COMMISSION FOR REHABILITATION SERVICES - Commissioners Theresa Flannery, Wes Hilliard and - Oklahoma.gov
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COMMISSION FOR
REHABILITATION SERVICES
C om m i s s i o n e r s T h e r e s a F l a n n e r y , W e s H i l l ia r d a n d
J a c e W ol f e
Regular Meeting
February 8, 2021
Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 200
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Empowering Oklahomans with DisabilitiesState of Oklahoma
Commission for Rehabilitation Services
February 8, 2021
10:30 a.m.
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535NW 58th Street, Suite 200
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Wes Hilliard, Commission Chair
Theresa Flannery, Commission Vice-chair
Jace Wolfe, Commission Member
1. Call to Order and Roll Call Wes Hilliard, Chair
2. Statement of Compliance with Open Meeting Commission Assistant
Act
3 Public Comments. (Under Oklahoma Open Public Audience
Meeting Laws, the Oklahoma Commission for
Rehabilitation Services cannot respond to or
discuss any public comment not on today’s
agenda.)
REPORTS PAGE #
4. Presentation of Certificates of Appreciation. Melinda Fruendt
Executive Director
5. Executive Director’s report with possible Melinda Fruendt 2
Commission discussion. The report includes Executive Director
Executive Director’s participation in meetings;
updates on Process Improvement which
Includes AWARE, Case Reviews; and Program
Standards, Statistical Research.
6. Priority Group Updates with possible Mark Kinnison
Commission discussion. Report includes Director of Vocational
current status of all Priority Groups I, II and III. Rehabilitation
7. Financial report with possible Commission Kevin Statham 5
discussion, FY 2021 as of December 31, 2020. Chief Financial Officer
8. Personnel Activity report with possible Tom Patt, Director 13
Commission discussion, as of January 31, 2021. Human Resource
The activity report has current FTE status.9. Legislative Report with possible Commission Kevin Nelson 18
discussion. The report gives an overview of the Legislative Liaison
Governor's State of the State and his budget;
and a Watch List of bills.
10. Vocational Rehabilitation report with possible Mark Kinnison 24
Commission discussion. This report Includes Vocational
safety of frontline staff during COVID; meetings, Rehabilitation Division
relocation of offices; training; and statistics. Administrator
11. Oklahoma School for the Blind report with
possible Commission discussion. The report Rita Echelle 27
Includes COVID protocols; grants; school Superintendent
events; and meetings.
12. Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)
Report with possible Commission discussion. Sidna Madden 30
The report Includes conferences and meetings; Executive Director
and participation in projects with federal and
state agencies.
ACTION ITEMS
13. Review and discussion with possible vote for Wes Hilliard 32
approval of the January 11, 2021 Commission for Chair
Rehabilitation Services regular meeting minutes.
14. Review and discussion with possible vote for Rita Echelle 36
approval of the January 2021 donations to the Superintendent
Oklahoma School for the Blind.
15. Review and discussion with possible vote for Chris Dvorak 38
approval of the January 2021 donations to the Superintendent
Oklahoma School for the Deaf.
16. New Business (“Any matter not known about or Wes Hilliard
which could not have been reasonably foreseen Chair
prior to the time of posting.” 25 O.S. § 311).
17. Announcements Wes Hilliard
Next Meeting: Chair
Monday, March 8, 2021 at 10:30
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 200
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
18. Adjournment Wes Hilliard
ChairPage 1
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT
February 8, 2021
Executive
January 12 – Director and staff participated in the OSD Budget meeting.
January 13 - Director and staff participated in the CSAVR Operations Committee
meeting.
January 13 – Director participated in the One Workforce Oklahoma chairpersons
meeting.
January 14 – DRS Executive Team meeting.
January 19 – Director, Kevin Statham and Kevin Nelson presented in the House
Appropriations Subcommittee on HEC Budget and Performance Review.
January 21 – Director and staff participated in the ORC Executive Committee
meeting.
January 22 – Director and Stephanie Roe hosted the One Workforce Oklahoma,
Special Populations Committee meeting.
January 25 – Director, Kevin Statham, and Kevin Nelson presented in Senate
Appropriations Subcommittee on HEC Budget and Performance Review.
January 25 - Director and staff participated in the VR/SBVI Budget meeting.
January 26 – Director and staff participated in the OSB Budget meeting.
January 26 – Director presented on DRS programs and services in the HEC meeting.
January 27 – Director participated in the Able Tech Advisory Committee meeting.
January 29 – Director and staff participated in the CSAVR DEI discussion.
February 2 – Director and staff participated in the VR/SBVI Performance meeting.
February 2 – Director and staff participated in the CSAVR Operations and Personnel
Committee meeting.
February 4 – Director and staff participated in the Succession Planning training
meeting.
February 4 – Director participated in the CSAVR Region VI Director’s meeting.
February 5 – Director participated in the HEC meeting.
Page 2Process Improvement – Lyuda Polyun
AWARE
The AWARE team continues to work with Alliance and OMES staff on the document
attachment migration project.
We continue to work on the quarterly RSA-911 error reports.
The AWARE team has been working with the Training unit to develop training
materials, including accessible training videos to help train complicated AWARE
processes.
The AWARE team has participated in zoom meetings with DVR/SBVI leadership to
address areas in need of improvement and to help establish more consistent case
management standards.
