Special Education

• Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Technical Assistance Program Information
• Microsoft Scholarship – High School Students in Technology Careers
• **NEW** End of Year (Virtual)
• **NEW** Special Education Services & Management Training
• Early Child Outcomes Webinar
• The Spring AT Workshop Series
• **NEW** Supporting Students with Behavioral & Emotional Difficulties
• **NEW** OK IPSE Alliance
• **NEW** Wisdom Wednesdays with SERC
• **NEW** Boot Camp Opportunities
• **NEW** SAVE the DATE!
• **NEW** OKCEC Conference
• **NEW**Oklahoma Deaf Education Conference 2023

The Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Technical Assistance Project is a service targeting children and youth who have a loss in both vision and hearing.  The child does not have to be completely deaf and completely blind to qualify – they must have a loss in vision and a loss in hearing.  The project services are free.  Below is detailed information about our services.  If you are serving a child or if you are aware of a child with losses in vision and hearing, please refer them to the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind TA Project. 

Why is it important to refer children to the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind TA Project:

• Early identification is crucial for later success.
• Children with losses in vision and in hearing have unique characteristics that require special strategies and techniques.
• This project is the only entity devoted to serving children with deaf-blindness.
• Maintain statewide census of children with deaf-blindness to improve services. See letter from US Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services attached.

Here is what the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Project can offer you at no cost:

• Information individualized for the child
• 1:1 support from project staff
• State and national resources
• Visits to the child’s home or school
• Notifications of free professional development opportunities

How to refer:

• Share the project brochure with the family.
• Complete the referral form OR call the project to complete by phone.
• Have parents/family member sign the release of information.
• Mail or email the form to the project.

Please contact us at okdeafbind@ou.edu or 405-325-0441 if you have questions.   

This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and aspire to have a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship. A total of eight (8) scholarships will be awarded in 2023.The Microsoft Disability Scholarship seeks to empower students with disabilities to achieve more through access to education leading to a career in technology.

The Data Team is hosting two virtual training sessions for the end of year data collection. 

• March 29, 2023 1:00 PM -2:30 PM Registration is now open!
• March 30, 2023 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Registration is now open!

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

“Open door” sessions will be released at a later time. Questions can be directed to Travis Thompson. 

In reviewing the registrants for this training, several of those enrolled are currently in administrative positions. This training is a general training that reviews SpEd legal history, basic behavior information, meaning of learning styles and accommodations and modifications, etc. It is largely designed for those somewhat new to SpEd, such as novice teachers or paras.

If you fall into either category, use the registration link below to sign up for your preferred location. Space is limited to 50 attendees at both locations. 

• Oklahoma City
• Glenpool

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00PM - 2:30PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

Assistive technology (AT) enables children with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. The IEP team must determine whether an individual child needs an assistive technology device or service, and if so, the nature and extent to be provided.

Hundreds of IEP team members attend ABLE Tech’s AT Workshop Series every year to learn how to help students find and acquire needed AT solutions. If you haven’t attended the training series before, or if you have but need a refresher, hope you’ll make time to attend!

• Part 3 – March 23 – AT in the IEP and Implementation

These workshops will take place via Zoom on their designated dates. Visit the Oklahoma ABLE Tech AT Support Team Workshops webpage to register!

Feel like you have tried everything to change your student or child’s behavior? Frustrated with their difficulty in learning academic content because they struggle to regulate their behavior and emotions?
Come learn about the science of behavior and how it links to a comprehensive toolbox of strategies for supporting student behaviors. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how student behavior works, as well as practical solutions to PREVENT inappropriate behaviors, TEACH and REINFORCE appropriate behaviors, and RESPOND to inappropriate behaviors.

March 31, 2023 at High Plains Technology Center - Register Now! 

For more information, please see the OSU Bridge Center Behavior Training Flyer. 

OK IPSE Alliance is excited to announce the FIRST Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) Summit in Oklahoma that will bring together representatives from IPSE programs in Oklahoma and Texas to share about their programs as well as representatives with Think College to share the national perspective.  A student panel will also take place in the afternoon, which is a great opportunity for current K-12 students to hear from students attending IPSE programs.  Vendors are welcome and space is limited, so please register early to be part of this event!

The Summit is a one-day event on Friday, April 14th at MetroTech Springlake Conference Center in OKC.

For more information please see the Summit Flyer in English or Spanish for your convenience. 

Implementation of the IDEA requires collaboration between, families, educators, other professionals, and community resources.  In the ideal environment, IEP team members listen to each member’s point of view and work together to develop a high-quality IEP. We’ve all been in IEP meetings where it didn’t take long to realize that the biggest Issue in the meeting wasn’t the “issues” that were being discussed, but rather the interpersonal dynamics and interactions between the team members. When using technology, sometimes we need to do a “reset” to get things to work again. Is it possible to reset a team when it’s stuck? The goal of this presentation will be to start a conversation around how we might go about resetting team relationships when and where collaboration is being sabotaged by the interactions between team members. The conversation begins by considering a strategic intervention that would include practical techniques leading to improved relationships and results on the IEP team.  The training is designed for parents, school personnel, and individuals that work with organizations serving children with disabilities.  Some of the things we’ll be talking about include: What is an IEP Team Relationship Reset? How do we know it’s needed? What does it look like? and Where to begin?

Register for April 19th!

Boot Camp is one of the alternative pathways special education teacher certification offers for candidates interested in obtaining a non-traditional certification in the state of Oklahoma.

• OSU - Oklahoma State University
• SNU - Southern Nazarene University
• NSU - Northeastern State University
• SWOSU - Southwestern Oklahoma State University

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

The Oklahoma Council for Exceptional Children will be hosting their annual conference on April 1, 2023 at the Bethany Children's Health Center. The conference will feature keynote speakers Josh and Gretchen Trimble. 

Information about the conference and how to register can be found on the attached Oklahoma Council for Exceptional Children Flyer. 

Registration for the Oklahoma Deaf Education Conference is now open and we have a great conference planned! 

To register, please scan or click on the QR code which will take you to the registration website. On the website, you will find registration, schedule, and lodging information. 

This year the conference will be held at the Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center in Sulphur. Lodging will also be available. 

The pre-conference will have 2 tracks. There will be a track for educational interpreters who have not yet achieved a QAST level IV or EIPA level 4 (like OEITI) and a track for early intervention/early childhood. The main conference will have three tracks which will be for all educational interpreters, early intervention and early childhood, and teachers of the deaf.

Thanks to the Oklahoma State Department of Education, this conference is being offered at no cost to in-state attendees. Reimbursement for lodging is available through OSDE-SES Project 613. Districts will need to complete an online application through the Grants Management System (GMS). For reimbursement, districts will need to submit an online Expenditure Report through the GMS.

