The Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities discussed updates to the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ new “Technology First” rule at their recent meeting.
The rule indicates that people with developmental disabilities will have access to technology solutions.
The LCBDD also has developed a policy that will explore technology solutions in the person-centered planning process and support outcomes for individuals served.
The DODD has appropriated funds that will be distributed to counties to increase access to technology, including Internet assistance.
Superintendent Saul Bauer reported that remote services and the need for technology have tripled since 2020 in Logan County. The need will continue to grow, and state funding will allow LCBDD to provide the services people need.
In addition Bauer also shared details of a new Communication Disability Law. This state law asserts that any individual with a medically-diagnosed communication disability, who drives or regularly has someone with a communication disability in their vehicle, can voluntarily enroll in a database that connects to the Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS).
The law enforcement officer can then be made aware that the driver or passenger may have difficulty communicating and can approach the vehicle with awareness to reduce any potential misunderstandings or problems.
Individuals who are interested in self-identifying can complete a verification form and take this form to their licensed medical practitioner who can validate that the individual has a communication disability. Verification forms (which can be found on OOD.ohio.gov) can be mailed to: Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attention: Remittance/DPU, P.O. Box 16521, Columbus, OH 43216-6521.
The evening began with a presentation by Discovery Center Early Childhood Director Joy Badenhop regarding 2021-2022 referral data. Since July 1, there have been 94 referrals to the Discovery Center for a developmental evaluation. This is an increase from previous years.
Further, Badenhop reviewed changes in Preschool Rules, which involve requirements from school districts to offer a continuum of alternative placement options and for delivery of services in the least restrictive environment. The goal of these rule changes is to assure that placement options are available to meet the needs of children and their families and to have as many children as possible educated in a general education environment.
Logan County is currently in the planning phase of this process. Badenhop and Superintendent Bauer are meeting with all district superintendents to determine their course of action.
In other meeting updates, members reported the LCBDD has purchased many books that will be donated to various Logan County schools, libraries and churches. These books focus on the topics of inclusion and equality. Further information with additional highlights on this project will be released soon.
The board also thanked the Logan County community once again for their support of the annual flower sale.
In upcoming personnel changes, Bauer reported that current Early Intervention Service Coordinator positions, which are now employed by the Logan County Family and Children First Council, will now become employees of the LCBDD. This transition will occur in July.
Long-time contract employee, Wanda Wildermuth, who has provided therapy services to the children served at LCBDD, has also announced her retirement.
The board “would like to thank Wanda for her years of dedicated service and wish her well in her retirement,” representatives said.
Board meetings are conducted the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Logan County Board of Disabilities/Discovery Center. Meetings are always open to the public. The next meeting is June 2.