specialed
OSDE - SES - December 3, 2024 - Internal
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Special Education Services is hoping you can join us for the 2025 Oklahoma Special Education Law Conference. This learning and collaboration opportunity is designed for special education professionals - teachers, service providers, administrators, superintendents, and school attorneys. The programming is intended to provide clear guidance and support for improved outcomes for children with disabilities and their families. Attendees are expected to have formal training, experience, and background in special education in order to apply effectively.
Courtesy of OSDE-SES, registration for this conference is offered at no-cost for special education professionals. Travel and Lodging expenses may be reimbursed through Project 613 Funds.
Additional information about the conference and registration, can be found here.
Questions or concerns regarding the conference should be directed to Abby Johnson - Project Manager, Special Education.
OSDE-SES is pleased to announce it's partnership with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) in providing support to early-career special education teachers. An early career teacher is defined as having less than 5 years of experience in a special education teacher role. Special education long-term subs may also participate in this program. This program has a registration limit of 200 early career teachers. Directors are encouraged to join the December 9th director call at 3:00 to hear about this program from our partners at CEC. Deadline for registration in this new program is Friday, December 13.
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Supports include a 1-year membership to CEC, including access to CEC Learning Lab, member discounts, reliable resources, and peer support.
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Nine on-demand asynchronous learning modules
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Live check-ins with a content specialist
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High Leverage Practices Book with a 4-session book study
Registration opens soon!
Infrastructure and Needs Assessment
The Oklahoma State Department of Education is conducting a comprehensive infrastructure and needs assessment to improve school-based Medicaid reimbursement and ensure students have access to the healthcare resources they need to thrive in a school setting. This assessment evaluates existing systems, identifies gaps, and informs strategies for better Medicaid-funded services in schools. Your input is vital, and we encourage parents, community members, tribal officials, school district administrators, medical providers, and school staff to participate. The survey will take about 10-20 minutes, depending on your role, and your feedback will help shape equitable and effective solutions. Please complete the survey by Friday, December 20th to ensure your voice is included in this important initiative. Together, we can strengthen the framework for student health and well-being.
OSDE-SES is pleased to announce the release of the new Oklahoma Autism Handbook. It was created in partnership with the Oklahoma Autism Center and with the input of multiple stakeholders. This office is grateful for the work that went into this resource and extends a huge thank you to the staff at the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This handbook orients the reader to important topics related to educating children with autism and provides current information about autism. Information is intended for use by educators, families, students, and community providers. This handbook was developed to provide guidance regarding identification, interventions, and the provision of special education services for students with autism. It is not intended to be a comprehensive resource on all aspects of autism, since every child with autism is different, and therefore ways of supporting their classroom experience will be highly individualized. This handbook is a guide and is not intended to replace any existing regulation or policy.
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
OAAP
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
Project 615, Special Education Development Program
Districts not submitting a budget application by December 31, 2024 will forfeit their allocation.
Project 613 December training opportunities include the following:
- Strategies for Special Education Compliance
- MTSS Framework and Implementing Interventions (Session 2)
- Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
- Effective Instructional Practices for Teaching Transition Skills to Students Participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP)
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments and Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
- Funding Assistive Technology (AT) for Students with Disabilities
To be reimbursed, districts must complete a Project 613 application in Single Sign On (Grants Management System – GMS). The application is completed through a step-by-step process.
Keep in mind that there is NOT an allocation for Project 613. It is up to the district to determine how the funds are reimbursed to staff who attend. A complete list of all sponsored training can be found on the FY25 Project 613 List.
For questions related to Project 613, contact Abby Johnson.
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
- Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.) – TOPIC: Employment Indicators Transition Assessment & School Based Enterprises
- Open Q & A – March 2025
- ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.) – TOPIC: Mobility Management & Transportation Supports in Oklahoma
- Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
Review of SPED Oct 1st Appeals
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
**NEW** Save the Date- March 27, 2025: School-Based Medicaid Reimbursement Program First Annual Conference
Location: TBD, Oklahoma City
Efficient, Effective, Essential: Streamlining Medicaid Reimbursement in Schools
Join us for the inaugural School-Based Medicaid Reimbursement Program Conference, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency in school-based health services. This event will provide valuable insights on optimizing processes, from billing to service delivery, to strengthen Medicaid-supported programs in schools. This event is for everyone even if your district is not utilizing School-based Medicaid reimbursement.
Highlights Include:
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Keynote Speaker: Lean O’Rourke, Founder of O’Rourke Health Policy Strategies and Consultant for Healthy Students, Promising Futures
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Breakout Sessions: Targeted discussions on key topics such as Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC), Medicaid billing beyond the IEP/IFSP, program specific billing training, and more to enhance your program's impact.
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Panel Discussion: A dynamic exchange with experienced professionals for Oklahoma school districts in Medicaid reimbursement and school health.
This essential conference is designed for professionals dedicated to creating efficient and impactful school-based health reimbursement programs. Save the date and stay tuned for more details!
Save the date for a live webinar on December 4, 2024. This session will review when a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) needs to be conducted for students on a 504 Plan, and considerations for suspended students on a 504 Plan.
You may register for one of two times.
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom, Ph. D.
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 OKMTSS Winter Conference: Data and Processes. This event promises two days packed with insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities, focusing on the critical aspects of data and processes in education.
Event Details:
- Dates: January 23-24, 2025
- Pre-Conference: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST
- Main Conference: 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM CST
- Location: OSU Tulsa, OK 74106
Join us at the OSU Tulsa campus to connect with educators and professionals from across the state, share best practices, and enhance your understanding of educational data and processes. Whether you're looking to learn, share, or simply connect, this conference is the perfect opportunity to deepen your professional knowledge and grow your network. Stay tuned for more details on the agenda and speaker lineup. We look forward to seeing you there! Click the link to register for this event: https://linktr.ee/OKSPDG
Register for an SSIP Interest Meeting to learn more about the SSIP Program (2025-2028). Seeking applications for the Fall 2025 school year. Several date and times available in the Spring 2025 to learn more about the program.
For more information regarding the program attend a session or email Alexa Hudak
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is excited to share with you the Behavioral Principles In The School Setting Course. This course is designed specifically for educators and school staff with essential skills and knowledge in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The course covers a range of critical topics, including:
- Measurement: Learn how to accurately measure and track student behaviors to inform effective interventions.
- Assessment: Gain insights into assessing student needs and identifying appropriate behavioral strategies.
- Skill Acquisition: Discover techniques to help students acquire new skills and improve their learning outcomes.
- Behavior Reduction: Understand methods to reduce challenging behaviors and promote positive behavior changes.
This course is now accessible online at OSDEConnect.ok.gov. Please click the link to register now!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Office of Special Education Services will be hosting two, one-day Paraprofessional Conferences in Lawton and Guymon, Oklahoma.
The conference will feature keynote presentations on students with disabilities and mental health, behavior, and instructional strategies. In addition, participants will also hear from our partnering organizations Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and Oklahoma ABLE Tech.
Information about the presenters can be found here.
Attending the conference will allow paraprofessionals to obtain the 6 hours of Professional Development required for the school year.
Additionally, Project 613 funds will reimburse for costs associated with attending the conference. Such costs include Substitutes, Travel, and Lodging (lodging may be reimbursed if over 60 miles).
If you have any additional questions, please contact Abby Johnson or Megan Salisbury.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kellie Carter, BSN, RN. Program Manager, School Health Services.
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
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Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
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Review case studies;
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Analyze transition assessment results; and
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Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
- December 5, 2024 Duncan
- March 13, 2025 McAlester
- January 30, 2025 Duncan
- February 5, 2025 Idabel
- February 20, 2025 Pryor
- March 6, 2025 Woodward
- March 13, 2025 OKC
- April 10, 2025 McAlester
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
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Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
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Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
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Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
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Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- Effective Instructional Practices for Teaching Transition Skills to Students Participating in the OAAP
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 12, 2025 Tulsa
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
Oklahoma ABLE Tech - Vol. 2, Issue 11
Oklahoma ABLE Tech, as part of the Oklahoma State University system, will be closed on the following dates:
- November 27 through November 29, 2024
- December 23, 2024, through January 1, 2025
We appreciate your patience over the next several weeks as we work hard to return calls and emails upon our return to the office!
As the holidays approach, our AT specialist chose to feature respite care AT. Respite AT helps caregivers take breaks while ensuring their loved ones continue to receive the care they need.
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EazyHold Silicone Gripping Aids – EazyHolds are gripping aids made from food-grade silicone. They come in 5 different sizes to fit a variety of utensils.
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Swivel Seat Transfer Cushion – The Swivel Seat rotates 360 degrees and is lightweight and portable. The Swivel Seat can be in many environments, including desk chairs and in the car.
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Adjustable Weighted Spoon and Fork – This spoon and fork set features durable handles that can be adjusted from 2 to 8 ounces. Weighted utensils can help with limited hand control or grasp.
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Dressing Stick – The dressing stick has two vinyl-coated hooks that help with tasks like putting on clothes and pulling zippers. It’s designed to make dressing easier without the need to bend or overextend.
Respite gives primary caregivers a break, so they can rest, travel, or spend time with family and friends. The break can last from a few hours to several weeks. A primary caregiver is someone who takes care of another person every day, like a parent caring for a child or an adult caring for an elderly family member.
Our Respite Kits provide assistive technology (AT) to help people with disabilities or limited mobility do tasks on their own. This makes it easier for caregivers to take breaks because their loved ones need less help. The kits are loaned out for a short time after talking with Oklahoma ABLE Tech staff. The kits focus on three main areas: Sensory, Daily Living, and Safety.
Requirements for Borrowing a Kit:- Anyone who provides care can apply, whether it’s for a family member or a friend.
- Caregivers need to fill out a consultation form, and ABLE Tech staff will schedule a meeting to talk about what they need and teach them how to use the assistive technology.
- Caregivers can borrow the kit for up to 8 weeks.
Learn More About Respite Kit Loans & Complete the Consultation Form
The Device Loan team is preparing for winter break. Please double-check the due dates for any items you have out on loan. Returning these items on time will allow us to prepare our inventory for the new year!
If you have questions regarding your device loan, please contact us at [email protected] or 405-744-8342.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s Device Loan team recently welcomed Oklahoma State University (OSU) National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association (NSSLHA) club members for an interactive meeting. Students participated in a hands-on assistive technology (AT) lab and toured ABLE Tech’s Stillwater office.
The visit gave NSSLHA members valuable insights into how ABLE Tech’s programs help people with disabilities—people they will work with in the future as speech-language pathologists, speech-language pathology assistants, audiologists, and audiology assistants. Attendees explored different AT, like communication devices, adaptive feeding tools, and switch-adapted toys. After the lab, Louise Ruleford, ABLE Tech’s Device Loan Program Specialist, led a tour of the Stillwater Smart-Home Demonstration Site.
Dr. Joshua Hawkins spoke at the Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) in early November, leading two sessions to share support strategies for students with disabilities during transitions.
The first session, “Assistive Technology (AT) and Transition: Considerations and Best Practices,” focused on using AT to help students succeed in school and at work. The second session, “Disability Services in Higher Education: Recommendations for Improved Transition,” shared tips to improve college support for students with disabilities.
Additionally, ABLE Tech hosted a booth at OTI to showcase AT devices and services for parents, students and educators.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech has representatives on the Oklahoma Transition Council, which runs the OTI. For more information about using AT for transition activities like jobs, independent living, or continuing education, contact Bethany Potts.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech hosted Part 3 of the Fall 2024 AT Workshop series virtually on November 14. Amy Woods and Dr. Joshua Hawkins shared tips on adding Assistive Technology (AT) to Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The session offered practical advice on how including AT use in the IEP can help students reach their goals in the classroom. Teachers and service providers from across Oklahoma joined the session.