With an eye on moving to an Alliance hosted environment for AWARE data we are in
the process of revamping the current training programs both for new and
experienced users.
Case Review
The QA team continues to audit monthly pulls. For January 2021 the team is auditing
308 that qualified for the audit, of those there are 208 that was closed other than
rehabilitated and 100 closed successfully rehabilitated. Of those 308 that qualified for
auditing 108 will be audited.
The QA team continues to work with Lyuda and Rod on creating a data validity
questions in the area of Measurable Skills Gain and Credential Attainment. A
specialized audit will be created to identify any issues with field staff entering MSG’s
and CA’s and getting supporting documentation.
Program Standards, Statistical Research
The research staff completed the analysis and reporting for the Covid-19 client
survey.
The research staff completed the analysis and reporting for the DDS diversity and
inclusion survey.
Respectfully submitted by
Melinda Fruendt, Executive Director
Page 3Page 4
Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
Agency Summary
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 82,373,230.00 51.6% 35,488,127.25 43.1% 46,580,032.98 99.6%
Travel 1,005,074.00 0.6% 100,637.46 10.0% 50,356.65 15.0%
General Operating 27,339,068.00 17.1% 6,162,658.45 22.5% 16,648,685.11 83.4%
Office Furniture & Equipment 1,763,499.00 1.1% 324,807.20 18.4% 233,340.29 31.7%
Client / General Assistance 37,927,127.00 23.7% 10,907,432.51 28.8% 24,479,431.47 93.3%
Indirect Cost 9,373,875.00 5.9% 4,064,302.47 43.4% 5,309,572.53 100.0%
Total 159,781,873.00 100.0% 57,047,965.34 35.7% 93,301,419.03 94.1%
Page 5
1 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 25,028,962.00 36.0% 10,736,673.20 42.9% 14,279,888.33 100.0%
Travel 753,200.00 1.1% 78,220.63 10.4% 0.00 10.4%
General Operating 10,192,034.00 14.7% 2,713,107.30 26.6% 7,099,550.94 96.3%
Office Furniture & Equipment 1,015,594.00 1.5% 101,229.13 10.0% 18,543.15 11.8%
Client / General Assistance 28,727,270.00 41.3% 7,921,493.60 27.6% 18,440,088.07 91.8%
Indirect Cost 3,835,189.00 5.5% 1,587,209.08 41.4% 2,247,979.92 100.0%
Total 69,552,249.00 100.0% 23,137,932.94 33.3% 42,086,050.41 93.8%
Vocational Rehabilitation Grant
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 22,322,425.00 34.5% 9,594,316.73 43.0% 12,722,692.86 100.0%
Travel 732,200.00 1.1% 74,299.57 10.1% 0.00 10.1%
General Operating 9,329,298.00 14.4% 2,514,681.45 27.0% 6,569,477.19 97.4%
Office Furniture & Equipment 825,450.00 1.3% 46,827.40 5.7% 11,887.79 7.1%
Client / General Assistance 27,916,667.00 43.2% 7,692,733.07 27.6% 17,961,030.77 91.9%
Indirect Cost 3,548,140.00 5.5% 1,454,159.13 41.0% 2,093,980.87 100.0%
Total 64,674,180.00 100.0% 21,377,017.35 33.1% 39,359,069.48 93.9%
Page 6
2 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
Oklahoma School for the Blind
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 6,376,484.00 70.1% 2,938,375.43 46.1% 3,382,179.39 99.1%
Travel 53,000.00 0.6% 4,644.54 8.8% 0.00 8.8%
General Operating 1,680,377.00 18.5% 628,249.89 37.4% 923,117.73 92.3%
Office Furniture & Equipment 265,200.00 2.9% 81,167.42 30.6% 57,376.35 52.2%
Client / General Assistance 73,000.00 0.8% 10,337.87 14.2% 0.00 14.2%
Indirect Cost 642,964.00 7.1% 311,488.37 48.4% 331,475.63 100.0%
Total 9,091,025.00 100.0% 3,974,263.52 43.7% 4,694,149.10 95.4%
Page 7
3 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
Oklahoma School for the Deaf
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 7,819,120.00 49.1% 3,509,995.47 44.9% 4,299,124.15 99.9%
Travel 40,974.00 0.3% 4,147.10 10.1% 297.40 10.8%
General Operating 6,586,287.00 41.4% 447,952.62 6.8% 3,649,244.85 62.2%
Office Furniture & Equipment 367,459.00 2.3% 110,899.71 30.2% 145,647.03 69.8%
Client / General Assistance 312,857.00 2.0% 93,558.92 29.9% 107,385.52 64.2%
Indirect Cost 791,297.00 5.0% 350,104.43 44.2% 441,192.57 100.0%
Total 15,917,994.00 100.0% 4,516,658.25 28.4% 8,642,891.52 82.7%
Page 8
4 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
Disability Determination Services
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 36,322,769.00 65.7% 15,128,750.07 41.7% 20,987,467.44 99.4%
