School Age Services - Open Door School

• We are operated by the Lawrence County Developmental Disabilities.
• We enroll eligible students from 7 public school districts in Lawrence County.
• We serve students ages 5-22 in Primary to Vocational level classes.  
• We use the Unique Curriculum, aligned with Ohio’s Extended Learning Standards.  
  
• We follow operating standards and regulations of the Ohio Department of Education & Workforce, along with the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.
• We offer the following approved services: Speech and Language, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Visual Impairment Services, and Adapted Physical Education.

• Swimming at the Ashland Area YMCA
• Bowling at Spare Time, Ironton
• Special Olympics - Volleyball, Basketball, Bowling, Track & Field
• Volleyball and Basketball Games against Vern Riffe School and Adult Day Programs
• Various Art Projects
• Community Engagement Projects
• Santa Shopping and Lunch at Bob Evans
• Spelling Bee
• Talent Show
• Bell Choir
• Science / Social Studies Fair 
• Earth Day Celebration
• Class Field Trips
• Rose Valley Animal Park, Minford
• High School Prom
• Field Day and Water Day
• High School Graduation 
• Camden Park, Ceredo-Kenova, end of the year celebration

• Open Door School began on September 8, 1961 with an enrollment of 25 students. It was sponsored under Health and Welfare Correction, not public education. Mrs. Reynolds was appointed as the first administrator. Ohio Bell Telephone Company donated their building for use. The first two instructors were Mrs. Linton Mattox and Mrs. Enoch Allen, in addition to many volunteers.
• Open Door School received its name through a public contest. Mrs. Thurman Moore of Scottown, Ohio submitted the winning name. 
• In March of 1969, the first adult activity class was formed. 6 adults attended. 

All referrals for enrollment must come from one of the seven Lawrence County, Ohio school districts. The liaison from the school district contacts the Open Door School Principal to inquire about availability and adding the potential student's name on the waiting list. From there, an Open Door School staff member contacts the parents to begin the Referral and Eligibility Process.