Saturday, December 20, 2008
Technology Transforms College for Students with Disabilities
A university in Vermont is taking advantage of today’s technology to help students with ADHD, learning disabilities, and other impairments to access college. This has impacted the university in such a way that there is now a new push for a "universal design for learning," would make college classes more accessible to all learners without accommodations. Learn more from The Burlington Free Press.
Family-Centered Care Tools
Family Voices has released a set of documents called the Family-Centered Care Self-Assessment Tools.
These three PDF documents (a Family Tool, a Provider Tool, and a User’s Guide) are designed to assist communities in assessing their strengths and indentifying areas that could use improvement.
The tools can be used by families to measure the care their children and youth are receiving. Health care providers can use them to evaluate ways to improve services and supports within the community. The three tools are ultimately intended to successfully build organized family-centered services for all children, including those with special health care needs.
These three PDF documents (a Family Tool, a Provider Tool, and a User’s Guide) are designed to assist communities in assessing their strengths and indentifying areas that could use improvement.
The tools can be used by families to measure the care their children and youth are receiving. Health care providers can use them to evaluate ways to improve services and supports within the community. The three tools are ultimately intended to successfully build organized family-centered services for all children, including those with special health care needs.
Combining academic goals and transition planning
Is it possible to combine planning for instruction to meet academic goals at the same time as transition goals?
Find out in this Q&A with the authors of the new Universal Design for Transition: A Roadmap for Planning and Instruction
Find out in this Q&A with the authors of the new Universal Design for Transition: A Roadmap for Planning and Instruction
The Role of Youth With and Without Disabilities in Making High Schools More Inclusive
Youth and young adult involvement is an important element in developing community-based systems of care for children and youth with disabilities and chronic health conditions. Family and youth/young adults are the primary consumers who know first hand what works, what doesn’t, and how communities can better meet their needs.
KASA (Kids as Self Advocates) of Family Voices and the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Part B Community of Practice recently banded together in presenting a national teleconference, The Role of Youth with and without disabilities in Making High Schools More Inclusive (MP3 audio recording). The teleconference featured youth and young adults with disabilities who spoke from their own experiences about how youth can play an important role in making high schools more inclusive. The four presenters are members of the KASA National Advisory Board and represent youth and young adults with disabilities and special needs on topics such as self-advocacy and equal rights, health care, and the importance of the youth voice in systems change efforts.
The powerful stories told by each of these youth are proof that the input of young people is crucial when developing community-based systems of care in communities. Because much of the care is being designed for and around them, their opinion should perhaps be the most valued. KASA Director Naomi Ortiz emphasizes that for youth to be successful advocates, they need to be interdependent and learn from their peers, older adults with disabilities, and other allies about how to successfully transition into adulthood. It is important to educate young people about the community they live in, the history of disability, and the leaders who came before them in the Disability Rights Movement.
KASA has made much progress in youth self-advocacy. Their website is filled with information written by youth with disabilities on a variety of issues. According to Ms. Ortiz, they are also currently developing a toolkit around working with paraprofessionals that will be finished by March 2009. Because KASA is a National project, they use technology and “virtual” meetings as a way to work on a national disability youth agenda. KASA currently has one state chapter and works to assist them and other state groups by sharing resources and updates about what is going on in different states.
KASA (Kids as Self Advocates) of Family Voices and the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Part B Community of Practice recently banded together in presenting a national teleconference, The Role of Youth with and without disabilities in Making High Schools More Inclusive (MP3 audio recording). The teleconference featured youth and young adults with disabilities who spoke from their own experiences about how youth can play an important role in making high schools more inclusive. The four presenters are members of the KASA National Advisory Board and represent youth and young adults with disabilities and special needs on topics such as self-advocacy and equal rights, health care, and the importance of the youth voice in systems change efforts.
The powerful stories told by each of these youth are proof that the input of young people is crucial when developing community-based systems of care in communities. Because much of the care is being designed for and around them, their opinion should perhaps be the most valued. KASA Director Naomi Ortiz emphasizes that for youth to be successful advocates, they need to be interdependent and learn from their peers, older adults with disabilities, and other allies about how to successfully transition into adulthood. It is important to educate young people about the community they live in, the history of disability, and the leaders who came before them in the Disability Rights Movement.
KASA has made much progress in youth self-advocacy. Their website is filled with information written by youth with disabilities on a variety of issues. According to Ms. Ortiz, they are also currently developing a toolkit around working with paraprofessionals that will be finished by March 2009. Because KASA is a National project, they use technology and “virtual” meetings as a way to work on a national disability youth agenda. KASA currently has one state chapter and works to assist them and other state groups by sharing resources and updates about what is going on in different states.
What do families need to put their minds at ease in living with autism?
That's what Easter Seals wanted to find out. So this summer, thanks to the generous support of MassMutual Financial Group, they worked in cooperation with the Autism Society of America to conduct the Easter Seals Living with Autism Study.
Autism now affects more than 1.5 million Americans and their families -- yet services and support for people living with autism are few and far between.
Easter Seals surveyed over 2,500 parents of children who have autism and parents of typically developing children about daily life, relationships, independence, education, housing, employment, finances and healthcare.
The study results paint a startling picture of the life-long fears, anxieties and critical supports needed to raise a child with autism. Many parents of children with autism worry that their child won’t fit into society:
1. Nearly 80% are extremely or very concerned about their child’s independence as an adult.
2. Only 14% feel that their child will be able to make life decisions.
3. Only 17% think their child will make friends.
4. They report that they’re “financially drowning,” with concerns for their child’s financial future surpassing the worries of parents with typically developing children.
Easter Seals will use these findings to raise awareness of and advocate for the life-long services families living with autism desperately need.
Click here to download the Living with Autism Study and findings today!
Autism now affects more than 1.5 million Americans and their families -- yet services and support for people living with autism are few and far between.
Easter Seals surveyed over 2,500 parents of children who have autism and parents of typically developing children about daily life, relationships, independence, education, housing, employment, finances and healthcare.
The study results paint a startling picture of the life-long fears, anxieties and critical supports needed to raise a child with autism. Many parents of children with autism worry that their child won’t fit into society:
1. Nearly 80% are extremely or very concerned about their child’s independence as an adult.
2. Only 14% feel that their child will be able to make life decisions.
3. Only 17% think their child will make friends.
4. They report that they’re “financially drowning,” with concerns for their child’s financial future surpassing the worries of parents with typically developing children.
Easter Seals will use these findings to raise awareness of and advocate for the life-long services families living with autism desperately need.
Click here to download the Living with Autism Study and findings today!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Sensory Friendly Movie in OKC
There will be a sensory friendly showing of the movie, "Bolt" Saturday, December 6th at 10:00 a.m.
AMC Entertainment® and the Autism Society of America have teamed up to bring families affected by autism a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis.
With Sensory Friendly Films, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down.
For tickets to this unique experience, please visit the theatre’s box office the day of the event. OKC participating theaters are:
AMC CROSSROADS 16
1211 E I‐240 SERVICE ROAD
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73149
405‐632‐4872
AMC QUAIL SPRINGS 24
2501 W MEMORIAL RD ‐STE E
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73134
405‐755‐2466
AMC Entertainment® and the Autism Society of America have teamed up to bring families affected by autism a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis.
With Sensory Friendly Films, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down.
For tickets to this unique experience, please visit the theatre’s box office the day of the event. OKC participating theaters are:
AMC CROSSROADS 16
1211 E I‐240 SERVICE ROAD
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73149
405‐632‐4872
AMC QUAIL SPRINGS 24
2501 W MEMORIAL RD ‐STE E
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73134
405‐755‐2466
Thursday, October 30, 2008
IEP Institute by the OK State Dept. of Education
IEP Institute by the OK State Dept. of Education
Save the Date: Nov. 10, 2008
WHERE: Moore Norman Technical Center
13301 S. Pennsylvania
Oklahoma City, OK
WHEN: Your choice of 2 sessions
Morning Session from 8:30am-11am
or
Afternoon Session from 1pm-3:30pm
This training will assist families of children who are on IEPs or suspect will be on IEPs to understand their rights and the process of developing an IEP. With all the changes over the past few years, it is difficult to keep up with the law with understanding. Families will become better IEP Team Partners with staff from their schools as they understand better the process of developing an IEP.
Families will receive a $40 stipend to assist with the cost of child care, fuel, etc. Questions may be directed to Tina Spence at 405-521-4877 or fax (405)522-2066. Please specify if you want morning or afternoon.
Tina Spence, Coordinator
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
Phone: 405-521-4877
Save the Date: Nov. 10, 2008
WHERE: Moore Norman Technical Center
13301 S. Pennsylvania
Oklahoma City, OK
WHEN: Your choice of 2 sessions
Morning Session from 8:30am-11am
or
Afternoon Session from 1pm-3:30pm
This training will assist families of children who are on IEPs or suspect will be on IEPs to understand their rights and the process of developing an IEP. With all the changes over the past few years, it is difficult to keep up with the law with understanding. Families will become better IEP Team Partners with staff from their schools as they understand better the process of developing an IEP.
Families will receive a $40 stipend to assist with the cost of child care, fuel, etc. Questions may be directed to Tina Spence at 405-521-4877 or fax (405)522-2066. Please specify if you want morning or afternoon.
Tina Spence, Coordinator
Special Education Services
Oklahoma State Department of Education
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 412
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
Phone: 405-521-4877
Challenge Air for Kids and Friends "Fly Day"
Challenge Air for Kids and Friends has scheduled a “fly day” on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2008, at Wiley Post Airport, 5901 Phillip J. Rhoads Avenue, Bethany, OK.
It is a free event for children with disabilities, ages seven to 25, and their families. The day includes an educational ground school, a 30-minute flight over Bethany, face painting, clowns and much more.
Challenge Air for Kids and Friends is a Dallas-based not-for-profit organization that inspires children with disabilities through aviation. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.challengeair.com, for more information or to register, or contact Cindy Miller at 214-351-3651 or via email at cindy@challengeair.org.
