decision would require legal review and a formal board resolution if members decide to join.

What the board asked for: Board members requested confirmation of which neighboring districts are participating (Cleveland Heights/University Heights and Richmond Heights were mentioned) and asked staff to produce an estimate of annual revenue loss tied to the 500to600 students in question.

What's next: Staff will provide a district list of plaintiffs, a clearer cost estimate and consult with the board attorney so the board can consider a formal resolution to join the suit at a later meeting.