Ohio Launching Individualized Tutoring Program for Students with Disabilities

With an investment of $2.2 million from the state’s GEER funding allocation, the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities launched Learning Aid Ohio. This virtual, personalized tutoring service program provides support to 1,200 families of students with individualized education plans (IEPs) by connecting them to a virtual tutor and other education professionals. Data from program participants and involved educators shows that it has already resulted in a dramatic increase in perceived level of student educational success. This data is being used to determine if additional funding should be spent to extend this program.

We are spotlighting this practice because it is an example of a targeted service for a student population that was disproportionately affected by the pandemic. By using recovery funds to grant students continued personalized assistance, Ohio is working to keep kids on track for success.

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Reviewer Analysis

Leslie Villegas

English learners are often overrepresented in special education particularly when enrolled in straight English immersion programs which means this program has the potential of benefiting them if Learning Aid Ohio is taking the proper language access consideration in how they reach and serve English learners and their families.

The Rural Alliance

We are encouraged by the use of data from participants and educators, and the personalized assistance. We are also encouraged by the use of virtual education.

The Data Quality Campaign

Ohio’s Learning Aid Ohio uses data to individualize learning for students. The state also uses data to understand the impact of the program on student outcomes.

New Leaders

This is a targeted and data-driven use of funds that has already yielded positive results. Focusing on students who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic is a step towards creating more equitable outcomes for all. Ohio should consider how tutors might partner and communicate with students’ teachers for maximum impact.

The Education Trust

While little is known about providing tutoring in a virtual environment (although research points to a positive impact), we are excited about this program providing individualized support to students who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

Southern Regional Education Board

The use of initial data to identify future funding is important for sustainability and/or expansion.

The Bush Center

Yes! Love that this is targeted to students with IEPs. I wish more states would customize supports for SPED students and their families.

National Parents Union

This is a great program, but why not ILP (individualized learning plans) for all students?

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About the Author

Chad Aldeman is a nationally recognized expert on education policy, including school finance; teacher preparation, evaluation, and compensation; and state standards, assessment, and accountability. Keep up with Chad on the EduProgess: Unpacked blog.