It is a free event for children with disabilities, ages seven to 25, and their families. The day includes an educational ground school, a 30-minute flight over Bethany, face painting, clowns and much more.
Challenge Air for Kids and Friends is a Dallas-based not-for-profit organization that inspires children with disabilities through aviation. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.challengeair.com, for more information or to register, or contact Cindy Miller at 214-351-3651 or via email at cindy@challengeair.org.
Free class: Communicating Effectively with Healthcare Professionals
The National Family Caregivers Association is hosting a FREE Family Caregiver telephone class called "Communicating Effectively with Healthcare Professionals" to help you improve communications with healthcare professionals and to become better healthcare advocates for yourselves and your loved ones.
You can join them for this 2-part FREE class available by phone and Web on Thursdays - November 6 and 13 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm eastern time.
One of the most important attributes of being an advocate for your loved one is the willingness and the ability to speak up and keep your eye on the ultimate goal, protecting not only the health and safety of your loved ones but your own as well.
REGISTERING IS EASY - JUST CLICK HERE
For more information call the NFC at 1-800-896-3650. This year, give yourself a gift by taking the time to learn how to communicate more effectively with health care professionals. It is a gift that can last you a lifetime.
You can join them for this 2-part FREE class available by phone and Web on Thursdays - November 6 and 13 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm eastern time.
One of the most important attributes of being an advocate for your loved one is the willingness and the ability to speak up and keep your eye on the ultimate goal, protecting not only the health and safety of your loved ones but your own as well.
REGISTERING IS EASY - JUST CLICK HERE
For more information call the NFC at 1-800-896-3650. This year, give yourself a gift by taking the time to learn how to communicate more effectively with health care professionals. It is a gift that can last you a lifetime.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
October is Learning Disabilities Month
Learning Disabilities Month is a time when people pay particular attention to children and adults with learning disabilities. During this month, LD OnLine is asking everyone to teach one person one new thing about learning disabilities.
Need some info or ideas to get started? LD Online has put together a page just for you.
If everyone does a little, a LOT can be accomplished!
Need some info or ideas to get started? LD Online has put together a page just for you.
Print a fact sheet to share with someone you know.
E-mail one of the brief articles to a friend, using the "e-mail" icon to the right of each article
Offer to read a children's story about learning disabilities to your child or at a local classroom, daycare or library
If everyone does a little, a LOT can be accomplished!
Brainline....new website for individuals living with TBI
If you teach, know, or live with someone who has a traumatic brain injury (TBI), here's some good news for you. LD Online has recently launched BrainLine, a comprehensive website for anyone whose life has been affected by TBI.
You can find authoritative, useful, and timely information and resources here. BrainLine has specific sections for people with TBI, their families and friends, and professionals.
Click here to visit BrainLine >>
You can find authoritative, useful, and timely information and resources here. BrainLine has specific sections for people with TBI, their families and friends, and professionals.
Click here to visit BrainLine >>
Website Empowers Those with Disabilities to Vote
My Voice, My Vote is a website that encourages young adults in all situations, including those with disabilities to make their voice heard through voting.
The site includes many resources geared towards informing and assisting youth who want to learn about the voting process and make a difference in their communities. The website also includes an open-captioned video on the voting process in Minnesota that is applicable to many different situations.
Click here for voter registration information specific to Oklahoma.
The site includes many resources geared towards informing and assisting youth who want to learn about the voting process and make a difference in their communities. The website also includes an open-captioned video on the voting process in Minnesota that is applicable to many different situations.
Click here for voter registration information specific to Oklahoma.
An Estate Plan Built for Special Needs
With wall street and the state of our economy constantly in the news, each financial decision takes on more and more importance. Families planning to protect the future of a child with special needs have even more issues to consider.
Rachel Silverman of the Wall Street Journal offers tips for families in her WSJ article, An Estate Plan Built for Special Needs
Rachel Silverman of the Wall Street Journal offers tips for families in her WSJ article, An Estate Plan Built for Special Needs
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Planning Ahead: Seizure Emergencies
EP Magazine presents this primer article on the necessity for a seizure emergency plan, and for added awareness and education about the administration of emergency antiepileptic medication within the school environment.
To view the full article and online via EParent.com, click here
You can also view the archive recording, for free, on EP LiveOnline of the related Web seminar on seizures by clicking here. The recorded seminar is titled, "Managing Seizure Emergencies within the School Environment: A Seminar for Professionals & Caregivers".
To view the full article and online via EParent.com, click here
You can also view the archive recording, for free, on EP LiveOnline of the related Web seminar on seizures by clicking here. The recorded seminar is titled, "Managing Seizure Emergencies within the School Environment: A Seminar for Professionals & Caregivers".
October Proclaimed as Parent Involvement Month Statewide
In collaboration with the Oklahoma Parent Information and Resource Center (OK PIRC) and the Oklahoma Congress of Parents and Teachers (OK PTA), Governor Brad Henry issued a proclamation declaring October as Parent Involvement Month for the state of Oklahoma.
With this proclamation, the state legislature acknowledges that parental involvement, not income or social status, is the most accurate predictor of student achievement in school. The proclamation, issued on October 1, 2008, states that families can create a home environment that encourages learning; can communicate high yet reasonable expectations for their children?s achievement and future careers; and become involved in their children?s education and the community.
The OK PIRC and OK PTA will be distributing Parent Involvement Calendars and Parent Involvement Checklists to schools statewide to encourage parents to get involved with their child?s school. The calendar and checklist are also available at the OK PIRC website, www.okpirc.org. OK PIRC is a statewide technical assistance and training center whose mission is to build partnerships between schools and families to increase student achievement and parental engagement, birth to high school. OK PIRC is available to assist families with ideas for getting more involved in the education and development of young students, and to train educators on how to increase parental involvement in their schools. For more information about parent involvement, technical assistance and support, please contact the OK PIRC at (405) 478-4078, www.okpirc.org or the OK PTA at (405)681-0750.
With this proclamation, the state legislature acknowledges that parental involvement, not income or social status, is the most accurate predictor of student achievement in school. The proclamation, issued on October 1, 2008, states that families can create a home environment that encourages learning; can communicate high yet reasonable expectations for their children?s achievement and future careers; and become involved in their children?s education and the community.
The OK PIRC and OK PTA will be distributing Parent Involvement Calendars and Parent Involvement Checklists to schools statewide to encourage parents to get involved with their child?s school. The calendar and checklist are also available at the OK PIRC website, www.okpirc.org. OK PIRC is a statewide technical assistance and training center whose mission is to build partnerships between schools and families to increase student achievement and parental engagement, birth to high school. OK PIRC is available to assist families with ideas for getting more involved in the education and development of young students, and to train educators on how to increase parental involvement in their schools. For more information about parent involvement, technical assistance and support, please contact the OK PIRC at (405) 478-4078, www.okpirc.org or the OK PTA at (405)681-0750.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
2008 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference
The Fall Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Conference is an Oklahoma tradition. Oklahoma has a high percentage of grandparents who are responsible for their grandchildren - emotionally, physically and financially. This conference will provide grandparents with resources and education to ensure their success.
Dates: Oct. 29 & 30, 2008
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Location:
New Covenant Christian Church
12000 N. Rockwell
Oklahoma City, OK
For more information, contact Claire Dowers at (405) 522-4510
or click here to view/print a conference brochure
Dates: Oct. 29 & 30, 2008
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m
Location:
New Covenant Christian Church
12000 N. Rockwell
Oklahoma City, OK
For more information, contact Claire Dowers at (405) 522-4510
or click here to view/print a conference brochure
Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Conference
A Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Conference is being sponsored by The Oklahoma Disability Law Center on December 3, 2008 in Edmond, OK with Speaker Pete Wright and last from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The program will be held at:
University of Central Oklahoma
Constitution Hall
100 N University Drive
Edmond, Oklahoma 73034
Program Description
One-day special education law and advocacy programs focus on four areas:
· special education law, rights and responsibilities
· tests and measurements to measure progress & regression
· SMART IEPs
· introduction to tactics & strategies for effective advocacy
Wrightslaw programs are designed to meet the needs of parents, educators, health care providers, advocates and attorneys who represent children with disabilities regarding special education. The program is not disability specific.
Registration
Registrants will receive two books: Wrightslaw: Special Education Law, 2nd Edition and Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy, 2nd Edition.
Questions? Please call the Oklahoma Disability Law Center at (405) 525-7755.
Click here to download a registration form or read more specifics about the agenda.
Wrightslaw conferences tend to fill quickly, so don't delay!
The program will be held at:
University of Central Oklahoma
Constitution Hall
100 N University Drive
Edmond, Oklahoma 73034
Program Description
One-day special education law and advocacy programs focus on four areas:
· special education law, rights and responsibilities
· tests and measurements to measure progress & regression
· SMART IEPs
· introduction to tactics & strategies for effective advocacy
Wrightslaw programs are designed to meet the needs of parents, educators, health care providers, advocates and attorneys who represent children with disabilities regarding special education. The program is not disability specific.
Registration
Registrants will receive two books: Wrightslaw: Special Education Law, 2nd Edition and Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy, 2nd Edition.
Questions? Please call the Oklahoma Disability Law Center at (405) 525-7755.
Click here to download a registration form or read more specifics about the agenda.
Wrightslaw conferences tend to fill quickly, so don't delay!
Shared Youth Vision of Garfield County
Garfield County has been selected to participate in the Shared Youth Vision project. This federal project is new to Garfield County and is designed to streamline community resources and improve the education and employability of young people who are considered at-risk. The federal project targets groups such as:
· Youth transitioning out of foster care
· Children of incarcerated parents
· Court involved youth
· Youth at risk of court involvement
· Migrant youth
· Youth with disabilities
· Native American youth
· Homeless and runaway youth
· Out of school youth
· High school dropouts.
The focus of the current pilot project in Oklahoma is youth transitioning out of foster care. In Garfield County this effort will be combined with the current Community Team meeting supporting our Systems of Care staff. Anyone interested in supporting at-risk youth or that currently provides services to transition age individuals is invited to attend the 1st Shared Youth Vision meeting on November 18th at 10 a.m. at the YWCA, 525 S Quincy St, Enid.