Travel 104,900.00 0.2% 8,355.66 8.0% 50,059.25 55.7%
General Operating 5,918,090.00 10.7% 1,545,515.15 26.1% 3,258,958.96 81.2%
Office Furniture & Equipment 59,432.00 0.1% 10,857.48 18.3% 11,773.76 38.1%
Client / General Assistance 8,814,000.00 15.9% 2,882,042.12 32.7% 5,931,957.88 100.0%
Indirect Cost 4,098,309.00 7.4% 1,812,963.14 44.2% 2,285,345.86 100.0%
Total 55,317,500.00 100.0% 21,388,483.62 38.7% 32,525,563.15 97.5%
Page 9
5 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
All Programs
DRS Support Services
% of Total %
Budget Budget Expenditures Expended Encumbrances % Used
Personnel 6,825,895.00 68.9% 3,174,333.08 46.5% 3,631,373.67 99.7%
Travel 53,000.00 0.5% 5,269.53 9.9% 0.00 9.9%
General Operating 2,962,280.00 29.9% 827,833.49 27.9% 1,717,812.63 85.9%
Office Furniture & Equipment 55,814.00 0.6% 20,653.46 37.0% 0.00 37.0%
Client / General Assistance 0.00 0.0% 0.00 0.0% 0.00 0.0%
Indirect Cost 6,116.00 0.1% 2,537.46 41.5% 3,578.54 100.0%
Total 9,903,105.00 100.0% 4,030,627.02 40.7% 5,352,764.84 94.8%
Page 10
6 of 7Department of Rehabilitation Services
Financial Status Report FY 21
As of December 31 , 2020
Personnel
Salary Expense
Insurance Premium -Health-Life, etc
FICA-Retirement Contributions
Travel
Travel - Agency Direct
Travel - Reimbursements
General Operating
AFP Encumberances
Bond Indebtness and Expenses
Buildings-Purchase, Construction and Renovation
General Operating
Inter/Intre Agency Payment for Personal Services
Maintenance & Repair
Miscellaneous Administration Fee
Professional Services
Production, Safety, Security
Refunds, Indemnities, Restitution
Rent Expense
Scholarships, Tuition and Other Incentive-Type Payments
Shop Expense
Specialized Supplies & Materials
Office Furniture & Equipment
Library Equipment & Resources
Office Furniture & Equipment
Client / General Assistance
Social Service and Assistance Payments
Indirect Cost
Page 11
7 of 7Page 12
PERSONNEL ACTIVITY REPORT
AS OF JANUARY 31, 2021
FILLED AND VACANT POSITIONS
Personnel Activity = 5 vacant positions filled / 28 positions in Announcement or Selection Process
Division Title/PIN Date Vacated Location Begin date End date Ann. # Action/Incumbent Date Filled
MSD Administrative Assistant / 0858 12/05/2020 MSD-CDS 01/26/2021 01/30/2021 21-038 Currently Open
Administrative Programs Officer /
MSD 1073 01/01/2021 MSD-CDS 01/26/2021 02/12/2021 21-039 Currently Open
Transportation Officer/Student
OSB Aide / 1084 12/4/2020 OSB 12/22/2020 Continuous 21-029.1 Marcella Bethel 01/24/2021
Independent Living Instructor / Christine
OSB 0164 07/31/2020 OSB 12/09/2020 12/15/2020 21-032 Timmreck 01/01/2021
Applicant List Sent
OSD Direct Care Specialist / 0877 11/01/2020 OSD 12/1/2020 12/18/2020 21-025.1 12/22/2020
Direct Care Specialist / 0115, 09/01/2020,
OSD 0028 09/01/2020 OSD 12/2/2020 12/21/2020 21-023.1 Matthew Geisler 01/11/2021
Applicant list sent
OSD Teaching Assistant / 0060 08/01/2013 OSD 08/25/2020 08/31/2020 21-002.1 09/02/2020
OSD Counselor I / 0247 08/14/2017 OSD 07/22/2020 Continuous 21-003 Currently Open
VR04 – Applicant List Sent
VR Rehabilitation Technician / 0424 01/01/2021 Bartlesville 01/05/2021 01/25/2021 21-036 01/27/2021
VR12 – Applicant List Sent
VR Programs Manager / 0943 11/1/2020 Lawton 11/05/2020 12/03/2020 21-027 12/08/2020
Vocational Rehabilitation VR67 –
VR Specialist / 0567 09/01/2020 Tulsa 12/22/2020 Continuous 21-028.1 Currently Open
Vocational Rehabilitation
VR Specialist / 0255 11/13/2020 VR23 – OKC 11/24/2020 Continuous 21-030 Currently Open
VR Rehabilitation Technician / 0545 09/01/2020 VR86 –Ada 12/22/2020 12/30/2020 21-019.2 Melinda Frazer 01/25/2021
Vocational Rehabilitation 07/22/2020 VR07 –
VR Specialist / 0194, 1077 10/01/2019 Durant 08/24/2020 Continuous 21-006.1 Currently Open
Vocational Rehabilitation VR18 – Applicant List Sent
VR Specialist / 0627 07/08/2020 Muskogee 09/15/2020 10/13/2020 21-007.1 10/16/2020
Vocational Rehabilitation VR67 –
VR Specialist / 0044 08/15/2020 Tulsa 10/19/2020 Continuous 21-015.1 Tor-Rel Miles 01/04/2021
Vocational Rehabilitation 11/16/2019
VR Specialist / 0438, 0323 11/09/2020 VR47 – OKC 09/29/2020 Continuous 20-078.2 Currently Open
Page 13Vocational Rehabilitation SBVI 84 –
SBVI Specialist / 0709 01/01/2021 McAlester 01/05/2021 02/17/2021 21-037 Currently Open
