Speaker Stephens announces over $20 million for local schools

COLUMBUS — Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) today announced $20,805,000 in funding to support Lawrence and Gallia Counties schools.

The funds are awarded through the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers Program administered by the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission.

“Investing in our schools, especially in our rural communities, builds a better future,” said Stephens. “By equipping our students with the necessary tools, we are setting them up for success in the classroom and beyond.”

The $20,805,000 in regional investments include:

$10,500,000 for the Gallia Jackson Vinton Joint Vocational School District (Buckeye Hills C

areer Center): Creates a health services center for medical, dental, and behavioral health, expand workforce development including dedicated workforce search space, and add new classroom, dental lab, and computer lab space.$10,305,000 for the Chesapeake Union Exempted Village Schools: Renovates and expands Chesapeake High School. This will provide Ohio Means Jobs services to the community, expand offerings in robotics and engineering classes, and offer on-site physical therapy, preventative care and wellness checks.

The Ohio Facility Construction Commission is awarding the funds as part of the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers Program, which was created in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly. The program aims to create full-service centers for public education, community health services, and career development in Appalachia Ohio.