· Youth transitioning out of foster care
· Children of incarcerated parents
· Court involved youth
· Youth at risk of court involvement
· Migrant youth
· Youth with disabilities
· Native American youth
· Homeless and runaway youth
· Out of school youth
· High school dropouts.
The focus of the current pilot project in Oklahoma is youth transitioning out of foster care. In Garfield County this effort will be combined with the current Community Team meeting supporting our Systems of Care staff. Anyone interested in supporting at-risk youth or that currently provides services to transition age individuals is invited to attend the 1st Shared Youth Vision meeting on November 18th at 10 a.m. at the YWCA, 525 S Quincy St, Enid.
Get your flu shot
The Garfield County Health Department will be hosting a Flu Shot clinic on October 21, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The health department is located at 2501 Mercer Dr.
Enid, OK 73701.
For more information, contact:
Phone: (580)-233-0650
The health department has Spanish and Marshalese interpreters available.
Other clinics available include:
General Clinic
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 Walk in clinic.
Family Planning
Monday 8:00-3:00 exams by appointment.
Tuesday 8:00-3:00 exams by appointment, later appointments are available, call Monday am to schedule.
Wednesday 9:00-4:00 by appointment.
Friday 9:00-11:00 by appointment.
Maternity
Tuesday 8:00-2:00 by appointment.
WIC
Monday - Friday 8:30-4:00 by appointment.
STD/HIV & AIDS Testing
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 general clinic
Immunizations
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 general clinic.
Guidance
Call (580) 233-0650 for an appointment.
Children First
Call (580) 249-5977 for an appointment.
TB Skin Testing
Call (580) 233-0650 for more information.
Sick Child Clinic
Friday at 11:30 by appointment.
Enid, OK 73701.
For more information, contact:
Phone: (580)-233-0650
The health department has Spanish and Marshalese interpreters available.
Other clinics available include:
General Clinic
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 Walk in clinic.
Family Planning
Monday 8:00-3:00 exams by appointment.
Tuesday 8:00-3:00 exams by appointment, later appointments are available, call Monday am to schedule.
Wednesday 9:00-4:00 by appointment.
Friday 9:00-11:00 by appointment.
Maternity
Tuesday 8:00-2:00 by appointment.
WIC
Monday - Friday 8:30-4:00 by appointment.
STD/HIV & AIDS Testing
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 general clinic
Immunizations
Monday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 & 1:00-4:00 general clinic.
Guidance
Call (580) 233-0650 for an appointment.
Children First
Call (580) 249-5977 for an appointment.
TB Skin Testing
Call (580) 233-0650 for more information.
Sick Child Clinic
Friday at 11:30 by appointment.
Would you like to help another parent understand the IEP process?
Calling all IEP veterans!
Sooner SUCCESS and Supporting the Pieces will be co-sponsoring a training at the Integris Bass Hospital on October 25th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The training is provided by the Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and is designed to train Community IEP Partners. IEP Partners can be either parents or professionals who are interested in offering support to parents who are new to the special education process or simply struggling to find their place in the IEP process.
Trained Community IEP Partners are matched with parents who would like support at their child's IEP meeting and the goal is to have trained partners in every community in Oklahoma. The partner receives ongoing training and support from OPC and a $25 stipend for each meeting they attend.
The role of the partner is to help the parent prepare for the meeting and then take notes and act as a trained listener during the meeting as someone who is familiar with special education rules and regulations. Partners are trained to model positive parent/professional partnership and collaboration.
Interested individuals can register for the training by contacting
Theresa Sharp at 977-7479 or Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
Additional information about the program is available on the OPC website at:
http://www.oklahomaparentscenter.org/COMMUNITY_IEP_PARTNERS.html
Sooner SUCCESS and Supporting the Pieces will be co-sponsoring a training at the Integris Bass Hospital on October 25th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The training is provided by the Oklahoma Parents Center (OPC) and is designed to train Community IEP Partners. IEP Partners can be either parents or professionals who are interested in offering support to parents who are new to the special education process or simply struggling to find their place in the IEP process.
Trained Community IEP Partners are matched with parents who would like support at their child's IEP meeting and the goal is to have trained partners in every community in Oklahoma. The partner receives ongoing training and support from OPC and a $25 stipend for each meeting they attend.
The role of the partner is to help the parent prepare for the meeting and then take notes and act as a trained listener during the meeting as someone who is familiar with special education rules and regulations. Partners are trained to model positive parent/professional partnership and collaboration.
Interested individuals can register for the training by contacting
Theresa Sharp at 977-7479 or Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
Additional information about the program is available on the OPC website at:
http://www.oklahomaparentscenter.org/COMMUNITY_IEP_PARTNERS.html
Monday, October 6, 2008
Resources for Helping Children Deal with Disasters
The National TA Center at UACF has released a set of resources to help communities dealing with disasters. Families, and especially children, can experience serious emotional trauma as they prepare for, and then deal with the aftermath of, a hurricane or other disaster. This trauma can even extend to children who are not affected by the disaster, but have seen extensive media coverage on it. The following links are just a few of the available resources:
Disaster Preparedness for Families of Children with Special Needs (PDF)
After the Disaster: A Children’s Mental Health Checklist
Emergencies, Mental Health, and Traumatic Stress
Disaster Preparedness for Children
Mental Health Services in Disasters/Major Traumas
Disaster Preparedness for Families of Children with Special Needs (PDF)
After the Disaster: A Children’s Mental Health Checklist
Emergencies, Mental Health, and Traumatic Stress
Disaster Preparedness for Children
Mental Health Services in Disasters/Major Traumas
Where do the presidential candidates stand on Education issues?
In preparation for the election, the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) has created Education and the 2008 Presidential Election—Where the Candidates Stand, a side-by-side comparison of key topics of the education plans of both candidates to make sure you know where they stand on key education issues.
NCLD's goal is to provide insight into the essential aspects of their education platforms and the priorities that will drive their education agenda as an administration.
Click here to learn where each candidate stands on issues like No child left behind, early intervention, and the high drop out rate among students with special needs.
NCLD's goal is to provide insight into the essential aspects of their education platforms and the priorities that will drive their education agenda as an administration.
Click here to learn where each candidate stands on issues like No child left behind, early intervention, and the high drop out rate among students with special needs.
Calling all IEP veterans!
Is this you?
**I've been to lots of IEP meetings for you my child or others.
**Special education is familiar ground for me.
**I wish I could help parents who are new to special ed and really struggling.
**I have a few hours a month to help others.
**I'd like to earn a little extra income.
If this sounds like you, Sooner SUCCESS and Supporting the Pieces would like to introduce you to the newest program at the Oklahoma Parents Center...Community IEP Partners.
What is the Community IEP Partner's Program?
The Community IEP Partners Program trains and matches Partners with parents wanting support at their child's IEP meeting. The goal is to have Partners available in every community throughout the state of Oklahoma
Who are Community IEP Partners?
Partners are parents and others who have gone through a Partner Training Program. Partners are volunteers for the Oklahoma Parents Center, the Training and Information Project for Oklahoma. They receive a $25.00 stipend for each meeting that they attend as assigned by OPC.
What is the role of a Community IEP Partner?
Partners assist parents to advocate for their children. Partners need to be good listeners that are willing to continue training in special education and be open to collaboration. Their role is to help parents prepare for the meeting, plan an agenda, identify the issues, write out proposals etc. At the meeting they will take notes and act as a trained listener who is familiar with special education rules and regulations. Partners model parent/professional partnership and collaboration.
Are there Community IEP Partners in our area?
OPC is coming to Enid on October 25, 2008 to train interested individuals to become Community IEP Partners.
Date: 10/25/08
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (with a 1-hour break for lunch)
Location: Integris Bass Hospital, Northeast Conference Room.
600 S. Monroe, Enid OK
Fee: This training is free of charge, however registration is required.
To register, contact:
Lisa Simmons at 603-1580
OR
Theresa Sharp at 977-7479
**I've been to lots of IEP meetings for you my child or others.
**Special education is familiar ground for me.
**I wish I could help parents who are new to special ed and really struggling.
**I have a few hours a month to help others.
**I'd like to earn a little extra income.
If this sounds like you, Sooner SUCCESS and Supporting the Pieces would like to introduce you to the newest program at the Oklahoma Parents Center...Community IEP Partners.
What is the Community IEP Partner's Program?
The Community IEP Partners Program trains and matches Partners with parents wanting support at their child's IEP meeting. The goal is to have Partners available in every community throughout the state of Oklahoma
Who are Community IEP Partners?
Partners are parents and others who have gone through a Partner Training Program. Partners are volunteers for the Oklahoma Parents Center, the Training and Information Project for Oklahoma. They receive a $25.00 stipend for each meeting that they attend as assigned by OPC.
What is the role of a Community IEP Partner?
Partners assist parents to advocate for their children. Partners need to be good listeners that are willing to continue training in special education and be open to collaboration. Their role is to help parents prepare for the meeting, plan an agenda, identify the issues, write out proposals etc. At the meeting they will take notes and act as a trained listener who is familiar with special education rules and regulations. Partners model parent/professional partnership and collaboration.
Are there Community IEP Partners in our area?
OPC is coming to Enid on October 25, 2008 to train interested individuals to become Community IEP Partners.
Date: 10/25/08
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (with a 1-hour break for lunch)
Location: Integris Bass Hospital, Northeast Conference Room.
600 S. Monroe, Enid OK
Fee: This training is free of charge, however registration is required.
