KidsOhio.org was created in 2002 in response to community, education and business leaders who wanted an effective, data-driven, nonpartisan organization focused on improving public education in Ohio. The organization is nonpartisan, funded by the private sector and does not accept any government monies or contracts.

Mission

KidsOhio.org mission is to improve the education of Ohio’s nearly three million children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. With a statewide reach and a special focus on Columbus and Central Ohio, KidsOhio.org:

• Analyzes data so that education policy decisions are based on a careful analysis of facts;
• Identifies best education improvement practices from other localities and helps to replicate them in Columbus and statewide; and
• Advocates for effective public schools that meet the unique education needs of each child.

There is a great need for reliable information on education issues in the state. Through our data-based publications and other forms of community outreach, KidsOhio.org has developed credibility with the media, as demonstrated by consistent front-page coverage and editorial support from The Columbus Dispatch, the largest circulation newspaper in Central Ohio and the paper most widely read at the State Capital.

KidsOhio.org has become the “go-to” group for nonpartisan information about key education trends in Columbus and statewide; we have also proactively worked on the frontlines of policy implementation within the Columbus City Schools.

Attorney Mark Real and a volunteer board of directors lead KidsOhio.org. The board consists of civic and community leaders from Ohio.