Dibble Public Schools has been presented with a Certificate of Recognition for Achievement on the 2024 Early Childhood Transition Indicator 12 by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

This prestigious certificate specifically acknowledges Dibble’s “top outcomes” in Indicator 12 among small-sized Local Education Agencies (LEAs).

“This recognition highlights our commitment to ensuring a seamless transition for our youngest learners, guaranteeing the continuity of vital services as they grow,” principal Lou Ann Wood said.

“To understand the significance of this award, it’s important to know about Oklahoma’s SoonerStart program. SoonerStart is a crucial statewide initiative providing services for children from birth through two years of age who have a developmental delay or disability. This program is designed to support early development and its services cease on the child’s third birthday,” she said.

Indicator 12, specifically, measures the “Percent of eligible children transitioning from Part C program who had an IEP implemented by their third birthday.” Maintaining the fluidity of necessary services from SoonerStart into our public school system is paramount to ensuring continued growth and consistency for these children.

The transition process from SoonerStart to an LEA like Dibble Public Schools is comprehensive and requires meticulous coordination. Prior to a child’s third birthday, SoonerStart staff engage with families to discuss the transition and their desire for special education services within the district. SoonerStart then contacts our LEA for any expected two-year-old students who will need services at age three.

During a SoonerStart Transition Planning Conference (TPC) or an LEA initial eligibility meeting, a dedicated team collaborates to Review Existing Data (RED), acquire new testing information, and make a determination of eligibility and/or necessary services.

The full transition from SoonerStart to an LEA requires a RED, Parent Consent, a Multidisciplinary Evaluation and Eligibility Group Summary (MEEGS), and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) – all of which must be completed prior to the child’s third birthday. Any missed time lines necessitate a statement explaining the reason for the delay and future plans for improvement.

“This Certificate of Recognition for achieving “top outcomes” in Indicator 12 is a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and proactive efforts of our entire team – our special education staff, administrators, SoonerStart partners, and most importantly, our supportive families. It signifies that Dibble Public Schools consistently ensures that children eligible for special education services receive their Individualized Education Plans by their critical third birthday, setting them up for continued success,” Wood continued.

“We are incredibly proud of this achievement and remain committed to providing outstanding educational opportunities and seamless support for all our students, from early childhood onward,” Wood concluded.