Programs & Services
Ready to revolutionize your school's efficiency and savings game? Look no further than the Ohio Schools Council! We're not just your average supplier; we're your partner in streamlining operations and cutting costs across the board. Experience the power of cooperative group purchasing programs tailored for educational institutions, covering utilities, food service, construction, insurance, transportation, technology, and beyond.
As an added benefit, when you partner with OSC, you gain access to a vast network of like-minded colleagues who share your passion for educational excellence. Through our robust Network Meetings, we bring together role-specific school administrators to share insights, best practices, and resources.
Sorry, no results matched your search.
Are you a K-12 school district looking to create inspiring learning environments without the hassle and time commitment of the state-required RFQ Process? Look to OSC where our architectural and construction vendors are all backed by a comprehensive bid process, vetted by experienced attorneys, and meet all state and national bid requirements. As an added benefit, when you partner with OSC, you gain access to a vast network of like-minded colleagues who share your passion for educational excellence. Through our robust Network Meetings, we bring together role-specific school administrators to share insights, best practices, and resources. Don't miss out on the opportunity to revolutionize your school district's facilities while connecting with industry experts and peers. Contact us today to learn more about our pre-bid, discounted Architectural + Construction services and how you can become part of our dynamic network! If you're interested in joining, send an email to Tami Perkins at tperkins@osconline.org.
OSC provides turn-key options for selling your district's used furniture, equipment, buses/vehicles, and more. Let us handle the heavy lifting … Schedule an auction meeting today! Services Include: • Review Repair & Maintenance records • Inspect, Photograph & Create Item Descriptions • Handle Taxes, Payments & Paperwork • Schedule Pick-Up Times & Location • Sales and Marketing • Web Posting • Seamless Payment to District
We understand the unique challenges faced by educators and administrators, which is why we offer specialized services designed to streamline operations and maximize efficiency. By partnering with us, you gain access to exclusive discounts on a wide range of services essential for running a successful school district. Experience the power of cooperative group purchasing programs tailored for educational institutions, covering utilities, food service, construction, insurance, transportation, technology, and beyond. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch support every step of the way, ensuring that your school district receives the best value and service available. OSC is also excited to offer comprehensive consulting services to help your district implement new perspectives and solutions on managing a successful business service program in your district. Several times a year, members of our network come together for collaborative networking events aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in the business operations involving K-12 education. Whether you're looking for best practices, new ideas, or simply a supportive community to lean on, you'll find it all within the OSC Business Network. If you're interested in joining, send an email to Tami Perkins at tperkins@osconline.org.
Events
December 17 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Network Meeting
January 22, 2025 @ 8:30 am Food Service Supervisors Network Meeting
January 24, 2025 @ 1:00 pm Business Network Meeting (Pre-Meeting Presentation at 12 pm)
February 11, 2025 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Network Meeting
Featured Partners
Available Grants
BWC School Safety and Security Grant (SSSG)
The School Safety and Security Grant (SSSG) has re-opened as of July 1, 2024. To simplify the application process, the School Safety and Security Grant – HVAC (SSSG-HVAC) has been combined with the SSSG. All qualifying expenses from the (SSSG-HVAC) are now eligible through the SSSG program.
View MoreDeadline:
Ongoing
Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit
The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit is available for qualified AFV fueling property installed in qualified locations on or after January 1, 2023, and through December 31, 2032. A single item of 30C property is each charging port or fuel dispenser, as well as each energy storage property for electricity, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, E85, or biodiesel blends of at least 20% (B20+). Components and parts that are essential to the operation of the charging port or fuel dispenser, including labor costs for constructing and installing the property, are also eligible for the 30C credit. Businesses are eligible for a tax credit of:
- 6% of the depreciable costs, up to $100,000 per item; or,
- 30% of the depreciable costs, up to $100,000 per item, if the installation meets U.S. Department of
- Labor prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.
Additional requirements may apply. For further details, see the IRS Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 website and IRS Form 8911, which is available on the IRS Forms and Publicationswebsite. Additional location eligibility information is available in the IRS Guidance on Satisfying the Geographical Requirements of the Section 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. For more information, including frequently asked questions and an eligibility locator map, see the Argonne National Laboratory Refueling Infrastructure Tax Credit website.
