The "Take the Dough, We Gotta Know Act" seeks to amend various sections of the Revised Code concerning chartered nonpublic schools and their participation in educational scholarship programs. Key provisions include the introduction of new definitions, such as "public money," and the establishment of auditing responsibilities for the auditor of state regarding schools receiving state funds. The bill emphasizes accountability by requiring audits and clear definitions of qualifying schools, while also addressing the assessment process for students, including those with disabilities and English learners. It mandates that chartered nonpublic schools report assessment results and outlines the conditions under which they may administer alternative assessments.

Additionally, the bill sets forth eligibility criteria for students seeking educational choice scholarships, allowing students from low-performing schools to qualify while ensuring continued eligibility for previous scholarship recipients. It streamlines the scholarship application process by reducing the income verification requirements for parents and mandates annual expenditure reports from schools. The legislation also clarifies requirements for high school diplomas, including the need for state diploma seals and the maintenance of disciplinary records. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and equitable access to educational resources for all students in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3301.0711, 3310.03, 3310.13, 3310.14, 3310.15, 3313.618, 3313.619, 3313.976, 3314.03, 3319.324, 3326.11