Zarrow Institute renews autism center certification

By AI, Created 11:13 AM UTC, May 20, 2026, /AGP/ – The Zarrow Institute on Transition & Self-Determination at the University of Oklahoma renewed its Certified Autism Center designation from IBCCES, adding to its accessibility efforts for autistic and sensory-sensitive students. The institute also highlighted specialized programs, a new sensory-friendly room planned for Fall 2026, and inclusion in IBCCES accessibility tools.

Why it matters: - The renewal signals continued investment in accessibility for autistic and sensory-sensitive students at the University of Oklahoma. - At least 80% of Zarrow Institute staff have completed autism-specific training through IBCCES. - The certification is tied to support for students who need more inclusive academic, social and transition services.

What happened: - The Zarrow Institute on Transition & Self-Determination renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation on May 6, 2026. - The institute is part of the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma. - The institute had already held the Certified Autism Center™ designation since 2024. - IBCCES oversees the certification program.

The details: - The Zarrow Institute said the certification reinforces its commitment to supporting students with autism and other sensory needs. - Kendra L. Williams-Diehm, director of the Zarrow Institute, said the designation reflects staff training in autism-specific practices and the institute’s push to create an inclusive and accessible environment. - The institute said autism and accessibility training can help reduce crisis management, streamline IEP and 504 processes, and decrease staff turnover. - The institute’s programs include Sooner Works, an inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities. - Sooner Works offers coursework, internships, leadership opportunities and campus life designed to support competitive employment, independent living and community participation. - SPARK360° is the University of Oklahoma’s only full-service Autism Support Program for autistic students pursuing undergraduate degrees. - SPARK360° supports students navigating the hidden college curriculum through research-based, student-centered services. - Transition in Practice is an open-access, peer-reviewed journal published twice a year for special educators and transition practitioners. - The journal covers research-based instructional strategies, technologies, procedures and techniques for special education and transition education. - The Transition Assessment and Goal Generator, or TAGG, is an online transition assessment with professional, student and family versions. - TAGG provides a norm-based graphic profile, a present-level statement, strengths and needs, and suggested IEP annual transition goals. - A new sensory-friendly room is set to open in Fall 2026. - The institute is featured on the free IBCCES Accessibility App. - IBCCES also offers AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, which list certified locations and professionals.

Between the lines: - The renewal points to a broader campus strategy that blends training, program design and physical-space changes. - The institute is positioning autism support as both a student-services issue and an operational issue for schools. - Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman, said the renewal shows continued leadership in accessibility and support for autistic individuals. - The institute’s inclusion on IBCCES tools may make its services easier for families and students to find.

What’s next: - The sensory-friendly room is expected to open in Fall 2026. - The institute is likely to continue using certification, training and program development to expand accessibility supports. - IBCCES says its certification model includes renewal requirements and ongoing support to maintain standards over time.

The bottom line: - The Zarrow Institute is using its renewed autism center certification to reinforce a long-term accessibility strategy across training, student support and campus resources.