SBVI 91 –
SBVI Rehabilitation Technician / 0705 02/01/2021 Tulsa 01/28/2021 02/10/2021 21-040 Currently Open
Assistive Technology Specialist / SBVI 58 –
SBVI 1112 07/01/2020 Ada 01/29/2021 Continuous 21-041 Currently Open
Rehabilitation of the Blind SBVI 91 -
SBVI Specialist / 0218 09/01/2020 Tulsa 01/29/2021 Continuous 21-042 Currently Open
Vocational Rehabilitation SBVI 91 – Applicant List Sent
SBVI Specialist / 0094 07/16/2020 Tulsa 12/03/2020 12/22/2020 21-031 12/28/2020
SBVI 91 –
SBVI Specialist on Deaf/Blind / 1144 12/01/2020 Tulsa 12/30/2020 02/11/2021 21-033 Currently Open
Rehabilitation of the Blind SBVI 90 –
SBVI Specialist / 0695 06/01/2020 OKC 12/30/2020 01/20/2021 21-034 Currently Open
SBVI 71 –
SBVI Rehabilitation Technician / 0072 01/1/2021 Idabel 12/31/2020 02/12/2021 21-035 Currently Open
SBVI 33 –
SBVI Business Manager / 0785 02/01/2020 BEP 08/04/2020 Continuous 21-009 Currently Open
Vending Operations Manager / SBVI 33 –
SBVI 1486 05/28/2020 BEP 08/14/2020 Continuous 21-012 Currently Open
Vending Machine Technician / SBVI 33 –
SBVI 0167 02/20/2020 BEP 08/31/2020 Continuous 21-014 Currently Open
Rehabilitation of the Blind SBVI 71-
SBVI Specialist / 0754 10/01/2018 Idabel 05/29/2019 Continuous 19-043.3 Currently Open
Vending Facility Business SBVI 33 –
SBVI Consultant / 0134 11/23/2019 OKC BEP 12/10/2019 Continuous 20-064 Currently Open
Waiting for E-List = Waiting to receive electronic applicant log from HCM.
Pending Approval= Waiting for unclassified appointments to be approved by director and cabinet secretary to establish
NOTE: an effective date
Page 14RESIGNATIONS/RETIREMENTS/SEPARATIONS = 3
As of January 31, 2021
SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION (Executive/MSD/FSD)
None
DIVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
Discharge = 1
1 = 1 year 4 months
SERVICES FOR THE BLIND AND VISUALLY IMPAIRED DIVISION
None
OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
None
OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
None
DISABILITY DETERMINATION SERVICES
Resignation = 2
1 = 6 years 8 months
1 = 18 years
Page 15CURRENT FTE STATUS
FY 2021
FTE as of January 31, 2021
DIVISION BUDGETED FTE FILLED PENDING EXEMPT TOTAL FILLED PLUS PENDING
MINUS EXEMPT FTE
FTE
Support Services (Executive/MSD/FSD) 75.1 72.00 2.00 (1.00) 73.00
Vocational Rehabilitation 237.8 212.00 9.00 (4.00) 217.00
Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired 113.5 94.00 13.00 (3.00) 104.00
VR/SBVI-DP 2.00 2.00 0.00 (0.00) 2.00
Oklahoma School for the Blind 99.0 92.00 0.00 0.00 92.00
Oklahoma School for the Deaf 129.3 118.00 4.00 0.00 122.00
Total (NON-EXEMPT) 656.7 590.00 28.00 (8.00) 610.00
Disability Determination Services (EXEMPT) 394.3 366.00 0.00 (378.3) 370.00
TOTAL NON-EXEMPT & EXEMPT 1051.0 956.00 28.00 (386.3) 980.00
FY 21 Budgetary Limit = 1255
* Authorized agency FTE limit does not include Executive Fellow and SWIP appointments
ROUTING TO: Melinda Fruendt, Director
Kevin Statham, Chief Financial Officer
Randy Weaver, Chief of Operations
Tom Patt, Human Resources Program Director
Dana Tallon, Public Information Manager II
Carol Brown, Executive Assistant
Rosemarie Chitwood, Secretary V
Brett Jones, Public Information Officer III
Page 16Page 17
February Commission Legislative Report
Kevin Nelson
DRS Legislative Liaison
BUDGET- As I write this, we are just a few hours after the Governor’s state of
the state, and his budget. The state equalization board certified $8.5 billion
with which to write his third executive budget, an increase of $631.2 million
from last year’s budget. He has promised a flat budget even given the
expected $164 million price tag for Medicaid expansion. For DRS, our
proposed budget is flat except for removal of the OSD capital expansion
funds. Just for reference, he made the same recommendation last year.
LEGISLATION – I have completed my initial review of bills and the new watch
list bills are below. They are primarily made up of Open Meeting bills, our bills,
and disability bills we support. Fir our bills, SB 75 is our DDS IT security audit
exemption bill and HB 2329 and SB 67 are our deaf education teacher testing
bill. HB2328 is our bill exempting blind vending from competitive bidding
requirements.