For more information, please see the Oklahoma Deaf Education Conference Flyer.

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• IMPORTANT!! EdPlan Information

Due to leap year in 2024, EdPlan will throw an error in the IEP that states " You must indicate an IEP end date that is equal to or less than 365 days from the IEP meeting date or IEP begin date."

Typically, the end date will auto-populate to the date one calendar year from the IEP begin date.  In the case of the leap year, the auto-populated date will be 366 days; thus, creating the error.  The solution to this error is to manually enter a date that is 365 days from the meeting or begin date.

Meeting Date: March 1, 2023

Begin Date: March 1, 2023

End Date:   February 29, 2024

Meeting Date: March 16, 2023

Begin Date: March 16, 2023

End Date: March 15, 2024

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

On March 1, the U.S. Senate will pass a resolution to shed important light and celebrate National Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Day. The day honors people with disabilities who require AT to access their education, workplace, community, and recreational activities.

The day also recognizes the leadership of the Assistive Technology Act programs whose teams strive to help millions of individuals acquire low-cost and often no-cost AT in all 50 states and Territories.

Every year ABLE Tech works to enhance assistive technology (AT) services for people with disabilities in the state of Oklahoma. In federal fiscal year (FFY22), ABLE Tech received $493,519 from the Administration for Community Living of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to help Oklahomans access and acquire needed AT as well as provide training, technical assistance, public awareness, and information and assistance to those in need. These funds coupled with $1.27 million in leveraged dollars resulted in savings and benefits to Oklahomans for a total of $3.4 million! Over 34,000 individuals participated in ABLE Tech’s programs and services.

Read the whole FFY22 Annual Report.

Assistive Technology (AT) can be used in a variety of ways, and for a variety of purposes. It can support people in carrying out everyday tasks and activities, enhance their safety, support their social participation, monitor their health, and more. This month, we're featuring AT from the Computer Access category.

Click on the devices listed below to view their information in NATADS, our AT inventory database.

• GlassOuse
• IRIScan DeskPro 6
• BIG Bluetooth Keyboard
• BIGtrack Wireless

Oklahoma ABLE Tech's Short-Term Device Loan inventory offers almost 5,000 devices in many AT categories including hearing, speech communication, vision, learning cognition/development, seating/positioning/mobility, daily living, recreation, environmental adaptations, computer access, and vehicle modifications. Visit the Device Loan Program webpage to learn more.

Calyssa, from Binger, was looking for an affordable loan to purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. She struggled to get her daughter Sienna, who has cerebral palsy, in and out of her existing vehicle. The ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program helped Calyssa purchase a van that allows her to continue to take Sienna and her siblings to parks, school, and appointments safely.

Calyssa said, “No one else would finance this vehicle at a reasonable rate. I am forever grateful for this life-changing program.” 

The ABLE Tech Financial Loan Program’s low, 5% interest rate can help to make needed assistive technology purchases affordable. To apply for a loan, go to the ABLE Tech Financial Loan webpage or visit the Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation’s (OkAT) website.

“Bookshare makes reading easier. People with dyslexia, blindness, cerebral palsy, and other reading barriers can customize their experience to suit their learning style and find virtually any book they need for school, work, and the joy of reading.”

Bookshare is an excellent resource for teachers and administrators when considering accessible educational materials (AEM).

• Search over 1 million titles.
• Read anywhere.
• Get unlimited access FREE for students and schools.

Note: Any materials a school district purchases that are on the state-approved textbook adoption list must be available in an accessible digital format for students. This is because the Oklahoma State Department of Education requires publishers to submit the book files to the National Instructional Materials Access Center (NIMAC), making them available to Accessible Media Producers (AMPs) such as Bookshare.

As you plan for next school year, remember all curricular materials must be created, or adapted, so they are accessible to all students. If your school district is planning on purchasing materials, contract language should be included that speaks to the publisher’s obligation to provide the materials in an accessible format. Contracts should request curriculum files be placed in the NIMAC at the time of purchase. This ensures the materials are available to all students promptly.

Search Bookshare for available titles, and fill out a book request if you don’t see what you need. ABLE Tech can assist with searching the NIMAC and other repositories to request accessible files from publishers when necessary. Email Dr. Joshua Hawkins for assistance.

If you aren’t quite sure if the textbook publisher or provider you’re looking into produces accessible content, follow these suggestions:

1. Ask if the publisher has a VPAT (Voluntary Product Accessibility Template). If they don’t have a VPAT, this is likely an automatic sign that their materials aren’t accessible. If you need some assistance understanding a VPAT, contact ABLE Tech or read this resource from the National Center on Accessible Educational Materials, titled Understanding the VPAT.

2. Check the publisher’s website for accessibility statements. A publisher that has focused on accessibility will most likely have an accessibility statement prominently displayed on their home page or in their footer. Their website will also be accessible. You can do a quick test of the website’s accessibility by placing your cursor in the address bar of your browser, then hitting the TAB key. If you’re able to see where you are on the page while tabbing, and you can access everything on the page in the correct order, then this site may be accessible. You can also run the WAVE tool to see how many accessibility errors the site has.

3. Test the textbook yourself! Download a sample textbook and use the same TAB concept listed in the previous list item. You can also use a screen reader to listen to the book. NVDA is a free option, as are Narrator on Windows and Voiceover on Mac. Deque University offers excellent screen reader shortcut guides that can help you get started. Using the screen reader, see if the images, heading structure, and math or STEM content are announced. If so, this textbook should be accessible.

Please contact ABLE Tech’s Digital Accessibility Team if you have any questions!

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) can be overwhelming and challenging to understand and interpret when it comes to family involvement. This module provides a deeper look at understanding the research behind the importance of family-professional partnerships, and how these partnerships are best translated into practice. Both the letter and intent of federal education laws will be described in a clear and understandable way for families and professionals to develop a set of shared expectations for this intended partnership.

Watch: What Does the Law Have to Do With It?

For more information about SERC, visit Special Education Resolution Center!

Join our Speech Pathologist, Averie Hinchey, for an in-person augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) assessment workshop on April 15, 2023! Space is limited, so registrants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Participants will learn the process for conducting an effective AAC evaluation/assessment using the SETT Framework and feature matching. Additionally, the course includes information about report writing and funding options as well as hands-on experience with speech communication assistive technology. Prerequisites: none

For more information and to learn more visit the AAC Workshop.

The OSU Esports Arena is located at the heart of campus in the historic Oklahoma State University Student Union. OSU students, staff, faculty, alumni, and guests are welcome to engage in the wide variety of gaming options available. The 1690-square-foot space features 46 top-of-the-line Alienware computers, gaming gear, SecretLab Titan gaming chairs, and a live-stream broadcasting station.

