Pupil Services
Hillary Rios
nrws_hrios@tccsa.net
Director of Pupil Services
Title IV District Investigator
Dear Northwestern Community,
It is an honor to join Northwestern Local Schools as the Director of Pupil Services. I am excited to become part of this district and look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, staff, and community partners as we work together to support the success of every child.
Throughout my career, I have been passionate about supporting students with diverse learning needs and partnering with families to help every child succeed. I began my career as an Intervention Specialist before serving as a Special Education Supervisor and, most recently, as the Associate Director of Special Education. These experiences have reinforced my belief that strong relationships, open communication, and teamwork are the foundation of successful schools.
As Director of Pupil Services, my goal is to ensure that all students have access to the supports, services, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential. I oversee special education services, related services, and other programs that help meet the diverse needs of our learners. I am committed to working collaboratively with families and staff to provide high-quality, student-centered services that foster academic achievement, personal growth, and inclusion.
On a personal note, I live in North Olmsted and am the proud mom of three very busy boys. Having worked in smaller school districts throughout my career, I have always appreciated the close relationships that develop between schools, families, and the community.
Throughout my career, I've always hoped to find a district that felt like home. From the moment I joined Northwestern, I knew I had found it. I am excited to become part of this community, build lasting relationships, and work alongside our students, families, and staff for years to come.
I believe every student deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. As I begin this new role, I look forward to getting to know the Northwestern community and learning from the incredible people who make this district so special. Thank you for visiting my page. I welcome your questions, ideas, and collaboration as we work together to provide the best possible educational experience for every student.
I am excited for the year ahead and grateful for the opportunity to serve the Northwestern community.
Sincerely,
Hillary Rios
Director of Pupil Services
Title IV Investigator
Northwestern Local Schools
IEP Progress Reports:
Students receive IEP progress reports every 9 weeks typically along with the report card period. We encourage parents to check progress book regularly for current classroom progress/grades. If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact your child’s teacher individually. Intervention Specialist will continuously progress monitor IEP goals and objectives as they have done so in the past.
Multi Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Northwestern Local Schools uses a Multi-Tiered System of Support model that use research based academic, social/emotional, and behavioral interventions. Providing interventions and collecting data is an integral part of student support as well as team collaboration. This MTSS process has allowed many struggling students to be successful.
What is an Individual Education Program (IEP)?
Special education services are identified through an educational process. IEP's are designed to meet the individual needs of each student and to make progress toward the general education curriculum. An IEP team, made up of the following: parents/guardians, teachers, and related services staff work together to develop an educational plan. The plan addresses the following: goals, objectives, accommodations/modifications, and services to meet the student's needs. Services are provided through a continuum of least restrictive environment (LRE). IEP's are monitored and progress reported along with report card/interim periods.
Eye Exam Guidelines for Students with an Initial IEP
House Bill 95 requires all students to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor within 90 days after the initially identified with a disability. If the student has had an eye exam from an eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist) within the last 9 months, the requirement is waved. The financial requirement for the service lies with parental responsibility. Legislation currently requires school to report this day of service. If a student is eligible for services, services will not be withheld based upon eye exam standing. A brochure is available with additional information. Please contact the Special Education Dept. to report the day of eye exam.