The Return-to-Learn Bill Has Officially Been Introduced in Ohio!

We are thrilled to share some exciting advocacy news — Ohio’s Return-to-Learn legislation has officially been introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives as House Bill 847!

The bill is jointly sponsored by Representative Jarrells and Representative Williams and has received bipartisan support, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of supporting students following a brain injury.

The Return-to-Learn bill would ensure that Ohio school systems have a stated policy in place for supporting students returning to school after a brain injury. Just as Return-to-Play protocols help protect student athletes physically, Return-to-Learn policies help ensure students receive the academic supports, accommodations, communication, and understanding they need during recovery.

For many students, returning to the classroom after a concussion or brain injury can be overwhelming and challenging. Difficulties with concentration, memory, fatigue, emotional regulation, headaches, and sensory overload can significantly impact school success. This legislation is an important step toward improving awareness, consistency, and support for students and families across Ohio.

You can view the full bill here:
House Bill 847

This progress would not have been possible without the incredible advocacy efforts of survivors, families, healthcare professionals, educators, researchers, and community partners who have shared their stories, educated lawmakers, and continued pushing for change. Thank you for helping us get this far.

Now we need your help to keep the momentum going.

We encourage you to contact your Ohio State Representative and State Senator and ask them to support House Bill 847. Personal stories and community voices truly make a difference.

To make it easier to take action, we also have a template you can use to reach out to your State Senator and State Representative. You can find the advocacy template and additional resources here:
Advocacy Resources and Template

Together, we are creating better futures for Ohio students impacted by brain injury.

Supporting Students After Brain Injury: BIAOH Launches the Return to Learn Program

The Brain Injury Association of Ohio (BIAOH) is proud to announce the launch of its new Coordinated Intervention for Recovery, Connection, Learning, and Engagement: CIRCLE Program, a statewide initiative designed to support students recovering from brain injury as they successfully transition back to school.

Each year, thousands of Ohio children experience concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), or other acquired brain injuries that can significantly impact learning, behavior, attention, memory, and emotional regulation. While medical care often focuses on physical recovery, many families and schools are left navigating the academic and social challenges of returning to the classroom without clear guidance or coordinated support.

The CIRCLE Program was created to bridge this gap.

Why Return to Learn Matters

Brain injuries do not just affect athletics or physical health — they impact how students think, learn, and interact in the classroom. Without appropriate support, students may struggle with:

• Concentration and attention

• Memory and processing speed

• Sensory sensitivity and fatigue

• Emotional regulation

• Organization and executive functioning

Research shows that structured, short-term academic accommodations and coordinated communication between families, healthcare providers, and schools can significantly improve outcomes. The Return to Learn Program helps ensure that students receive the right support at the right time.

What the Program Provides

Through the Return to Learn Program, BIAOH offers:

• Free service coordination for students recovering from brain injury

• Guidance for schools and families on effective classroom accommodations

• Support navigating educational systems and communication between stakeholders

• Brain injury education and resources tailored to pediatric needs

• Practical strategies that promote academic success during recovery

Our goal is to empower students, families, and educators with the tools needed to create a safe, supportive learning environment while recovery continues.

Collaborative Partnerships Across Ohio

The CIRCLE Program reflects a collaborative effort to strengthen brain injury support across Ohio. BIAOH is working alongside leading partners, including:

• The Ohio State University (research partner)

• Case Western Reserve University

• Nationwide Children’s Hospital

• University of Dayton

Together, these partners are helping advance best practices, expand awareness, and ensure students across the state have access to coordinated support.

Who Can Refer?

Referrals can be made by:

• School personnel

• Healthcare providers

• Therapists and rehabilitation professionals

• Parents and caregivers

• Community partners

Once a referral is submitted, a BIAOH staff member will reach out within 48 business hours to begin the intake process.

Building Stronger Systems for Students

The launch of the CIRCLE Program marks an important step forward in supporting Ohio’s students after brain injury. By connecting families, educators, and healthcare professionals through a coordinated approach, BIAOH aims to reduce barriers, improve outcomes, and help students return to learning with confidence.

Brain injury recovery is a journey — and no family or school should have to navigate it alone.

Learn More or Submit a Referral

Or contact the Brain Injury Association of Ohio at 1-833-783-1495.