Sign up for the upcoming Funding Workshop on December 12, where you’ll learn about resources and tips for writing grants to get funding for assistive technology (AT) and Accessible Educational Materials (AEM). You’ll also practice matching students to funding options and writing grants.
Save the Date for the Spring 2025 AT Workshop SeriesSave the date for the upcoming Spring 2025 AT Workshop Series. The dates are set for:
- Part 1: January 16, 2025
- Part 2: February 20, 2025
- Part 3: March 27, 2025
Look for more details in upcoming newsletters, on our social media, or visit the AT Support Team Workshops webpage.
Zahraa contacted one of Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s demonstration partners, United Access, during her search for a new vehicle, and was referred to the ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program. She needed to purchase an affordable wheelchair-accessible van to provide transportation for her daughter to get to appointments and enjoy the outdoors.
Zahraa wrote “Having the wheelchair-accessible van changes my daughter’s and my life. Now I can take her to events, parks, malls, and movies like a typical teenager. I would like to thank ABLE Tech so much, you were our blessing!”
Are you looking for ways to find funding to purchase assistive technology? Reach out to Natalie and her team to find out more about ABLE Tech’s low-interest financial loans.
Do you know about our Device Exchange Program? Device Exchange items are those listed by independent organizations and individuals. The program is meant to connect Oklahomans to one another for a direct exchange.
Listing EquipmentThe Exchange program functions like a free, classified, online marketplace. List your gently-used wheelchairs, modified vehicles, lift chairs, and other devices/supplies for a reasonable price.
To list equipment in the exchange portal, you must first create a secured account in NATADS.
Once you create an account, log in, then click the “Add Classified Item Listing” button at the bottom of the page. Complete the Classified Item Entry form. Make sure to add a detailed description and pictures.
Once you click “Save,” your listing will go to our Device Reutilization Program staff for approval.
Finding EquipmentIf you’re searching for equipment in the portal, you can search by device type or device category (speech, hearing, vehicle modification, mobility, etc.), or use a keyword search for the item you are looking for. For example, say you’re looking for a modified vehicle. Navigate to the Reutilization inventory search and enter “van” in the Search Parameters field.
This will pull up any available matching items. Then, contact the person or organization in the “Listed By” section to ask more questions or schedule the purchase! Check back often, as the Exchange list changes frequently!
P.S. There is currently a 2012 Chrysler Town and Country Conversion Van for sale in the Exchange portal.
Spring Training Opportunities
Subscribe to the SERC Scoop today to stay informed! We share quarterly updates on our website, and subscribers receive newsletters straight to their inbox. The next issue will be published in early December.
Please note, the SERC office will be closed December 23 through January 1. While we’re out, you can visit our website for valuable resources, including updated spring training dates and locations for Crucial Conversations training. Don’t wait—register now for our regional trainings in OKC or Tulsa on the Stakeholder Training page!
DRS Transition Newsletter
The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council’s (ORC) Transition Committee is excited to share the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) Transition Unit newsletter. The newsletter is a helpful resource that is released at the beginning of each month. It features upcoming events, student success stories, grant opportunities, information about transition partners and resources, and introduces key transition professionals.
To subscribe, go to the DRS website and fill out the form. If you have additional questions, please get in touch with Chris Compton at [email protected].
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ORC’s mission is to facilitate consumer education and empowerment, to assure services are of high quality and lead to the employment of individuals with disabilities within Oklahoma. To learn more about ORC, visit their website.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-3503
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 26, 2024 - Internal
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Special Education Services is hoping you can join us for the 2025 Oklahoma Special Education Law Conference. This learning and collaboration opportunity is designed for special education professionals - teachers, service providers, administrators, superintendents, and school attorneys. The programming is intended to provide clear guidance and support for improved outcomes for children with disabilities and their families. Attendees are expected to have formal training, experience, and background in special education in order to apply effectively.
Courtesy of OSDE-SES, registration for this conference is offered at no-cost for special education professionals. Travel and Lodging expenses may be reimbursed through Project 613 Funds.
Additional information about the conference and registration, can be found here.
Questions or concerns regarding the conference should be directed to Abby Johnson - Project Manager, Special Education.
OSDE-SES is pleased to announce it's partnership with the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) in providing support to early-career special education teachers. An early career teacher is defined as having less than 5 years of experience in a special education teacher role. Special education long-term subs may also participate in this program. This program has a registration limit of 200 early career teachers. Directors are encouraged to join the December 9th director call at 3:00 to hear about this program from our partners at CEC. Deadline for registration in this new program is Friday, December 13.
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Supports include a 1-year membership to CEC, including access to CEC Learning Lab, member discounts, reliable resources, and peer support.
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Nine on-demand asynchronous learning modules
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Live check-ins with a content specialist
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High Leverage Practices Book with a 4-session book study
Registration opens soon!
OSDE-SES is pleased to announce the release of the new Oklahoma Autism Handbook. It was created in partnership with the Oklahoma Autism Center and with the input of multiple stakeholders. This office is grateful for the work that went into this resource and extends a huge thank you to the staff at the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This handbook orients the reader to important topics related to educating children with autism and provides current information about autism. Information is intended for use by educators, families, students, and community providers. This handbook was developed to provide guidance regarding identification, interventions, and the provision of special education services for students with autism. It is not intended to be a comprehensive resource on all aspects of autism, since every child with autism is different, and therefore ways of supporting their classroom experience will be highly individualized. This handbook is a guide and is not intended to replace any existing regulation or policy.
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
OAAP
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
**NEW** Project 618, Transition Development Program
For districts that received an allocation on Project 618, budget applications must be submitted by December 1, 2024 or forfeit the allocation.
Districts not submitting a budget application by December 31, 2024 will forfeit their allocation.
Due to training opportunities being added frequently, it is recommended that Districts look at the Project 613 List on the SES Website and Listserv to find the most up to date information. If you see a training that is not listed, it could be one of two things: 1) the training is not sponsored by Project 613 or 2) the training is still being added to the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On.
The most up to date Project 613 list can be found here.
Keep in mind it takes a few days for the trainings to populate in the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On.
Additionally, Project 613 does NOT have a deadline. Applications can be submitted at any time. The only “deadline” associated with Project 613 is to submit all claims (expenditure reports) by June 30, 2025.
For questions related to Project 613, contact Abby Johnson.
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
**UPDATE** Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
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Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.) – TOPIC: Employment Indicators Transition Assessment & School Based Enterprises
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Open Q & A – March 2025
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ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.) – TOPIC: Mobility Management & Transportation Supports in Oklahoma
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Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
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Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
Review of SPED Oct 1st Appeals
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
Manifestations Determination and Suspension of Students on a 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar
Save the date for a live webinar on December 4, 2024. This session will review when a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) needs to be conducted for students on a 504 Plan, and considerations for suspended students on a 504 Plan.
You may register for one of two times.
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom, Ph. D.
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 OKMTSS Winter Conference: Data and Processes. This event promises two days packed with insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities, focusing on the critical aspects of data and processes in education.
Event Details:
- Dates: January 23-24, 2025
- Pre-Conference: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST
- Main Conference: 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM CST
- Location: OSU Tulsa, OK 74106
Join us at the OSU Tulsa campus to connect with educators and professionals from across the state, share best practices, and enhance your understanding of educational data and processes. Whether you're looking to learn, share, or simply connect, this conference is the perfect opportunity to deepen your professional knowledge and grow your network. Stay tuned for more details on the agenda and speaker lineup. We look forward to seeing you there! Click the link to register for this event: https://linktr.ee/OKSPDG
Register for an SSIP Interest Meeting to learn more about the SSIP Program (2025-2028). Seeking applications for the Fall 2025 school year. Several date and times available in the Spring 2025 to learn more about the program.
For more information regarding the program attend a session or email Alexa Hudak
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is excited to share with you the Behavioral Principles In The School Setting Course. This course is designed specifically for educators and school staff with essential skills and knowledge in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). The course covers a range of critical topics, including:
- Measurement: Learn how to accurately measure and track student behaviors to inform effective interventions.
- Assessment: Gain insights into assessing student needs and identifying appropriate behavioral strategies.
- Skill Acquisition: Discover techniques to help students acquire new skills and improve their learning outcomes.
- Behavior Reduction: Understand methods to reduce challenging behaviors and promote positive behavior changes.
This course is now accessible online at OSDEConnect.ok.gov. Please click the link to register now!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Office of Special Education Services will be hosting two, one-day Paraprofessional Conferences in Lawton and Guymon, Oklahoma.
The conference will feature keynote presentations on students with disabilities and mental health, behavior, and instructional strategies. In addition, participants will also hear from our partnering organizations Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and Oklahoma ABLE Tech.
Information about the presenters can be found here.
Attending the conference will allow paraprofessionals to obtain the 6 hours of Professional Development required for the school year.
Additionally, Project 613 funds will reimburse for costs associated with attending the conference. Such costs include Substitutes, Travel, and Lodging (lodging may be reimbursed if over 60 miles).
If you have any additional questions, please contact Abby Johnson or Megan Salisbury.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kellie Carter, BSN, RN. Program Manager, School Health Services.
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
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Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
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Review case studies;
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Analyze transition assessment results; and
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Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
- December 3, 2024 OKC
- December 5, 2024 Duncan
- March 13, 2025 McAlester
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
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Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
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Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
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Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- Effective Instructional Practices for Teaching Transition Skills to Students Participating in the OAAP
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 12, 2025 Tulsa
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 21, 2024 - External
The Transition Assessment & Goal Generator- Middle School (TAGG-MS) Field Test is a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance transition planning for middle school students with disabilities. By participating in this field test, you play a crucial role in shaping research driven solutions that align with the Zarrow Institute's mission of empowering individuals with disabilities.
Together, we can create a brighter future for all students, helping them navigate their transition to adulthood with confidence and skill. Participate in the next step of field testing for the TAGG-Middle School assessment for students with mild-to-moderate disabilities and receive $30 per completed assessment set. Learn more about the field testing on our website.
**NEW** OSPA Annual Conference 2024: Leaders Laying the Groundwork
Registration is now open! Link to register: https://okspa.memberclicks.net/2024-fall-conference
School psychologists are encouraged to register up to five school leaders from their team to attend the conference with them as guests. See flyer for details.
This OSPA Annual Conference will focus on building the knowledge and capacity of state and local leaders to support implementation of intensive intervention for students with severe and persistent learning and/or behavioral needs by using multi-tiered systems of support and the data-based individualization (DBI) process as the framework for data-driven decisions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please email [email protected] with any registration questions.
Thank you!
Professionals in the field of deaf education will come together, engage in dynamic workshops, connect with colleagues, and identify pathways to empowering students through access, language, and literacy. Attendees will include early interventionists, early childhood specialists, teachers of the deaf and educational interpreters. The Oklahoma Educational Interpreter Training Institute (OEITI) pre-conference is open only to educational interpreters who have not yet achieved QAST level IV or EIPA 4.0 or higher. The Deaf Education Conference tracks are open to all Teachers of the Deaf, Early Intervention/Early Childhood Specialists, and Educational Interpreters.