The OSU Esports Arena is now a Device Demonstration Program partner for the following AT categories: Learning, Cognition and Development; Recreation, Sports, and Leisure; and Computer Access.

For more information about the OSU Esports arena, visit their website!

ORC is proud to support the 2023 People with Disabilities Awareness Day (PWDAD) event. This year’s event will be held March 7, 2023, from noon to 4 pm, at the Oklahoma History Center.

Visit the PWDAD for additional information about the event and the People with Disabilities Awareness Day Registration.

Plan to visit the Oklahoma History Center’s exhibits! This year the doors to the exhibits will be wide open.  ORC will be paying all attendee entrance fees!

If you have any questions or need help registering, please call (405) 951-3478 or email, Cathy Martin. 

For more information about ORC, please visit the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Council.

This event is geared toward seniors looking for a fun activity, while also exploring resources available to them!

Thursday, March 23, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
City of Del City Community Center
4505 SE 15th Street, Del City, OK 73115

Visit the ABLE Tech booth at the Del City Better with Age Fun Day to schedule an AT or durable medical equipment (DME) pick-up.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** Here's the Winter edition of Bright Future
• Direct Coaching Support for District MTSS Implementation
• **NEW** IDEA Allocation Adjustment
• Re-Allocation of Project 615
• OSDE-SES and OSPA - Qualified Professional Learning Series
• Early Childhood Outcomes Webinars
• CPI Regional Training
• SAVE the DATE!
• **NEW** Partner University - Boot Camp Opportunities
• **NEW** Student Involvement in the IEP In-Person
• Educational Interpreter Registry

Do we have news for you! Check out the latest edition of the Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped newsletter. Don't miss our Volunteer Spotlight, the Back 40, Oklahoma Reads or the latest exciting book recommendations.

Share your testimonial about how the OLBPH has helped you. Fill out this OLBPH Patron Testimonial and email it to olbph@okdrs.gov.  Not only do we love to read what you say, we also might share your thoughts with lawmakers so they too know the services we provide.

The State Personnel Development Grant is soliciting applications for districts to receive direct coaching support for implementation of multi-tiered system of supports beginning School Year 2023-2024! All details are included within the Application for SPDG MTSS Implementation Support. 

For additional questions, please contact Project Director, Kristen Perez-Rickels by e-mail or 405.522.4513.

The IDEA Part B Flowthrough Allocation Adjustment has now been uploaded in the Grant Management System (GMS). Districts must create a budget amendment for the IDEA Consolidated Application in order to view and budget those funds. To access the Grants Management System (GMS), go to the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) website and scroll down to the Oklahoma State Department of Education Single Sign-On and click to access the site. Log on by using your username and password. Click the Grants Management and Expenditure Reporting button, scroll down to IDEA Consolidated Application then click the amend button.

For questions or additional information, please contact your Finance Specialist.

The Re-Allocation of Project 615 funds has been completed. Districts not submitting a budget application by December 1, 2022 have forfeited their allocation. Districts having completed a budget application prior to December 1, 2022 have received additional funds and must complete a budget amendment to budget the additional funding. Should you have any questions please contact your financial specialist.

OSDE-SES and OSPA are collaborating to bring school psychologists and school psychometrists a four-session professional learning series. Session 3 is specially designed for comprehensive evaluation.  This training is free and open to both school employees and individuals who contract with districts to provide evaluation services. Topics include disability specific evaluation components and evaluation tools/instruments. Please share this information with your qualified professionals. 

• March 24, 2023 - Eligibility: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 

Registration for in person and virtual, along with being eligible for Project 613! For additional information, please see the Professional Learning Series: Qualified Professionals or contact Megan Salisbury with questions.

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

OSDE-SES in partnership with School Safety and Security will be offering Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training. This training will be offered at eight (8) locations around Oklahoma to meet the needs of small and rural school districts.

This training is designed to equip school staff members with tools to use in crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical interventions when needed. 

Please save the date you would like to attend and wait for the registration to be released shortly! Funds in Project 613 (cost of travel, substitute teachers, and hotel) are permissible for reimbursement. 

Questions about CPI can be directed to Megan Salisbury & questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson. 

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

Boot Camp is one of the provisional special education teacher certification programs offered for candidates interested in obtaining a non-traditional certification in the state of Oklahoma.

• OSU - Oklahoma State University
• SNU - Southern Nazarene University
• NSU - Northeastern State University
• SWOSU - Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Student Involvement in the IEP process goes beyond a simple invitation to the table. In this workshop, teachers and stakeholders will understand how individualized roles impact student contributions and the steps they can take to support student involvement before, during, and after the IEP.

• March 22, 2023, Central Technology Center in Sapulpa - Register Now!
• March 27, 2023, Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Campus in Oklahoma City - Register Now!

Questions can be directed to Lori Chesnut. 

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. 

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

                                View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Technical Assistance Program Information
• **NEW** What Do We Know about Providers of Special Instruction?
• Microsoft Scholarship – High School Students in Technology Careers
• It's Time to Apply for YLF!
• **NEW** Special Education Services & Management Training
• **NEW** On the Road
• Early Child Outcomes Webinar
• The Spring AT Workshop Series
• **NEW** Supporting Students with Behavioral & Emotional Difficulties
• **NEW** OK IPSE Alliance
• **NEW** Wisdom Wednesdays with SERC
• **NEW** Partner University - Boot Camp Opportunities
• Paraprofessional Credentials
• **NEW** SAVE the DATE!
• *Rescheduled* Oklahoma Autism Center
• **NEW** OKCEC Conference
• **NEW**Oklahoma Deaf Education Conference 2023

The Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Technical Assistance Project is a service targeting children and youth who have a loss in both vision and hearing.  The child does not have to be completely deaf and completely blind to qualify – they must have a loss in vision and a loss in hearing.  The project services are free.  Below is detailed information about our services.  If you are serving a child or if you are aware of a child with losses in vision and hearing, please refer them to the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind TA Project. 

Why is it important to refer children to the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind TA Project:

• Early identification is crucial for later success.
• Children with losses in vision and in hearing have unique characteristics that require special strategies and techniques.
• This project is the only entity devoted to serving children with deaf-blindness.
• Maintain statewide census of children with deaf-blindness to improve services. See letter from US Department of Education Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services attached.

Here is what the Oklahoma Deaf-Blind Project can offer you at no cost:

• Information individualized for the child
• 1:1 support from project staff
• State and national resources
• Visits to the child’s home or school
• Notifications of free professional development opportunities

How to refer:

• Share the project brochure with the family.
• Complete the referral form OR call the project to complete by phone.
• Have parents/family member sign the release of information.
• Mail or email the form to the project.

