While two dozen states cut funding for schools, Strickland invested in Ohio's children, raising school funding in both of his two budgets. Strickland won support for a historic education reform plan in July 2009. The plan ensures Ohio's schools are constitutionally funded and new accountability measures make sure that dollars get to children in the classroom. Strickland's education reform plan was recognized by the Education Commission of the States with their innovation award for what they call "bold, courageous and nonpartisan new policies." More>>

With Ohio's workforce, universities, manufacturing infrastructure, and location, the state is uniquely positioned to power the future. Governor Strickland leveraged those strengths to position Ohio for growth. In 2008, he implemented one of the most aggressive advanced energy requirements in the nation, the effects of which began to take shape under Strickland's watch. And in 2009, Ohio was ranked as one of the top states in advanced energy job creation. More>>

Even before the worst of the economic crisis began in the fall of 2008, Governor Strickland was concerned about the effect of the housing market collapse on the economy. That's why he worked with Ohio legislative leaders to create a $1.17 billion jobs stimulus package aimed at creating and retaining thousands of jobs in Ohio. After bipartisan approval from the General Assembly, the plan helped to lay a foundation for future growth in key industries, including logistics and distribution and advanced energy, while also reinvesting in Ohio's infrastructure and historic buildings. More>>

Guided by his belief that educational opportunity is linked to economic success, Strickland made an unprecedented commitment to higher education in Ohio. He established the University System of Ohio to encourage greater collaboration among institutions. While other states like California raised college tuition as much as 30 percent in the midst of the recession, Governor Strickland held tuition increases to the lowest level in forty years at Ohio's university main campuses. As a result, in 2010, 86,146 more Ohioans enrolled in public colleges and universities than in 2006. Ohio's graduation rate increased, and for the first time in the state's history, Ohio is funding universities based not on enrollment, but on results–-including increased graduation rates. More>>

To make targeted investments, Governor Strickland forced state government to live within its means. He eliminated waste and reduced the size of state government to its smallest size since the Reagan era. He made tough choices to prioritize investments in education and job creation and to maintain vital services to Ohioans in need. The total spending in Governor Strickland's two state operating budgets represents the lowest four-year growth period in more than 60 years, and there are more than 5,000 fewer state employees. More>>