Clash of Educational Titans: Harris vs. Trump in Ohio’s Schools

As the United States approaches another election cycle, education policies are becoming a pivotal concern for many voters, especially in Ohio. With the education systems facing challenges and changes, the stark differences between the stances of President Joe Biden’s Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump can significantly shape the future of schools in the Buckeye State.

The Divergent Educational Philosophies

In recent discussions among Ohio education experts, it has emerged that some of Trump’s educational initiatives align surprisingly with ongoing trends in Ohio, particularly the growing acceptance of universal school vouchers. Conversely, Harris has been a vocal opponent of not only vouchers but also book bans and various forms of curriculum censorship, indicating a clear desire to protect the integrity and inclusivity of public education.

“I think where we have different candidates who really perceive schools and education wildly differently,” says Amy Farley, an Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Education. “Voters should consider which candidate’s values align most closely with their own experiences in education.”

This fundamental divergence sets the stage for a broader discussion about what education should look like in Ohio. While Harris’s policies focus on bolstering public schools and ensuring access to quality education for all students, Trump’s past record suggests a preference for privatization and decreased federal involvement in education.

The educational landscape in Ohio stands at a critical crossroads.

Harris’s Advocacy for Public Education

Despite not heavily campaigning on specific education issues thus far, Harris has a significant record that suggests her commitment to strengthening public education. Her actions as the Attorney General of California, where she successfully sued a for-profit college chain, reflect her focus on defending the rights of students against predatory practices. In light of this, many expect that a Harris-led administration would continue to prioritize investments in public schools and push for substantial reforms.

Her administration has already made waves by expanding federal protections for LGBTQ+ students under Title IX, a crucial move considering the passage of numerous anti-LGBTQ bills in Ohio. “If Harris were to be elected, I believe the Office for Civil Rights would be prepared to enforce civil rights legislation firmly,” Farley suggests, highlighting that a commitment to civil rights in education could be jeopardized under a Trump administration.

Furthermore, Harris’s record shows substantial financial commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and her support for student loan forgiveness is notable. With nearly $170 billion of student debt canceled under her administration, the implications of her policies resonate deeply within Ohio, home to two HBCUs: Central State University and Wilberforce University.

The Dangers of Trump’s Education Policies

On the other end of the spectrum, Trump’s education policies raise significant concerns among advocates for public education. Although he has attempted to distance himself from the formal Project 2025—a framework developed by the Heritage Foundation outlining a right-wing agenda—his statements suggest an alignment with its proposals, which include dismantling the Department of Education, promoting universal school vouchers, and scaling back civil rights protections in schools.

“It’s reckless and ultimately going to undermine critical support that our students really depend on,” warns Scott DiMauro, President of the Ohio Education Association, expressing his fears over the consequences of eliminating the Department of Education.

Trump’s proposals, if realized, could cut crucial funding for states like Ohio, which received $596 million in Title One funds aimed at assisting low-income schools in 2023. With such a financial shortfall, the implications for Ohio’s education system could be dire, particularly for marginalized communities.

Funding cuts could severely impact the educational resources available to Ohio’s schools.

Changing Landscape of School Censorship

Another chilling aspect of potential Trump policies is the push for more censorship and control over educational content. His administration has openly supported book bans and promoted initiatives that curtail teachers’ ability to discuss critical issues, such as race and gender equality, in the classroom. Amidst these developments, Ohio has already seen legislative efforts to penalize educators for the inclusion of materials deemed inappropriate, fostering an environment of fear rather than one of open dialogue and learning.

A Unified Call for Change

As Ohioans reflect on their educational values, it’s crucial to consider how these candidates align with their visions for the future. The contrast could not be clearer: Harris’s advocacy for public education and student rights stands in stark opposition to Trump’s divisive policies. As the discourse continues, the voices of educators, students, and community members must rise to shape the narrative surrounding the future of education in Ohio.

By weighing the implications of these differing approaches, Ohio voters hold the power to choose a future that prioritizes all students’ rights to a quality education—one that respects diversity and upholds equity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, as we stand at the precipice of another electoral battleground, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Ohio’s schools. The ultimate direction of our educational system rests in the hands of the electorate. Whether they choose a path of inclusivity and support under Harris or venture into the uncertain realm promised by a Trump-led agenda will be a defining moment for the state. Each vote counts in shaping the education of future generations in Ohio.

What will the future hold for education in Ohio?