EDPlan Health is an electronic web-based health service management and documentation solution tailored to the needs of school health staff (e.g., RNs, LPNs, Health Aides, etc.). The system provides districts with a data platform that is efficient, comprehensive, and scalable allowing users to enter and view pertinent student health information and encounters. The short video HERE highlights the features and benefits of EDPlan Health.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact PCG at [email protected] or [email protected]
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 19, 2024 - Internal
OSDE-SES is pleased to announce the release of the new Oklahoma Autism Handbook. It was created in partnership with the Oklahoma Autism Center and with the input of multiple stakeholders. This office is grateful for the work that went into this resource and extends a huge thank you to the staff at the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This handbook orients the reader to important topics related to educating children with autism and provides current information about autism. Information is intended for use by educators, families, students, and community providers. This handbook was developed to provide guidance regarding identification, interventions, and the provision of special education services for students with autism. It is not intended to be a comprehensive resource on all aspects of autism, since every child with autism is different, and therefore ways of supporting their classroom experience will be highly individualized. This handbook is a guide and is not intended to replace any existing regulation or policy.
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
OAAP
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
Public Notice and Comment Period for the 2024-2025 1.0 Percent Waiver Extension Request Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §200.6(c)(4) is now open.
OSDE is requesting that Special Education Directors submit a public comment regarding the plan, timeline, and progress we have made implementing the plan described in the waiver. The US Department of Education considers waivers with public comments to have met the public interest threshold defined in section 8401(d)(2)(B) of ESEA. Public comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024.
**NEW** FY25 Project 613 Training Opportunities
Due to training opportunities being added frequently, it is recommended that Districts look at the Project 613 List on the SES Website and Listserv to find the most up to date information. If you see a training that is not listed, it could be one of two things: 1) the training is not sponsored by Project 613 or 2) the training is still being added to the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On.
The most up to date Project 613 list can be found here.
Keep in mind it takes a few days for the trainings to populate in the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On.
Additionally, Project 613 does NOT have a deadline. Applications can be submitted at any time. The only “deadline” associated with Project 613 is to submit all claims (expenditure reports) by June 30, 2025.
For questions related to Project 613, contact Abby Johnson.
To ensure LEAs comply with the excess costs requirement, Title 34 CFR 300.16 requires sub-recipients of IDEA, Part B funds to demonstrate that the agency is spending at least a minimum average amount on the education of elementary school or secondary school students with disabilities before it uses IDEA-B funds on the excess cost of providing special education services.
All districts should verify their excess cost report for compliance with meeting excess cost. This report can be located on the OCAS website under district reports. Should any FY24 data need to be updated, please contact:
- Katherine Black, (405)522-0275
- Kelly Freeman, (405)521-2349
OCAS can unlock your data at the superintendent’s request, and you must state what updates need to be made.
REMINDER: no data changes can be made after November 1st. If districts do not meet excess cost their district could incur a penalty .
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
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ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
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ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
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Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
Review of SPED Oct 1st Appeals
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
Community Of Practice
The topic for this month’s Community of Practice is Intervention Identification. Dr. Kim Hastings (EDPS MTSS Instructional Specialist, School Psychologist) will be the presenter and discuss this topic in-depth at 3:00p.m. on November 20, 2024. Participants can expect to learn more about reviewing data and how understand different methods of data analysis across student, classroom, school, and district levels. If you are interested in learning more about MTSS please feel free to attend. This event will follow the corresponding module in the SPDG MTSS Course but is open to the public. To register for this event please view the flyer Community Of Practice Registration
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 OKMTSS Winter Conference: Data and Processes. This event promises two days packed with insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities, focusing on the critical aspects of data and processes in education.
Event Details:
- Dates: January 23-24, 2025
- Pre-Conference: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM CST
- Main Conference: 7:45 AM - 5:00 PM CST
- Location: OSU Tulsa, OK 74106
Join us at the OSU Tulsa campus to connect with educators and professionals from across the state, share best practices, and enhance your understanding of educational data and processes. Whether you're looking to learn, share, or simply connect, this conference is the perfect opportunity to deepen your professional knowledge and grow your network. Stay tuned for more details on the agenda and speaker lineup. We look forward to seeing you there! Click the link to register for this event: https://linktr.ee/OKSPDG
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Office of Special Education Services will be hosting two, one-day Paraprofessional Conferences in Lawton and Guymon, Oklahoma.
The conference will feature keynote presentations on students with disabilities and mental health, behavior, and instructional strategies. In addition, participants will also hear from our partnering organizations Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and Oklahoma ABLE Tech.
· January 30, 2025 – Lawton
· February 6, 2025 – Guymon
Information about the presenters can be found here.
Attending the conference will allow paraprofessionals to obtain the 6 hours of Professional Development required for the school year.
Additionally, Project 613 funds will reimburse for costs associated with attending the conference. Such costs include: Substitutes, Travel, and Lodging (lodging may be reimbursed if over 60 miles).
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to Abby Johnson or Megan Salisbury.
Save the date for a live webinar on December 4, 2024. This session will review when a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) needs to be conducted for students on a 504 Plan, and considerations for suspended students on a 504 Plan.
You may register for one of two times.
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom, Ph. D.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kellie Carter, BSN, RN. Program Manager, School Health Services.
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
-
Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
-
Review case studies;
-
Analyze transition assessment results; and
-
Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
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Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
-
Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
-
Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
-
Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 14, 2024 - External
All applications must be submitted through the OSDE Grant Management System (GMS).
Non-district applicants must complete a Grants Management User Access Form and email the completed form to Donna Tye-Lewis by 12/20/24 to gain access to the Grants Management System for this online application process.
You will receive an email confirming receipt of your Grants Management User Access Form within 3 business days of your submission. It will then take up to 14 business days to receive your GMS User Access.
ALL (district and non-district) applicants must email a letter of intent to apply to Donna Tye-Lewis. You will receive an email confirming receipt of your letter of intent to apply and access to the applications will be added to your GMS account within 5 business days of your submission.
Important Dates
- Application opens: November 6, 2024
- Last Day to submit Grant Management User Access Form December 20, 2024 by 4:00 p.m.
- Applications due: January 9, 2025, by 3:00pm
- Grantees announced: February 28, 2025
- Grant Project Begins: July 1, 2025
Please direct all questions about OP2P grant applications to Donna Tye-Lewis.
The Transition Assessment & Goal Generator- Middle School (TAGG-MS) Field Test is a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance transition planning for middle school students with disabilities. By participating in this field test, you play a crucial role in shaping research driven solutions that align with the Zarrow Institute's mission of empowering individuals with disabilities.
Together, we can create a brighter future for all students, helping them navigate their transition to adulthood with confidence and skill. Participate in the next step of field testing for the TAGG-Middle School assessment for students with mild-to-moderate disabilities and receive $30 per completed assessment set. Learn more about the field testing on our website.
**NEW** EDPlan Health
EDPlan Health is an electronic web-based health service management and documentation solution tailored to the needs of school health staff (e.g., RNs, LPNs, Health Aides, etc.). The system provides districts with a data platform that is efficient, comprehensive, and scalable allowing users to enter and view pertinent student health information and encounters. The short video HERE highlights the features and benefits of EDPlan Health.
All districts are required to attend trainings based on the level of support assigned. The trainings will be provided November 19, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Select the link for the appropriate training session for the districts level of support below.
If the district is assigned DMR Level I or II support you are required to attend this DMR training November 19, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Select the following link to register and attend.
If the district is assigned DMR Level III or IV support you are required to attend this DMR training on November 19, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Select the following link to register and attend.
Professionals in the field of deaf education will come together, engage in dynamic workshops, connect with colleagues, and identify pathways to empowering students through access, language, and literacy. Attendees will include early interventionists, early childhood specialists, teachers of the deaf and educational interpreters. The Oklahoma Educational Interpreter Training Institute (OEITI) pre-conference is open only to educational interpreters who have not yet achieved QAST level IV or EIPA 4.0 or higher. The Deaf Education Conference tracks are open to all Teachers of the Deaf, Early Intervention/Early Childhood Specialists, and Educational Interpreters.
Registration is now open! Link to register: https://okspa.memberclicks.net/2024-fall-conference
School psychologists are encouraged to register up to five school leaders from their team to attend the conference with them as guests. See flyer for details.
This OSPA Annual Conference will focus on building the knowledge and capacity of state and local leaders to support implementation of intensive intervention for students with severe and persistent learning and/or behavioral needs by using multi-tiered systems of support and the data-based individualization (DBI) process as the framework for data-driven decisions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please email [email protected] with any registration questions. Thank you!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact PCG at [email protected] or [email protected]
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
Communication Matrix.
This is a 6-hour workshop that will be split into 3, 2-hour virtual (zoom) meetings. We will review the Communication Matrix Profile, framework administration and implications for intervention based on results.
Additional topics will include: data collection, preference survey, sample report, yes/no hierarchy breakdown, considerations when determining symbol sets, implementation guide, alternative color coding of results, overview of website.
Free Professional Development on November 19, 2024 from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM.
Click for more information, and please view the flyer Communication Matrix, Implementation Strategies for those with intensive/multiple communication needs.
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 12, 2024 - Internal
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
OAAP
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
Public Notice and Comment Period for the 2024-2025 1.0 Percent Waiver Extension Request Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §200.6(c)(4) is now open.
OSDE is requesting that Special Education Directors submit a public comment regarding the plan, timeline, and progress we have made implementing the plan described in the waiver. The US Department of Education considers waivers with public comments to have met the public interest threshold defined in section 8401(d)(2)(B) of ESEA. Public comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024.
**NEW** FY25 Project 613 Training Opportunities
The following training opportunities will be added to the Project 613 List:
- 2025 Oklahoma Special Education Law Conference
- MTSS Winter Conference
- Oklahoma School SLP Conference
- Oklahoma School Psychological Association (OSPA) Conference
Due to training opportunities being added frequently, it is recommended that Districts look at the Project 613 List on the SES Website and Listserv to find the most up to date information. If you see a training that is not listed, it could be one of two things: 1) the training is not sponsored by Project 613 or 2) the training is still being added to the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On.
Keep in mind it takes a few days for the trainings to populate in the dropdown menu in Grants Management System (GMS) / Single Sign On. For questions related to Project 613, contact Abby Johnson.
To ensure LEAs comply with the excess costs requirement, Title 34 CFR 300.16 requires sub-recipients of IDEA, Part B funds to demonstrate that the agency is spending at least a minimum average amount on the education of elementary school or secondary school students with disabilities before it uses IDEA-B funds on the excess cost of providing special education services.
All districts should verify their excess cost report for compliance with meeting excess cost. This report can be located on the OCAS website under district reports. Should any FY24 data need to be updated, please contact:
- Katherine Black, (405)522-0275
- Kelly Freeman, (405)521-2349
OCAS can unlock your data at the superintendent’s request, and you must state what updates need to be made.
REMINDER: no data changes can be made after November 1st. If districts do not meet excess cost their district could incur a penalty .
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
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ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
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ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
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Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
Draft Data District Profiles (DDPs)
A copy of the annual District Data Profile (DDP) will be sent to SPED Directors via email today. Please know this draft is not the final DDP. It includes your district's performance on various federal compliance and performance indicators, comparing your results to state targets. Please note that some data are marked as "TBD" and will be included in the final version, which will be sent with the full data packet on 11/15.
Please review the draft DDP carefully for accuracy. If you identify any errors, please contact us by November 13. Changes will only be made to correct inaccuracies in the data.
Please reach out to a member of the data team if any questions you may have:
Megan Salisbury or 405-521-3351
Tanis Thompson or 405-521-4871
Travis Thompson or 405-522-5203
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
**NEW** Community Of Practice
The topic for this month’s Community of Practice is Intervention Identification. Dr. Kim Hastings (EDPS MTSS Instructional Specialist, School Psychologist) will be the presenter and discuss this topic in-depth at 3:00p.m. on November 20, 2024. Participants can expect to learn more about reviewing data and how understand different methods of data analysis across student, classroom, school, and district levels. If you are interested in learning more about MTSS please feel free to attend. This event will follow the corresponding module in the SPDG MTSS Course but is open to the public. To register for this event please view the flyer Community Of Practice Registration
Mark your calendars for January 23-24, 2025!
