Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel recently visited LifeTown Columbus, a simulated town that serves children with special needs, accompanied by Kevin L. Miller, Director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) and Kim Hauck, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). Lt. Governor was hosted by Rabbi Areyah Kaltmann during this visit.

LifeTown is designed to resemble a functioning city, crafted by special education professionals to foster the development of crucial life skills. This safe and nurturing space helps students build their skills while having fun.

During visits, teachers tailor students’ LifeTown lessons to their specific needs, aligning with the goals outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

LifeTown focuses on enhancing competencies in key areas such as personal and social skills, independent living, and pre-employment readiness. Typically, groups of students visit LifeTown five to six times each year.

The day culminated in the LifeTown Day of Service, where various state leaders volunteered in engaging roles, including bankers, cashiers, librarians, hair stylists, doctors, dentists, and deli servers.

Lt. Governor Tressel served as honorary mayor at the event and took orders at the city’s deli. Students from multiple school districts participated.

In his remarks, Lt. Governor Tressel praised Ohio’s commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities through our two dedicated agencies, OOD and DODD.

His visit highlighted the importance of collaboration in enhancing the lives of students with disabilities.

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