Miller announces bipartisan effort to dismantle state takeovers of local schools

State Rep. Joe Miller (D-Amherst) today announced he will soon introduce bipartisan legislation with Rep. Don Jones (R-Freeport) to repeal portions of House bill 70, the 2015 bill that brought on state takeovers of local schools in Lorain and throughout the state.

“Placing these districts under state control has been a disaster,” said Miller. “In each case, the Academic Distress Commission has been unable to work effectively alongside the district’s teachers, school leaders and community at large. After three years, we haven’t seen any evidence that state takeovers improve academic achievement. It’s time for us to restore local control and give struggling schools the support they need to succeed.”

Under Miller’s bill, Academic Distress Commissions will be dissolved, restoring local control over public schools and moving toward a building-based, bottom-up reform model. Low performing schools will be empowered to provide coordinated support services like after-school enrichment and social/health services, a model Miller believes will better help all students maximize their potential.

“I am happy to introduce this bipartisan bill with my colleague, Rep. Miller,” said Jones. “We need more local control- not less. Academic Distress Commissions have not only taken away school and community pride, but have proven to be unsuccessful in their mission. I’m looking forward to working on this legislation and hope for its eventual passage to ensure all of our children are receiving a top-flight education.”

Rep. Miller and Rep. Jones are currently seeking co-sponsors for the bill from legislators across the state. The legislation is expected to be formally introduced next week.