On Open meeting, there are nine that allow virtual meetings, but three from
leadership to watch. HB2038, by Speaker McCall, allows a public body to hold
meetings by teleconference through January 31, 2022; HB2644 by Rep. Jon
Echols, allows a public body to hold meetings by teleconference until March
31, 2024; SB1031, by Sen. Greg Treat, allows a public body to hold meetings by
videoconference until the Governor declares a state of emergency be
terminated; and SB1032, by Sen. Greg Treat, that allows a public body that
maintains a website and utilizes a high-speed internet connection to stream
live all meetings on such website and posted on the website after the
meeting during a state of emergency declared by the Governor. Leadership
has promised swift action to pass something during the first two weeks of
session.
Of the remaining, HB1792 and SB 582 are bills we are working with Rep.
Daniel Pae and Sen. John Montgomery on that remove references to
“handicap” in statute. SB0175, by Sen. Dave Rader, includes DRS as a
member of the 11-member Traumatic Brain Injury Task Force it creates. In
addition, below are bills that may affect the Commission. If you have any
concerns about them, please let me know.
The first day of session is February 1st, and our first deadline is the 25th to
report bills out of subcommittees.
Page 18Watch List
HB1792 Paraphrase: HB1792, by Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton, updates language to
refer to disabled adults.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
HB2038 Paraphrase: HB2038, by Rep. Charles McCall, R-Atoka, allows a public body
to hold meetings by teleconference through January 31, 2022. (Emergency
Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
HB2328 Paraphrase: HB2328, by Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, modifies exceptions
to the competitive bidding requirements.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
HB2329 Paraphrase: HB2329, by Rep. Mark Lawson, R-Sapulpa, allows the State
Board of Education to grant an exception to the requirements for all
certification examinations for teacher candidates who are deaf. It allows the
Board to promulgate rules and other requirements as necessary to grant the
exceptions. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: 07/01/2021 Emergency: Yes
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
HB2644 Paraphrase: HB2644, by Rep. Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, allows a public
body to hold meetings by teleconference until March 31, 2024. (Emergency
Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
SB0067 Paraphrase: SB0067, by Sen. Frank Simpson, R-Ardmore, permits the State
Board of Education to grant an exception to the requirements for all
certification examinations for teacher candidates who are "deaf." The bill
defines the term "deaf" for the purpose of the statute to mean having a hearing
loss so severe that the person cannot process auditory linguistic information
with or without accommodation and whose primary language and teaching
environment is American Sign Language. It permits the board to grant the
exception on verification by a licensed audiologist of a hearing loss so severe
that the teacher candidate cannot process auditory linguistic information with
or without accommodation; demonstration of fluency in American Sign
Language; demonstration of competency in the subject area of specialization
Page 19as approved by the Board in lieu of certification examinations; and
sponsorship by a certified deaf education teacher for a mentorship program. It
permits the board to promulgate necessary rules and other requirements.
(Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: 07/01/2021 Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Education (S)
SB0075 Paraphrase: SB0075, by Sen. Frank Simpson, R-Ardmore, exempts the
Social Security Disability Determination Services Division of the Department of
Rehabilitation Services from the requirement that state agencies obtain an
information security risk assessment to identify vulnerabilities associated with
the information system.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S General Government (S)
SB0175 Paraphrase: SB0175, by Sen. Dave Rader, R-Tulsa, creates the 11-member
Traumatic Brain Injury Task Force (TBI Task Force) to identify the needs of
and best-practice approaches to traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors in
Oklahoma and to make recommendation to the Legislature no later than Jan.
1, 2024. The bill establishes membership and meeting requirements.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Health & Human Services (S)
SB0582 Paraphrase: SB0582, by Sen. John Michael Montgomery, R-Lawton, updates
language to describe a disabled persons.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Health & Human Services (S)
SB1031 Paraphrase: SB1031, by Sen. Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, allows a public
body to hold meetings by videoconference until the Governor declares a state
of emergency be terminated. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S General Government (S)
Page 20Commission
HB2038 Paraphrase: HB2038, by Rep. Charles McCall, R-Atoka, allows a public body
to hold meetings by teleconference through January 31, 2022. (Emergency
Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
HB2644 Paraphrase: HB2644, by Rep. Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, allows a public
body to hold meetings by teleconference until March 31, 2024. (Emergency
Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: H Introduced Status Date: 02/01/2021
SB0176 Paraphrase: SB0176, by Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, requires those
appointed by the governor as agency directors or cabinet secretaries to file
financial disclosure statements with the Ethics Commission.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Rules (S)
SB0487 Paraphrase: SB0487, by Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, requires the
governor to have power to remove any officers appointed by him or her. It
requires the governor to have the power to remove any gubernatorial
appointments on any agency, board or commission at any time, subject to
certain provisions. It requires the Senate president pro tempore and House
speaker to have the power to remove any of their respective appointments on
any agency, board or commission at any time, subject to the provisions
therein. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S General Government (S)
SB0581 Paraphrase: SB0581, by Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, includes
elected and nonelected government official, any appointed member of a state
board or commission in those who are liable and subject to impeachment.