Please contact us at okdeafbind@ou.edu or 405-325-0441 if you have questions.   

If you are a/an Special Instructor, Developmental Services Provider, Developmental Therapist, Early Intervention Educator/Specialist, Educator/Special Educator working in a Part C Early Intervention program providing special instruction, even under a different service label (i.e., developmental therapy, developmental services, special education, etc.), we want to hear from you! Learn more about the survey and how to participate here.

This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and aspire to have a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship. A total of eight (8) scholarships will be awarded in 2023.The Microsoft Disability Scholarship seeks to empower students with disabilities to achieve more through access to education leading to a career in technology.

The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a leadership camp for high school students with a disability. If you are in high school and have a disability, you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity that will change your life! YLF will help you develop your leadership and advocacy skills that will help you after high school.

YLF is a 5-day camp located on a college campus. You will learn leadership and advocacy skills, join team games, meet amazing state and national speakers and  government officials during a trip to the Oklahoma State Capitol. During your week, you will learn and talk about about a wide range of topics like disability rights laws, assistive technology, community resources, and legislative processes. 

This year Oklahoma YLF is celebrating its 20th anniversary June 13, 2023 - June 17, 2023. You just gotta be there for the best summer of your life!

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity - apply online: YLF Application. The application deadline is March 1st! Get those forms turned in as soon as possible! If you're running out of time, let us know so we can help. 

If you need help with the application or have questions, contact Bradley.Mays.

In reviewing the registrants for this training, several of those enrolled are currently in administrative positions. This training is a general training that reviews SpEd legal history, basic behavior information, meaning of learning styles and accommodations and modifications, etc. It is largely designed for those somewhat new to SpEd, such as novice teachers or paras.

If you fall into either category, use the registration link below to sign up for your preferred location. Space is limited to 50 attendees at both locations. 

Oklahoma City

Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/464265810537

Glenpool

Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/464692597067

Sooner SUCCESS will be hosting an "On the Road” on March 2, 2023 from 8:30am to 4:00pm at the Bethany Children’s Health Center in Bethany. “On the Road” is a one-day training that educates families and caregivers who live with an individual with a disability, navigate a complex system. We will have several organizations present their resources via "speedshare" format. The conference will consist of five different panels covering resources across the lifespan and resource booths. 

Educational vouchers are available, families need to apply before or the day of the event. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

Register for On the Road!

Sooner SUCCESS organizará un "On the Road” el 2 de marzo del 2023 de 8:30a - 4:00pm en el Bethany Children’s Health Center en Bethany. “On the Road” es una entrenamiento de un día que educa a las familias y los cuidadores que viven con una persona con una discapacidad, cómo navegar en un sistema complicado. Varias organizaciones presentarán sus recursos a través del formato "speedshare" (Informacion rápida y concisa). La conferencia consistirá en cinco paneles diferentes que cubrirán los recursos a lo largo de la vida útil y los puestos de recursos. (Más detalles por venir)(Más detalles por venir)

Cupones educativos disponibles, pero las familias deben presentar su solicitud antes o el día del evento. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

¡Regístrese en En el Camino!

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00PM - 2:30PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

Assistive technology (AT) enables children with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. The IEP team must determine whether an individual child needs an assistive technology device or service, and if so, the nature and extent to be provided.

Hundreds of IEP team members attend ABLE Tech’s AT Workshop Series every year to learn how to help students find and acquire needed AT solutions. If you haven’t attended the training series before, or if you have but need a refresher, hope you’ll make time to attend!

• Part 3 – March 23 – AT in the IEP and Implementation

These workshops will take place via Zoom on their designated dates. Visit the Oklahoma ABLE Tech AT Support Team Workshops webpage to register!

Feel like you have tried everything to change your student or child’s behavior? Frustrated with their difficulty in learning academic content because they struggle to regulate their behavior and emotions?
Come learn about the science of behavior and how it links to a comprehensive toolbox of strategies for supporting student behaviors. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how student behavior works, as well as practical solutions to PREVENT inappropriate behaviors, TEACH and REINFORCE appropriate behaviors, and RESPOND to inappropriate behaviors.

March 31, 2023 at High Plains Technology Center

For more information and to register, please see the OSU Bridge Center Behavior Training Flyer. 

OK IPSE Alliance is excited to announce the FIRST Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) Summit in Oklahoma that will bring together representatives from IPSE programs in Oklahoma and Texas to share about their programs as well as representatives with Think College to share the national perspective.  A student panel will also take place in the afternoon, which is a great opportunity for current K-12 students to hear from students attending IPSE programs.  Vendors are welcome and space is limited, so please register early to be part of this event!

The Summit is a one-day event on Friday, April 14th at MetroTech Springlake Conference Center in OKC.

For more information please see the Summit Flyer in English or Spanish for your convenience. 

Implementation of the IDEA requires collaboration between, families, educators, other professionals, and community resources.  In the ideal environment, IEP team members listen to each member’s point of view and work together to develop a high-quality IEP. We’ve all been in IEP meetings where it didn’t take long to realize that the biggest Issue in the meeting wasn’t the “issues” that were being discussed, but rather the interpersonal dynamics and interactions between the team members. When using technology, sometimes we need to do a “reset” to get things to work again. Is it possible to reset a team when it’s stuck? The goal of this presentation will be to start a conversation around how we might go about resetting team relationships when and where collaboration is being sabotaged by the interactions between team members. The conversation begins by considering a strategic intervention that would include practical techniques leading to improved relationships and results on the IEP team.  The training is designed for parents, school personnel, and individuals that work with organizations serving children with disabilities.  Some of the things we’ll be talking about include: What is an IEP Team Relationship Reset? How do we know it’s needed? What does it look like? and Where to begin?

Click here to register for the April webinar!

Paraprofessional credentials have been added to the Oklahoma Educator Credentialing System (OECS) located in Single Sign-On. 

District Superintendent and District Human Resources roles in OECS will now be able to recommend paraprofessional candidates for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Paraprofessional credentials. Districts can start the recommendation process by clicking on "Manage Your Paraprofessional Recommendations." Once the educator is recommended, the educator will be able to apply online using their recommendation tile. 

• Paraprofessional Recommendation Process - 2023
• Contact Teacher Certification for additional questions regarding the paraprofessional recommendation process. 

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

The Oklahoma Autism Center has set up Professional Development workshops over a variety of trainings. Please see the Professional Development Opportunities for 22-23.

• *RESCHEDULED* ASD: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals and Other Support Staff - March 1, 2023 and March 2, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (In-Person and Virtual)

Additional information can be found on The Oklahoma Autism Center.

The Oklahoma Council for Exceptional Children will be hosting their annual conference this April. 

