Public Comment Opportunity: ESEA Waiver Request and Proposed ESSA Amendments

Ohio is committed to helping every student thrive by ensuring strong literacy and math instruction, supporting student wellness, and preparing learners for future careers. To strengthen this mission, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is requesting flexibility from certain federal requirements under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). These waivers will help schools focus funding and support on the areas that matter most for students and families.

With a vision to prepare students for real-world success, Ohio is advancing four priority areas: literacy, learning acceleration, student wellness, and workforce readiness.

This flexibility will reduce unnecessary administrative burden and allow districts and the state to direct more resources into high-impact strategies. Ohio remains committed to strong accountability, transparent processes, and helping educators deliver high-quality instruction that meets the needs of every student.

Review Ohio’s waiver request and four accompanying amendments. The Department will accept public comment in the form below through May 28, 2026.

Waiver Request

• Ohio ESEA Waiver Request

Amendments

• Ohio ESSA Amendment Request: 21st Century
• Ohio ESSA Amendment Request: Accountability Appendix C
• Ohio ESSA Amendment Request: Accountability
• Ohio ESSA Amendment Request: School Improvement

Last Modified: 4/28/2026 9:18:16 AM

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