Effective Date: 11/01/2021 Emergency: No
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Judiciary (S)
Page 21SB0777 Paraphrase: SB0777, by Sen. Brent Howard, R-Altus, clarifies provisions
pertaining to videoconference meetings under the Open Meetings Act and
providing notices under specific conditions. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Judiciary (S)
SB0919 Paraphrase: SB0919, by Sen. John Michael Montgomery, R-Lawton, extends
temporary amendments to the Open Meeting Act to permit fully virtual
meetings from March 19, 2020, to Feb. 15, 2022. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S Judiciary (S)
SB1031 Paraphrase: SB1031, by Sen. Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, allows a public
body to hold meetings by videoconference until the Governor declares a state
of emergency be terminated. (Emergency Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S General Government (S)
SB1032 Paraphrase: SB1032, by Sen. Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, allows a public
body that maintains a website and utilizes a high-speed internet connection to
stream live all meetings on such website and posted on the website after the
meeting during a state of emergency declared by the Governor. (Emergency
Measure)
Effective Date: / / Emergency: Yes
Status: Committee Assignment Prior to Session Status Date: 01/27/2021
Committee(1): S General Government (S)
Page 22Page 23
VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION REPORT
February 2021 Commission Report
• We continue to keep offices open and are currently in an extended
phase 2 of our return to work preparedness plan, which went in effect
August 3, 2020.
• We were very fortunate to be able to have some of our frontline staff
receive the first round of COVID-19 vaccination. Approximately 47
individuals with VR and SBVI were given the first dose. The shots were
targeted for individuals who are actively traveling to and working face
to face with clientele. The second shots are scheduled for February 12,
2021.
• VR and SBVI leadership continue to have regular meetings by ZOOM to
discuss work practices, and various updates in regard to COVID-19. A
number of our offices have had to shut down and be treated due to the
spread of COVID-19.
• Our two biggest offices are in the process of relocating. The VR offices
in Shepheard Mall in OKC are looking at relocating to the Frates
building near the capital. Our office in Tulsa, located at 444 S. Houston
is looking to relocate down the road to the Sun Building. We currently
have SBVI staff housed there as well.
• Our Psych. Clinicians are receiving approximately 40 referrals a month.
• Our Vocational Evaluators are receiving approximately 50 referrals a
month.
• Employment Support Services staff continue to work contracts,
participate in meetings by ZOOM regarding Supported Employment,
assist with 511 part 397 presentations, and provide technical assistance
to providers and staff.
• Assistive Technology Specialists continue to travel and see clients as
requested. We are receiving approximately 25 referrals a month in
addition to existing case work.
• We have received 222 referrals for Benefits Planning through
December and have worked with 169 actual beneficiaries.
• We continue to work diligently in regard to Transition Services. We
have established a Transition Unit for the OKC area that is under the
leadership of Trish Osborn. The Division Administrator has also
assumed the Field Coordinator duties for Tulsa and OKC transition
areas.
• We are working with Project SEARCH and Jon Ringlero to begin a
Project SEARCH with some of Oklahoma Tribal VR Programs.
• We are working with Project SEARCH and Tulsa Tech. to begin a Project
SEARCH with Tulsa Public Schools, surrounding areas and Tulsa Tech.
This will start 1/1/2022.
Page 24• Sky’s The Limit Communications, a training and communications
company specializing in motivational resiliency, diversity and
leadership presentations nationally, David DeNotaris and Ace Academy
are working with students (Juniors and Seniors) from the School for the
Blind to promote independence. During the ACE Advocacy Academy
Self-Advocacy Nuts and Bolts, participants will grow in confidence,
independence and skill as they practice essential elements of self-
advocacy. They started this in January 2021.
• Pre-ETS is continuing to grow. OU has 5 announcements for job
openings to fill for the Northwest and Northeast parts of the state at
this time.
• DRS has hosted share fairs to parents, teachers, administration and
students about DRS and other resources. February 25th will be the
second share fair. We are hoping to do these quarterly and grow.
• School Work Study and Work Adjustment Training have been revised
and will be sent out to schools and vendors the first week of February.
• Summer program planning has begun. We are hoping to improve
attendance this summer for virtual programs.
• Working with SBVI on VIBE this summer virtually as well.
• Business Services continue to be very active with Business Advisory
Councils, and partnership trainings with the Eastern Workforce Board
and Oklahoma Tribal VR Partners. Client trainings were completed
with SBVI which focused on male grooming and personal appearance.
Training on career connections was completed in Southcentral
Oklahoma. Counselor trainings included Imagine Academy, Galt
Foundation training, and SBVI training regarding the Career One Stop
interview out of Southcentral Oklahoma. Business Partner Connections
included United Health Group, Mercy Hospitals – Independence
Through Meaningful Work Committee, Paycom, and SSM Health.
• For federal production year 2020 the VR and SBVI programs completed
2,980 applications, 1,750 plans of employment, and 1042 successful
outcomes.
• We continue to surpass our Measurable Skill Gain negotiated rate and
are currently at 32%.
As always, I want to express my appreciation to DRS staff for their diligent
work, and dedication during this time. I’m honored to work with them.
Mark Kinnison, M.Ed., CRC, LPC-S
Division Administrator
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Page 25Page 26
OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
Commission Meeting
February 1, 2021
Students began on-site classes on Monday, January 25, 2021. Covid-19
protocols are in place under the direction of the Oklahoma State Department
of Health.
OSB received the 2020 Respond, Recover and Rebuild Education Initiative:
Competitive Public School Grant of $12,500 from the Cherokee Nation. This is
a onetime grant designated to address education technology and other
COVID-l9 response needs.
OSB also received the Kirschner Grant in the amount of $15,000 which will
provide monies for gymnasium equipment needs.
