 Zach Groves-Hagedorn, a senior at OSSB and participant with OOD, and Governor DeWine in the OSSB library.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, along with Kevin L. Miller, Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) Director; Matt Damschroder, Director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services; Stephen D. Dackin, Director of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce; and Kimberly Hauck, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities visited the Ohio State School for the Blind (OSSB) and Ohio School for the Deaf (OSD) on March 15, 2024. Their presence underscored a shared commitment to understanding and supporting the unique educational needs of students who are blind or have low vision, Deaf, DeafBlind, or hard of hearing.
Guests observed firsthand the innovative assistive technology being utilized by students to enhance their learning experience. Students enthusiastically shared their academic achievements and posed insightful questions, showcasing their engagement and eagerness to learn. Additionally, student leadership was highlighted, exemplifying the potential for these young individuals to become future leaders in their communities.
Students in the culinary program showcased the practical skills they are acquiring for real-world applications. Visitors were treated to an array of delicious offerings, including smoothies, baked goods, and coffee, prepared by students in the program.
"It's truly inspiring to witness the dedication of these students as they embark on their journey toward meaningful careers," Director Miller said. "At OOD, our commitment extends beyond mere words; we provide comprehensive support, including vocational counseling, assistive technology, training opportunities, and job placement assistance, to ensure these students transition seamlessly from school to the workforce with confidence and success."
OOD provides dedicated Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors headquartered full-time at OSSB and OSD. These counselors provide vocational counseling, training, and job placement assistance to help students transition to college and employment after graduation.
Zach Groves-Hagedorn, a senior at OSSB and participant with OOD, eagerly looked forward to meeting Governor DeWine. As part of a Summer Youth Work Experience at ProMedica Bay Park Dietary in Oregon, Ohio, Zach gained valuable exposure to the world of work. His tasks included checking stickers for expiration dates, putting lids on containers, and cleaning, all of which he performed with politeness and respect toward his co-workers. Currently, Zach is contemplating deferring his graduation to enroll in the EDGE (Education, Development, Growth, Employment) program at OSSB. This year-long program is specifically tailored to help students like Zach prepare for adult life by providing specialized support and resources.
The visit reinforced the importance of ongoing support and investment in programs that cater to the diverse needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and skills necessary to succeed in both academic and real-world settings.
 From left to right: Julie Stewart, OSD Assistant Director for Teaching and Learning; Anthony Coy-Gonzalez, OSD Interim Director of Teaching and Learning; Dr. Lou Maynus, Superintendent Ohio Deaf and Blind Education Services (ODBES); Stephen D. Dackin, Director of DEW; Kimberly Hauck, Director of DODD; Kevin L. Miller, Director of OOD; Matt Damschroder, Director of ODJFS; Dr. Alison LaBarre, Executive Director of ODBES Statewide Services and Outreach; and Cedar Well, ODBES Chief of Staff.
After interacting with students, Governor DeWine asked, "Who couldn't be optimistic about coming here today?" He emphasized the importance of such visits, explaining, "One of the reasons that Fran and I go around to so many schools is that we want to see what is going on. We want to see what is happening with the science of reading. But also, because it gives enthusiasm and optimism for where this country is going."
 OOD Director Miller; Berna King, OOD Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired Program Manager; and Rex, service dog, participated in a LightSound demonstration at Alum Creek State Park.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and OOD have joined forces to introduce LightSound technology at Ohio State Parks and wildlife areas, enhancing accessibility for Ohioans who are blind or have low vision during the April 8 solar eclipse.
“Ensuring accessibility for all Ohioans is a priority for our administration,” Governor DeWine said. “By partnering with OOD and ODNR to introduce LightSound technology, we're taking meaningful steps to leave no Ohioan behind, especially during significant events like the solar eclipse."
Developed in 2017, the LightSound device offers a unique way for individuals who are blind or have low vision to experience a solar eclipse through sound. Utilizing sonification, the device converts light intensity data into audible tones, allowing users to perceive changes as the moon eclipses the sun.
“We’re hard at work to make sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the total solar eclipse in Ohio’s beautiful, natural spaces.” ODNR Director Mary Mertz said. “We’re excited to partner with OOD to make this once-in-a-lifetime event even more accessible.”
"As an agency dedicated to empowering Ohioans with disabilities, OOD is proud to embrace innovative technology like LightSound," said Kevin L. Miller, OOD Director. "By leveraging such advancements, we promote a more accessible Ohio.”
