As Ohio’s new education laws take effect, a Toledo nonprofit is making sure families know their rights.
Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE) will host four free Education Legal Assistance Sessions.
Free sessions
- Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 6-8pm at The West Toledo Branch Library
- Thursday, Sept. 11 from 10am-noon at The West Toledo Branch Library
- Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 6-8pm at The South Toledo Branch Library
- Thursday, Oct. 16 from 10am-noon at The South Toledo Branch Library
The sessions are open to parents, guardians and caregivers of K-12 students who want to learn more about navigating the school system and protecting their children’s rights.
Topics will include:
- Student rights under state and federal law
- Discipline, suspension and expulsion procedures
- Disability and immigrant student protections
- Advocacy tips for families
- Updates on recent legislation, such as House Bill 206 (permanent expulsion policy) and Senate Bill 104 (restricting bathroom use for transgender students)
Parents will also have the opportunity to meet with an education attorney for free consultations following the presentations.
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“Suspension and expulsion often impact our communities with disabilities more than other students,” said Jennifer Martinez, supervising attorney for ABLE. “We want parents to understand how these new policies may affect their children.”
The library partnered with ABLE to provide space for the sessions. “When it comes to the education system, it can often feel overwhelming,” said Allison Fiscus, adult services coordinator for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. “ABLE is here saying, ‘No question’s too big, no question’s too small.’”
Families needing further assistance can apply for free legal help through the Legal Aid Line at (888) 534-1432 (Monday–Friday, 9am–3pm) or online at LegalAidLine.org.