To register, contact:
Lisa Simmons at 603-1580
OR
Theresa Sharp at 977-7479
Friday, September 19, 2008
National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week is October 5-11th
The Third Annual National Bullying Awareness Week is scheduled for October 5-11, 2008
Communities across the county are encouraged to work together to increase awareness about bullying. Activities and materials for students, parents, and professionals designed to help reduce bullying at school, in the community, and at home are available online at http://www.pacer.org/bullying/bpaw/index.asp
Communities across the county are encouraged to work together to increase awareness about bullying. Activities and materials for students, parents, and professionals designed to help reduce bullying at school, in the community, and at home are available online at http://www.pacer.org/bullying/bpaw/index.asp
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Get a discount on your family's prescription medications
PRESCRIPTION DRUG SAVINGS PROGRAM
IT'S FREE: This is a free resource from the FamilyWize community service partnership. Use a FamilyWize card to start saving money on your prescription drugs today.
IT'S EASY: Simply present your card and prescription to a participating pharmacy to obtain the discounted price. You always receive the lower of the discounted price or pharmacy's retail price.
HOW MUCH YOU SAVE: This card can save you and your family an average of 20% on 8 out of 10 prescriptions. Click here to see the discounted price of your medications using this card.
NO RESTRICTIONS: Use your card as often as you need, for any prescription, for everyone in your family. There is no income limit, age requirement, eligibility or registration required.
Cards can be printed off from the FamilyWize website or you can get a card by visiting our local United Way of Enid & Northwest Oklahoma, Inc. at 321 West Cherokee Avenue, Suite C Enid, OK.
IT'S FREE: This is a free resource from the FamilyWize community service partnership. Use a FamilyWize card to start saving money on your prescription drugs today.
IT'S EASY: Simply present your card and prescription to a participating pharmacy to obtain the discounted price. You always receive the lower of the discounted price or pharmacy's retail price.
HOW MUCH YOU SAVE: This card can save you and your family an average of 20% on 8 out of 10 prescriptions. Click here to see the discounted price of your medications using this card.
NO RESTRICTIONS: Use your card as often as you need, for any prescription, for everyone in your family. There is no income limit, age requirement, eligibility or registration required.
Cards can be printed off from the FamilyWize website or you can get a card by visiting our local United Way of Enid & Northwest Oklahoma, Inc. at 321 West Cherokee Avenue, Suite C Enid, OK.
ADHD Awareness Month
What is attention deficit? And why is it so misunderstood? You can help set the record straight with this information and these tips for ADHD Awareness Week.
Check out the article, "Smile--It's ADHD Awareness Month" by Jonathan Mooney and then visit the ADHD Information Center for tips and printable articles to share with friends, family, and community members in your life.
Don't miss.....
Snappy Comebacks to ADD Doubters
25 Things to Love About ADD
7 Myths About ADD...Debunked
and much, much more!
Check out the article, "Smile--It's ADHD Awareness Month" by Jonathan Mooney and then visit the ADHD Information Center for tips and printable articles to share with friends, family, and community members in your life.
Don't miss.....
Snappy Comebacks to ADD Doubters
25 Things to Love About ADD
7 Myths About ADD...Debunked
and much, much more!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Lt. Gov. Askins urges coaches & teachers to take online asthma training
According to the CDC, Asthma is the 3rd leading cause of hospitalization among children under 15. So Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Jari Askins is urging coaches and teachers to take advantage of a free online program dealing with children who have asthma.
The program, "Winning with Asthma" is designed to help coaches learn about asthma, how it affects student athletes, and how coaches, parents & teachers can help students manage their symptoms.
To check out the online program or to recommend it to someone coaching your child, visit http://www.winningwithasthma.org/
The program, "Winning with Asthma" is designed to help coaches learn about asthma, how it affects student athletes, and how coaches, parents & teachers can help students manage their symptoms.
To check out the online program or to recommend it to someone coaching your child, visit http://www.winningwithasthma.org/
Friday, September 5, 2008
Learn about vision loss and what you can do about it.
Please join Oklahoma ABLE Tech us as they present Vision Awareness Days with Freedom Scientific.
When: September 11-12, 2008
Where? Integris Baptist Medical Center, 3300 N.W. Expressway, Conference rooms F. and G.
Blindness Awareness Day, Thursday September 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn about technology solutions for the blind: JAWS® screen reading software, the PAC Mate Omni™ accessible Pocket PC, accessible GPS, braille study aids and braille displays, scanning and reading and more!
Low Vision Awareness Day, Friday September 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Discover the benefits of video magnifiers, computer screen magnification software, technology that reads books, bills, and mail aloud - and more! Featuring: Chelsea White, Outreach Specialist with The Seeing Eye, Inc., speaking on the benefits of dog guides and how they may be obtained.
Who should attend
Anyone with vision loss, instructors and trainers, parents and families of those with vision loss, seniors and senior center staff, and support groups.
Sponsored by Oklahoma ABLE Tech, Jim Thorpe Rehab Hospital and in cooperation with NanoPac, Inc.
For more info:
CALL 1-800-336-5658 e-mail: seminars@FreedomScientific.com
Also available from ABLE tech:
"Try Before You Buy" Assistive Technology Loan Program - No Rental Fees and No Shipping Costs! ABLE Tech has over 1000 devices for loan. Visit the AT Demonstration Center at the OSU Seretean Wellness Center in Stillwater. Call 1-800-257-1705 to schedule an equipment demonstration.
When: September 11-12, 2008
Where? Integris Baptist Medical Center, 3300 N.W. Expressway, Conference rooms F. and G.
Blindness Awareness Day, Thursday September 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn about technology solutions for the blind: JAWS® screen reading software, the PAC Mate Omni™ accessible Pocket PC, accessible GPS, braille study aids and braille displays, scanning and reading and more!
Low Vision Awareness Day, Friday September 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Discover the benefits of video magnifiers, computer screen magnification software, technology that reads books, bills, and mail aloud - and more! Featuring: Chelsea White, Outreach Specialist with The Seeing Eye, Inc., speaking on the benefits of dog guides and how they may be obtained.
Who should attend
Anyone with vision loss, instructors and trainers, parents and families of those with vision loss, seniors and senior center staff, and support groups.
Sponsored by Oklahoma ABLE Tech, Jim Thorpe Rehab Hospital and in cooperation with NanoPac, Inc.
For more info:
CALL 1-800-336-5658 e-mail: seminars@FreedomScientific.com
Also available from ABLE tech:
"Try Before You Buy" Assistive Technology Loan Program - No Rental Fees and No Shipping Costs! ABLE Tech has over 1000 devices for loan. Visit the AT Demonstration Center at the OSU Seretean Wellness Center in Stillwater. Call 1-800-257-1705 to schedule an equipment demonstration.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Toolkit
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Toolkit
BACKGROUND: Universal design for learning (UDL) is an educational framework and set of principles to provide ALL students equal opportunities to learn. Using UDL principles in general education and special education classrooms makes curriculum accessible. Learning is supported; students gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning; and their learning is validly assessed.
Using the following three principles, UDL embeds flexibility into the components of the curriculum: goals, teaching methods, instructional materials and assessments.
1. Provide multiple and flexible methods of presentation to give students various ways of acquiring information and knowledge.
2. Provide multiple and flexible means of expression to provide students with alternatives for demonstrating what they have learned, and
3. Provide multiple and flexible means of engagement to tap into learners' interests, challenge them appropriately, and motivate them to learn.
UDL TOOLKIT: The U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) has published a toolkit of information and resources that will help policymakers, education personnel and parents understand how to implement UDL strategies and practices. This toolkit is available here and CDs will be available shortly through ED Pubs.
BACKGROUND: Universal design for learning (UDL) is an educational framework and set of principles to provide ALL students equal opportunities to learn. Using UDL principles in general education and special education classrooms makes curriculum accessible. Learning is supported; students gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning; and their learning is validly assessed.
Using the following three principles, UDL embeds flexibility into the components of the curriculum: goals, teaching methods, instructional materials and assessments.
1. Provide multiple and flexible methods of presentation to give students various ways of acquiring information and knowledge.
2. Provide multiple and flexible means of expression to provide students with alternatives for demonstrating what they have learned, and
3. Provide multiple and flexible means of engagement to tap into learners' interests, challenge them appropriately, and motivate them to learn.
UDL TOOLKIT: The U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) has published a toolkit of information and resources that will help policymakers, education personnel and parents understand how to implement UDL strategies and practices. This toolkit is available here and CDs will be available shortly through ED Pubs.
Candidate plans to combat autism
As the presidential election draws near, you may be wondering how each candidate feels about issues close to your heart. Click the links below to see how each candidate intends to address autism.
As president, McCain would work to advance federal research into autism, promote early screening, and identify better treatment options. Click here to read John McCain's plan to combat autism.
As president, Obama would appoint a federal ASD Coordinator to oversee all federal ASD efforts, fully fund the Combating Autism Act and other federal autism research initiatives, support special needs education for children with ASD, and support universal screening. Click here to read his full plan, and click here to see his updated plan to empower Americans with disabilities.
As president, McCain would work to advance federal research into autism, promote early screening, and identify better treatment options. Click here to read John McCain's plan to combat autism.
As president, Obama would appoint a federal ASD Coordinator to oversee all federal ASD efforts, fully fund the Combating Autism Act and other federal autism research initiatives, support special needs education for children with ASD, and support universal screening. Click here to read his full plan, and click here to see his updated plan to empower Americans with disabilities.
Meet Dr. Jed Baker
Autism Spectrum Disorders Training
Friday, September 26, 2008
Redlands Community College Conference Center
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
MORNING SESSION: Social Skills Training and Positive Behavior Supports for Students with Autism, Aspergers and other Social Communication Problems
Dr. Jed Baker has been a clinical psychologist since 1992. He is a behavioral consultant for several New Jersey school systems, where he provides social skills training for students with pervasive developmental disorders and learning disabilities. He writes, lectures, and provides training across the country on the topic of social skills training for individuals with Aspergers Syndrome and related Pervasive Developmental Disorders. He has recently published both a manual on social skills training for children with Aspergers Syndrome and a social skills picture book to aid in social skills training. Dr. Baker will give you the tools to handle challenging behaviors, prevent temper outbursts, and increase social skills for all students. He shares ways to motivate both verbal and nonverbal students to willingly engage in social interactions. He also outlines a comprehensive approach to skillstraining that includes instruction of students with autism and their peers. The use of humor and engaging fun activities is described and demonstrated throughout his dynamic presentation.
AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
** "Prevention Strategies for Challenging Behaviors” Dr. Bonnie McBride, PhD BCBA
** “Support Strategies” Tara Warwick, OT and Kelli Waganer, SLP
** “Maximizing Resources” Rene Daman, PT
** “Working with Parents” Melinda Lauffenburger and Dee Blose
This training is free, but R.S.V.P. is required by September 24, 2008 Contact: Christie Adams at: (405)295-6622 christie.adams@yfsok.org
Check out Dr. Baker's lastest book, "No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-Of-Control Behavior" where he offers an easy-to-follow, 4-step model that will improve your everyday relationships with the children in your life:
** Managing your own emotions by adjusting your expectations
** Learning strategies to calm a meltdown in the moment
** Understanding why a meltdown occurs
** Creating plans to prevent future meltdowns
Friday, September 26, 2008
Redlands Community College Conference Center
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
MORNING SESSION: Social Skills Training and Positive Behavior Supports for Students with Autism, Aspergers and other Social Communication Problems
Dr. Jed Baker has been a clinical psychologist since 1992. He is a behavioral consultant for several New Jersey school systems, where he provides social skills training for students with pervasive developmental disorders and learning disabilities. He writes, lectures, and provides training across the country on the topic of social skills training for individuals with Aspergers Syndrome and related Pervasive Developmental Disorders. He has recently published both a manual on social skills training for children with Aspergers Syndrome and a social skills picture book to aid in social skills training. Dr. Baker will give you the tools to handle challenging behaviors, prevent temper outbursts, and increase social skills for all students. He shares ways to motivate both verbal and nonverbal students to willingly engage in social interactions. He also outlines a comprehensive approach to skillstraining that includes instruction of students with autism and their peers. The use of humor and engaging fun activities is described and demonstrated throughout his dynamic presentation.
AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
** "Prevention Strategies for Challenging Behaviors” Dr. Bonnie McBride, PhD BCBA
** “Support Strategies” Tara Warwick, OT and Kelli Waganer, SLP
** “Maximizing Resources” Rene Daman, PT
** “Working with Parents” Melinda Lauffenburger and Dee Blose
This training is free, but R.S.V.P. is required by September 24, 2008 Contact: Christie Adams at: (405)295-6622 christie.adams@yfsok.org
Check out Dr. Baker's lastest book, "No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-Of-Control Behavior" where he offers an easy-to-follow, 4-step model that will improve your everyday relationships with the children in your life:
** Managing your own emotions by adjusting your expectations
** Learning strategies to calm a meltdown in the moment
** Understanding why a meltdown occurs
** Creating plans to prevent future meltdowns
Check out the Oklahoma Parent Center
The Oklahoma Parent Center is the statewide parent training and information center serving parents of children with disabilities. Their goal is to educate and support parents, families and professionals in building partnerships that meet the needs of children and youth with the full range of disabilities ages’ birth to 26. They use a regionalized model with staff living in the area that they serve.
Who Should Call the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center?
* Parents of children with disabilities, or suspected disabilities age birth to 26.
* Parents of children with emotional or behavioral problems age birth to 26.
* Professionals in educational, medical, or human service fields.
What Services does the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center Offer?
* Training on a variety of topics related to children with disabilities
* Community IEP Partner Training and Matching
* “Count Me in” Disability Awareness Programs
* Information and referral
* Special Education Help-Line
* Statewide Conference
* Quarterly newsletter
New Programs offered by the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center:
The Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center is initiating some new programs with collaborating partner agencies for parents in Oklahoma.
They include:
* Community IEP Partners
* “Count Me In” Disability Awareness Programs
* Bullying Prevention Training and resources
Check out their latest "Back to School" newsletter online.
Who Should Call the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center?
* Parents of children with disabilities, or suspected disabilities age birth to 26.
* Parents of children with emotional or behavioral problems age birth to 26.
* Professionals in educational, medical, or human service fields.
What Services does the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center Offer?
* Training on a variety of topics related to children with disabilities
* Community IEP Partner Training and Matching
* “Count Me in” Disability Awareness Programs
* Information and referral
* Special Education Help-Line
* Statewide Conference
* Quarterly newsletter
New Programs offered by the Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center:
The Oklahoma Parent Training and Information Center is initiating some new programs with collaborating partner agencies for parents in Oklahoma.
They include:
* Community IEP Partners
* “Count Me In” Disability Awareness Programs
* Bullying Prevention Training and resources
Check out their latest "Back to School" newsletter online.
Fall autism workshop for parents & professionals
Sooner SUCCESS and the Oklahoma Autism Network invite you to attend a FREE training entitled, "Creating Community Supports Today to Enhance Tomorrow for a Child with Autism".
When: Tuesday, September 23rd
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center
(Located on Hwy 33 between Kingfisher and Watonga, OK)
Times:
Registration: 8:30-9 (pre-registration is recommended)
Workshop: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Description:
This training provides a step by step process that families, friends, and
service providers can use to help build community supports for an individual with autism. Obstacles such as challenging behavior and societal barriers will be addressed to give families a process that is both realistic and successful.
Presenters:
Tara Warwick, MS, OTR/L
Rene' Daman, MS, PT, PCS, Director of Oklahoma Autism Network
Lunch will be available on site from 11:30 to 12:30 provided by The Health
Occupations Students of America. The menu will include: Indian tacos, dessert, & a drink for $6.00. Exact change is requested.
SEATING IS LIMITED. Register today by contacting Lisa Simmons at 603-1580 or by email at lisa-simmons@ouhsc.edu
When: Tuesday, September 23rd
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center
(Located on Hwy 33 between Kingfisher and Watonga, OK)
Times:
Registration: 8:30-9 (pre-registration is recommended)
Workshop: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Description:
This training provides a step by step process that families, friends, and
service providers can use to help build community supports for an individual with autism. Obstacles such as challenging behavior and societal barriers will be addressed to give families a process that is both realistic and successful.
Presenters:
Tara Warwick, MS, OTR/L
Rene' Daman, MS, PT, PCS, Director of Oklahoma Autism Network
Lunch will be available on site from 11:30 to 12:30 provided by The Health
Occupations Students of America. The menu will include: Indian tacos, dessert, & a drink for $6.00. Exact change is requested.
SEATING IS LIMITED. Register today by contacting Lisa Simmons at 603-1580 or by email at lisa-simmons@ouhsc.edu
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Informational meeting on Insure Oklahoma
Sooner SUCCESS would like to invite all interested individuals in Garfield County to an information meeting about Insure Oklahoma.
The Insure Oklahoma program is designed to assist small business owners, employees and their spouses with health insurance premiums.
The Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Employer-Sponsored Insurance will pay part of the health plan premiums for eligible employees working for qualified Oklahoma small businesses (with 50 or fewer full-time employees). Participation in this program is voluntary.
Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Individual Plan is available to Oklahomans not otherwise eligible to participate in an Insure Oklahoma employer-sponsored Qualified Health Plan.
Income guidelines and an eligibility wizard are available on their website at:
http://www.insureoklahoma.org/
Sooner SUCCESS has invited staff from the Insure Oklahoma project to give an introductory presentation and answer individual questions in Enid on September 11, 2008. The meeting is open to the public and we would like to invite anyone interested in learning about Insure Oklahoma to join us.
Insure Oklahoma Presentation:
Speaker: Melissa Pratt, MA, LBP
Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Outreach Supervisor
When: September 11, 2008
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: Bass Pavilion, 1st floor conference room
Host: Sooner SUCCESS Coalition of Garfield County
Questions? Contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580
The Insure Oklahoma program is designed to assist small business owners, employees and their spouses with health insurance premiums.
The Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Employer-Sponsored Insurance will pay part of the health plan premiums for eligible employees working for qualified Oklahoma small businesses (with 50 or fewer full-time employees). Participation in this program is voluntary.
Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Individual Plan is available to Oklahomans not otherwise eligible to participate in an Insure Oklahoma employer-sponsored Qualified Health Plan.
Income guidelines and an eligibility wizard are available on their website at:
http://www.insureoklahoma.org/
Sooner SUCCESS has invited staff from the Insure Oklahoma project to give an introductory presentation and answer individual questions in Enid on September 11, 2008. The meeting is open to the public and we would like to invite anyone interested in learning about Insure Oklahoma to join us.
Insure Oklahoma Presentation:
Speaker: Melissa Pratt, MA, LBP
Insure Oklahoma/O-EPIC Outreach Supervisor
When: September 11, 2008
Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: Bass Pavilion, 1st floor conference room
Host: Sooner SUCCESS Coalition of Garfield County
Questions? Contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Build Your Own Care Notebook Online
Build your Own Care Notebook Online at the National Center of Medical Home Initiatives for Children with Special Needs Web Site
Dr. Charles Onufer, Director, Division of Specialized Care for Children at the University of Illinois at Chicago and his Title V CSHCN staff, created a website called “Build Your Own Care Notebook”. They are working with staff from the National Center of Medical Home Initiatives for Children with Special Needs. This web site is designed to assist families to build their own care notebooks for their own children with special needs. The web site allows parents to select different versions of care notebooks and put them together to build their own customized care notebook.
Dr. Onufer took 20 complete care notebooks and developed a template consisting of 6 major sections with their corresponding subsections. For each of these subsections, up to 20 versions of that subsection was created in MS Word and Adobe PDF formats. A parent then has the capability to review these different versions of the subsections that they would like to include in their child’s care notebook, and download those Word or PDF files to their computer.
The next step was creating an online tutorial for parents to guide them in "how to" use the online care notebook for their child or patient. A field test of the tutorial was held for parents and health care professionals February 5, 2008 at the Illinois Center for Rehab and Education. Dr. Onufer and his staff are revising the tutorial based on comments from the field test and will work with National Center Staff on uploading the tutorial.
Find out more about how to use the Care Notebook web site to create your own personal care notebook by taking the Care Notebook Online Tour.