Held at the Bethany Children's Health Center, the conference will feature keynote speakers Josh and Gretchen Trimble. 

Information about the conference and how to register can be found on the attached flyer. 

Registration for the Oklahoma Deaf Education Conference is now open and we have a great conference planned! 

Attached you will find a flyer with information about the conference. To register, please scan or click on the QR code which will take you to the registration website. On the website, you will find registration, schedule, and lodging information. 

This year the conference will be held at the Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center in Sulphur. Lodging will also be available. 

The pre-conference will have 2 tracks. There will be a track for educational interpreters who have not yet achieved a QAST level IV or EIPA level 4 (like OEITI) and a track for early intervention/early childhood. The main conference will have three tracks which will be for all educational interpreters, early intervention and early childhood, and teachers of the deaf.

Thanks to the Oklahoma State Department of Education, this conference is being offered at no cost to in-state attendees. Reimbursement for lodging is available through OSDE-SES Project 613. Districts will need to complete an online application through the Grants Management System (GMS). For reimbursement, districts will need to submit an online Expenditure Report through the GMS.

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** Here's the Winter edition of Bright Future
• District Self Monitoring
• Direct Coaching Support for District MTSS Implementation
• FY23 LEA Agreement Amendment
• Re-Allocation of Project 615
• OAAP Update!
• OSDE-SES and OSPA - Qualified Professional Learning Series
• Early Childhood Outcomes Webinars
• CPI Regional Training
• **NEW** SAVE the DATE!
• **NEW** Partner University - Boot Camp Opportunities
• **NEW** Student Involvement in the IEP In-Person
• Educational Interpreter Registry

Do we have news for you! Check out the latest edition of the Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped newsletter. Don't miss our Volunteer Spotlight, the Back 40, Oklahoma Reads or the latest exciting book recommendations.

Share your testimonial about how the OLBPH has helped you. Fill out this OLBPH Patron Testimonial and email it to olbph@okdrs.gov.  Not only do we love to read what you say, we also might share your thoughts with lawmakers so they too know the services we provide.

Based on district data determinations, some districts are required to complete self-assessment or self-monitoring activities as assigned by the OSDE-SES.  However, every district should be engaged in self-monitoring to ensure compliance and consistency within the district.  The Compliance and Monitoring Team has released the following tools for districts to use in their own self-monitoring.

 Indicator toolkits assist districts in conducting a self-assessment for one or more of the indicators.  The toolkits include a series of guiding questions followed by guidance on the development of an improvement plan and progress review.  There are toolkits available for indicators 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13.

The district monitoring tool is used for student-level review of IDEA documents (e.g. RED, MEEGS, IEP, Written Notice, and Invitation to Meeting).  It has a series of questions that are answered yes, no, or N/A to determine compliance for specific sections of the IDEA documents.  It can be used by teachers for their own file review or by district special education staff in monitoring individual files. 

You can access the Indicator Tool Kit the District Monitoring Tool on our website. If you have any questions, please call Special Education Services at 405.521.3351

The State Personnel Development Grant is soliciting applications for districts to receive direct coaching support for implementation of multi-tiered system of supports beginning School Year 2023-2024! All details are included within the Application for SPDG MTSS Implementation Support. 

For additional questions, please contact Project Director, Kristen Perez-Rickels by e-mail or 405.522.4513.

Districts must complete a FY23 LEA Agreement amendment to update their MOE tab. The information listed under the FY21 and FY22 column must match the districts data reported to OCAS. All amendments must be completed by February 24, 2023.

For assistance contact your Special Ed Finance Specialist.

The Re-Allocation of Project 615 funds has been completed. Districts not submitting a budget application by December 1, 2022 have forfeited their allocation. Districts having completed a budget application prior to December 1, 2022 have received additional funds and must complete a budget amendment to budget the additional funding. Should you have any questions please contact your financial specialist.

You can find the most recent information regarding the Closure of the Instructionally Embedded Assessment Window, T.A. Training Reminder, DTC Information, and DLM updates prior to the spring testing window on our OAAP Update. 

OSDE-SES and OSPA are collaborating to bring school psychologists and school psychometrists a four-session professional learning series. Session 3 is specially designed for comprehensive evaluation.  This training is free and open to both school employees and individuals who contract with districts to provide evaluation services. Topics include disability specific evaluation components and evaluation tools/instruments. Please share this information with your qualified professionals. 

• February 24, 2023 - Comprehensive Evaluation: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 
• March 24, 2023 - Eligibility: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 

Registration for in person and virtual, along with being eligible for Project 613! For additional information, please see the Professional Learning Series: Qualified Professionals or contact Megan Salisbury with questions.

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

OSDE-SES in partnership with School Safety and Security will be offering Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training. This training will be offered at eight (8) locations around Oklahoma to meet the needs of small and rural school districts.

This training is designed to equip school staff members with tools to use in crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical interventions when needed. 

Please save the date you would like to attend and wait for the registration to be released shortly! Funds in Project 613 (cost of travel, substitute teachers, and hotel) are permissible for reimbursement. 

Questions about CPI can be directed to Megan Salisbury & questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson. 

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

Student Involvement in the IEP process goes beyond a simple invitation to the table. In this workshop, teachers and stakeholders will understand how individualized roles impact student contributions and the steps they can take to support student involvement before, during, and after the IEP.

• March 22, 2023, Central Technology Center in Sapulpa - Register Now!
• March 27, 2023, Francis Tuttle- Rockwell Campus in Oklahoma City - Register Now!

Questions can be directed to Lori Chesnut. 

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. 

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

                                View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** What Do We Know about Providers of Special Instruction?
• Microsoft Scholarship – High School Students in Technology Careers
• It's Time to Apply for YLF!
• **NEW** On the Road
• Early Child Outcomes Webinar
• The Spring AT Workshop Series
• **NEW** Supporting Students with Behavioral & Emotional Difficulties
• **NEW** OK IPSE Alliance
• **NEW** Wisdom Wednesdays with SERC
• **NEW** Partner University - Boot Camp Opportunities
• Paraprofessional Credentials
• **NEW** SAVE the DATE!
• *Rescheduled* Oklahoma Autism Center

If you are a/an Special Instructor, Developmental Services Provider, Developmental Therapist, Early Intervention Educator/Specialist, Educator/Special Educator working in a Part C Early Intervention program providing special instruction, even under a different service label (i.e., developmental therapy, developmental services, special education, etc.), we want to hear from you! Learn more about the survey and how to participate here.

This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and aspire to have a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship. A total of eight (8) scholarships will be awarded in 2023.The Microsoft Disability Scholarship seeks to empower students with disabilities to achieve more through access to education leading to a career in technology.