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2025 OKMTSS Winter Conference: Data and Processes. This event promises two days packed with insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities, focusing on the critical aspects of data and processes in education.
Event Details:
- Dates: January 23-24, 2025
- Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: OSU Tulsa
Join us at the OSU Tulsa campus to connect with educators and professionals from across the state, share best practices, and enhance your understanding of educational data and processes. Whether you're looking to learn, share, or simply connect, this conference is the perfect opportunity to deepen your professional knowledge and grow your network.
Stay tuned for more details on the agenda and speaker lineup. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education - Office of Special Education Services will be hosting two, one-day Paraprofessional Conferences in Lawton and Guymon, Oklahoma.
The conference will feature keynote presentations on students with disabilities and mental health, behavior, and instructional strategies. In addition, participants will also hear from our partnering organizations Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and Oklahoma ABLE Tech.
· January 30, 2025 – Lawton
· February 6, 2025 – Guymon
Information about the presenters can be found here.
Attending the conference will allow paraprofessionals to obtain the 6 hours of Professional Development required for the school year.
Additionally, Project 613 funds will reimburse for costs associated with attending the conference. Such costs include: Substitutes, Travel, and Lodging (lodging may be reimbursed if over 60 miles).
If you have any additional questions, please reach out to Abby Johnson or Megan Salisbury.
Save the date for a live webinar on December 4, 2024. This session will review when a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) needs to be conducted for students on a 504 Plan, and considerations for suspended students on a 504 Plan.
You may register for one of two times.
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom, Ph. D.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kellie Carter, BSN, RN. Program Manager, School Health Services.
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
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Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
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Review case studies;
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Analyze transition assessment results; and
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Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
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Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
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Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
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Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
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Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
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Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
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Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14,2024; January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
Date and location
- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tulsa
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 7, 2024 - External
Don’t miss out on the 19th Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) to be held on November 6-7, 2024 at the Embassy Suites Oklahoma City - Northwest! Our state’s annual, long-standing transition conference focuses on presenting best practices in Secondary Transition from across Oklahoma and beyond! This is important statewide event allows professionals, families, youth, and advocates to come together to share knowledge and strategies for improving the transition process and life outcomes for young people with disabilities. This year’s conference will introduce a Youth track (with scholarships available) and will cover a variety of topics critical to successful transitions, including:
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Opportunity Gaps and Barriers
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Competitive Integrated Employment
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Family and Youth Engagement
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Interagency Collaboration and Transition Planning
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Post-Secondary Education
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Independent Living.
OTI 2024 is an approved activity under 613 funds. The Oklahoma Transition Council looks forward to seeing everyone there! Register here.
***Please share the OTC Family (and Youth) Scholarship application with families and youth!!!
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson at and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
**NEW** OSPA Annual Conference 2024: Leaders Laying the Groundwork
Registration is now open! Link to register: https://okspa.memberclicks.net/2024-fall-conference
School psychologists are encouraged to register up to five school leaders from their team to attend the conference with them as guests. See flyer for details.
This OSPA Annual Conference will focus on building the knowledge and capacity of state and local leaders to support implementation of intensive intervention for students with severe and persistent learning and/or behavioral needs by using multi-tiered systems of support and the data-based individualization (DBI) process as the framework for data-driven decisions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please email [email protected] with any registration questions. Thank you!
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact PCG at [email protected] or [email protected]
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
Communication Matrix.
This is a 6-hour workshop that will be split into 3, 2-hour virtual (zoom) meetings. We will review the Communication Matrix Profile, framework administration and implications for intervention based on results.
Additional topics will include: data collection, preference survey, sample report, yes/no hierarchy breakdown, considerations when determining symbol sets, implementation guide, alternative color coding of results, overview of website.
Free Professional Development on November 12 and November 19, 2024 from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM.
Click for more information, and please view the flyer Communication Matrix, Implementation Strategies for those with intensive/multiple communication needs.
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - November 5, 2024 - Internal
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
**UPDATE** OAAP
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
Public Notice and Comment Period for the 2024-2025 1.0 Percent Waiver Extension Request Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §200.6(c)(4) is now open.
OSDE is requesting that Special Education Directors submit a public comment regarding the plan, timeline, and progress we have made implementing the plan described in the waiver. The US Department of Education considers waivers with public comments to have met the public interest threshold defined in section 8401(d)(2)(B) of ESEA. Public comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024.
FY25 Project 613 List
OSDE sponsored events, professional development, and conferences are beneficial to special education teachers and staff. Information about upcoming events can be found on the Project 613 list.
Additional information or questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson.
To ensure LEAs comply with the excess costs requirement, Title 34 CFR 300.16 requires sub-recipients of IDEA, Part B funds to demonstrate that the agency is spending at least a minimum average amount on the education of elementary school or secondary school students with disabilities before it uses IDEA-B funds on the excess cost of providing special education services.
All districts should verify their excess cost report for compliance with meeting excess cost. This report can be located on the OCAS website under district reports. Should any FY24 data need to be updated, please contact:
- Katherine Black, (405)522-0275
- Kelly Freeman, (405)521-2349
OCAS can unlock your data at the superintendent’s request, and you must state what updates need to be made.
REMINDER: no data changes can be made after November 1st. If districts do not meet excess cost their district could incur a penalty .
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
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ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
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ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
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Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
**NEW** Draft Data District Profiles (DDPs)
A copy of the annual District Data Profile (DDP) will be sent to SPED Directors via email today. Please know this draft is not the final DDP. It includes your district's performance on various federal compliance and performance indicators, comparing your results to state targets. Please note that some data are marked as "TBD" and will be included in the final version, which will be sent with the full data packet on 11/15.
Please review the draft DDP carefully for accuracy. If you identify any errors, please contact us by November 13. Changes will only be made to correct inaccuracies in the data.
Please reach out to a member of the data team it any questions you may have:
Megan Salisbury or 405-521-3351
Tanis Thompson or 405-521-4871
Travis Thompson or 405-522-5203
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
**NEW** Listen & Learn Webinar: School-Based Medicaid Program
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can reimburse schools for services they are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding, such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER), and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving. These meetings will happen on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Please click on this registration links to register for the Listen & Learn Webinar:
Each webinar session will include time to address district questions. If you think others in your district would benefit from hearing about these programs, please pass along this training notice.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Kellie Carter, BSN, RN. Program Manager, School Health Services.
You've been invited to join us November 8, 2024 from 9:00 AM- 10:30 AM for a virtual training to discuss the data packet and determination your district will receive from OSDE-SES in November.
We look forward to having you attend the event.
Click here to join the Teams meeting:
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
Save the Date!
January 23, 2025 (Pre-Conference) and January 24, 2025 at OSU Tulsa.
This conference is intended for:
- District and Site Administrators
- Contracted and employed evaluators
- Teachers that are seeking to use data more intentionally
Registration will be posted in November. For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
The topic for this month’s Community of Practice is Auditing and Organizing MTSS Resources. Professional school psychologist Stephanie Beasley will be the presenter and discuss this topic in-depth at 3:00p.m. on October 30, 2024. Participants can expect to learn more about matching available resources to a student needs, how to process for screening at elementary and secondary, and the purpose of screening. If you are interested in learning more about MTSS please feel free to attend. This event will follow the corresponding module in the SPDG MTSS Course but is open to the public. To register for this event please view the flyer Community Of Practice Registration .
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
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Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
-
Review case studies;
-
Analyze transition assessment results; and
-
Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
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Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
-
Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
-
Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
-
Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14,2024; January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
-
On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
Choose a date and location
- Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM: McAlester
- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tulsa
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater
- January 30, 2025: Lawton
- February 6, 2025: Guymon
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
Oklahoma ABLE Tech - Vol. 2, Issue 10
November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. The goal of palliative care is to alleviate symptoms and provide the best possible quality of life for patients.
This new roadmap resource gives you a step-by-step plan to get your organization ready for compliance with the new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Title II digital accessibility requirements. But these are just our recommendations. The new rule does not provide instructions on how to meet the requirements, only that you must. Feel free to change things to fit your situation and organizational needs. Visit the Digital Accessibility Roadmap page to learn more about the new regulations and how to implement the guidelines in your organization.
For more information about creating accessible digital content, visit our Digital Accessibility Program page, or contact us at [email protected].
On October 10, we hosted an incredible group for Part 2 of our Assistive Technology (AT) workshop series. Both in-person and virtual participants joined us for the morning session, with the virtual attendees joining via Zoom, followed by an afternoon of hands-on AT exploration for those attending in person.
During the workshop, attendees achieved three key learning objectives:
*subject to funding availability
We have additional funding opportunities to help people acquire DME thanks to grant funds through several collaborations.
Area Agencies on Aging
Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma (KEDDO), Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG), and Central Oklahoma Economic Development District (COEDD) AAAs have partnered with ABLE Tech to assist with using Masonic Grant funds for residents who reside in their respective counties. Through this partnership, ABLE Tech’s Device Reutilization Program is assisting qualified recipients in the purchase of needed AT and DME.
To qualify for the Masonic Grant funds, individuals must live in one of these specific counties, be 55 years of age or older, be of low to moderate income, and have a need for AT and DME to maintain an independent lifestyle. Once the individuals no longer need the purchased equipment, it is intended for those items to be donated back to the Device Reutilization Program for use by another individual who needs such items.
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COEDD – Hughes, Lincoln, Okfuskee, Pawnee, Payne, Pottawatomie, and Seminole Counties
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INCOG – Tulsa, Creek, and Osage Counties
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KEDDO – Choctaw, Haskell, Latimer, LeFLore, McCuratin, Pittsburg, and Pushmataha Counties
OkAT + Oklahoma City Community Foundation Funding
The Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation (OkAT) received a $20,000 grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation (OCCF) and its Access to Health Care Community grant program in March 2024. The grant has been used to assist in funding the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Access project. In partnership with the Oklahoma ABLE Tech Device Reutilization Program, this project helps serve individuals within Oklahoma, Cleveland, and Canadian Counties who need DME. This project provides equipment that promotes independence and ensures safety.
Funds are currently available in all collaborations!
Check out these additional funding opportunities to see if you qualify to receive DME through these grants! To learn more about the grant funds, please contact the ABLE Tech Device Reutilization Office at 405-967-6010 or email [email protected].
The Oklahoma Caregiver Coalition is set to host the Oklahoma Family Caregiver Conference on November 7, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Conference sessions will focus on respite, ways to recharge, stress management, and support across the lifespan. You can attend at any of the various locations: Tulsa, OKC, Ardmore, McAlester, Enid, and online. Learn more about the conference and register on OKCares website.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech works closely with organizations across the state who share our mission to enhance the lives of all Oklahomans by offering assistive technology (AT) devices and services, financing opportunities, digital accessibility services, advocacy, and education. Representatives from our Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) partner organizations and ABLE Tech staff met virtually for our annual fall meeting.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech extends sincere gratitude to all our MOA partners for the invaluable services they offer to Oklahomans statewide. For more details about our partners and the services they provide, visit ABLE Tech’s Core Program Partnerships webpage.
Connie of Broken Arrow had hearing loss and used Oklahoma ABLE Tech’s Financial Loan Program to purchase hearing aids.
Connie wrote “[My hearing aids] has opened a world of difference, I did not know how much I was missing. I can join conversations now. I plan to keep working and see more of my family and friends… these new hearing aids have made such a difference for me.”
