CINCINNATI (AP) — Leaders in at least some financially struggling Ohio school districts are rallying behind Gov. John Kasich's (KAY-sik's) funding plan.

A half dozen superintendents from around the state spoke with reporters Friday to describe how their districts would benefit from the Republican governor's approach, mainly through its funding for economically disadvantaged students and for special-needs students such as those learning English as their second language.

Kasich this week repeated in his State of the State message that his proposal is student-focused, and will help ease funding inequities while adding $1.2 billion for schools over the next two years.

Critics among some education officials and Democratic legislators have challenged Kasich's description of his plan. They say it doesn't offset earlier cuts and leaves many schools, including in poor districts, without additional money.