By Mark Niquette
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Gov. Ted Strickland proposed a comprehensive revamping of the state's public-education system today during his third State of the State address, calling for changes in how schools are funded, how long the school year lasts and how students are tested.
"We will graduate Ohioans ready to succeed in the modern economy and in modern life," Strickland said during his one-hour speech. "Future generations will look back gratefully and say that when we came together on education, we claimed this new century for Ohio."
Strickland said the budget will be balanced and "will not raise taxes on Ohioans."
But he said it will require increase in fees, fines and penalties, plus program reductions of 10 to 20 percent in some cases...and financial sacrifice from state employees.
"In this budget, I must ask all Ohioans to accept the sacrifices that these times demand," he said.