Do you need help purchasing assistive technology? Reach out to Natalie and her team to find out more about the Financial Loan Program and if you qualify.
Discipline Guidance
As part of SERC’s mission to resolve and prevent disputes as early as possible, we receive many calls from both schools and parents about a variety of needs. One issue stands out among the rest—behavior and discipline! Now that we’re past the first quarter of the school year, it’s a great time to review the latest discipline guidelines from the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS). Read the article from the U.S. Department of Education and check out four resources to help support students with disabilities and prevent discriminatory discipline under Section 504 or IDEA. As always, feel free to reach out to SERC for support, guidance, or any services we offer!
Register Now for the 2024 Oklahoma Transition Institute!
The Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council invites you to the 2024 Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI). OTI is set for November 6 and 7 in Oklahoma City at the Embassy Suites on NW Expressway.
This year’s theme is Navigating New Horizons: A Journey of Innovation and Impact. For more information, visit the online agenda to see the presentation details and presenter bios. The registration link will be available until November 5, so please register as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, you can email us at [email protected] for more information.
ORC’s mission is to facilitate consumer education and empowerment, to assure services are of high quality and lead to the employment of individuals with disabilities within Oklahoma. To learn more about ORC, visit their website.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-3503
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October 31, 2024 - External
Don’t miss out on the 19th Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) to be held on November 6-7, 2024 at the Embassy Suites Oklahoma City - Northwest! Our state’s annual, long-standing transition conference focuses on presenting best practices in Secondary Transition from across Oklahoma and beyond! This is important statewide event allows professionals, families, youth, and advocates to come together to share knowledge and strategies for improving the transition process and life outcomes for young people with disabilities. This year’s conference will introduce a Youth track (with scholarships available) and will cover a variety of topics critical to successful transitions, including:
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Opportunity Gaps and Barriers
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Competitive Integrated Employment
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Family and Youth Engagement
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Interagency Collaboration and Transition Planning
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Post-Secondary Education
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Independent Living.
OTI 2024 is an approved activity under 613 funds. The Oklahoma Transition Council looks forward to seeing everyone there! Register here.
***Please share the OTC Family (and Youth) Scholarship application with families and youth!!!
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson at and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
Communication Matrix.
This is a 6-hour workshop that will be split into 3, 2-hour virtual (zoom) meetings. We will review the Communication Matrix Profile, framework administration and implications for intervention based on results.
Additional topics will include: data collection, preference survey, sample report, yes/no hierarchy breakdown, considerations when determining symbol sets, implementation guide, alternative color coding of results, overview of website.
Free Professional Development on November 5, November 12, and November 19, 2024 from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM.
Click for more information, and please view the flyer Communication Matrix, Implementation Strategies for those with intensive/multiple communication needs.
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October, 29. 2024 - Internal
The Oklahoma General Supervision System (GSS) consists of eight components focused on improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Please review the updated GSS manual at your convenience.
Due to the changes with the Strong Readers Act, the Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Handbook has been updated to best reflect these changes. Please see the updated handbook and the supportive chart that indicates the change locations.
For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
You can click on caseload/class size, and workload link, and find information for the 2024-2025 school year.
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
**NEW** Public Notice and Comment Period for OAAP Waiver
Public Notice and Comment Period for the 2024-2025 1.0 Percent Waiver Extension Request Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §200.6(c)(4) is now open.
OSDE is requesting that Special Education Directors submit a public comment regarding the plan, timeline, and progress we have made implementing the plan described in the waiver. The US Department of Education considers waivers with public comments to have met the public interest threshold defined in section 8401(d)(2)(B) of ESEA. Public comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 22, 2024.
**NEW** FY25 Project 613 List
OSDE sponsored events, professional development, and conferences are beneficial to special education teachers and staff. Information about upcoming events can be found on the Project 613 list.
Additional information or questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson.
To ensure LEAs comply with the excess costs requirement, Title 34 CFR 300.16 requires sub-recipients of IDEA, Part B funds to demonstrate that the agency is spending at least a minimum average amount on the education of elementary school or secondary school students with disabilities before it uses IDEA-B funds on the excess cost of providing special education services.
All districts should verify their excess cost report for compliance with meeting excess cost. This report can be located on the OCAS website under district reports. Should any FY24 data need to be updated, please contact:
- Katherine Black, (405)522-0275
- Kelly Freeman, (405)521-2349
OCAS can unlock your data at the superintendent’s request, and you must state what updates need to be made.
REMINDER: no data changes can be made after November 1st. If districts do not meet excess cost their district could incur a penalty .
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM - 4:00PM
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ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
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ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
-
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ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
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Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
-
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
**UPDATE** on Review of SPED Oct 1st Appeals
The State Department is actively reviewing your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report appeals. Please be aware that some of your appeals have already been cleared or will clear soon as updates are processed in EDPlan and/or the WAVE.
We encourage you to continue monitoring your SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report closely, especially in cases where missing student data may have been due to updates in EDPlan and the WAVE. Please know that if the data is certified before the updates can come through to the SPED Oct 1st table, the data will be finalized without those updates. If you are waiting on updates, please wait for them to show up before certifying.
Please note that certain appeals, particularly those involving out-of-state records, require manual entry and will take longer to complete.
Once your appeal has been reviewed, you will receive an email notification with an update on its status.
Reminder: Certification is on 10/31
**NEW** November Data Packet Virtual Training
You've been invited to join us November 8, 2024 from 9:00 AM- 10:30 AM for a virtual training to discuss the data packet and determination your district will receive from OSDE-SES in November.
We look forward to having you attend the event.
Click here to join the Teams meeting:
Questions can be directed to Kristen Coleman.
Save the Date!
January 23, 2025 (Pre-Conference) and January 24, 2025 at OSU Tulsa.
This conference is intended for:
- District and Site Administrators
- Contracted and employed evaluators
- Teachers that are seeking to use data more intentionally
Registration will be posted in November. For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak.
The topic for this month’s Community of Practice is Auditing and Organizing MTSS Resources. Professional school psychologist Stephanie Beasley will be the presenter and discuss this topic in-depth at 3:00p.m. on October 30, 2024. Participants can expect to learn more about matching available resources to a student needs, how to process for screening at elementary and secondary, and the purpose of screening. If you are interested in learning more about MTSS please feel free to attend. This event will follow the corresponding module in the SPDG MTSS Course but is open to the public. To register for this event please view the flyer Community Of Practice Registration .
These trainings will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide.
Training is approved by Project 613
Participants will:
-
Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
-
Review case studies;
-
Analyze transition assessment results; and
-
Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic.
Training is approved by Project 613
Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
-
Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
-
Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
-
Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Registration:
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14,2024; January 9, 2025; March 6,2025 and May 8, 2025, from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
-
On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
Choose a date and location
- Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM: McAlester
- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tulsa
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater
- January 30, 2025: Lawton
- February 6, 2025: Guymon
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October 24, 2024 - External
Just click on the link, October EDPlan Updates and you can find information about:
-
Review of Existing Data
-
New Early Childhood Transition Tile
-
504 Review of Existing Data
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
Communication Matrix.
This is a 6-hour workshop that will be split into 3, 2-hour virtual (zoom) meetings. We will review the Communication Matrix Profile, framework administration and implications for intervention based on results.
Additional topics will include: data collection, preference survey, sample report, yes/no hierarchy breakdown, considerations when determining symbol sets, implementation guide, alternative color coding of results, overview of website.
Free Professional Development on November 5, November 12, and November 19, 2024 from 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM.
Click for more information, and please view the flyer Communication Matrix, Implementation Strategies for those with intensive/multiple communication needs.
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October, 22. 2024 - Internal
You can find caseload/class size, and workload information for the 2024-2025 school year here: https://sde.ok.gov/caseload-class-size
Please remember you need to select one: caseload/ class size or workload for the district. Remember caseload/class size or workload should be monitored and requests for exception filed with our office when a teacher is over.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health’s Immunization Service Program has launched a new online portal for parents and guardians to submit immunization exemption requests for children in school, child care facilities and Head Start programs. This new process will simplify and accelerate the entire submission and approval process for parents/guardians. More information on immunization exemptions and a link to the new submission portal can be found online by scrolling to and selecting the Vaccination Exemption Information for Parents drop-down section.
**NEW** Public Notice and Comment Period for OAAP Waiver:
Public Notice and Comment Period for the 2024-2025 1.0 Percent Waiver Extension Request Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §200.6(c)(4) is now open.
OSDE is requesting that Special Education Directors submit a public comment regarding the plan, timeline, and progress we have made implementing the plan described in the waiver. Unfortunately, the data is not available at this time. We will post the data as soon as we receive it. The US Department of Education considers waivers with public comments to have met the public interest threshold defined in section 8401(d)(2)(B) of ESEA. Public comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024.
**NEW** FY25 Project 613 List
The FY25 Project 613 List has been updated with new training opportunities.
To ensure LEAs comply with the excess costs requirement, Title 34 CFR 300.16 requires sub-recipients of IDEA, Part B funds to demonstrate that the agency is spending at least a minimum average amount on the education of elementary school or secondary school students with disabilities before it uses IDEA-B funds on the excess cost of providing special education services.
All districts should verify their excess cost report for compliance with meeting excess cost. This report can be located on the OCAS website under district reports. Should any FY24 data need to be updated, please contact:
- Katherine Black, (405)522-0275
- Kelly Freeman, (405)521-2349
OCAS can unlock your data at the superintendent’s request, and you must state what updates need to be made.
REMINDER: no data changes can be made after November 1st. If districts do not meet excess cost their district could incur a penalty .
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
All districts receive an allocation of $6.00 per child for the new fiscal year based on their previous Oct 1 child count, with a minimum allocation of $500.00. Districts are informed they must budget those funds by December 31st or forfeit their allocation. All forfeited funds will then be reallocated to those districts that have completed their budget by the set deadline. Those districts receiving an increase to their allocation in the spring semester must complete a budget amendment to budget those extra funds. For questions, contact your finance specialist.
**NEW** Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required, just click the link to join.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM -4:00PM
-
Open Q & A – October 24, 2024 (4th Thurs.)
-
ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
-
ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
**NEW** Important Child Count Reminders
Resolve Data Issues in EDPlan
-
Clear any duplicate student records, IDs, or STN conflicts in EDPlan to ensure they populate on the child count report.
-
Correct errors listed in the error report of your child count report in EDPlan.
Checking the Wave and Consolidated Report
Verify Wave Report
-
Review the Special Education table in the October 1 Consolidated Report in the Wave to ensure that all student records match between EDPlan and the Wave.
Fix Wave-EDPlan Conflicts
-
Ensure that you Find Missing Students (FMS) table is clear of any students. Check for Wave-EDPlan conflicts (e.g., mismatched site or grade) and resolve them either in EDPlan or the Wave. Any uncorrected records on the FMS table will not be included in your child count totals.
Certification and Appeals
Appeals Process
-
If any students are missing or have unresolved conflicts, use the link Click here for the Special Ed Appeal Form to submit an appeal for missing students. The deadline to file an appeal is 10/25.
Certification Deadline
-
Certification is done in the WAVE in the Oct 1st Consolidated Report. Ensure all site reports are confirmed as accurate by clicking the “confirm” button, then click the “certify” button after each site has been confirmed to certify the data.
-
Certify your data by the October 31st deadline for timely submission.
We have identified an issue where some STNs may be missing from EDPlan. If your district has encountered any missing STNs, please reach out to Maria Carrasco or Megan Salisbury by calling (405) 521-3351 as soon as possible so they can be added back into the system.