(Reference 26 U.S. Code 30C, 30D, 38, and 6417 and Public Law 117-169)
Point of Contact
U.S. Internal Revenue Service
Phone: (800) 829-1040
http://www.irs.gov/
Deadline:
Ongoing
Energy Conservation Project Grants
The Ohio Schools Council is here to support your energy conservation efforts. With several grants and direct tax payment incentives currently available—and more on the way—you have the opportunity to fund a wide range of energy projects.
View MoreDeadline:
Ongoing
2025 Patrick Leahy USDA Farm to School Grant
On October 28, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the 2025 Patrick Leahy USDA Farm to School Grants application. The grant program is designed to increase the availability of local foods in schools and help connect students to the sources of their food through education, taste tests, school gardens, field trips, and local food sourcing for school meals. Grants can launch new farm to school programs or expand existing efforts. Grants are open to schools and other institutions that operate child nutrition programs, tribal organizations, agricultural producers or groups of agricultural producers, nonprofit entities, and state and local agencies.
Visit the USDA’s Grant Applications Resource page for additional application resources, webinars, and other helpful tools.
Upcoming Webinars:
- Introduction to the Farm to School Grant Program Request for Applications (RFA) – Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2:00 p.m. ET: The FY 2025 Patrick Leahy Farm to School grant program has opened three RFAs for potential grant applicants to consider. This informative webinar will help grant applicants choose the solicitation that is the best fit for them and help attendees understand grant eligibility, funding priorities, and grant objectives. Please register even if you cannot attend; the Farm to School team will send all registrants a link to watch the recording at a later date.
- Submitting a Complete Grant Package – Wednesday, Nov. 6 – 2:00 p.m. ET: This webinar will help potential FY 2025 grant applicants understand the components of a complete application and learn how to submit a responsive application that meets all the requirements to be considered for an award. Please register even if you cannot attend; the Farm to School team will send all registrants a link to watch the recording at a later date.
Deadline:
Ongoing
You can purchase locally bid items through the OSC eBuy Cooperative Purchasing Portal. Not sure how to use OSC eBuy? View the OSC eBuy Marketplace Instructions or check out the video tutorial below!
Register and Log into OSC eBuy
Picture this: juggling budgets with funding that's as steady as a rollercoaster, while keeping up with new rules and educational goals. It's like trying to balance on a tightrope! We understand that school finance staff members have to make every dollar count, all while making sure students and teachers have what they need. The OSC has partnered with several organizations to make your life easier. From robust ePAS and eVAS vendor auditing solutions to convenient forecasting/budgeting software and dependable timekeeping technology -- OSC has you covered.
We understand the importance of providing nutritious and delicious meals to students while also managing tight budgets. That's why we're thrilled to offer discounted rates on a wide range of high-quality food items and services, ensuring that your school can serve healthy meals without breaking the bank. OSC is also excited to offer comprehensive food service consulting services to help your district implement successful food service programs. Our platform not only provides access to discounted food products, but also connects you with a vast network of like-minded colleagues within the K-12 food service space. Join our community and gain invaluable insights and resources from fellow professionals who share your passion for nourishing young minds. If you're interested in learning more, send an email to Kelly Rocco at krocco@osconline.org.
Events
January 22, 2025 @ 8:30 am Food Service Supervisors Network Meeting
March 12, 2025 @ 8:30 am Food Service Supervisors Network Meeting
May 14, 2025 @ 8:30 am Food Service Supervisors Network Meeting
Available Grants
2025 Patrick Leahy USDA Farm to School Grant
On October 28, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the 2025 Patrick Leahy USDA Farm to School Grants application. The grant program is designed to increase the availability of local foods in schools and help connect students to the sources of their food through education, taste tests, school gardens, field trips, and local food sourcing for school meals. Grants can launch new farm to school programs or expand existing efforts. Grants are open to schools and other institutions that operate child nutrition programs, tribal organizations, agricultural producers or groups of agricultural producers, nonprofit entities, and state and local agencies.
Visit the USDA’s Grant Applications Resource page for additional application resources, webinars, and other helpful tools.
Upcoming Webinars:
- Introduction to the Farm to School Grant Program Request for Applications (RFA) – Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2:00 p.m. ET: The FY 2025 Patrick Leahy Farm to School grant program has opened three RFAs for potential grant applicants to consider. This informative webinar will help grant applicants choose the solicitation that is the best fit for them and help attendees understand grant eligibility, funding priorities, and grant objectives. Please register even if you cannot attend; the Farm to School team will send all registrants a link to watch the recording at a later date.
