The Ohio Department of Education (ODE) has widely shared proposed changes to the OAC (Ohio Administrative Code) and is allowing for public comment until July 31. One of the proposed changes is the Proposed Rule Change to OAC 3301-51-05 Procedural Safeguards regarding Change of Placement (found in 3301-51-05). Parental consent for change of placement, which currently is found in the OAC language in this section, is proposed to be removed. ODE has shared that the change of placement decision is an IEP team decision, and the parent is a member of the IEP team. However, clarity of the rights of a parent in this situation is important. To continue giving parents their rights that are afforded by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), we believe that the language should remain in the OAC.
For parents and families who are concerned about this proposed change, Disability Rights Ohio has drafted a template letter to use to share their concern.
Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with the removal of the language in this section, we encourage everyone to review all of the proposed changes and provide your public comment on the changes. All proposed changes (and instructions on where to send comments) can be found here.
The Ohio Department of Education welcomes comments and encourages everyone to participate in this process. The more voices heard, the more perspectives shared, whatever your perspective is, the better outcome for all of our children.