Please be aware that any student with a missing STN will cause an error in your Child Count report. Students who have been included in your SPED Oct 1st report may have been removed if their record is missing the STN. Any students with a missing STN will not be included in your report until the STNs are corrected.
Once the STN issue is resolved, it may take a few days for the student data to appear in the October 1st Consolidated Report.
If a student is missing from the SPED October 1 Consolidated Report, districts may appeal to include them. The appeals window will open on October 15 and all appeals must be submitted by EOD on October 25.
Key Considerations Before Appeal:
-
Verify if there are errors in the student’s record or Wave enrollment status and correct them. If resolved, there's no need for an appeal.
-
Check your child count error report in EDPlan. If there are errors showing, correct them here before filing an appeal.
-
Ensure the student is enrolled in the district, had an active IEP and eligibility on or before October 1.
-
Students not enrolled in the district by October 1, or those without finalized IEPs, cannot be appealed.
Steps to Submit an Appeal:
-
Read the page carefully: If the student’s record passes all checks outlined on the page, complete the form. The required information includes: All STNs of students being appealed (multiples STNs can be entered into the same field separated with a comma), answer out of state transfer question (if yes, provide STNs), District Name, District ID (County + District Code), School Site Name, the name of person submitting, email of person submitting, and phone number to be reached.
-
Correct Errors: The OSDE-SES will review for errors. If any exist, the appeal will be dismissed until the district fixes them.
For students moving in from out-of-state, additional documentation is required to verify eligibility and IEP status. Students must be on a Short Term MEEGS on or before 10/1 and out of state IEP must be provided for review. Documentation from the sending state can be uploaded into the uncategorized category in LEA Document Library in EDPlan.
Certification Deadline: Ensure all appeals are resolved before the child count data is certified by October 31.
If you have questions about the appeals process, please email a member of the Special Education data team for guidance.
-
Travis Thompson, (405) 522-5203
-
Tanis Thompson, (405) 521-4871
-
Megan Salisbury, (405) 521-3378
**NEW** Community Of Practice On October 30th (Auditing and Organizing MTSS Resources)
The topic for this month’s Community of Practice on October 30th is Auditing and Organizing MTSS Resources. Professional school psychologist Stephanie Beasley will be the presenter and discuss this topic in-depth at 3:00p.m. on October 30th. Participants can expect to learn more about matching available resources to a student needs, how to process for screening at elementary and secondary, and the purpose of screening. If you are interested in learning more about MTSS please feel free to attend. This event will follow the corresponding module in the SPDG MTSS Course but is open to the public. To register for this event please click the following link Community Of Practice Registration .
Please join us for a 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar. It will be focus on 504 Accommodation Plans , covering the differences between a 504 plan and an IEP, how to write a 504 plan, and how to conduct a 504 evaluation. Future webinars will address discipline for students on a 504 plan and other related issues.
Registration is now open
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom.
These trainings (Project 613 approved) will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide. Participants will:
-
Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
-
Review case studies;
-
Analyze transition assessment results; and
-
Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Download the registration flyers below with clickable links to sign up for either or both trainings at dates and locations nearest you!
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training (Project 613 approved) will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic. Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
-
Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
-
Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
-
Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Download the registration flyer to sign up for a date and location nearest you!
- November 12, 2024 Pryor
- December 10, 2024 McAlester
- December 17, 2024 Duncan
- January 15, 2025 Idabel
- February 19, 2025 Woodward
- March 26, 2025 OKC
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14, January 9, March 6, and May 8 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
-
On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
Choose a date and location
- Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM: McAlester
- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tulsa
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater, Oklahoma
- January 30, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
- February 6, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October 17, 2024 - External
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October, 15 2024 - Internal
Please notice the updates to Project 618 Memorandum.
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
The FY25 School Based contract has now been loaded into the application. Districts choosing to participate can now complete the contract then upload into the application. This can be found in the GMS under IDEA.
FY25 Project 621 Flow Through and Project 641 Pre School allocations are now available. You can access your application in the GMS. Please contract your finance specialist should you need assistance.
All districts receive an allocation of $6.00 per child for the new fiscal year based on their previous Oct 1 child count, with a minimum allocation of $500.00. Districts are informed they must budget those funds by December 31st or forfeit their allocation. All forfeited funds will then be reallocated to those districts that have completed their budget by the set deadline. Those districts receiving an increase to their allocation in the spring semester must complete a budget amendment to budget those extra funds. For questions, contact your finance specialist.
**NEW** Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required, just click the link to join.
All sessions will be from 3:00PM -4:00PM
-
Open Q & A – October 24, 2024 (4th Thurs.)
-
ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
-
ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
-
Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Due to recent changes in WAVE-API/SIF coding, we are providing an updated document to ensure districts have the correct exit and entry codes required for the 2024-2025 school year and beyond for Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program students. Additionally, please note that Grade 13 must now be used for all returning Alternate Diploma pathway students beyond the 12th grade regardless of graduation status. Please access and share the NEW 2024 Alternate Diploma and Extended Transition Program Entry and Exit Codes Flow Chart with appropriate special education and SIS staff in your district.
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner.
**NEW** Missing STNs in EDPlan
We have identified an issue where some STNs may be missing from EDPlan. If your district has encountered any missing STNs, please reach out to Maria Carrasco or Megan Salisbury by calling (405) 521-3351 as soon as possible so they can be added back into the system.
Please be aware that any student with a missing STN will cause an error in your Child Count report. Students who have been included in your SPED Oct 1st report may have been removed if their record is missing the STN. Any students with a missing STN will not be included in your report until the STNs are corrected.
Once the STN issue is resolved, it may take a few days for the student data to appear in the October 1st Consolidated Report.
If a student is missing from the SPED October 1 Consolidated Report, districts may appeal to include them. The appeals window will open on October 15 and all appeals must be submitted by EOD on October 25.
Key Considerations Before Appeal:
-
Verify if there are errors in the student’s record or Wave enrollment status and correct them. If resolved, there's no need for an appeal.
-
Check your child count error report in EDPlan. If there are errors showing, correct them here before filing an appeal.
-
Ensure the student is enrolled in the district, had an active IEP and eligibility on or before October 1.
-
Students not enrolled in the district by October 1, or those without finalized IEPs, cannot be appealed.
Steps to Submit an Appeal:
-
Read the page carefully: If the student’s record passes all checks outlined on the page, complete the form. The required information includes: All STNs of students being appealed (multiples STNs can be entered into the same field separated with a comma), answer out of state transfer question (if yes, provide STNs), District Name, District ID (County + District Code), School Site Name, the name of person submitting, email of person submitting, and phone number to be reached.
-
Correct Errors: The OSDE-SES will review for errors. If any exist, the appeal will be dismissed until the district fixes them.
For students moving in from out-of-state, additional documentation is required to verify eligibility and IEP status. Students must be on a Short Term MEEGS on or before 10/1 and out of state IEP must be provided for review. Documentation from the sending state can be uploaded into the uncategorized category in LEA Document Library in EDPlan.
Certification Deadline: Ensure all appeals are resolved before the child count data is certified by October 31.
If you have questions about the appeals process, please email a member of the Special Education data team for guidance.
-
Travis Thompson, (405) 522-5203
-
Tanis Thompson, (405) 521-4871
-
Megan Salisbury, (405) 521-3378
**NEW** 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar
Please join us for a 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar. It will be focus on 504 Accommodation Plans , covering the differences between a 504 plan and an IEP, how to write a 504 plan, and how to conduct a 504 evaluation. Future webinars will address discipline for students on a 504 plan and other related issues.
Registration is now open
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom.
These trainings (Project 613 approved) will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) or for students with Mild/Moderate disabilities. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide. Participants will:
-
Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP;
-
Review case studies;
-
Analyze transition assessment results; and
-
Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Download the registration flyers below with clickable links to sign up for either or both trainings at dates and locations nearest you!
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (OAAP)
-
Using Assessment Results to Develop Effective Transition Plans (Mild/Moderate)
OSDE-SES recommends that participants complete the Secondary Transition for Students with Disabilities self-paced course in OSDE Connect before attending this training. This course is recommended for teachers/providers who are new to secondary transition and as a refresher for experienced staff.
This training (Project 613 approved) will demonstrate how to implement effective instructional practices to teach transition skills to students with significant cognitive and adaptive disabilities who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Attendees will have hands-on opportunities to use effective instructional practices and strategies. Trainings are being offered at various locations statewide and will build upon information introduced during previously held trainings on this topic. Special educators and paraprofessionals will learn about:
-
Evidence-based practices tied to the Predictors of Post-School Success;
-
Effective practices and strategies including task analysis, chaining (forward/backward), prompting (when/how to use and fade prompts), video modeling, and more to enable students to make progress toward their postsecondary and annual transition goals;
-
Effective instructional practices for communication skills and for using assistive technology (AT) to teach transition skills; and
-
Collecting and using data to develop annual IEP goals and monitor student progress.
>>> Districts may apply for Project 613 funds by completing an online application through the Grants Management System to be reimbursed for travel, substitutes, and lodging (over 60 miles). If you have questions, please contact Abby Johnson and/or contact your district's finance specialist.
Download the registration flyer to sign up for a date and location nearest you!
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14, January 9, March 6, and May 8 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
-
On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
Choose a date and location
- Monday, October 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Lawton
- Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM: McAlester
- Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tulsa
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference
Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference 2024
You Bring the Magic: Your Magic, Your Impact
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater, Oklahoma
- January 30, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
- February 6, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP)
Universal Supports, including an online library of intervention protocols can be accessed at the bottom of the page here.
Questions can be directed to Alexa Hudak.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October 10, 2024 - External
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
- Guided Observation
- Summer Internship
- Virtual Trainings
- School Consultations (PECS Level 1)
- Assessment Team Training Series
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
- Autism: Foundation Training for Teachers & Other Certified Staff
- Autism: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals & Other Support Staff
- Enhancing Communication for Students with Autism
- Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
- Conducting Functional Behavior Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October,8 2024 - Internal
The FY25 School Based contract has now been loaded into the application. Districts choosing to participate can now complete the contract then upload into the application. This can be found in the GMS under IDEA.
FY25 allocations for Project 618 will be released on the evening of August 13th. Districts qualifying for this project may then begin completing the online application. Should you need assistance contact your finance specialist.
FY25 Project 621 Flow Through and Project 641 Pre School allocations are now available. You can access your application in the GMS. Please contract your finance specialist should you need assistance.
All districts receive an allocation of $6.00 per child for the new fiscal year based on their previous Oct 1 child count, with a minimum allocation of $500.00. Districts are informed they must budget those funds by December 31st or forfeit their allocation. All forfeited funds will then be reallocated to those districts that have completed their budget by the set deadline. Those districts receiving an increase to their allocation in the spring semester must complete a budget amendment to budget those extra funds. For questions, contact your finance specialist.
**NEW** Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings. (All meetings are 3:00-4:00PM)
Mark your calendar with the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year, and several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. All meetings/sessions are from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. on the dates listed below.
Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required, just click the link to join.
- Open Q & A – October 24, 2024 (4th Thurs.)
- ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
- ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
**NEW** Important Child Count Updates
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Currently, we are still making manual uploads to the SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report until the API is ready and expect it to be operational this week. The API essentially allows for faster data transfer between the WAVE and EDPlan and will eliminate the need for manual processes that are used to populate the SPED Oct 1st table in the Consolidated Report.
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We continue to hear from districts about missing students on the SPED Oct 1st Consolidated Report. Please note that due to the manual upload process, it may take a few days before all students are reflected accurately in the report. Rest assured; we are working diligently to ensure all data is updated as quickly as possible. We expect that the API will resolve the biggest majority of students that are missing.
