(COLUMBUS) - Today, a press conference was held at the Ohio Statehouse with Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, Representative Sandra Williams (D-Cleveland), House Finance and Appropriations Chairman Ron Amstutz (R-Wooster), Senate Minority Whip Nina Turner (D-Cleveland) and Senate Education Chairwoman Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering) regarding plans for transforming Cleveland Public Schools. In response to that press conference, Ohio House Speaker William G. Batchelder (R-Medina) offered the following statement:

"I very much appreciate Mayor Jackson spending time with us this week to discuss his vision for transforming Cleveland Public Schools. I am very proud and pleased by the work of the members of the House and Senate at today's press conference with Mayor Jackson and am encouraged by the supporters of this proposal. Their work and cooperation on this issue is a significant step in ultimately ensuring the success of the children in the Cleveland schools. I look forward to working with Mayor Jackson as other members of the Legislature step forward to join us on this vitally important issue."

See the press conference here: