Wilkin Announces $37.2 Million for Workforce and Health Services in Local Schools

COLUMBUS—State Senator Shane Wilkin (R-Hillsboro) announced three school districts in the 17th Senate District will receive $37,209,114 to enhance workforce development opportunities and healthcare services. More than $88 million will support nearly a dozen Appalachian school districts to improve public health and career readiness.   

"These dollars are an amazing investment into our schools, students, and all Southern Ohioans," Wilkin said. "The renovations will innovate our school facilities to serve countless people who need access to healthcare and the tools for their next career."

Districts receiving funds include:

• New Lexington City Schools: $16,404,114 to upgrade the health clinic, add specialized classrooms and labs, expand the Workforce Development Center and its career pathway offerings, and create a multi-purpose area for training, physical health, and wellness.
• Gallia Jackson Vinton Joint Vocational School District (Buckeye Hills Career Center): $10,500,000 to create a health services center for medical, dental, and behavioral health, expand workforce development including dedicated workforce search space, and add new classroom, dental lab, and computer lab space.
• Chesapeake Union Exempted Village Schools: $10,305,000 to renovate Chesapeake High School to provide Ohio Means Jobs services to the community, expand offerings in robotics and engineering classes, and offer on-site physical therapy, preventative care and wellness checks.

The funding comes from the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers Program, which aims to establish full-service centers for public education, health services, and career development that are open to any Ohioan who needs assistance. The dollars will cover construction and renovations costs. 

Learn more about the Appalachian Community Innovation Centers Program here.