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We are also seeing some unusual issues in EDPlan that may be contributing to some of the discrepancies in your reports. Specifically, we have noticed that Student Testing Numbers (STNs) are occasionally being removed from the workspace, and in some instances, race data is also being removed. EDPlan is aware of these issues and is actively working on a resolution. In the meantime, we encourage you to reach out via the EDPlan message board for assistance in re-adding any missing STNs or race information. Alternatively, you can contact a member of our data team for support.
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Please also ensure that you are referencing the correct report in Advanced Reporting in EDPlan. The report you should be using is Child Count SY25, which will help avoid any further confusion regarding missing data.
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Lastly, we want to inform you that the appeals window will open on October 15th. Please watch the listserv during that week for details on how appeals can be made. We will provide all necessary instructions to guide you through the process.
If you have any questions, please contact our office for assistance:
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Travis Thompson, (405) 522-5203
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Tanis Thompson, (405) 521-4871
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Megan Salisbury, (405) 521-3378
Please know that the delay in seeing the data on the Special Education tab in the Consolidated Report is not due to any issues with your Student Information System or anything on your end. No action is required by districts at this time.
The Special Ed tab will begin to populate Monday, September 23, and will take a few days for all data to display. PCG, OMES, and OSDE have dramatically increased server capacity to speed up the processing time between our systems.
If your Special Education data is not displaying at all on the Special Education Tab in the Consolidated Report by Wednesday, September 25th, reach out to Tanis Thompson immediately. Only Students with an active Eligibility and IEP status as of Oct. 1st will populate to the Special Ed Tab.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
**NEW** 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar
Please join us for a 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar. It will be focus on 504 Accommodation Plans , covering the differences between a 504 plan and an IEP, how to write a 504 plan, and how to conduct a 504 evaluation. Future webinars will address discipline for students on a 504 plan and other related issues.
Registration is now open
Questions can be directed to Elana Grissom.
School districts and sites in the state will be able to participate in the two day, in-person data literacy training that focuses on school system data analysis. Participants who are receiving additional supports with OSDE groups will be prioritized for attendance. Please send a minimum of 2 participants per school site/district team. Participants will also need access to their school's data management system and a device that can connect to the internet during the professional development.
For more information and to register for this event please view the OK Multi-Tiered System of Supports | Oklahoma State Department of Education flyer.
This training will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). See additional dates and locations!
Participants will:
- Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP
- Review case studies
- Analyze transition assessment results
- Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
- October 10, 2024 from 9:00AM -3:30PM Woodward, OK
- November 20, 2024 from 9:00AM -3:30PM Idabel, OK
- December 3, 2024 from 9:00AM -3:30PM Oklahoma City, OK
- December 5, 2024 from 9:00AM -3:30PMDuncan, OK
Questions can be directed to Claudia Beckner
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14, January 9, March 6, and May 8 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
OSDE has transitioned from PEPPER to OKConnect for the Paraprofessional Training Modules and the Long Term Substitute Modules. Districts will not be able to self-enroll participants in these modules. The process for enrolling participants can be printed here.
Early Childhood Outcomes (ECO)Questions about completing Early Childhood Outcomes? Participants in this course will gain an understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and how outcome data collection supports early special education programs in meeting the needs of students. This course covers ECO basics such as collecting ECO data, determining ratings, and accessing additional resources. Enroll here!
Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Awareness 2024-2025The OSDE has developed a module that meets the requirements listed in state statute. The Dyslexia Awareness course can be accessed on OSDEConnect.
The course contains “required” components to receive a certificate of completion, but there are several additional sections that are optional, if you or any of your staff want a deeper dive or just to save for resources later.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
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On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Paraprofessional Tier II
Paraprofessional Tier II Training and Long-Term Substitute modules are now available on OKConnect. Districts will not be able to self-enroll participants in either of these modules. The process for enrolling participants can be printed here.
OSDE-SES will host CPI Verbal Intervention Regional Trainings with no associated costs to districts. Verbal interventions will not include de-escalation techniques or holds/restrictions. This training is reimbursable through Project 615 for substitutes, travel, and lodging at least 60 miles one-way. Registration is limited to 4 participants per district.
- February 7, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
- February 21, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
While OSDE will be pressing forward with verbal interventions, prior blue card certifications are applicable to the content of the training until the expiration date. At that time the district has two options.
- One option is to send a district representative to become a train-the-trainer with certification from the CPI "institute".
- The second option is attending a training for verbal interventions hosted by OSDE.
Should districts choose to train with the CPI institute those associated costs are reimbursable through Project 615 as well. Lastly, the individual trained can only train within their base of employment.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater, Oklahoma
- January 30, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
- February 6, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP)
Professional Development with the SSIP, is designed to support K-3 teams, for a three-year sequence, with developing their early literacy decisions; see more at the link here. The course should be completed by a school's entire K-3 team. Enroll in the course here.
Universal Supports, including an online library of intervention protocols can be accessed at the bottom of the page here.
The annual data-retreat registrations can be located on the courses above or here. Teams should send 2 people from each site or district.
Questions can be directed to Alexa Hudak.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October 3, 2024 - External
We are pleased to announce an opportunity for Intervener training in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Department of Education - Special Education Services and the Oklahoma Deaf Blind Technical Assistance Project are collaborating to support and train paraprofessionals to become interveners and professional teachers to learn about intervener services.
Deadline to register is Friday, October 4, 2024
Any additional questions contact Kristen Coleman.
We are thrilled to announce the dates for the 37th National NRCP Virtual Conference! Mark your calendars for February 21-23, 2025. This year’s theme, “Paraeducators: Where the Magic Happens!”, promises to be an inspiring and enriching experience for all attendees.
Save the Date!
This year’s conference will provide an exceptional opportunity for paraeducators, interveners, teachers, administrators, and related service providers to come together, share knowledge, and explore new ideas. Our virtual format ensures that you can participate from anywhere, making it easier than ever to join in on learning and networking.
Why Attend?
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Engage with Experts: Learn from leading professionals in the field of special education.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with colleagues and professionals from across the country.
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Resource Sharing: Gain access to valuable resources and best practices.
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Interactive Discussions: Participate in discussions that address the latest trends and challenges in the field.
Highlights from last year’s 36th National NRCP Virtual Conference:
In January 2024, we held our 36th National NRCP Virtual Conference, which was a tremendous success! We had 260 attendees from 25 states, who participated in 4 keynotes and 25 breakout sessions. The positive feedback from participants was overwhelming, and we are excited to build on this success for our upcoming conference.
Special Announcement: Back by Popular Demand!
We are thrilled to announce that Jo Mascorro will be returning as a featured keynote speaker for the 37th National NRCP Virtual Conference, based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback from her last year’s keynote. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most engaging and insightful voices in the field!
Registration Information:
Registration is now open! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to grow professionally and make a difference in the lives of those you support. Secure your spot today! Group discounts available.
Conference Fees:
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$250 conference registration fee.
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$100 reduced conference fee for paraeducators, interveners, education support professionals, and family members or guardians.
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10% group discount for 3 or more participants.
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Note: Teachers and paraeducator teams can register together for a discount.
Optional Leadership Meeting:
As in the past, we will also be holding our Leadership Meeting at no additional cost, the day before the conference. This interactive meeting will allow participants to share successes, challenges, and plans to affect change within their states and to evaluate/discuss the needs of the field at the national level.
For more information, feel free to contact Laura Lema.
School districts and sites in the state will be able to participate in the two day, in-person data literacy training that focuses on school system data analysis. Participants who are receiving additional supports with OSDE groups will be prioritized for attendance. Please send a minimum of 2 participants per school site/district team. Participants will also need access to their school's data management system and a device that can connect to the internet during the professional development.
OK Multi-Tiered System of Supports | Oklahoma State Department of Education
DirectSTEP
OSDE-SES is partnering with LRP Publications to bring tailored professional development to all support personnel who serve students with disabilities and assist with improving student outcomes. To access the 10 available courses please print the instructions to create an account for the paraprofessionals or support staff in your district to participate. Only support personnel, please.
For more information, please see the DirectSTEP Flyer.
**NEW** Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for general and special educators serving students with autism who demonstrate challenging behavior in the school setting.
Upon completion, participants will be able to identify the functions of behavior, implement preventative strategies and supports, and teach replacement skills to decrease challenging behavior.
This is the prerequisite for Conducting FBAs and Writing BIPs.
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Register for Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Prerequisite: You must have previously attended Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism
This workshop is designed for certified staff serving students with challenging behavior.
Upon completion, participants will be able to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA) and write a behavior intervention plan (BIP).
Registration: $175
*District invoiced after training
*Approved under Project 613
Registration links:
For more information, please see Oklahoma Autism Center.
Autism Foundation Training.
Please go to the post about upcoming training for paraprofessionals and other support staff.
For more information you can contact: Marisa Singletary (405-802-7828) the Coordinator of School Consultations and Professional Development from the Oklahoma Autism Center.
These professional development opportunities are sponsored by the Oklahoma State
Department of Education, Special Education Services, and the Oklahoma Autism Center.
This collaboration strives to provide a comprehensive support system for public school
educators, early intervention personnel, support staff, and/or pre-service educators.
Please see the Oklahoma Autism Center PD Opportunities flyer for more information.
The Oklahoma Autism Center is offering Professional Development Opportunities for 2024-2025.
Please see the OAC Professional Development Opportunities for more information.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
OSDE - SES - October,1 2024 - Internal
Solutions for Psychological Evaluations in your district.
Presence is the leading provider of Teletherapy for K12 Districts. We have been fortunate to work with over 20 districts in Oklahoma to date. In 2022 we partnered with the Oklahoma State Department of Education to help with the shortage of School Psychologists throughout the state.
**This year, Presence will NOT be permitted to conduct a Review of Existing Data (REDS) for any students. Please contact Cami Dotson.
***This survey will be used to prioritize districts for the FY24/25 school year Psychoeducational Assessments administered by Presence. In order to be selected to participate, please fill out the following survey in its entirety.
OAAP Update
You can find the most updated OAAP information for the 2024-2025 school year in the OAAP Memo. You can find and access information about the 2024-2025 Testing Schedule, DTC Checklist, Bulk Student Upload, Instructionally Embedded Assessment, and more.
State Aid Funding for Special Education
The OSDE-SES is providing information regarding the Special Education weights in the 2024-2025 State Aid Funding Formula.
OSDE sponsored events, professional development, and conferences are beneficial to special education teachers and staff. Information about upcoming events can be found on the Project 613 list.
Additional information or questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson.
The FY25 School Based contract has now been loaded into the application. Districts choosing to participate can now complete the contract then upload into the application. This can be found in the GMS under IDEA.
FY25 allocations for Project 618 will be released on the evening of August 13th. Districts qualifying for this project may then begin completing the online application. Should you need assistance contact your finance specialist.
FY25 Project 621 Flow Through and Project 641 Pre School allocations are now available. You can access your application in the GMS. Please contract your finance specialist should you need assistance.
All districts receive an allocation of $6.00 per child for the new fiscal year based on their previous Oct 1 child count, with a minimum allocation of $500.00. Districts are informed they must budget those funds by December 31st or forfeit their allocation. All forfeited funds will then be reallocated to those districts that have completed their budget by the set deadline. Those districts receiving an increase to their allocation in the spring semester must complete a budget amendment to budget those extra funds. For questions, contact your finance specialist.