Dr. Charles Onufer, Director, Division of Specialized Care for Children at the University of Illinois at Chicago and his Title V CSHCN staff, created a website called “Build Your Own Care Notebook”. They are working with staff from the National Center of Medical Home Initiatives for Children with Special Needs. This web site is designed to assist families to build their own care notebooks for their own children with special needs. The web site allows parents to select different versions of care notebooks and put them together to build their own customized care notebook.
Dr. Onufer took 20 complete care notebooks and developed a template consisting of 6 major sections with their corresponding subsections. For each of these subsections, up to 20 versions of that subsection was created in MS Word and Adobe PDF formats. A parent then has the capability to review these different versions of the subsections that they would like to include in their child’s care notebook, and download those Word or PDF files to their computer.
The next step was creating an online tutorial for parents to guide them in "how to" use the online care notebook for their child or patient. A field test of the tutorial was held for parents and health care professionals February 5, 2008 at the Illinois Center for Rehab and Education. Dr. Onufer and his staff are revising the tutorial based on comments from the field test and will work with National Center Staff on uploading the tutorial.
Find out more about how to use the Care Notebook web site to create your own personal care notebook by taking the Care Notebook Online Tour.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Autism toolkit for Community Schools
Virtually every public school is being asked or soon will be asked to include a student on the autism spectrum. To help meet the information needs of public school teachers, staff, and administrators, Autism Speaks has created a 200 page toolkit of information, strategies, tips & resources for schools and communities.
This tool kit is not intended to be a curriculum for special education for students on the autism spectrum, but rather a support for the general education and administrative school staff who interact with students with autism in various capacities. However, it is envisioned that this tool kit will provide valuable information and resources that can be employed by special education and administrative staff in their efforts to plan for and support students in general education environments and involvement in the school community as a whole.
To check out the toolkit modules online or download a PDF copy, visit:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/community/family_services/school_kit.php
This tool kit is not intended to be a curriculum for special education for students on the autism spectrum, but rather a support for the general education and administrative school staff who interact with students with autism in various capacities. However, it is envisioned that this tool kit will provide valuable information and resources that can be employed by special education and administrative staff in their efforts to plan for and support students in general education environments and involvement in the school community as a whole.
To check out the toolkit modules online or download a PDF copy, visit:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/community/family_services/school_kit.php
Free webinar on Transportation Voucher Program
Topic: Using Transportation Voucher Programs to Support Low-Wage Earners and Workers with Disabilities
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 10
Time: 2:00-3:15 p.m. ET
Cost: This webinar, funded by the Community Transportation Association's Joblinks Employment Transportation Initiative is free of charge. The Joblinks Initiative is supported with funding from the U.S. DOT Federal Transit Administration and the U.S. DOL Employment and Training Administration.
Why: Although communities have been employing transportation vouchers as a means to enhance individual mobility for many years, the allowance of the use of Job Access and Reverse Commute and New Freedom funds to support voucher programs has further increased the presence of voucher programs across the country.
This Webinar will benefit those considering implementing a voucher program as a strategy to overcome mobility challenges for low-wage earners and workers with disabilities. Hear from peers who have implemented vouchers. Learn how they did it and how the use of vouchers has aided access to employment for low-wage earners and workers with disabilities. Whether you are transportation provider, state or local level planner, member of a transportation planning collaborate, or a potential funder of a voucher system, this Webinar is for you.
Extras: Participants will be introduced to a Wiki page created to house a new primer on voucher programs developed to supplement APRIL's Toolkit for Operating a Rural Transportation Voucher Program. (Similar to Wikipedia, this wiki page will be available for Webinar participants and others to edit and expand).
Moderator:
Carolyn Jeskey, Director, Joblinks Employment Transportation Initiative, Community Transportation Association of America, Washington, D.C.
Presenters:
Billy Altom, Executive Director, Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), North Little Rock, Ark.
Vernon S. Chambers, Project Director Harris County-Rides, Houston, Texas
Kathy Rankin, Housing Manager, Development Services Department, City of Olathe, Kan.
To Register, go to:
https://ctaa.webex.com/ctaa/onstage/g.php?t=a&d=660468438
For More info:
Contact Pamela Friedman, Joblinks Program Specialist at 800.891.0590 x 720 or 202.403.1629
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 10
Time: 2:00-3:15 p.m. ET
Cost: This webinar, funded by the Community Transportation Association's Joblinks Employment Transportation Initiative is free of charge. The Joblinks Initiative is supported with funding from the U.S. DOT Federal Transit Administration and the U.S. DOL Employment and Training Administration.
Why: Although communities have been employing transportation vouchers as a means to enhance individual mobility for many years, the allowance of the use of Job Access and Reverse Commute and New Freedom funds to support voucher programs has further increased the presence of voucher programs across the country.
This Webinar will benefit those considering implementing a voucher program as a strategy to overcome mobility challenges for low-wage earners and workers with disabilities. Hear from peers who have implemented vouchers. Learn how they did it and how the use of vouchers has aided access to employment for low-wage earners and workers with disabilities. Whether you are transportation provider, state or local level planner, member of a transportation planning collaborate, or a potential funder of a voucher system, this Webinar is for you.
Extras: Participants will be introduced to a Wiki page created to house a new primer on voucher programs developed to supplement APRIL's Toolkit for Operating a Rural Transportation Voucher Program. (Similar to Wikipedia, this wiki page will be available for Webinar participants and others to edit and expand).
Moderator:
Carolyn Jeskey, Director, Joblinks Employment Transportation Initiative, Community Transportation Association of America, Washington, D.C.
Presenters:
Billy Altom, Executive Director, Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), North Little Rock, Ark.
Vernon S. Chambers, Project Director Harris County-Rides, Houston, Texas
Kathy Rankin, Housing Manager, Development Services Department, City of Olathe, Kan.
To Register, go to:
https://ctaa.webex.com/ctaa/onstage/g.php?t=a&d=660468438
For More info:
Contact Pamela Friedman, Joblinks Program Specialist at 800.891.0590 x 720 or 202.403.1629
Friday, August 15, 2008
Classroom accomodations for students with ADHD
Children with ADHD can thrive with the help of simple, but highly effective, classroom accommodations. Here are a few to consider that were recommended by the experts at ADDitude Magazine:
1. Choose seating wisely.
A spot near the teacher and away from doors and windows helps maintain focus on the teacher. (Other kids do well in a quiet space, near the back, or next to a good role model.)
2. Tape-record assignments.
ADD-friendly gadgets are useful if your child struggles to remember spoken instructions.
3. Assign a "study buddy."
Having someone to check in with will help students whose distractibility or writing disabilities get in the way of class discussions and/or note-taking.
4. Give a lighter load.
This is appropriate for children who struggle to get their work done on time. The assignments are just as hard, but shorter (fewer math problems or less pages to read, say).
5. Grant extra time for tests.
The idea is not to make the exam "easier" but to level the playing field, by providing sufficient time for your child to demonstrate what he has learned.
And parents...be sure to talk with your child's classroom teacher about your child's needs at the start of the school year.
For more tips and ideas on ADHD accomodations in the classroom visit ADDitude Magazine's website.
1. Choose seating wisely.
A spot near the teacher and away from doors and windows helps maintain focus on the teacher. (Other kids do well in a quiet space, near the back, or next to a good role model.)
2. Tape-record assignments.
ADD-friendly gadgets are useful if your child struggles to remember spoken instructions.
3. Assign a "study buddy."
Having someone to check in with will help students whose distractibility or writing disabilities get in the way of class discussions and/or note-taking.
4. Give a lighter load.
This is appropriate for children who struggle to get their work done on time. The assignments are just as hard, but shorter (fewer math problems or less pages to read, say).
5. Grant extra time for tests.
The idea is not to make the exam "easier" but to level the playing field, by providing sufficient time for your child to demonstrate what he has learned.
And parents...be sure to talk with your child's classroom teacher about your child's needs at the start of the school year.
For more tips and ideas on ADHD accomodations in the classroom visit ADDitude Magazine's website.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Alva Autism and Special Needs Support Group
A new Autism and Special Needs Support Group is starting in Alva. They will be meeting August 18th at 7:00pm at the Alva Public Library. The guest speaker will be Tara Warwick. Tara is an OT that specializes in Autism. They will continue to meet every 3rd Monday each month.
For more info. contact ReJeana Wiebener at 580-829-2290 or Grace Scribner at 580-748-1410.
For more info. contact ReJeana Wiebener at 580-829-2290 or Grace Scribner at 580-748-1410.
Autism Training for Parents, Providers, Family Members & Friends
Sooner SUCCESS and the Oklahoma Autism Network invite you to attend a FREE training entitled, "Creating Community Supports Today to Enhance Tomorrow for a Child with Autism".
When: Tuesday, September 23rd
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center
(Located on Hwy 33 between Kingfisher and Watonga, OK)
Times:
Registration: 8:30-9 (pre-registration is recommended)
Workshop: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Description:
This training provides a step by step process that families, friends, and service providers can use to help build community supports for an individual with autism. Obstacles such as challenging behavior and societal barriers will be addressed to give families a process that is both realistic and successful.
Presentors:
Tara WArwick, MS, OTR/L
Rene' Daman, MS, PT, PCS, Director of Oklahoma Autism Network
Lunch will be available on site from 11:30 to 12:30 provided by The Health Ocupations Students of America. The menu will include: Indian tacos, dessert, & a drink for $6.00. Exact cash amount is requested by the students.
SEATING IS LIMITED. Register today by contacting Lisa Simmons at 603-1580 or by email at lrsimmons@gmail.com
When: Tuesday, September 23rd
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center
(Located on Hwy 33 between Kingfisher and Watonga, OK)
Times:
Registration: 8:30-9 (pre-registration is recommended)
Workshop: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Description:
This training provides a step by step process that families, friends, and service providers can use to help build community supports for an individual with autism. Obstacles such as challenging behavior and societal barriers will be addressed to give families a process that is both realistic and successful.