Cane Quest was held during the month of December. Fay Miller, Orientation
and Mobility Specialist, was the event coordinator. Winners were as follows:
B1 Explorers - Skyler Moore
B2 Explorers - Josie Cox
B1 Trailblazers – Elbin Carrillo
B2 Trailblazers - Kaylie Minter
OSB gymnasium has been completed. A dedication ceremony is being
planned for a later date. Also, a new activity/route bus has been purchased
for OSB students.
On January 5 and 7, 2021, OSB Teachers and administrators participated in an
ABLE TECH Virtual Tour. Information about ABLE TECH assistive technology
and its services were shared with participants.
Parent/Teacher Conferences were held virtually on January 12, 2021.
Tuesday, January 26, 2021, the Oklahoma State Department of Health
provided a vaccination clinic for OSB employees. 66 vaccinations were
completed. Second doses will be administered at a later date.
Tuesday, January 26, 2021, DRS/OSB Quarterly Budget Meeting was held.
Superintendent, Rita Echelle, and Business Manager, Dennis Read, attended
the meeting.
OSB FCCLA will be hosting a Blood Drive on Wednesday, February 3, 2021.
Page 27Former OSB teacher, Deborah Oakes passed away Tuesday, January 19th, 2021.
Mrs. Oakes had over 24 years of service to OSB. She was instrumental in
implementing a transition program for OSB students and also assisted with
Special Olympics. She was dedicated to OSB and her students and will be
sorely missed.
Nursing Supervisor, Connie Merrill, and Building/Maintenance Supervisor,
Brian Culver, were recognized by Director Fruendt for exemplary service
during the pandemic crisis with a certificate of appreciation for outstanding
performance during the Commission Meeting on December 14, 2020.
DRS/OSB Quarterly Transition Meeting was held on Monday, February 1.
Those in attendance from OSB were: Lynn Cragg, Karen Reed, Kathy Barrett,
Mike Robinson, and Rita Echelle.
Superintendent Rita Echelle attended the CCOSA/OASA Legislative
Conference on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.
Superintendent will attend Muskogee Area Education Consortium Meeting
on Friday, February 5, 2021.
Rita J. Echelle, OSB Superintendent
Page 28Page 29
SILC Report to DRS Commissioners
February 8, 2021
Since the election of the new SILC Chair, there have been many meetings with the
Executive Director and the Executive Committee to ensure SILC’s goals and vision
moving forward, and to ensure forward progress continues.
The annual APRIL Conference was held in mid-October via Zoom in light of COVID. SILC
registered 19 attendees, which includes Tonya Garman for DRS. There were over 500
participants at the conference.
SILC Executive Director, SILC Executive Committee and Jeff Hughes of Progressive
Independence have had a couple of meetings – one with DHS Aging and Sooner Success
representatives and one of Senator Kevin Matthews. We are forming partnerships where
we see a good fit, and always talking in terms of consumers and COVID.
The January SILC meeting was canceled because of the in-person meeting part of the
Open Meetings Act, and the Governor’s Executive Order not being renewed. Many
members are not going to get out to attend in-person meetings, thus making it difficult
to reach quorum. The Executive Director reached out to the Federal Project Office to see
if the Federal Agency could provide any guidelines for suggestions. It was suggested that
SILC change our By Laws to reflect meeting, voting and reaching quorum through
electron format, instead of just in-person.
The SILC Executive Director is now participating in monthly meetings with the Federal
Project Officer and three other chosen SILC Directors across the country to collaborate
about varying issues affecting SILCs nationwide.
The SILC Executive Director continues to serve on several National Boards for
Independent Living, representing Oklahoma Independent Living, and has participated in
Executive Committee Zoom meetings as the Treasurer for APRIL (Association of
Programs for Rural Independent Living) as well as the Conference Planning Committee
and the full APRIL Board meetings. She also serves in the same capacity for NASILC
(National Association of Statewide Independent Living Councils) as Treasurer on the
Executive Committee, Conference Planning and full Board Zoom meetings. For NCIL
(National Council on Independent Living) she serves on the Finance Committee.
The SILC Congress conference is being postponed from this April of 2021 to January or
February of 2022.
The next quarterly SILC meeting will be held April 30, 2021.
Respectfully submitted,
Sidna Madden
SILC Executive Director
Page 30Page 31
Oklahoma Commission for Rehabilitation Services
Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 NW 58th Street Oklahoma City, Ok
Commission Minutes
January 11, 2021
Wes Hilliard, Commission Chair
Theresa Flannery, Commission Vice-chair
Jace Wolfe, Commission Member
Sign Language Interpreters are provided for public accessibility
PRESENT
Wes Hilliard, Commission Chair
Theresa Flannery, Commission Vice-Chair
NOT PRESENT
Jace Wolfe, Commission Member
CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order at 10:40 a.m. by Commissioner Hilliard.
Commissioners Hilliard and Flannery were in attendance and a quorum was
established.
