Melissa Miller, Director of Special Education, shared an update on Special Education Services with the Board of Education at the November 7th meeting.
In Ohio, approximately 15.34% of students have disabilities. Kenston’s percentage of students with disabilities is 10.54%. Within that 10.54%, our three largest groups are in the categories:
- Specific learning disability at 43.11%
- Other health impairments at 16.01%
- Autism at 9.08%
Kenston serves approximately 335 students on an Individualized Education Program (IEP):
- 34 students in the Preschool program
- 113 students in Kindergarten through 5th grade
- 186 students in Grades 6-12
Within those numbers:
- 28 – students are served in out-of-district placements
- 34 – students use the scholarship
In addition, many of the students with disabilities receive related services as well. Approximately:
- 139 – students receive speech and language services
- 69 – students receive occupational therapy services
- 4 – students receive physical therapy services
The Kenston Preschool classroom is a part of the Special Education Department. All Early Childhood Education and Preschool Special Education programs funded by the Ohio Department of Education are mandated to participate in Step Up To Quality and are required to achieve a rating of 3, 4, or 5 to maintain state funding. Kenston was first awarded the 5 Star standard of excellence in 2019 and has maintained a rating of 5.
At this time, the program is now due for the triennial rating. The Special Education Department has spent a great deal of time preparing for the Step Up To Quality licensing visit. Step Up To Quality is a five–star quality rating and improvement system administered by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. SUTQ recognizes and promotes learning and development programs that meet quality program standards that exceed preschool licensing and school-age child care licensing health and safety regulations. The program standards are based on national research identifying standards that lead to improved outcomes for children.