The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a leadership camp for high school students with a disability. If you are in high school and have a disability, you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity that will change your life! YLF will help you develop your leadership and advocacy skills that will help you after high school.

YLF is a 5-day camp located on a college campus. You will learn leadership and advocacy skills, join team games, meet amazing state and national speakers and  government officials during a trip to the Oklahoma State Capitol. During your week, you will learn and talk about about a wide range of topics like disability rights laws, assistive technology, community resources, and legislative processes. 

This year Oklahoma YLF is celebrating its 20th anniversary June 13, 2023 - June 17, 2023. You just gotta be there for the best summer of your life!

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity - apply online: YLF Application. The application deadline is March 1st! Get those forms turned in as soon as possible! If you're running out of time, let us know so we can help. 

If you need help with the application or have questions, contact Bradley.Mays.

Sooner SUCCESS will be hosting an "On the Road” on March 2, 2023 from 8:30am to 4:00pm at the Bethany Children’s Health Center in Bethany. “On the Road” is a one-day training that educates families and caregivers who live with an individual with a disability, navigate a complex system. We will have several organizations present their resources via "speedshare" format. The conference will consist of five different panels covering resources across the lifespan and resource booths. 

Educational vouchers are available, families need to apply before or the day of the event. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

Register for On the Road!

Sooner SUCCESS organizará un "On the Road” el 2 de marzo del 2023 de 8:30a - 4:00pm en el Bethany Children’s Health Center en Bethany. “On the Road” es una entrenamiento de un día que educa a las familias y los cuidadores que viven con una persona con una discapacidad, cómo navegar en un sistema complicado. Varias organizaciones presentarán sus recursos a través del formato "speedshare" (Informacion rápida y concisa). La conferencia consistirá en cinco paneles diferentes que cubrirán los recursos a lo largo de la vida útil y los puestos de recursos. (Más detalles por venir)(Más detalles por venir)

Cupones educativos disponibles, pero las familias deben presentar su solicitud antes o el día del evento. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

¡Regístrese en En el Camino!

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00PM - 2:30PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

Assistive technology (AT) enables children with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. The IEP team must determine whether an individual child needs an assistive technology device or service, and if so, the nature and extent to be provided.

Hundreds of IEP team members attend ABLE Tech’s AT Workshop Series every year to learn how to help students find and acquire needed AT solutions. If you haven’t attended the training series before, or if you have but need a refresher, hope you’ll make time to attend!

• Part 3 – March 23 – AT in the IEP and Implementation

These workshops will take place via Zoom on their designated dates. Visit the Oklahoma ABLE Tech AT Support Team Workshops webpage to register!

Feel like you have tried everything to change your student or child’s behavior? Frustrated with their difficulty in learning academic content because they struggle to regulate their behavior and emotions?
Come learn about the science of behavior and how it links to a comprehensive toolbox of strategies for supporting student behaviors. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how student behavior works, as well as practical solutions to PREVENT inappropriate behaviors, TEACH and REINFORCE appropriate behaviors, and RESPOND to inappropriate behaviors.

March 31, 2023 at High Plains Technology Center

For more information and to register, please see the OSU Bridge Center Behavior Training Flyer. 

OK IPSE Alliance is excited to announce the FIRST Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) Summit in Oklahoma that will bring together representatives from IPSE programs in Oklahoma and Texas to share about their programs as well as representatives with Think College to share the national perspective.  A student panel will also take place in the afternoon, which is a great opportunity for current K-12 students to hear from students attending IPSE programs.  Vendors are welcome and space is limited, so please register early to be part of this event!

The Summit is a one-day event on Friday, April 14th at MetroTech Springlake Conference Center in OKC.

For more information please see the Summit Flyer in English or Spanish for your convenience. 

Implementation of the IDEA requires collaboration between, families, educators, other professionals, and community resources.  In the ideal environment, IEP team members listen to each member’s point of view and work together to develop a high-quality IEP. We’ve all been in IEP meetings where it didn’t take long to realize that the biggest Issue in the meeting wasn’t the “issues” that were being discussed, but rather the interpersonal dynamics and interactions between the team members. When using technology, sometimes we need to do a “reset” to get things to work again. Is it possible to reset a team when it’s stuck? The goal of this presentation will be to start a conversation around how we might go about resetting team relationships when and where collaboration is being sabotaged by the interactions between team members. The conversation begins by considering a strategic intervention that would include practical techniques leading to improved relationships and results on the IEP team.  The training is designed for parents, school personnel, and individuals that work with organizations serving children with disabilities.  Some of the things we’ll be talking about include: What is an IEP Team Relationship Reset? How do we know it’s needed? What does it look like? and Where to begin?

Click here to register for the April webinar!

Paraprofessional credentials have been added to the Oklahoma Educator Credentialing System (OECS) located in Single Sign-On. 

District Superintendent and District Human Resources roles in OECS will now be able to recommend paraprofessional candidates for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Paraprofessional credentials. Districts can start the recommendation process by clicking on "Manage Your Paraprofessional Recommendations." Once the educator is recommended, the educator will be able to apply online using their recommendation tile. 

• Paraprofessional Recommendation Process - 2023
• Contact Teacher Certification for additional questions regarding the paraprofessional recommendation process. 

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

The Oklahoma Autism Center has set up Professional Development workshops over a variety of trainings. Please see the Professional Development Opportunities for 22-23.

• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans - February 17, 2023 (Virtual) 
• *RESCHEDULED* ASD: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals and Other Support Staff - March 1, 2023 and March 2, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (In-Person and Virtual)

Additional information can be found on The Oklahoma Autism Center.

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** Microsoft Scholarship – High School Students in Technology Careers
• District Self Monitoring
• **NEW** Direct Coaching Support for District MTSS Implementation
• FY23 LEA Agreement Amendment
• Re-Allocation of Project 615
• **NEW** OAAP Update!
• OSDE-SES and OSPA - Qualified Professional Learning Series
• Early Childhood Outcomes Webinars
• **NEW** CPI Regional Training
• Student Involvement in the IEP In-Person
• **NEW** SAVE the DATE!
• **NEW** Partner University - Boot Camp Opportunities
• Oklahoma Autism Center
• Educational Interpreter Registry

This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and aspire to have a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship. A total of eight (8) scholarships will be awarded in 2023. The Microsoft Disability Scholarship seeks to empower students with disabilities to achieve more through access to education leading to a career in technology.

Based on district data determinations, some districts are required to complete self-assessment or self-monitoring activities as assigned by the OSDE-SES.  However, every district should be engaged in self-monitoring to ensure compliance and consistency within the district.  The Compliance and Monitoring Team has released the following tools for districts to use in their own self-monitoring.

