Ohio EdChoice Expansion: Experiences of Catholic Schools

• In Event: Student Support Systems Leave Some Students Without Support

Abstract

The state of Ohio recently expanded the state’s existing Educational Choice Scholarship Program (EdChoice) to a near-universal voucher program. This study explores the impact of the implementation of this program on Catholic schools. Interviews were conducted with four principals to explore the challenges faced and opportunities gained by participating in EdChoice Expansion during this first year. Findings are that participating in the program created an overwhelming amount of work for the schools, especially if they had not participated in EdChoice in the past, obstacles occurred related to the Department of Education processes, and some schools faced resistance from within their communities. Overall, the financial benefits to families and potential for increased enrollment in the schools outweighed the challenges faced.

Authors

• Monica Kowalski, University of Notre Dame

• R Joseph Waddington, University of Notre Dame