Presentors:
Tara WArwick, MS, OTR/L
Rene' Daman, MS, PT, PCS, Director of Oklahoma Autism Network
Lunch will be available on site from 11:30 to 12:30 provided by The Health Ocupations Students of America. The menu will include: Indian tacos, dessert, & a drink for $6.00. Exact cash amount is requested by the students.
SEATING IS LIMITED. Register today by contacting Lisa Simmons at 603-1580 or by email at lrsimmons@gmail.com
Friday, August 8, 2008
Back to school ....tips & ideas
Encourage your child's teacher to plan his/her activity schedule with your child's energy needs in mind.
For example, do active items AFTER a quiet activity like circle time or a story not before.
Explain that your active child will have difficulty "coming back down" from high energy activities quickly enough to participate in something that requires quiet concentration.
Another good tip -- ask if the teacher can incorporate a "calming period" where he/she just turns out the lights and plays classical music for a few minutes. Often this has a wonderful calming effect on ALL the children in the class.
Even if the teacher doesn't feel this is necessary on a daily basis, it can be a nice back up plan if your child's IEP gives him permission to request some "calming time" when he senses he is getting out of control.
For example, do active items AFTER a quiet activity like circle time or a story not before.
Explain that your active child will have difficulty "coming back down" from high energy activities quickly enough to participate in something that requires quiet concentration.
Another good tip -- ask if the teacher can incorporate a "calming period" where he/she just turns out the lights and plays classical music for a few minutes. Often this has a wonderful calming effect on ALL the children in the class.
Even if the teacher doesn't feel this is necessary on a daily basis, it can be a nice back up plan if your child's IEP gives him permission to request some "calming time" when he senses he is getting out of control.
New resource centers on Autism and Reading
For 30 years, Brookes has published highly respected resources in early childhood, early intervention, inclusive and special education, developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, communication and language, behavior, and mental health. Now they have added 2 additional resources to their website to offer parents & professionals alike help in the areas of autism and reading.
Autism Resource Center
The Autism Resource Center lets you view free webinars, read author interviews, see video clips of treatments in action, and much more.
Reading Resource Center
At the Reading Resource Center you can get samples and learn more about the research behind Brookes's supplemental and intervention programs that meet scientifically based reading research criteria.
Autism Resource Center
The Autism Resource Center lets you view free webinars, read author interviews, see video clips of treatments in action, and much more.
Reading Resource Center
At the Reading Resource Center you can get samples and learn more about the research behind Brookes's supplemental and intervention programs that meet scientifically based reading research criteria.
Free Disability Seminar for Employers and HR staff
This seminar is designed to provide individuals working in Human Resource Management, Employee Supervision, and Employee Assistance Services an opportunity to acquire knowledge and develop skills towards the effective recruitment, hiring, and retention of workers with disabilities.
Where & When:
Date: Sept. 23, 2008
Time: 7:30 a.m. to Noon (Continental Breakfast provided)
Location: Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Rockwell Campus
Construction Trades Building, #7
12777 N. Rockwell
Oklahoma City, OK
Date: Sept. 24, 2008
Time: 7:30 a.m. to noon (Continental Breakfast provided)
Location: Tulsa Technology
Lemley Campus
3420 S. Memorial Drive
Tulsa, OK
What you'll learn:
• Understand the legal issues and implications of employment law pertaining to the recruitment, hiring, and retention of workers with disabilities. Be familiar with aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Understand what it means to provide Reasonable Accommodations and ways to be cost effective in providing the accommodation.
• Increase awareness of the impact of mental health in the workplace, identify strategies and resources to assist employers in reducing stigma, recognizing possible signs of mental illness in employees and promoting a mental health friendly workplace.
How to register:
To register for this seminar send your name and e-mail address to:
LARRY MUSSLEWHITE
E-Mail: Larry.musslewhite@oesc.state.ok.us
Phone: (405) 470-3200
FAX: (405) 470-3223
Register early! Seating is limited
Where & When:
Date: Sept. 23, 2008
Time: 7:30 a.m. to Noon (Continental Breakfast provided)
Location: Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Rockwell Campus
Construction Trades Building, #7
12777 N. Rockwell
Oklahoma City, OK
Date: Sept. 24, 2008
Time: 7:30 a.m. to noon (Continental Breakfast provided)
Location: Tulsa Technology
Lemley Campus
3420 S. Memorial Drive
Tulsa, OK
What you'll learn:
• Understand the legal issues and implications of employment law pertaining to the recruitment, hiring, and retention of workers with disabilities. Be familiar with aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Understand what it means to provide Reasonable Accommodations and ways to be cost effective in providing the accommodation.
• Increase awareness of the impact of mental health in the workplace, identify strategies and resources to assist employers in reducing stigma, recognizing possible signs of mental illness in employees and promoting a mental health friendly workplace.
How to register:
To register for this seminar send your name and e-mail address to:
LARRY MUSSLEWHITE
E-Mail: Larry.musslewhite@oesc.state.ok.us
Phone: (405) 470-3200
FAX: (405) 470-3223
Register early! Seating is limited
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Fall news from Sooner SUCCESS
Just a quick reminder that The Garfield County Sooner SUCCESS Coalition will NOT be meeting during the month of August.
However, I do want to update you on a few items:
Play Matters a Big Success
We have completed all but our final session of Play Matters with 10 participants and had another wonderful experience. We had a great response from everyone involved and a special "Thank You" goes out to all of coalition members that volunteered for the Academy or donated supplies/materials. It was all critical to making this project a success. Celebration Saturday is the coming Saturday (August 9th). Family and friends are invited to attend and watch the participants go up for their celebration air plane ride and receive their graduation certificates.
Free Autism Training for Family Members & Professionals
Sooner SUCCESS is hosting a regional workshop on autism September 23rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chisholm Trail Technology Center between Kingfisher and Watonga. This is a free workshop for both family members and professionals and will focus on how to develop community supports for individuals with autism. The speakers will be from the Oklahoma Autism Network and each participant will leave with a goodie bag of resources after the session. We expect this to be an awesome day and I encourage you to attend and to share the registration information with others who might be interested. To register individuals just need to contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
Walk 4RKids
Also coming up in September is the Walk 4RKids at David Allen Memorial Ballpark on September 20th. This is a great time to share information with families through an information table or just to walk in support of individuals with special needs. You can register online through the 4RKids website.
Join our coalition
The next meeting of the Garfield County Sooner SUCCESS Coalition will be on September 11th from noon to 1 p.m. when we will be focused on our fall health project: a mobile dental clinic with the Oklahoma Dental Foundation. Join us at the Bass Pavilion in the 1st floor conference or contact Lisa at lrsimmons@gmail.com to be added to our mailing list.
I look forward to seeing you there!
Lisa
However, I do want to update you on a few items:
Play Matters a Big Success
We have completed all but our final session of Play Matters with 10 participants and had another wonderful experience. We had a great response from everyone involved and a special "Thank You" goes out to all of coalition members that volunteered for the Academy or donated supplies/materials. It was all critical to making this project a success. Celebration Saturday is the coming Saturday (August 9th). Family and friends are invited to attend and watch the participants go up for their celebration air plane ride and receive their graduation certificates.
Free Autism Training for Family Members & Professionals
Sooner SUCCESS is hosting a regional workshop on autism September 23rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Chisholm Trail Technology Center between Kingfisher and Watonga. This is a free workshop for both family members and professionals and will focus on how to develop community supports for individuals with autism. The speakers will be from the Oklahoma Autism Network and each participant will leave with a goodie bag of resources after the session. We expect this to be an awesome day and I encourage you to attend and to share the registration information with others who might be interested. To register individuals just need to contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
Walk 4RKids
Also coming up in September is the Walk 4RKids at David Allen Memorial Ballpark on September 20th. This is a great time to share information with families through an information table or just to walk in support of individuals with special needs. You can register online through the 4RKids website.
Join our coalition
The next meeting of the Garfield County Sooner SUCCESS Coalition will be on September 11th from noon to 1 p.m. when we will be focused on our fall health project: a mobile dental clinic with the Oklahoma Dental Foundation. Join us at the Bass Pavilion in the 1st floor conference or contact Lisa at lrsimmons@gmail.com to be added to our mailing list.
I look forward to seeing you there!
Lisa
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Positive Behavior Supports for Parents With Dr. Laura Riffel
Topic: Positive Behavior Supports for Parents
Presented by: Down Syndrome Association of Central OK and the OK Dept of Education - Special Education Services
When: Saturday, August 2, 2008
Where: Integris Baptist Medical Center
Auditorium (Concourse Level)
3300 NW Expressway St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Presentor: Laura A. Riffel, Ph.D. is a behavior specialist who has trained parents,teachers and others how to make data based decisions as a way to change behavior. Her trainings are filled with humor and make data collection easy to understand and use at home and in the classroom. Through over 30 years of experience, Dr. Riffel has had the opportunity to teach students with all types of intellectual and learning disabilities. For more information about Dr. Riffel, or this workshop visit www.behaviordoctor.org
At this workshop, you will learn:
1. Overview of Positive Behavior Support
2. Main components of Applied Behavior Analysis
3. Maximizing proactive strategies rather than reactive actions
4. Key factors: Increase appropriate behavior by 80% just by doing one thing
5. Sticking with it: There is a magic formula for how long to stick with an intervention. Find out what that formula is.
6. Frogs: What the heck do frogs have to do with behavior? Come find out.
7. Interventions you can take back and use tomorrow at home.
8. Quick ways to document the function behind the behavior.
9. The best sentence in the world to use when you are calling the school to ask them to sit down and talk about a behavior problem.
10. Information about who should be in on a behavior support team meeting and what should be talked about first and foremost
Lunch will be provided for each participant.
Attendance will require pre-registration.
For more information about registering for this workshop,please contact conferenceinfo@dsaco.org. There will be a $10.00 per person registration fee for this workshop. We will accept checks (payable to DSACO) or purchase orders.
Limited stipends for families & teachers are available. Must email conferenceinfo@dsaco.org for more information.
Information needed to register:
NAME:
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE
EMAIL
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Do you need Spanish Interpretation?
Deadline to register - July 25, 2008.
