Read the latest updates from the School Employee Retirees of Ohio.
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Dear James,
There’s something about the March air that feels like a collective deep breath. Whether you’re excited for the return of the sun or just happy to see the birds back in the yard, spring is officially on the horizon as is our Annual Meeting which you can learn more about below.
In service, Jim Janosik, CAE, CNP Executive Director
SERS
Read the full February 2026 board meeting highlights by clicking HERE. Highlights include a review of the equity portfolio, investment performance, actuarial fundamentals, staff compensation, and more.
The following are proposed administrative rule updates that we are tracking. Click on the number to access more information.
Public School Enrollment Declined in Past Five Years; Private Enrollment Rising
Ohio Department of Education and Workforce data shows public school K-12 enrollment has dropped by around 26,895 students since the 2020-2021 school year, the Dayton Daily News reports, a decline of 1.8 percent. Private school enrollment grew by 18,327 students over that period and charter schools added 4,941 students, though the vast majority of students still attend public schools. Read the full story HERE.
Coalition, Legislator Both Propose Property Tax Reform Constitution Amendment
While two grassroots organizations continue collecting signatures to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to abolish the property tax, Sen. Louis Blessing (R-Cincinnati) has proposed a legislative-initiated constitutional amendment to authorize state and local jurisdictions governed by elected officials to levy a land value tax. Both could be on November’s ballot, reports the Toledo Blade. Read the full story HERE.
Senate Finance Chair Backs Penalties for Schools in Voucher Litigation
New House legislation to withhold funding from school districts that are suing the state over EdChoice drew the backing of Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland), chair of the Senate Finance Committee. “I just think it's wrong, and I think one of the great powers that we have as a Legislature is the power of the purse, and I think we should use that more frequently," Cirino told the Statehouse News Bureau. Read the full story HERE.
Legislation Tracking
We are currently tracking the following legislation that may be impactful to SERO and to you. When member action is necessitated, as determined by the SERO Executive Board, we will reach out with directives. You may always track any of this yourself and reach out to the SERO office and/or Board members to share your thoughts.
Everything You Need To Know About Fasting Before a Blood Test
Sarah Jividen, RN discusses the types of blood tests that require fasting and how you can best prepare for giving blood specimens.Read the full article HERE.
7 Signs You're Aging Well, According To Geriatricians
Doctors reveal what they look for when examining a patient's longevity and how you can adopt the behaviors for yourself. Read the full article HERE.
The First Places Thieves Look for Your Valuables in a Hotel
A jewelry expert shares the predictable hiding places thieves check first—and smarter alternatives. Read the full article HERE.
Registration to attend the 2026 Annual Meeting either in-person or online via Zoom is now open by clicking HERE. The event is free to attend and a light lunch will be provided after the meeting.
The meeting will be held at 10:00am on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at the CoHatch, 240 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43082.
The officer application form for those interested in running for state office is available HERE.
Proposed changes to the Constitution and Bylaws are available for members to review HERE.
Your member benefits continue to expand with SERO's offering of guided group travel experiences around the globe. Here are the current travel offerings:
Lifetime membership, available in either one-time payment or six easy monthly installments.
Under 55
$400
Age 55 to 59.99
$345
Age 60 to 64.99
$288
Age 65 to 69.99
$230
Age 70+
$173
Annual dues: $30 by check or $31.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
2-year dues: $61.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
3-year dues: $91.50 by credit/debit card or ACH
Monthly SERS dues deduct: $2.50
ALL of our memberships can now be paid with a debit/credit card or ACH directly from your bank account securely through the membership portal.
You may self-manage any of these new options by logging in to your membership profile HERE and choosing the desired membership. You may also call the office at 614-431-0387 if you need assistance with this. If you are on Dues Deduct, please call the office for guidance before switching to another method of payment.
IMPORTANT CONTACTS AT A GLANCE (click name to visit website)
The Voice of Working and Retired School Employees ohio-sero.com
4182 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219 • 614.431.0387
https://linktr.ee/OhioSERO
*Any content provided herein by SERO should not be construed as making any form of financial, legal, or medical advice. All material should be vetted by the reader personally and with their own professional advisors.
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