STATE AND FEDERAL RULES AND REGULATIONS

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The purpose of the IDEA is to ensure that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that emphasizes special education and related services designed to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment and independent living [34 CFR 300.1(a)] [20 U.S.C. 1400(d)(1)(A)].

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

The purpose of the WIOA is increased access to employment, education, training, and support services to assist individuals with disabilities, including those with the most significant disabilities, to succeed in the competitive labor market.

Ohio’s Employment First Policy

The Employment First policy declares that every individual with a developmental disability is presumed capable of competitive employment that takes place in an integrated setting.

IDEA RESOURCES

• Ohio Operating Standards for the Education of Children with Disabilities
• Indicator 13 Checklist Form B | Ohio Indicator 13 Checklist
• >Form O-8 Summary of Performance 

WIOA RESOURCES

Requirements for school districts on the use of Subminimum Wage to Youth with Disabilities under Section 511 of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act

• WIOA Section 511 Guidance
• WIOA Section 511 Coversheet
• Employment First Taskforce Joint Guidance
• Section 511: An Easy Read Guide

OHIO'S EMPLOYMENT FIRST POLICY RESOURCES

• Ohio Revised Code
• The Ohio Employment First Transition Framework 

Joint Guidance on Project SEARCH

The Ohio Department of Education and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) have issued joint guidance on Project SEARCH job readiness training programs. The agencies are working collaboratively to: plan and coordinate quarterly Project SEARCH meetings; ensure OOD participation in transition planning and IEP meetings; develop tools to assist students and families in making informed decisions about services; and be involved in decisions regarding the development of new programs.

• ODE and OOD Project SEARCH Letter