 Indicator toolkits assist districts in conducting a self-assessment for one or more of the indicators.  The toolkits include a series of guiding questions followed by guidance on the development of an improvement plan and progress review.  There are toolkits available for indicators 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13.

The district monitoring tool is used for student-level review of IDEA documents (e.g. RED, MEEGS, IEP, Written Notice, and Invitation to Meeting).  It has a series of questions that are answered yes, no, or N/A to determine compliance for specific sections of the IDEA documents.  It can be used by teachers for their own file review or by district special education staff in monitoring individual files. 

You can access the Indicator Tool Kit the District Monitoring Tool on our website. If you have any questions, please call Special Education Services at 405.521.3351

The State Personnel Development Grant is soliciting applications for districts to receive direct coaching support for implementation of multi-tiered system of supports beginning School Year 2023-2024! All details are included within the Application for SPDG MTSS Implementation Support. 

For additional questions, please contact Project Director, Kristen Perez-Rickels by e-mail or 405.522.4513.

Districts must complete a FY23 LEA Agreement amendment to update their MOE tab. The information listed under the FY21 and FY22 column must match the districts data reported to OCAS. All amendments must be completed by February 24, 2023.

For assistance contact your Special Ed Finance Specialist.

The Re-Allocation of Project 615 funds has been completed. Districts not submitting a budget application by December 1, 2022 have forfeited their allocation. Districts having completed a budget application prior to December 1, 2022 have received additional funds and must complete a budget amendment to budget the additional funding. Should you have any questions please contact your financial specialist.

You can find the most recent information regarding the Closure of the Instructionally Embedded Assessment Window, T.A. Training Reminder, DTC Information, and DLM updates prior to the spring testing window on our OAAP Update. 

OSDE-SES and OSPA are collaborating to bring school psychologists and school psychometrists a four-session professional learning series. Session 3 is specially designed for comprehensive evaluation.  This training is free and open to both school employees and individuals who contract with districts to provide evaluation services. Topics include disability specific evaluation components and evaluation tools/instruments. Please share this information with your qualified professionals. 

• February 24, 2023 - Comprehensive Evaluation: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 
• March 24, 2023 - Eligibility: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 

Registration for in person and virtual, along with being eligible for Project 613! For additional information, please see the Professional Learning Series: Qualified Professionals or contact Megan Salisbury with questions.

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

OSDE-SES in partnership with School Safety and Security will be offering Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training. This training will be offered at eight (8) locations around Oklahoma to meet the needs of small and rural school districts.

This training is designed to equip school staff members with tools to use in crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical interventions when needed. 

Please save the date you would like to attend and wait for the registration to be released shortly! Funds in Project 613 (cost of travel, substitute teachers, and hotel) are permissible for reimbursement. 

Questions about CPI can be directed to Megan Salisbury & questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson. 

March 27 at Francis Tuttle Rockwell Campus in Oklahoma City

Student Involvement in the IEP process goes beyond a simple invitation to the table. In this workshop, teachers and stakeholders will understand how individualized roles impact student contributions and the steps they can take to support student involvement before, during, and after the IEP.

Register Now!

For all K-3 Educators on August 1, 2023

Metro Technology Center -Springlake 

*STAY TUNED*

For more information, please reach out to Alexa Hudak! 

The Oklahoma Autism Center has set up Professional Development workshops over a variety of trainings starting as early as September 14, 2022 and lasting until February 17, 2023.

Please see the Professional Development Opportunities for 22-23.

• Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder - February 16, 2023 (Virtual) 
• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans - February 17, 2023 (Virtual) 

Professional Development Opportunities Funded by OSDE-SES. 

Additional information can be found on The Oklahoma Autism Center.

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. 

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

                                View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** Microsoft Scholarship – High School Students in Technology Careers
• **NEW** It's Time to Apply for YLF!
• The Spring AT Workshop Series
• **NEW** On the Road
• **NEW** Early Child Outcomes Webinar
• **NEW** OK IPSE Alliance
• **NEW** SNU SPED Boot Camp
• **NEW** Paraprofessional Credentials
• *Rescheduled* Oklahoma Autism Center

This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and aspire to have a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship. A total of eight (8) scholarships will be awarded in 2023.The Microsoft Disability Scholarship seeks to empower students with disabilities to achieve more through access to education leading to a career in technology.

The Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) is a leadership camp for high school students with a disability. If you are in high school and have a disability, you don’t want to miss out on an opportunity that will change your life! YLF will help you develop your leadership and advocacy skills that will help you after high school.

YLF is a 5-day camp located on a college campus. You will learn leadership and advocacy skills, join team games, meet amazing state and national speakers and  government officials during a trip to the Oklahoma State Capitol. During your week, you will learn and talk about about a wide range of topics like disability rights laws, assistive technology, community resources, and legislative processes. 

This year Oklahoma YLF is celebrating its 20th anniversary June 13, 2023 - June 17, 2023. You just gotta be there for the best summer of your life!

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity - apply online: YLF Application. The application deadline is March 1st! Get those forms turned in as soon as possible! If you're running out of time, let us know so we can help. 

If you need help with the application or have questions, contact Bradley.Mays.

Assistive technology (AT) enables children with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. The IEP team must determine whether an individual child needs an assistive technology device or service, and if so, the nature and extent to be provided.

Hundreds of IEP team members attend ABLE Tech’s AT Workshop Series every year to learn how to help students find and acquire needed AT solutions. If you haven’t attended the training series before, or if you have but need a refresher, hope you’ll make time to attend!

• Part 2 – February 16 – Gathering Information and Trialing Devices
• Part 3 – March 23 – AT in the IEP and Implementation

These workshops will take place via Zoom on their designated dates. Visit the Oklahoma ABLE Tech AT Support Team Workshops webpage to register!

Sooner SUCCESS will be hosting an "On the Road” on March 2, 2023 from 8:30am to 4:00pm at the Bethany Children’s Health Center in Bethany. “On the Road” is a one-day training that educates families and caregivers who live with an individual with a disability, navigate a complex system. We will have several organizations present their resources via "speedshare" format. The conference will consist of five different panels covering resources across the lifespan and resource booths. 

Educational vouchers are available, families need to apply before or the day of the event. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

Register for On the Road!

Sooner SUCCESS organizará un "On the Road” el 2 de marzo del 2023 de 8:30a - 4:00pm en el Bethany Children’s Health Center en Bethany. “On the Road” es una entrenamiento de un día que educa a las familias y los cuidadores que viven con una persona con una discapacidad, cómo navegar en un sistema complicado. Varias organizaciones presentarán sus recursos a través del formato "speedshare" (Informacion rápida y concisa). La conferencia consistirá en cinco paneles diferentes que cubrirán los recursos a lo largo de la vida útil y los puestos de recursos. (Más detalles por venir)(Más detalles por venir)

Cupones educativos disponibles, pero las familias deben presentar su solicitud antes o el día del evento. Contact Mayra Castaneda.