- Submitting a Complete Grant Package – Wednesday, Nov. 6 – 2:00 p.m. ET: This webinar will help potential FY 2025 grant applicants understand the components of a complete application and learn how to submit a responsive application that meets all the requirements to be considered for an award. Please register even if you cannot attend; the Farm to School team will send all registrants a link to watch the recording at a later date.
Deadline:
Ongoing
Your go-to resource for existing and upcoming operational support grants! Examples include: Biennium Budget Anticipated Grants, Departmental Grants (BWC, AG, OFCC, Governor’s Office, etc.), Energy Efficiency, Food Service, Maintenance Support, Safety and Security and Transportation.
Insurance and risk management play vital roles in safeguarding students, faculty, and assets within your district. With a focus on providing a secure environment conducive to learning, schools in Ohio invest significantly in insurance coverage tailored to their unique needs. This includes protection against property damage, liability claims, cyber security, life insurance, workers' compensation and more. From ensuring compliance with safety regulations to implementing preparedness protocols and offering competitive insurance rates, OSC is here to assist. We have developed strong, long-term relationships with organizations designed to offer you discounted and reliable insurance services. This includes discounted life insurance, a robust property, fleet & liability insurance Program, managed care, Section 125, FSA and HSA administration and more!
Join Lake Erie Educational Media Consortium (LEEMC) and receive up to a 43% discount on trade books; customized processing and NO shipping/handling charges!
LAKE ERIE EDUCATIONAL MEDIA CONSORTIUM (LEEMC) is a voluntary, cooperative effort created by school media specialists to reduce the cost of providing school library media materials and services, provide a regional forum to better meet the needs of school districts and initiate a unified action toward improving school library services.
ADVANTAGES
- Library book purchasing at a discount of 20-43%
- No shipping or handling charges and customized processing
- Discounts on periodicals, software and supplies
- 3 book scans per year provide hands-on experience for librarians & principals
- Districts saved over $150,000 annually
PROGRAM FEE:
$0.25/student; Minimum $125, Maximum $2000
Contact OSC LEEMC Program Manager, Diane Ward, at dward@osconline.org or (216) 447-3100 x 6105 to learn more.
View December 2024 Book Scan List
Featured Partner
Unlock exclusive benefits with the OSC Legal Hotline program. Members enjoy reduced fees and gain access to a comprehensive range of services, connecting your district directly with our team of experienced attorneys. With discounted support blocks (15-20%) spanning 10-20 annual hours, you'll also receive complimentary legal seminars tailored to emerging trends. These services complement and enhance your current legal counsel partnerships. Ready to join? Reach out to Kelly Rocco at krocco@osconline.org to get started. Ennis Britton, OSC's contracted Legal Hotline firm, is a boutique law firm dedicated to supporting the legal needs of Ohio’s public school boards. The firm currently represents over 150 school districts in over 40 counties in Ohio, many of whom are OSC members.
At OSC, we understand the unique needs and time constraints of school maintenance staff. That's why we've curated a comprehensive range of maintenance solutions to keep your school running smoothly, all at discounted rates designed to fit your budget. OSC is also excited to offer comprehensive consulting services to help your district implement new perspectives and solutions on managing a successful business service program in your district. But that's not all! By partnering with OSC, you gain access to a vast network of like-minded colleagues from K-12 school districts across the state. Several times a year, join us for exclusive networking meetings where you can connect, share insights, and access valuable resources. If you're interested in joining, send an email to Tami Perkins at tperkins@osconline.org.
Events
February 25, 2025 @ 11:00 am Maintenance Supervisors Network Meeting
April 29, 2025 @ 11:00 am Maintenance Supervisors Network Meeting
Available Grants
Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit
The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit is available for qualified AFV fueling property installed in qualified locations on or after January 1, 2023, and through December 31, 2032. A single item of 30C property is each charging port or fuel dispenser, as well as each energy storage property for electricity, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, E85, or biodiesel blends of at least 20% (B20+). Components and parts that are essential to the operation of the charging port or fuel dispenser, including labor costs for constructing and installing the property, are also eligible for the 30C credit. Businesses are eligible for a tax credit of:
- 6% of the depreciable costs, up to $100,000 per item; or,
- 30% of the depreciable costs, up to $100,000 per item, if the installation meets U.S. Department of
- Labor prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.
