Preschool Special Education Integrated Classrooms

Ohio Administrative Code Rule 3301-51-11 governs the education of preschool children with disabilities and includes important definitions related to classroom settings and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).  The rule can be found at the following link:  https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-administrative-code/rule-3301-51-11

Changes to the rule were effective July 2021 and began to be implemented in the 2021-2022 academic year.  The Ohio Department of Education has created a resource page to assist schools, school districts, ESCs and other providers with resources to assist in the transition, which can be found at the following link:   https://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Special-Education/Preschool-Special-Education

As if often the case with implementation of new public policy, the effect of the rule changes are just now being realized.  An informative PowerPoint PPT presentation has been developed that explains the recent changes to the state’s definition for the Integrated Classroom model (and the corresponding licensure rules), including an audio presentation that goes along with the PPT.  The presentation video can be played here:  https://www.hcesc.org/ohio-preschool-rule-impact/

OESCA is also working stakeholders to survey the field and gain a better understanding of the rule implementation and the impact on education delivery and associated service models.  A summary of the survey results can be access through a PPT presentation available by clicking HERE.

Check back for more information as we continue to examine the impact on school district and ESC early childhood education programs.