The Harvard University Astronomy Lab has provided LightSound devices that will be deployed at the following ODNR locations:
- Alum Creek State Park
- Delaware State Park
- East Harbor State Park
- Findley State Park
- Geneva State Park
- Grand Lake State Park
- Headlands Beach State Park
- Hueston Woods State Park
- Indian Lake State Park
- Lake Loramie State Park
- Maumee Bay State Park
- Mohican State Park
- Mt. Gilead State Park
- Portage Lakes State Park
- Punderson State Park
- Sycamore State Park
- Wingfoot Lake State Park
- Buck Creek State Park
- John Bryan State Park
- Kelleys Island State Park
- Malabar Farm State Park
- Mosquito Lake State Park
- Pymatuning State Park
- West Branch State Park
- Van Buren State Park
- Spring Valley Wildlife Area Shooting Range
- Magee Marsh Wildlife Area and Visitor Center
- Delaware Wildlife Area Shooting Range
- Wildlife District Three Akron Office
These devices will be connected to speakers, allowing groups to experience the eclipse together.
In addition to LightSound, OOD and ODNR are promoting the Eclipse Soundscapes app, available for free on Android and iPhone devices. This multimedia experience, designed inclusively for individuals who are blind or have low vision, offers educational resources and interactive features to engage users during eclipses. Through its “Eclipse Center” and “Rumble Map” functionalities, the app empowers users to explore upcoming eclipses and experience them through sound and touch.
For more information about the LightSound devices and other plans for the total solar eclipse, visit the ODNR Eclipse webpage.
Join OOD Director Kevin L. Miller and his son Connor Miller as they share their insights in this Autism Acceptance Month video.
At OOD, we celebrate and support individuals with autism spectrum disorder, recognizing the invaluable contributions of families, advocates, healthcare professionals, service providers, researchers, and the broader community.
Discover how OOD is dedicated to assisting individuals with autism in obtaining and maintaining meaningful employment.
 Celebrate National Social Security Month – See what you can do with a my Social Security Account. Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
 Thursday, April 18, 2024
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
OOD is pleased to host Session Four in our Accessible Ohio Playbook series titled, “Experience.” This webinar will feature common accessibility tools and practices for enjoying and participating in public activities, ideas for reasonable modifications and accommodations, and strategies that go beyond accessibility and promote inclusion. The presenters are Accessible Ohio Specialists Brianna Potter, OTR/L, ADAC and Tanya Vela, OTR/L.
This event is hosted through Microsoft Teams Webinar. Pre-Registration is required to attend. Please visit the registration site and complete a brief form. Once you have completed the registration form, you will receive an email that includes the link to join the event and add it to your calendar.
OOD is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, and programs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws. To request an accommodation based on a disability, please contact us by April 11, 2024.
If you would like to register for any of the remaining Accessible Ohio Playbook Sessions, please visit the following registration pages.
The Accessible Ohio Playbook
Session 5: Personal Care - May 22, 2024
Session 6: The Game Plan - June 20, 2024
Each webinar in this series has been approved for 1.00 HR (General) re-certification credit hour toward aPHR™, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™ and SPHRi™ re-certification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) and 1.00 SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC) hour toward SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®. While this training is not pre-approved for CESP Continuing Education (CE) credit, it aligns with CESP content, and verification of attendance will be provided upon request. These credits are available for attendees of the live broadcast.
 The OOD Council Vocational Rehabilitation Policy Subcommittee meeting on March 6, 2024.
The OOD Council will conduct an in-person meeting for OOD Council members and the public on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
The meeting will take place at OOD’s Central Office at 150 E. Campus View Blvd., Columbus, OH 43235, Conference Room 0308. For members of the public who cannot attend the in-person meetings, a call-in phone number is available on the OOD Council meetings webpage.
Public comments or correspondence should be submitted to Kimberly.DeBoe@ood.ohio.gov by the close of business on Friday, April 19, 2024.
For more information about the meeting, please visit the OOD Council meetings webpage.
Technology Allows Ohioans Who are Blind or Visually Impaired to Hear the Eclipse
WBNS, 4-4-24
LightSound Project Makes Eclipse Visible for the Visually Impaired
WSYX, 4-4-24
Dylan’s House to Host Autism: Transitioning into Adulthood Event
The Business Journal, 4-4-24
Library Grant to Help Members with Disabilities
The Herald-Star, 4-4-24
New Support for Deaf Community
The Vindicator, 4-2-24
Ohio State Group Creates Space for Students with Autism
Spectrum News, 4-2-24
Treasurer Sprague recognizes April as ABLE to Save Month, Announces New Incentive
The Highland County Press, 4-1-24
Dayton Metro Library is Dedicated to Inclusion and Access
Dayton Daily News, 3-31-24
Social Security to Raise the Representative Fee Cap to Help with Claiming Benefits
Social Security Administration Press Office, 3-29-24
Social Security Eliminates Overpayment Burden for Social Security Beneficiaries
Social Security Administration Press Office, 3-29-24
OIT’s Digital Accessibility Team Completes Document Accessibility Pilot Project
Oho University News, 3-29-24
Three Disability Issues Everyone Should Care About
Forbes, 3-28-24
How Ohio is Helping the Visually Impaired Enjoy April Eclipse
WCMH, 3-28-24
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