At Meridian Learning, we recognize the sacrifices families make to provide their children with a high-quality, values-aligned education. With the rising cost of living, we understand why families seek tuition assistance through programs like Ohio’s EdChoice vouchers. We want to be transparent about why Meridian Learning’s lab schools do not participate in EdChoice, even as we work to keep tuition accessible and sustainable.
The Legal Landscape
On June 24, 2025, Ohio’s EdChoice voucher program was ruled unconstitutional by a Franklin County court. On October 15, 2026, that ruling was unanimously upheld by Ohio’s Tenth District Court of Appeals. While enforcement of the ruling has been stayed pending further appeal, these decisions raise serious questions about the program’s long-term future. Participating in a program that may face significant restructuring or repeal creates financial uncertainty for schools and families alike. Families making long-term educational commitments deserve to understand the risks of relying on funding subject to ongoing legal challenges.
Preserving Our Independence
Participation in EdChoice also requires schools to obtain a state charter and comply with Ohio’s operating standards for chartered nonpublic schools. Our lab schools have intentionally chosen a different path, preserving the flexibility and independence central to our educational model. Rather than tying our operations to government funding and its accompanying requirements, we build our budgets around our mission, our values, and the long-term sustainability of our programs.
The Bigger Picture
We understand why families seek tuition assistance, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. Housing, healthcare, groceries, and childcare all place significant demands on household budgets, and tuition assistance alone cannot fully ease those pressures. We remain committed to keeping tuition as affordable as possible without compromising quality, while also compensating our educators fairly and planning responsibly for the future. We will continue to monitor legal and legislative developments related to school funding in Ohio and revisit our position if changes align with our values and offer meaningful long-term stability.
Families interested in tuition assistance are encouraged to contact us directly about options available through Meridian Learning. Financial aid is limited and depends on the amount already allocated, so we encourage families to inquire early.