U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Ohio as part of her Returning Education to the States Tour, focusing on initiatives aimed at localizing education policy and fostering innovation in schools.
The visit began in Cleveland with the ribbon-cutting for the Experiential Robotics Platform (XRP) at Cleveland Metro Schools. The program will provide over 1,000 robotics kits to classrooms this fall, aiming to prepare students for future careers influenced by artificial intelligence and automation. The kits are offered at a cost lower than that of a standard textbook.
In Columbus, Secretary McMahon was joined by U.S. Senator Jon Husted to participate in Science of Reading Training with the Ohio Department of Education. This training highlights methods that have contributed to literacy growth nationwide. Secretary McMahon also met with state legislators and toured educational institutions including Columbus Classical Academy, The Ohio State University, and Columbus State Community College.
The trip concluded with an announcement of $500 million allocated for the Charter Schools program, which includes funding for programs based in Ohio. U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno attended the event marking this announcement.
"Returning education to the states is a promise to put students first and in Ohio, we’re seeing that promise take shape – from classrooms powered by robotics and AI, to reading instruction grounded in science and results. These innovations are not coming from Washington, DC, but are being led by local educators, families, and state leaders who know what their students need to reach their full potential," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.
“Secretary McMahon’s dedication to empowering parents over bureaucrats to make the best educational choices for their children inspires hope for Ohio families. Her commitment to practical, community-rooted education shines brightly in the heartland and I’m grateful she joined me in Ohio," said U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno.
Photos from various events during Secretary McMahon's visit can be viewed through these links:
- Ribbon-cutting ceremony for XRP
- Science of Reading Training
- Meeting with Ohio state legislators
- Visit to Columbus Classical Academy
- Visit to The Ohio State University
- Visit to Columbus State Community College
- Charter School press conference
