Improving Transition Outcomes in Richland County

The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges and barriers that parents in Richland County perceive when working the County Board of Developmental Disabilities when planning for the child’s transition. Also examined was other local agencies like Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities. The importance of transition planning and the effects it has on a student’s life has been studied. A mixed methods design was chosen for this study. An online survey was utilized to acquire the feelings of parents about the local transition services. A small group of parents volunteered to participate in a semi-structured interview. Parents has several positive things to report about their experiences with Richland Newhope. Future studies would benefit from have a better turnout of parents who struggle to connect with their local services and have expressed dissatisfaction in the past.