COLUMBUS—Today, Senator Kenny Yuko applauded two schools in his district for earning the Ohio Department of Education’s Straight A Fund grants. Fairport Harbor Exempted Village and Orange City Schools each received one of the 23 grants awarded.

The Straight A Fund was created to help Ohio schools launch inspiring ideas for improving education. School officials across the state submit ideas for innovative approaches to traditional teaching and/or funding structures that could help transform Ohio’s overall education system. Top submissions receive state funding to help turn the ideas into action.

“While there are a lot of school districts in our area that still need financial assistance, I am extremely proud of the two in my district that will be receiving grants,” said Senator Yuko. “Our passionate educators have developed new learning opportunities to transform the system and enhance curriculums statewide. Hopefully this will be a step toward increased academic achievement and the quality education our children deserve.”

The Fairport Harbor Exempted Village school district was recommended for $360K for a student-run start-up incubator program. Orange City Schools was recommended for $750K for an Innovation Center that will bring technology into the curriculum. The Straight A Fund Governing Board's recommendations will be brought before the Ohio Controlling Board for final approval on August 8th.

“These projects will increase efficiency and tear down barriers to higher education,” said Senator Yuko. “Each project will be a unique experience for the students and will help prepare them for their future.”