DAYTON, Ohio -- A year of record-high sales for the Ohio Lottery has led to its highest payout yet for public schools, totaling $771 million.

The lottery topped $2.7 billion in sales for the fiscal year that ended June 30, up from $2.6 billion the previous year.

By law, the profits are given to the Ohio Department of Education to support schools. 

The Dayton Daily News reports the funding amounts to about 6 percent of the department's general revenue budget but could be more significant amid cost-cutting and declining revenues in many districts.

A department spokeswoman says every dollar helps.

Lottery sales in Ohio have increased for the past 11 years.

The sales for last fiscal year were especially boosted in March by a record $656 million Mega Millions jackpot.

The Associated Press