Kenton Rotary Recently Hosted Simon Kenton School Supervisor and Intervention Specialist Craig Ludwig

Craig Ludwig, School Age Supervisor and Intervention Specialist at Simon Kenton School spoke at a recent meeting of the Kenton Rotary Club.

He gave an update on the activities of Simon Kenton School students, including field trips to Althauser Farms pumpkin patch, the Columbus Zoo and bowling at Hillcrest Lanes. Mr. Ludwig explained that students at Simon Kenton benefit from community partners that visit, including the Kenton Fire Department, Kenton School’s FFA program, OSU Extension Office, and teachers for Adaptive Physical Education and Adaptive Speech programs. Students at Simon Kenton also are involved with a recycling program, Paint the Plow through ODOT and sending care packages to members of the military.

Mr. Ludwig then discussed new grant opportunities for the Hardin County Board of Developmental Disabilities. A Keeping Families Together grant through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities has allowed staff members to become trained in nonviolent crisis intervention programming as well as train school employees in area schools.

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds were used to make the community more accessible to people with disabilities. Universal changing tables were purchased and will be placed at both Kenton and Ada pools, the fairgrounds, Simon Kenton School, as well as in two portable trailers that can be located at area events and festivals. Money is also available to make office spaces and meeting rooms in the county more accessible.

Three years ago the Hardin County Board of Developmental Disabilities received $1.5 million dollars to operate an afterschool and summer program for students in the county at risk. Equipment and supplies were purchased through this grant to help this program continue past the initial 3-year commitment. Mr. Ludwig explained that all of these grants were used to supplement the board’s current services, and are not a replacement for current expenses.

He answered questions from the group. For more information visit www.hardindd.org.