Ohio Education Policy Leadership Program

Developing Strategic Education Leaders. Advancing Policy for Ohio’s Future.

The Ohio Education Policy Leadership Program (OEPLP) is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic and collaborative community of leaders committed to advancing education policies that put the needs of Ohioans first.

What Is OEPLP?

OEPLP is a professional education policy and leadership Fellows Program running from October through June, for experienced professionals who want to better understand how public policy shapes education and strengthen their ability to lead within that environment. Fellows learn with colleagues from across Ohio, examine the policy issues affecting their organizations and communities, and apply that learning to their own leadership practice.

Throughout the fellowship, participants connect policy to practice, develop a deeper understanding of Ohio’s education landscape, and build relationships with professionals who bring perspectives from across the education sector.

Fellows will:

• Learn with a statewide cohort through monthly sessions focused on education policy, leadership, and issues affecting Ohio’s communities
• Apply their learning through a policy project connected to a professional interest, organizational priority, or issue they want to influence
• Strengthen their capacity to lead and communicate in policy-rich environments
• Build lasting professional relationships through a cohort model designed for shared learning, discussion, and exchange

Our Five Pillars:

• Policy
• Advocacy
• Leadership
• Communication
• Networking

Want to dive deeper into our program goals?

Who Should Apply?

OEPLP is designed for mid-career professionals who are:

• Passionate about serving children, youth, families, and communities
• Engaged in fields such as education, youth development, workforce development, public health, or human services
• Eager to grow as leaders and make a greater policy impact
• Supported by their employer—or willing to commit personal resources—to participate in the program

When Does It Happen?

OEPLP 2026-2027 begins October 2nd with a virtual meeting and runs through June 2027.

• Monthly sessions, alternate between in-person and virtual sessions
• Optional second events
• Field experiences may include overnight stays in state and out of state.

Where Does It Take Place?

The 2026–2027 program will be offered both virtually and as in person events held across Ohio. Fellows should expect to travel and stay overnight as part of the experience.

How to Apply

OEPLP accepts applications on a rolling basis. Final participant selections are made in summer before the program begins.

Program Commitment

Cost: $2,900 per participant
 + Travel Costs: About $2,000 spread throughout the travel planned for the year.

Time: Fellows must commit to attending in-person and virtual sessions, which are often held during regular work hours. In addition to monthly sessions, participation in four overnight field experiences is required. Please consider your professional and personal responsibilities before applying. Full participation is essential for a successful experience.

Program Alumni

The Ohio Education Policy Leadership Program has hundreds of alumni working in a number of education, policy, child services, government, and other organizations. The best way to connect is to join our LinkedIn group!

Contact Us

Have questions? Interested in learning more? Contact the OEPLP Team.