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
The Commission Assistant confirmed the Commission for Rehabilitation Services is in
compliance with the Open Meetings Act.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
None
REPORTS
CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Executive Director Fruendt to present a Certificate of
Appreciation. Cathy Martin of the Communications Division for her continued service
to staff on current news. Her goal is to keep key DRS staff informed about critical
disability, social services and state government issues in the news. In 2018, Cabinet
Secretary Steve Buck asked DRS Communications to coordinate this news assignment
with the communication staff at Office of Juvenile Affairs. OK News Target is also
distributed daily to Department of Human Services staff. This partnership supports
Cabinet Secretary Justin Brown’s initiative to have agencies in his cabinet collaborate
more closely and make the best use of taxpayer dollars. Commissioners Hilliard and
Flannery extended their thank you to Cathy Martin for her work and dedication.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Melinda Fruendt, Executive Director. Her report
included her participation in meetings; updates on Process Improvement which
Includes federal reporting, AWARE, Case Reviews; and Program Standards, Statistical
Research. Page 32PRIORITY GROUP UPDATE
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Mark Kinnison, Director of Vocational Rehabilitation
Services. He reported on the current status of the Priority Groups. There have been
one hundred four (104) clients released. As of today, Priority Group I have eleven (11),
Group II nine hundred thirty-two (932), and Group III one hundred eighty-five (185) with
a total of one thousand one hundred twenty-eight (1128).
FINANCIAL STATUS
Commission Hilliard recognized Kevin Statham, Chief Financial Officer, who reported
the Financial Status Reports for FY 2021 as of November 30, 2020.
PERSONNEL ACTIVITY
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Tom Patt, Human Resources Director who reported
on the personnel activity report as of December 31, 2020. The activity report also has
current FTE status.
OKLAHOMA REHABILITATION COUNCIL
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Carolina Colclasure, Program Manager. Her report
Included new ORC officers, updates on committees and their work. She also said the
2020 ORC Annual Report has been completed and sent to Rehabilitation Services
Administration and Governor's Office on December 18, 2020.
OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Chris Dvorak, Superintendent. He reported the
school has students on campus now. His report Included training and outreach;
update on 235 Program; fall ASL Community classes; virtual learning; and athletic
activities.
ACTION ITEMS
COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Commissioner Hilliard asked for a possible vote to approve the December 14, 2020
Commission for Rehabilitation Services regular Meeting Minutes.
Motion was made by Commissioner Flannery and seconded by
Commissioner Hilliard to approve the December 14, 2020 minutes. Both
Commissioners voted in the affirmative. Motion passed.
PROPOSED INTERPRETER RATE INCREASE
Commissioner Hilliard asked for a possible vote to approve the Proposed Interpreter
Rate Increase. This proposed rate increase has been approved by Dan Sivard, State
Purchasing Director.
Motion was made by Commissioner Flannery and seconded by
Commissioner Hilliard to approve the rates and the rates being effective on
the date the interpreter signs the amended contract. Both Commissioners
voted in the affirmative. Motion passed.
Page 33OKLAHOMA LIBRARY FOR THE BLIND AND PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED
DONATIONS
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Kevin Treese, Program Manager. He asked for
approval of the December 2020 donations.
Motion was made by Commissioner Flannery and seconded by
Commissioner Hilliard to approve the December donations. Both
Commissioners voted in the affirmative. Motion passed.
OKLAHOMA SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND DONATIONS
Commissioner Hilliard recognized Rita Echelle, Superintendent of OSB who reviewed
their December 2020 OSB donation report, for possible vote for approval.
Motion was made by Commissioner Flannery and seconded by
Commissioner Hilliard to approve the December 2020 OSB donations. Both
Commissioners voted in the affirmative. Motion passed.
NEW BUSINESS
Commissioner Hilliard asked if there was any New Business. There was none.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Date and location of next regular meeting of the Commission for Rehabilitation
Services:
Monday, February 8, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 NW 58th Street
Suite 200
Oklahoma City, OK
Commissioner Hilliard also announced the recent wedding of one of our staff, Renee
Sansom on December 31, 2020.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Hilliard adjourned the meeting.
Respectfully submitted by Carol Brown, Assistant to the Commission
Page 34Page 35
OSB DONATION REPORT
January 2021 Donations
Donations under $500
Date Name Cash Fund Property Value
1/21/2021 Beta Iota #4283 of ESA $ 200.00 216
1/21/2021 Chipotle $ 39.57 216
1/21/2021 Casey's General Store $ 48.20 216
1/28/2021 Frank Dirksen $ 400.00 701
1/28/2021 Park Hill Home & Community Education $ 50.00 701
1/28/2021 OK Home & Community Education Cherokee Cty $ 100.00 701
Subtotal of Cash (under $500) donated in January 2020 $ 837.77 Subtotal prop. $ -
Donations $500 and over $ -
1/26/2021 OKC Community Foundation $ 15,000.00 216
1/28/2021 Cherokee Nation (rec'd. by DRS in November) $ 12,500.00 216
Subtotal of Cash ($500 and over) donated in January 2020 $ 27,500.00 Subtotal prop. $ -
TOTAL DONATION AMOUNTS January - 2020 $28,337.77
Page 36Page 37
OSD Donation Report
January 2021
Donations Under $500.00
Property
Date Name Cash Fund Explanation Value
1/4 DRS 335.00 21600/70100 Christmas donation for students
1/21 Frankliln Sissons 50.00 21600/70100 Donated since ASL class free
Subtotal Cash Under $500.00 385.00 Subtotal Property Under $500.00
Donations Over $500.00
Date Name Cash Fund Explanation Value
Subtotal Cash Over $500.00 Subtotal Property Over $500.00
Subtotal Cash Combined 385.00 Subtotal Property Combined 0.00
Total donation for January 2021 $385.00
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