**NEW** Alternate Diploma Collaborative + Open Q & A Meetings. From 3:00pm to 4:00 pm.
Mark your calendar and save the dates for the 2024-2025 Alternate Diploma Collaborative (ADC) virtual meetings! Meetings will resume quarterly via Teams this year from 3:00pm to 4:00pm. Several Open Q & A sessions will be offered to meet district needs between the quarterly sessions. Please share the ADC meeting dates with staff who need to know, learn about, and keep up-to-date about all things “alternate diploma” and 18-22 extended transition programs or services!!! Those who need to know include secondary administrators, special education directors and teachers, school counselors, career advisors, and anyone who is a stakeholder in secondary transition for students who participate in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) aligned with alternate achievement standards (Essential Elements). Join via this Teams link for all ADC meetings and Open Q & A Sessions for this school year! No registration is required, just click the link to join.
- ADC – November 21, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – December 19, 2024 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – January 16, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- ADC – February 20, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – March 20, 2025
- ADC – April 17, 2025 (3rd Thurs.)
- Open Q & A – May 15, 2025
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 252 040 567 180
Passcode: W4xdRc
Exiting Review/Appeals
As you might be aware, exits were not reviewed during the End of Year process because of many districts’ practice of not sending exit data to the state until after June 30. Exits have processed through EDPlan and we are asking that you review your exit report in the next couple of weeks, verify its accuracy and correct any errors you identify.
You can access your district’s exit report through the EDPlan Insights option in Reports, selecting the “End of Year” folder to find the Exit Report for SY 23-24. Verify that the report lists all known exiters in SY23-24 (transfers to other school systems can be ignored) and correct any errors listed on the Error tab.
If students are not listed on this report but should be (or vice-versa), or if the exit reason is incorrect, you may submit a data appeal once you review the five qualifications for inclusion. The three basic requirements are that the record is error-free, the student had an IEP prior to July 1, 2023 and that the student was at least 14 years old on October 1, 2023.
Please read the attached Appeal Procedures document for guidance and support. We will accept appeals through September 27, but do require that districts check the qualifications before submitting a request. All five qualifications are listed in the procedures. We will only accept appeals through the LEA Document Library, since students’ private information should not be sent through email. You must also let us know by email or phone if you are submitting an appeal, as we do not receive a notification when a file is uploaded.
If the appeal is approved, the state office will manually add the student to the baseline report or the district will need to adjust the student’s record. We will let you know what needs to be done to ensure that the student is included in the report.
After reviewing the Appeal Procedures, please let us know if you have questions.
Please know that the delay in seeing the data on the Special Education tab in the Consolidated Report is not due to any issues with your Student Information System or anything on your end. No action is required by districts at this time.
The Special Ed tab will begin to populate Monday, September 23, and will take a few days for all data to display. PCG, OMES, and OSDE have dramatically increased server capacity to speed up the processing time between our systems.
If your Special Education data is not displaying at all on the Special Education Tab in the Consolidated Report by Wednesday, September 25th, reach out to [email protected] immediately. Only Students with an active Eligibility and IEP status as of Oct. 1st will populate to the Special Ed Tab.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
**NEW** 504 Accommodation Plan Webinar
Save the date for our live webinar on October 23, 2024. The webinar will focus on 504 accommodation plans, covering the differences between a 504 plan and an IEP, how to write a 504 plan, and how to conduct a 504 evaluation. Future webinars will address discipline for students on a 504 plan and other related issues.
You may register for one of two times.
or
The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) and Public Consulting Group (PCG) would like to invite you to attend a Listen & Learn Webinar about the School-Based Medicaid Program. This overview will include information about the fee-for-service and Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) programs. Both programs can provide reimbursement for services schools are currently providing.
These programs can create a SUSTAINABLE source of reimbursement to replace lost funding such as Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and WILL NOT affect other sources of reimbursement or funding your district may already be receiving.
Please click on this registration link to register on the Listen & Learn Webinar:
https://forms.office.com/r/Ze4vnY3qFN
- Date. 10/4/24, 1pm – 2:30pm, Thursday
There will be time to address district questions in each Webinar session. Please pass along this training notice to others at your district if they can benefit from hearing about these programs.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact PCG at [email protected] or [email protected]
School districts and sites in the state will be able to participate in the two day, in-person data literacy training that focuses on school system data analysis. Participants who are receiving additional supports with OSDE groups will be prioritized for attendance. Please send a minimum of 2 participants per school site/district team. Participants will also need access to their school's data management system and a device that can connect to the internet during the professional development.
For more information and to register for this event please view the OK Multi-Tiered System of Supports | Oklahoma State Department of Education flyer.
This training will focus on using assessment results to develop meaningful transition plans for students participating in the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP). Watch for two additional locations to be added soon!
Participants will:
- Learn to incorporate transition assessment results into the IEP
- Review case studies
- Analyze transition assessment results
- Use assessment results to identify specific transition strengths and needs and develop postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, services, coordinated activities, and courses of study.
- October 10, 2024 from 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (check-in begins at 8:30 am) at High Plains Tech Center - at 3921 34th St., Woodward, OK in the Seminar Center
- November 20, 2024 from 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. (check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.) at Kiamichi Tech Center - at 3205 NE Lincoln Rd., Idabel, OK in the Wayne Crusoe Seminar Room
Join us for a chance to discuss early childhood data, as well as available tools & resources. This will be an ongoing group to discuss all topics related to early childhood data. This is an opportunity to ask any of your early childhood data questions. Please use this form to suggest questions or topics.
Join us on November 14, January 9, March 6, and May 8 from 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM.
OSDE has transitioned from PEPPER to OKConnect for the Paraprofessional Training Modules and the Long Term Substitute Modules. Districts will not be able to self-enroll participants in these modules. The process for enrolling participants can be printed here.
Early Childhood Outcomes (ECO)Questions about completing Early Childhood Outcomes? Participants in this course will gain an understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and how outcome data collection supports early special education programs in meeting the needs of students. This course covers ECO basics such as collecting ECO data, determining ratings, and accessing additional resources. Enroll here!
Dyslexia and Dysgraphia Awareness 2024-2025The OSDE has developed a module that meets the requirements listed in state statute. The Dyslexia Awareness course can be accessed on OSDEConnect.
The course contains “required” components to receive a certificate of completion, but there are several additional sections that are optional, if you or any of your staff want a deeper dive or just to save for resources later.
These courses fulfill the requirements listed in 70 O.S. § 1210.196.5: Guidelines for Training of Volunteer Diabetes Care Assistants.
If you have any questions, please contact Diabetes Training.
Live Virtual Registration:
- November 7, 2024- Register Here
On-demand virtual Classes on OSDE Connect will open on July 1, 2024:
This course fulfills the requirements listed in 70 O.S § 1210.284: Vision Screening - Recommendations on Standards - Comprehensive Eye Exam on Failure - Annual Reports.
If you have any questions, please send them to Kellie Carter
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On-Demand Renewal Training Password Request
Class options:
Vision Screening Provider Training-
Vision Screening Trainer of Provider (only available to those who are certified in Vision Screening Provider Training)
Join SoonerStart and OSDE this fall to discuss early childhood transition from SoonerStart to the LEA. Choose from one of 5 locations (OKC, Tulsa, McAlester, Enid, or Lawton) and meet your transition partners to discuss policies, practices, guidance and resources to ensure a ‘smooth and effective transition’.
Objectives for this training include:
- To provide SoonerStart, LEA personnel and other community agencies/programs with the knowledge of requirements under IDEA Part B and C regarding transition.
- To offer SoonerStart and LEA personnel the opportunity to get real time technical assistance regarding guidance from the Office of Special Education Program.
- To foster relationships between SoonerStart, LEAs and other community agencies/programs that serve our families.
For more information and to register, please see From Part C to Part B: Early Childhood Transition Flyer.
Paraprofessional Tier II
Paraprofessional Tier II Training and Long-Term Substitute modules are not available on OKConnect. Districts will not be able to self-enroll participants in either of these modules. The process for enrolling participants can be printed here.
OSDE-SES will host CPI Verbal Intervention Regional Trainings with no associated costs to districts. Verbal interventions will not include de-escalation techniques or holds/restrictions. This training is reimbursable through Project 615 for substitutes, travel, and lodging at least 60 miles one-way. Registration is limited to 4 participants per district.
- February 7, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
- February 21, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
While OSDE will be pressing forward with verbal interventions, prior blue card certifications are applicable to the content of the training until the expiration date. At that time the district has two options.
- One option is to send a district representative to become a train-the-trainer with certification from the CPI "institute".
- The second option is attending a training for verbal interventions hosted by OSDE.
Should districts choose to train with the CPI institute those associated costs are reimbursable through Project 615 as well. Lastly, the individual trained can only train within their base of employment.
The Oklahoma State Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services will be hosting our 3rd Annual Engaging Support Conference.
- November 1, 2024: Stillwater, Oklahoma
- January 30, 2025: Lawton, Oklahoma
- February 6, 2025: Guymon, Oklahoma
If you have any questions about the Oklahoma's Engaging Support Conference, please email Megan Salisbury or Abby Johnson.
**NEW** 37th National NRCP Virtual Conference!
We are thrilled to announce the dates for the 37th National NRCP Virtual Conference! Mark your calendars for February 21-23, 2025. This year’s theme, “Paraeducators: Where the Magic Happens!”, promises to be an inspiring and enriching experience for all attendees.
Save the Date!
This year’s conference will provide an exceptional opportunity for paraeducators, interveners, teachers, administrators, and related service providers to come together, share knowledge, and explore new ideas. Our virtual format ensures that you can participate from anywhere, making it easier than ever to join in on learning and networking.
Why Attend?
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Engage with Experts: Learn from leading professionals in the field of special education.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with colleagues and professionals from across the country.
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Resource Sharing: Gain access to valuable resources and best practices.
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Interactive Discussions: Participate in discussions that address the latest trends and challenges in the field.
Highlights from last year’s 36th National NRCP Virtual Conference:
In January 2024, we held our 36th National NRCP Virtual Conference, which was a tremendous success! We had 260 attendees from 25 states, who participated in 4 keynotes and 25 breakout sessions. The positive feedback from participants was overwhelming, and we are excited to build on this success for our upcoming conference.
Special Announcement: Back by Popular Demand!
We are thrilled to announce that Jo Mascorro will be returning as a featured keynote speaker for the 37th National NRCP Virtual Conference, based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback from her last year’s keynote. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most engaging and insightful voices in the field!
Registration Information:
Registration is now open! Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to grow professionally and make a difference in the lives of those you support. Secure your spot today! Group discounts available.
Conference Fees:
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$250 conference registration fee.
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$100 reduced conference fee for paraeducators, interveners, education support professionals, and family members or guardians.
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10% group discount for 3 or more participants.
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Note: Teachers and paraeducator teams can register together for a discount.
Optional Leadership Meeting:
As in the past, we will also be holding our Leadership Meeting at no additional cost, the day before the conference. This interactive meeting will allow participants to share successes, challenges, and plans to affect change within their states and to evaluate/discuss the needs of the field at the national level.
For more information, feel free to contact Laura Lema at [email protected].
Professional Development with the SSIP, is designed to support K-3 teams, for a three-year sequence, with developing their early literacy decisions; see more at the link here. The course should be completed by a school's entire K-3 team. Enroll in the course here.
Universal Supports, including an online library of intervention protocols can be accessed at the bottom of the page here.
The annual data-retreat registrations can be located on the courses above or here. Teams should send 2 people from each site or district.
Questions can be directed to Alexa Hudak.
Educational Interpreter Registry
If your district employs educational interpreters, please verify that they are on the OSDE Educational Interpreter Registry. All interpreters in an educational setting are required to be on the registry and are required to obtain yearly CEUs.
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
P: (405) 521-3351 F: (405) 522-2380
[email protected]
Categories: specialed
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