Columbus City Schools Proposes Lottery System Changes, Community Engagement sessions to Address $50 Million Budget Gap
Columbus, OH – October 21, 2025 - Columbus City Schools is considering meaningful changes to its student lottery system as part of a broader effort to address a projected budget shortfall that could deplete district funds by fiscal year 2029. A proposal discussed at an Oct. 16 joint committee meeting could eliminate transportation for some students attending fully-lottery schools, potentially impacting over 2,000 students and saving the district an estimated $8.7 million, according to administrators. The proposal requires approval from the full CCS Board of Education at a future, yet-to-be-scheduled meeting.
The district currently operates 11 fully-lottery schools.The proposed changes come as CCS faces mounting financial pressures, including a recent reduction in state funding, uncertainty surrounding federal funding, and the impact of inflation.
Adding to the financial strain is a growing penalty from the state related to the transportation of charter and nonpublic students.the penalty is projected to be $10 million in fiscal year 2025 and increase to $15 million annually from fiscal year 2026 through 2029.
Despite these challenges, the district currently holds over $300 million in reserve cash. Voters approved a $100 million levy in 2023, but Superintendent Chapman noted that only $38 million of that funding went into the district’s operating fund, with the remainder allocated to a permanent enhancement fund.
The district recently approved a new three-year contract with the Columbus Education Association, representing teachers and faculty, which includes 2.25% raises for union members. Personnel costs currently comprise over 83% of the district’s budget.
How to Stay Informed & Participate:
The CCS Board of Education is holding its regular meeting tonight, october 21, at 6 p.m. The oct. 16 joint committee meeting will be discussed. Meetings are livestreamed on the board’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@columbuscityschoolsboe8345 and are open to the public at 3700 S. High St.
The district is also planning three community engagement sessions, all begining at 6 p.m.:
* October 27 at South High School
* october 28 at West High school
* October 29 at Mifflin High School
