What is an Educational Service Center (ESC)?
County boards of education were established in 1914 to serve local school districts. The county boards’ tasks were to elevate the state’s system of education; draft courses of study; provide in-service training for teachers; and assure quality instruction through supervision and evaluation. In 1988 county boards were also allowed to serve cities and exempted villages. The role of the county board of education expanded over the decades. In the 1930’s they began assisting in district fiscal and purchasing services and in the 1960’s began operating special education services. In 1995 Ohio legislature changed county boards of education to educational service centers (ESCs). This was more than a name change. The law redefined the role of the ESC, moving it from a regulatory to a service agency. What is the ESC’s role today? ESCs are a vital component in Ohio’s educational system, providing services to 95% of Ohio’s students in more than 600 public school districts. ESCs provide a wide varie