Additional requirements may apply. For further details, see the IRS Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 website and IRS Form 8911, which is available on the IRS Forms and Publicationswebsite. Additional location eligibility information is available in the IRS Guidance on Satisfying the Geographical Requirements of the Section 30C Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit. For more information, including frequently asked questions and an eligibility locator map, see the Argonne National Laboratory Refueling Infrastructure Tax Credit website.
(Reference 26 U.S. Code 30C, 30D, 38, and 6417 and Public Law 117-169)
Point of Contact
U.S. Internal Revenue Service
Phone: (800) 829-1040
http://www.irs.gov/
Deadline:
Ongoing
View our National Contracts (AEPA) >
Are you looking to stretch your budget further while upgrading your school facilities? Look no further! Our exclusive rebate programs tailored for K-12 school districts offer unparalleled savings opportunities on utility, energy efficiency, and maintenance expenses. Rebate programs include Home Depot, Electricity Audits, Cell Phone Tower Revenue Sharing opportunities and more. To learn more, contact Chad Welker at cwelker@osconline.org.
Featured Partner
OSC can lend affordable expert assistance on a variety of school safety programs and planning, including school emergency plan assistance, emergency drill assistance, compliance with other SAFE Account activities, threat assessment team assistance and building security assessments in partnership with the ESC of Northeast Ohio. In addition to School Security Emergency Plan/Drill assistance, OSC now offers on-site Customized Active Threat Training, Security Staff Training, School Bus Driver Safety/Security Training and Deescalation Training. Connecting with colleagues who share similar goals and challenges can be incredibly valuable in brainstorming solutions and learning from each other's experiences. When you join the OSC School Safety Program, you also become part of a vibrant community of like-minded colleagues from K-12 school districts across the state. Our School Safety Network provides valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and share insights and resources with peers who understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing education today. If you’re interested in joining, send an email to Tami Perkins at tperkins@osconline.org.
Events
February 13, 2025 @ 12:30 pm Safety and Security Network Meeting
May 22, 2025 @ 12:30 pm Safety and Security Network Meeting
Available Grants
SchoolSafety.gov’s Grants Finder Tool
SchoolSafety.gov’s Grants Finder Tool helps you find applicable funding opportunities to help keep your school community safe. The tool features a variety of Federally available school safety-specific grants that you can navigate based on school safety topic, award amount, application level of effort, and more.
View MoreDeadline:
Ongoing
At OSC, we recognize the pivotal role of efficient school transportation in ensuring smooth operations and maximizing learning time for students. That's why we've tailored a comprehensive suite of transportation solutions specifically designed to meet the diverse needs and time constraints of school transportation departments. Our offerings encompass everything from routine maintenance services to specialized consultations aimed at optimizing your transportation operations. Whether it's fleet maintenance, route planning, or safety protocol assessments, our team of experts is here to support you every step of the way. Several times a year, join us for exclusive networking meetings where you can connect, share insights, and access valuable resources. If you’re interested in joining, send an email to Tami Perkins at tperkins@osconline.org.
Events
December 17 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Network Meeting
February 11, 2025 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Network Meeting
April 15, 2025 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Network Meeting
June 17, 2025 @ 10:30 am Transportation Supervisors Meeting
Available Grants
Transportation Grant – The Ohio Department of Taxation
The Ohio Department of Taxation offers a Motor Fuel Tax Refund Claim Form, providing an avenue to recoup a portion of the taxes paid on qualifying fuel purchases.
View MoreDeadline:
Ongoing
At OSC, we recognize the critical importance of reliable utility services in the day-to-day operations of educational institutions. That's why we've developed a comprehensive suite of managed utility services tailored to meet the unique needs and demands of schools and school districts. In addition to pre-negotiated discounted rates on natural gas and electricity, OSC is your trusted resource in navigating the often complicated energy market. When you choose OSC for your energy needs, you will receive a dedicated ally who will ensure transparency though comprehensive energy audits, expert legal guidance, rate case reviews with PUCO, rebate programs and so much more. Interested in learning more? Contact Barb DelRoso at bdelroro@osconline.org.
Available Grants
Energy Conservation Project Grants
The Ohio Schools Council is here to support your energy conservation efforts. With several grants and direct tax payment incentives currently available—and more on the way—you have the opportunity to fund a wide range of energy projects.
View MoreDeadline:
Ongoing