Reinstate Remote Learning for Jon Peterson/Autism Students

We, the undersigned, call on you to reinstate the remote learning option for students utilizing Intervention Specialist and Aide Services through the Jon Peterson Scholarship and Autism Scholarship Programs.

For the past three years, the state has demonstrated admirable judgment by sanctioning remote access to virtual tutoring sessions (intervention and aide services) for students with learning disabilities. This flexibility has served as an invaluable lifeline for children facing medical limitations or residing in areas distant from Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship providers, bridging educational gaps and empowering families to navigate unique challenges. The abrupt bureaucratic decision to discontinue this essential support, as communicated through an unsigned email from the Ohio Department of Education, has sent shockwaves through our communities, leaving thousands of families facing an uncertain future.

We, the undersigned, humbly request your immediate attention and action to reinstate remote learning options for students utilizing Intervention Specialist and Aide Services through the Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship Programs. The decision to discontinue remote learning for these two services has far-reaching consequences, and we believe it is imperative to address the following key points:

1. Accessibility: Remote learning has been a crucial lifeline for children with learning disabilities facing medical limitations or residing in remote and rural areas without reasonable access to Jon Peterson and Autism providers. Discontinuing remote learning disproportionately affects these students, hindering their ability to receive the necessary support. Less than 50% of Ohio counties have JP and Autism service providers.

2. Equity: The removal of remote learning creates a stark contrast between those living in urban centers and larger towns, who may still have access to providers, and those in rural areas who are left without viable options. This decision deepens existing disparities in educational opportunities, perpetuating an unequal system. Furthermore, remote educational intervention services for students with special needs are routinely used throughout the public school system. Discontinuing them for JP and Autism Scholarship students creates a clearly prejudicial environment.

3. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Students with IEPs have unique learning needs, and remote learning has proven to be an effective means of delivering specialized support. Reinstating remote learning ensures that these students continue to receive tailored interventions, fostering an environment conducive to their academic success.
Considering all of the above, and also that remote learning is routinely employed by the public school system to provide access to Intervention Specialists and Aides, we urge the legislature to address and reverse the bureaucratic decision to discontinue these two remote learning services for Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship Students in Ohio.

By signing this petition, we express our deep concern for the well-being and educational prospects of these students. We believe in the principles of accessibility, equity, and the right to an inclusive education for every child, irrespective of their geographical location or medical limitations.

We trust that you will consider the best interests of Ohio's students with disabilities and act promptly to reinstate these remote learning services for Jon Peterson and Autism Scholarship Program recipients.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.