Welcome back to the Schoolhouse Series with American Motherhood. In this episode, Yana is joined by former Ohio legislator and longtime education policy expert, Stephen Dyer, to break down what “fair school funding” really means.

Stephen cuts through the noise to explain the difference between equity and equality, why students cost different amounts to educate, and how Ohio’s Fair School Funding Plan was designed to address those realities. We also tackle EdChoice, what it is, how it’s funded, and why it’s become such a point of tension for public school districts across the state.

Beyond policy, this conversation gets into power and accountability. Who actually makes school funding decisions, how do these choices affect local classrooms, and why voters should be paying attention, even in high-performing districts.

Stephen brings urgency and conviction, reminding us that public education depends on informed, engaged communities. His message is clear: hold our elected leaders accountable, organize, and speak up.

Because school funding isn’t just policy, it’s a reflection of what we value and what we’re willing to fight for.

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In this episode of The Schoolhouse Series, we sit down with Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano to better understand one of the most debated issues in our community: property taxes.

We break down how property values are determined, what a property tax bill actually represents, and how those dollars are distributed. We also explain why rising home values do not automatically translate into increased funding for schools - and why districts must still return to voters for levies.

Most parents are regularly asked to vote on school funding, yet few are given a clear understanding of how the system works. American Motherhood exists to make these complex issues more accessible and easier to navigate.

Episode resources:

Stay apprised of the 2026 Triennial Property Value Update: FranklinCountyAuditor.com/KYHV

Learn how an upcoming or recently passed levy will impact your property taxes with the Value of Your Vote website: franklincountyauditor.com/LevyEstimator

In this episode of American Motherhood, we’re joined by Dr. Christina Collins, Founder and Executive Director of Honesty for Ohio Education, a nonprofit organization focused on bringing clarity and transparency to how Ohio schools are funded.

Dr. Collins offers thoughtful, grounded insight into how Ohio’s school funding system impacts real classrooms and communities, while addressing how culture wars create common misconceptions that often shape public perception. With a career dedicated to education, and as a former member of the Ohio State Board of Education, she walks us through the core questions many parents have about school funding. What do your property taxes actually fund inside a school? Why do Ohio districts rely so heavily on local taxes? What happens when the school levy fails?

This episode is designed to give parents a clearer understanding of the system behind our education system so that we can confidently get engaged in the decisions that shape it.

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Learn more about Honesty for Ohio Education.