ASAP: Advocates, Strategies, Resources, and Laws for Youth

Students take an active role in family engagement by communicating between home and school, sharing their interests and goals with those who support them, and advocating for themselves and their futures.

Supported by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Emerging Advocate Grant, the Nisonger Center developed tools for teachers, parents and providers to help students ages 11–22 with disabilities build self-advocacy skills and actively participate in their IEP/504 meetings.

The resource collection below includes training tools, a curriculum, and a resources library for delivering ASAP with fidelity and flexibility. Consider checking out the ASAP Curriculum Quick Guide for an overview of the curriculum and the key takeaways participants will gain.

What is ASAP?

ASAP is a 10-week small-group intervention that supports students in developing:

– Self-awareness
– Communication skills
– Leadership skills
– Knowledge of their legal rights
– Active participation in IEP and 504 meetings

Why Choose ASAP?

ASAP is:

– Culturally responsive
– Strengths-based
– Neurodiversity-affirming
– Engaging and practical

The curriculum celebrates neurological differences as valuable aspects of human diversity and focuses on students’ strengths, abilities, and potential.

What's Included?

Participants and facilitators have access to:

– Full curriculum
– Facilitator manual
– Student and group activities
– Family engagement materials
– Additional resources and tools
– Interactive lessons, discussions, and hands-on activities with opportunities for peer and family involvement

Access all ASAP materials here: go.osu.edu/emerging_advocate

ASAP is an excellent opportunity for educators, service providers, families, and students who may benefit from these valuable self-advocacy resources.