Efforts to align Ohio's educational opportunities with its workforce needs were recognized by state leaders as Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel announced the recipients of the 2026 Business-Education Leader Awards for Excellent Business Advisory Councils. Each educational district and service center in Ohio maintains a Business Advisory Council, composed of local school, business, and community leaders dedicated to providing students with work-based learning opportunities.
During the announcement, as reported by the Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's office, DeWine emphasized the critical role these councils play in preparing students for post-graduation opportunities, stating, “We are proud to celebrate the Business Advisory Councils that are making a real impact preparing students for the opportunities waiting for them beyond graduation.” Tressel highlighted the importance of collaboration for creating opportunities, and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin pointed out the innovative strategies by the councils that help students transition from the classroom to high-opportunity careers.
Among the honorees, four councils received the Excellence Designation as Four-Star Business Advisory Councils, including Barberton City Schools and Southwest Regional Business Advisory Council, commended for coordinating career development experiences and building partnerships. The Governor's office announcement also listed three-star councils such as Athens-Meigs Educational Service Center and Springfield City Schools, recognized for implementing various quality practices focused on career opportunities.
To achieve these star ratings, councils underwent reviews by several entities, including DriveOhio and the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association, indicating a comprehensive and collaborative assessment process across multiple sectors. The two-star category featured councils like Knox County Educational Service Center, acknowledging their efforts throughout the year despite not reaching the highest accolade.
For those interested in understanding how Business Advisory Councils operate and what constitutes their star evaluations, more details can be found on the Ohio Department of Education's Business Advisory Councils webpage. This initiative represents a concerted push towards integrating education with the dynamic needs of the Ohio workforce, hopefully setting students up for success in an ever-evolving job market.
