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.