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Special Education

Department of Special Education

Amy O'Dierno

Amy O’Dierno

Director of Special Education

aodierno@mtpanthers.org

740-333-4899

The Miami Trace Special Education Department is made up of dedicated professionals with specialized training who work in partnership with students, families, and teachers to identify needs, evaluate services, and provide individualized support for students with disabilities.

Ohio requires that all IEPs be standards-based to prepare Ohio's children for their future beyond school. IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004) federal guidelines require that all children with disabilities have access to and make progress in the general education curriculum. To comply with state and federal mandates, instruction is provided to ensure all children with disabilities have access to a free, appropriate public education emphasizing specially designed instruction to meet individual needs.

Accessibility is also a key focus across our district. We are continually working to ensure that all facilities provide safe and inclusive access for every student.

Teacher education is a targeted area.  With ever-changing federal and state mandates and the increased need for highly qualified teachers, professional development opportunities are offered locally to ensure teachers stay current and acquire coursework leading to licensure in the area of special education.

At Miami Trace, our vision is clear: every student with a disability will receive a high-quality education that meets their individual needs and empowers them to become productive, successful adults.

Robyn Huddle

Robyn Huddle

Elementary Special Education Supervisor

rhuddle@mtpanthers.org

740-333-4764

Melissa Steele, 504 Coordinator

Melissa Steele

MTES 504 Coordinator

Tom Dean, 504 Coordinator

Tom Dean

MTMS 504 Coordinator

Rebekah Milstead, 504 Coordinator

Rebekah Milstead

MTHS 504 Coordinator

Pam ThornburgThe Parent Mentor Program is available to all families of special needs children, who are on an Individual Education Plan (IEP), or who are receiving special education services.  The Mentor is a support and resource person for parents when they are working with the schools.

The Mentor can explain the evaluation and assessment process involved in obtaining several services for a child.  The Mentor can explain rules, policies, and parent's rights.  A Mentor can assist families in building positive working relationships and effective communication between themselves, school personnel, and the community.  In short, the Parent Mentor can help schools and families work together to provide the best education possible for students.

If you don't understand the process of obtaining special support for your child in school, need someone to listen, need help in the IEP process, need someone to attend a meeting with you, or want a support group, please call. The service is free of charge to you.

Contact the Parent Mentor, Pam Thornburg, at (740) 505-6619 or on Facebook under Fayette Co. Parent Mentor.