The Bright New Leaders for Ohio Schools program is making headlines across the state by training the leaders of tomorrow. The state-funded program trains future principals on how to turn around low-income schools, which is good news for current Ohio residents and anyone who is looking to move to Columbus.

Serving as a joint effort between the Ohio Business Roundtable, the Ohio Department of Education, and Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business, the state program works to train principals to be better equipped at handling some of Ohio’s toughest schools. If all turns out well, principals should be able to enter into these schools and increase or benefit the academic standard of the school, which would increase the schools’ overall moral as well. Columbus movers hope that the statewide effort makes the state more appealing to move to, since schools will potentially move up in grade and academic progress.

During the first year of the program, there were 850 applicants but only 200 moved forward. The program works towards a master’s of business administration, allows applicants to receive a $2,500 monthly stipend, shadow principals, and be linked with a master teacher for lesson planning and instruction.

Richard A. Stoff, president and CEO of the Roundtable, said that, “We believe leadership is leadership, and it’s time to begin trying some new and innovative school techniques to train school leaders.”

If you are moving to Columbus, please be aware of the state’s school initiatives and make sure to research the school districts and grades before you select a school for your child.