Ohio private school anticipates increase in applications with school choice expansion

An Ohio private school anticipates a significant rise in applications following the expansion of the state’s school choice options.

House Bill 33, which took effect immediately after being signed by Gov. Mike DeWine this month, broadened the state’s voucher program to allow every family to qualify for a school choice scholarship.  

“Finally, after decades of lobbying, every student in Ohio will be eligible for a scholarship to attend the school of their choice,” Mansfield Christian School Superintendent Dr. Cy Smith said, according to Richland Source. 

“Regardless of where you live, your family income, or the report card of the local school district, sending your children to a private school is now an option for everyone. We are so thankful to our legislators, both locally and statewide, who supported this bill and diligently worked with us to make this happen.” 

MCS was founded in 1961 with 35 students and three faculty members. Now the school offers pre-K as well as K-12, and had nearly 700 students enrolled in recent years.  

The school’s mission is to be an extension of God’s hand and to teach His way.  

“We strive to assist each student to grow in excellence spiritually, academically, socially, and physically (Luke 2:52) through the Godly ministry and examples of teachers, administrators, board members, and staff (Titus 1:5-16),” the school’s official website states. “We serve with the cooperation of parents who support us through their prayers and involvement in the activities of Mansfield Christian School (Ephesians 6:4).” 

All Ohio families can now receive some level of funding to send their children to a school of their choice regardless of income. 

Families at or below 450% of the Federal Poverty Level, or families of four with a total household income of $135,000, are eligible for the maximum amount of funding. Families with incomes above the 450% level qualify on a sliding scale.  

Tuition at Mansfield is just above the capped scholarship amount in grades K-8 and just below the amount for high school. MCS offer additional scholarships, as well as a pastor discount for children of local, full-employed, licensed pastors.  

Now that enrollment is open, Smith happily anticipates new students flocking to MCS.  

“We are anxious to meet families that are aligned with our mission and prioritize the biblical worldview.”