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Addressing Significant Disproportionality in Ohio

In 2016, the federal Office of Special Education Programs amended the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) regulations relating to significant disproportionality. This disproportionality generally occurs when students of one racial or ethnic group are more likely to receive special education identification, placement in a more restrictive setting, or more out of class discipline compared to all other students, thus denying them access to instruction and the support they need to succeed academically.

IDEA requires the Department to promote equity by identifying and preventing significant disproportionality. Looking at disproportionality data helps ensure that the right services are getting to the right students in the right way. 

• Equity in Special Education: Disproportionate Representation (Indicators 9 & 10) and Significant Disproportionality (updated October 2024)
• Frequently Asked Questions About Significant Disproportionality 

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Manuals and Guidance

• Early Intervening Services Fiscal Guidance
• Disproportionality Technical Document (updated October 2024)

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Ohio Department of Education Resources

• Equity
• School Climate and Social-Emotional Supports
• Staff Diversity
• Culturally Responsive Practices
• Academic Supports

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Contact

(P) 614-466-2650
(Toll free) 877-644-6338
(F) 614-728-1097
25 S. Front Street, Mail Stop 409
Columbus, Ohio 43215
Exceptionalchildren@education.ohio.gov

For callers using TTY, please call Ohio Relay Service at (800) 750-0750.

Last Modified: 11/13/2024 9:04:34 AM