¡Regístrese en En el Camino!

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00PM - 2:30PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

OK IPSE Alliance is excited to announce the FIRST Inclusive Post Secondary Education (IPSE) Summit in Oklahoma that will bring together representatives from IPSE programs in Oklahoma and Texas to share about their programs as well as representatives with Think College to share the national perspective.  A student panel will also take place in the afternoon, which is a great opportunity for current K-12 students to hear from students attending IPSE programs.  Vendors are welcome and space is limited, so please register early to be part of this event!

The Summit is a one-day event on Friday, April 14th at MetroTech Springlake Conference Center in OKC.

For more information please see the Summit Flyer in English or Spanish for your convenience. 

Paraprofessional credentials have been added to the Oklahoma Educator Credentialing System (OECS) located in Single Sign-On. 

District Superintendent and District Human Resources roles in OECS will now be able to recommend paraprofessional candidates for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Paraprofessional credentials. Districts can start the recommendation process by clicking on "Manage Your Paraprofessional Recommendations." Once the educator is recommended, the educator will be able to apply online using their recommendation tile. 

• Paraprofessional Recommendation Process - 2023
• Contact Teacher Certification for additional questions regarding the paraprofessional recommendation process. 

The Oklahoma Autism Center has set up Professional Development workshops over a variety of trainings. Please see the Professional Development Opportunities for 22-23.

• Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder - February 16, 2023 (Virtual) 
• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans - February 17, 2023 (Virtual) 
• *RESCHEDULED* ASD: Foundation Training for Paraprofessionals and Other Support Staff - March 1, 2023 and March 2, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (In-Person and Virtual)

Additional information can be found on The Oklahoma Autism Center.

Stay up to date with important deadlines, special education information, announcements, trainings and more!

Once you’ve enrolled, we’ll text you when a communication from Special Education Services hits your inbox and provide a link where you can view the message online using your mobile phone.

View sign-up instructions here.

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
SDESpecialEducation@sde.ok.gov

• **NEW** District Self Monitoring
• **NEW** Direct Coaching Support for District MTSS Implementation
• FY23 LEA Agreement Amendment
• Re-Allocation of Project 615
• OSDE-SES and OSPA - Qualified Professional Learning Series
• Early Childhood Outcomes Webinars
• **NEW** CPI Regional Training
• Student Involvement in the IEP In-Person
• Oklahoma Autism Center
• Educational Interpreter Registry

Based on district data determinations, some districts are required to complete self-assessment or self-monitoring activities as assigned by the OSDE-SES.  However, every district should be engaged in self-monitoring to ensure compliance and consistency within the district.  The Compliance and Monitoring Team has released the following tools for districts to use in their own self-monitoring.

 Indicator toolkits assist districts in conducting a self-assessment for one or more of the indicators.  The toolkits include a series of guiding questions followed by guidance on the development of an improvement plan and progress review.  There are toolkits available for indicators 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13.

The district monitoring tool is used for student-level review of IDEA documents (e.g. RED, MEEGS, IEP, Written Notice, and Invitation to Meeting).  It has a series of questions that are answered yes, no, or N/A to determine compliance for specific sections of the IDEA documents.  It can be used by teachers for their own file review or by district special education staff in monitoring individual files. 

You can access the Indicator Tool Kit the District Monitoring Tool on our website. If you have any questions, please call Special Education Services at 405.521.3351

The State Personnel Development Grant is soliciting applications for districts to receive direct coaching support for implementation of multi-tiered system of supports beginning School Year 2023-2024! All details are included within the Application for SPDG MTSS Implementation Support. 

For additional questions, please contact Project Director, Kristen Perez-Rickels by e-mail or 405.522.4513.

Districts must complete a FY23 LEA Agreement amendment to update their MOE tab. The information listed under the FY21 and FY22 column must match the districts data reported to OCAS. All amendments must be completed by February 24, 2023.

For assistance contact your Special Ed Finance Specialist.

The Re-Allocation of Project 615 funds has been completed. Districts not submitting a budget application by December 1, 2022 have forfeited their allocation. Districts having completed a budget application prior to December 1, 2022 have received additional funds and must complete a budget amendment to budget the additional funding. Should you have any questions please contact your financial specialist.

OSDE-SES and OSPA are collaborating to bring school psychologists and school psychometrists a four-session professional learning series. Session 3 is specially designed for comprehensive evaluation.  This training is free and open to both school employees and individuals who contract with districts to provide evaluation services. Topics include disability specific evaluation components and evaluation tools/instruments. Please share this information with your qualified professionals. 

• February 24, 2023 - Comprehensive Evaluation: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 
• March 24, 2023 - Eligibility: Register NOW! In Person or Virtual 

Registration for in person and virtual, along with being eligible for Project 613! For additional information, please see the Professional Learning Series: Qualified Professionals. 

Improve your understanding of the Early Childhood Outcomes process and learn how outcomes data collection supports early childhood special education program in meeting the needs of students.

• March 22nd from 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Register in Advance!

Questions can be directed to Megan Withers. 

OSDE-SES in partnership with School Safety and Security will be offering Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) training. This training will be offered at eight (8) locations around Oklahoma to meet the needs of small and rural school districts.

This training is designed to equip school staff members with tools to use in crisis prevention, de-escalation techniques, and physical interventions when needed. 

Please save the date you would like to attend and wait for the registration to be released shortly! Funds in Project 613 (cost of travel, substitute teachers, and hotel) are permissible for reimbursement. 

Questions about CPI can be directed to Megan Salisbury & questions about Project 613 can be directed to Abby Johnson. 

March 27 at Francis Tuttle Rockwell Campus in Oklahoma City

Student Involvement in the IEP process goes beyond a simple invitation to the table. In this workshop, teachers and stakeholders will understand how individualized roles impact student contributions and the steps they can take to support student involvement before, during, and after the IEP.

Register Now!

The Oklahoma Autism Center has set up Professional Development workshops over a variety of trainings starting as early as September 14, 2022 and lasting until February 17, 2023.

Please see the Professional Development Opportunities for 22-23.

• Reducing Challenging Behavior for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder - February 16, 2023 (Virtual) 
• Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments & Writing Behavior Intervention Plans - February 17, 2023 (Virtual) 

Professional Development Opportunities Funded by OSDE-SES. 

Additional information can be found on The Oklahoma Autism Center.

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. 

Educational Interpreter Registry - Oklahoma State Department of Education

The Oklahoma State Department of Education is the state education agency of the State of Oklahoma who determines the policies and directing the administration and supervision of the public school system of Oklahoma.