Deaf or hard of hearing students who demonstrate a need for continuing education upon completion of their high school credits and defer their diploma, may wish to apply for the 4Plus Program. This program is to further their education, gain employment experience, and develop and improve their independent living skills while receiving support from teachers and staff.

Career readiness is taught in the community at various internship sites based on the students’ interest and skill set. This experience is designed to directly impact career readiness for their future. Students may also earn certifications such as ServSafe certification for food preparation or kitchen work, CPR & First Aid, and more that they can use to build resumes for college and career readiness.

Students continue their growth by living in the Student Life 4Plus dorms on campus during the week. With limited support from OSD staff students are taught to manage their schedules, other independent living skills, self-advocacy and social skills in a nurturing environment.

Who can join 4PLUS?

• Students age 18-21 years old who are deaf and hard of hearing living in Ohio receiving educational services through an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).
• Students who have met high school graduation requirements but have not formally received their diploma.

What do students do in the 4PLUS Program?

• Work
• Attend College or Career Centers
• Internships/apprenticeships
• Participate in Community Events
• Develop Independent Living Skills
• Combination of choices/needs

How to learn more about and get involved in the 4PLUS Program?

Regardless if you are currently a student at OSD or you attend another Ohio high school, the steps are the same to enroll in the 4Plus program.  

If you might be interested in learning more about 4Plus consider the following:

• Are you on track to complete all High School Credits?
• Have you talked with family and the IEP team about wanting to enter the 4PLUS Program?
• Have you contacted the OSD 4PLUS staff to learn more about the enrollment process and expectations?
• Have you submitted a 4Plus program application?

Where you attend high school does not determine your eligibility into the program. Along with being accepted into the 4Plus program, placement is an IEP team decision. 

4PLUS Fast FACTS:

• Each 4PLUS student has their own program designed to meet their postsecondary needs. Each 4PLUS student is different and has different needs.
• The 4PLUS Staff can help with the enrollment process and attend IEP meeting and/or discuss with your home school about the program.
• It is not a typical classroom: 4PLUS is designed more like college and work environments.
• 4PLUS has its own dorms and activities to further develop independent living skills.
• Some 4PLUS students drive their own car and have their own apartment off campus.
• 4PLUS offers speech therapy, job coaching, audiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy and counseling services.
• The 4PLUS Staff works closely with adult agencies to help 4PLUS students stay connected to resources.
• When ready, 4PLUS students are trained to navigate the community using public transportation.