The Ohio Controlling Board has allocated over $260 million in federal aid to support education and childcare.
The funds come from federal COVID-19 relief dollars that were granted to the state on top of regular federal support for education and childcare.
Ohio schools will share $100 million for pandemic-related expenses.
Licensed childcare providers will share $161 million for children's mental health care services and to increase both the early childhood workforce and access to childcare.
State Sen. Vernon Sykes (D-Akron) is a sitting member on the Controlling Board and supports the allocation.
“We are seeing a surge in COVID-19 cases among school-age children, and these funds will give schools and child care providers additional resources they desperately need,” Sykes said. “After two years of disrupted classroom time, it’s crucial that schools have what they need to continue providing high-quality education while keeping students safe.”