Contact: Juanita Killingsworth
(405) 348-6770 (h)
(405) 210-2652 (c)
Presented by: Down Syndrome Association of Central OK and the OK Dept of Education - Special Education Services
When: Saturday, August 2, 2008
Where: Integris Baptist Medical Center
Auditorium (Concourse Level)
3300 NW Expressway St.
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Presentor: Laura A. Riffel, Ph.D. is a behavior specialist who has trained parents,teachers and others how to make data based decisions as a way to change behavior. Her trainings are filled with humor and make data collection easy to understand and use at home and in the classroom. Through over 30 years of experience, Dr. Riffel has had the opportunity to teach students with all types of intellectual and learning disabilities. For more information about Dr. Riffel, or this workshop visit www.behaviordoctor.org
At this workshop, you will learn:
1. Overview of Positive Behavior Support
2. Main components of Applied Behavior Analysis
3. Maximizing proactive strategies rather than reactive actions
4. Key factors: Increase appropriate behavior by 80% just by doing one thing
5. Sticking with it: There is a magic formula for how long to stick with an intervention. Find out what that formula is.
6. Frogs: What the heck do frogs have to do with behavior? Come find out.
7. Interventions you can take back and use tomorrow at home.
8. Quick ways to document the function behind the behavior.
9. The best sentence in the world to use when you are calling the school to ask them to sit down and talk about a behavior problem.
10. Information about who should be in on a behavior support team meeting and what should be talked about first and foremost
Lunch will be provided for each participant.
Attendance will require pre-registration.
For more information about registering for this workshop,please contact conferenceinfo@dsaco.org. There will be a $10.00 per person registration fee for this workshop. We will accept checks (payable to DSACO) or purchase orders.
Limited stipends for families & teachers are available. Must email conferenceinfo@dsaco.org for more information.
Information needed to register:
NAME:
ADDRESS:
TELEPHONE
SCHOOL DISTRICT
Do you need Spanish Interpretation?
Deadline to register - July 25, 2008.
Contact: Juanita Killingsworth
(405) 348-6770 (h)
(405) 210-2652 (c)
Learn to talk to legislators about your family
Shown below is a link to CHADD's legislative advocacy manual. By now you probably realize that your life and the life of your family members with special needs, can be dramatically impacted by which laws and regulations pass and which do not. were
Discussing issues with policy makers and government officials can pave the way for better understanding of your family's situation and lead to them making more informed decisions. But if you've never done this before, it can be an intimidating prospect.
This is a link to a manual that CHADD developed to help guide you in the process. It's called the CHADD Advocacy Manual. The manual is in very clear, reassuring language and will help you realize that simply telling your experience can be very powerful and effective.
This particular manaual is specific to ADHD, however, the process described can easily be applied to any disability condition.
Discussing issues with policy makers and government officials can pave the way for better understanding of your family's situation and lead to them making more informed decisions. But if you've never done this before, it can be an intimidating prospect.
This is a link to a manual that CHADD developed to help guide you in the process. It's called the CHADD Advocacy Manual. The manual is in very clear, reassuring language and will help you realize that simply telling your experience can be very powerful and effective.
This particular manaual is specific to ADHD, however, the process described can easily be applied to any disability condition.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Resources, Resources, & More Resources
Check out the newest version of the OK Disability Resource Guide. Created by Dana Tallon at the Department of Rehabilitation Services this online guide has over 1000 pages of resources-WOW!!
Find out what you've been missing!
Find out what you've been missing!
More Ways to Connect Children to Services
The National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM) has written a report (PDF) on how medical homes , families, audiologists, and Early Intervention Providers can ensure that children with suspected hearing loss get connected quickly to needed services.
Even though the report focuses on hearing loss, the recommendations are easily relevant to all CYSCHN by serving as a good example of how health care providers can organize services for families while abiding by privacy regulations.
Even though the report focuses on hearing loss, the recommendations are easily relevant to all CYSCHN by serving as a good example of how health care providers can organize services for families while abiding by privacy regulations.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
How did Sooner SUCCESS get started?
Have you ever wondered how Sooner SUCCESS came to be?
Recently the folks at Champions for Inclusive Communities conducted an interview with our program founders on just that topic.
Check it out at:
http://www.championsinc.org/main/nfireport.cfm?id=235
Recently the folks at Champions for Inclusive Communities conducted an interview with our program founders on just that topic.
Check it out at:
http://www.championsinc.org/main/nfireport.cfm?id=235
Monday, July 14, 2008
Back to School Immunization Clinic
The Garfield County Health Department is hosting a back-to-school immunization clinic.
What: Free Immunization Clinic for school-age children
Dates: August 11 & 12
Times: 8:30 to 11:30 & 1:00 to 4:00
Where: Garfield County Health Department
2501 Mercer Dr.
Enid, OK 73701
Parents, please bring your child’s shot record with you!
Free gift bag for the first 100 kids!
Need a flyer to share with others?
Have questions?
Contact Cheryl Peters at the Garfield Co. Health Department
Phone: (580)-233-0650
What: Free Immunization Clinic for school-age children
Dates: August 11 & 12
Times: 8:30 to 11:30 & 1:00 to 4:00
Where: Garfield County Health Department
2501 Mercer Dr.
Enid, OK 73701
Parents, please bring your child’s shot record with you!
Free gift bag for the first 100 kids!
Need a flyer to share with others?
Have questions?
Contact Cheryl Peters at the Garfield Co. Health Department
Phone: (580)-233-0650
Do you have a passion for helping other families in Northwest Oklahoma?
The Oklahoma Family Network (OFN)is currently recruiting parents who have a child with special needs to join their staff. Interested parents can consider applying for the following position right here in Northwest Oklahoma!:
NW Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the NW Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the northwest quadrant of the state including the following counties: Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Nobel, Payne, Garfield, Blaine, Major, Woodward, Ellis, Roger Mills, Dewey and Custer. (OFN director Joni Bruce has indicated that the coordinator will focus initial efforts in their home community and then expand from there).
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area and share them with families.
Hire date: As soon as possible
Hours per week: 12
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
NW Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the NW Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the northwest quadrant of the state including the following counties: Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Nobel, Payne, Garfield, Blaine, Major, Woodward, Ellis, Roger Mills, Dewey and Custer. (OFN director Joni Bruce has indicated that the coordinator will focus initial efforts in their home community and then expand from there).
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area and share them with families.
Hire date: As soon as possible
Hours per week: 12
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Oklahoma Caring Van Program
The Oklahoma Caring Vans provide free immunizations to children so they can stay healthy. These mobile units are staffed by registered nurses. Since 1999, the Oklahoma Caring Vans have provided more than 100,000 immunizations to Oklahoma children.
Parents or guardians must bring a copy of their child's immunization records and be present to complete paperwork.
Contact the Caring Van Program Coordinator at (405) 316-7250 in Oklahoma City or (918) 551-3414 in Tulsa .
Learn more about the program online at:
http://www.bcbsok.com/caringvan_schedule.html
The Caring Van is coming to Enid!
When: July 30
Where: McDonald's, 1010 W Maine
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Parents or guardians must bring a copy of their child's immunization records and be present to complete paperwork.
Contact the Caring Van Program Coordinator at (405) 316-7250 in Oklahoma City or (918) 551-3414 in Tulsa .
Learn more about the program online at:
http://www.bcbsok.com/caringvan_schedule.html
The Caring Van is coming to Enid!
When: July 30
Where: McDonald's, 1010 W Maine
Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Become a part of Sooner SUCCESS
Sooner SUCCESS is a coalition of local parents and providers who care about children with special needs and their families. Join us as we work to:
a) identify unmet needs in Garfield County
b) bring new resources and information to families and those who support them.
If you have an interest in special needs, you're invited to join us at our next coalition meeting ----Thursday, July 10th from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bass Pavilion. We meet in the 1st floor conference room and have a brown bag format, so you are welcome to bring your lunch and join us over your lunch hour.
This month we will be discussing:
1. Our summer youth activity - Play Matters
2. How to start a Special Olympics team for elementary students in rural areas.
3. Mobile dental services for those without insurance or access to dental care.
Hope to see you on Thursday!
Lisa
Lisa Simmons
Garfield County Coordinator
Sooner SUCCESS
Have questions? Call me at 603-1580!
a) identify unmet needs in Garfield County
b) bring new resources and information to families and those who support them.
If you have an interest in special needs, you're invited to join us at our next coalition meeting ----Thursday, July 10th from noon to 1 p.m. at the Bass Pavilion. We meet in the 1st floor conference room and have a brown bag format, so you are welcome to bring your lunch and join us over your lunch hour.
This month we will be discussing:
1. Our summer youth activity - Play Matters
2. How to start a Special Olympics team for elementary students in rural areas.
3. Mobile dental services for those without insurance or access to dental care.
Hope to see you on Thursday!
Lisa
Lisa Simmons
Garfield County Coordinator
Sooner SUCCESS
Have questions? Call me at 603-1580!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Presidential Candidate speaks out on autism
In this You Tube video, Barack Obama discusses his policies concerning people with autism and other disabilities.
Click here to view the video
Click here to view the video
What autism does to a Mother
Redbook magazine recently published the 2nd in a series of articles that are doing on the personal side of autism and how it impacts families. In part one, you can meet the Kalkowski family and walk with them through the diagnosis process at:
Click here to read part 1
In part 2......
Nicole Kalkowski knows that beyond the stress, fear, and family turmoil that come with learning that your child has this devastating disorder, there is also a devastating aloneness. In the second installment of Living With Autism, we follow this mother of three as she struggles to save her son and finds help — for her children and for herself — in unexpected places.
Click here to read part 2
Click here to read part 1
In part 2......
Nicole Kalkowski knows that beyond the stress, fear, and family turmoil that come with learning that your child has this devastating disorder, there is also a devastating aloneness. In the second installment of Living With Autism, we follow this mother of three as she struggles to save her son and finds help — for her children and for herself — in unexpected places.
Click here to read part 2
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Care Notebooks Help Families Maintain Records
Sooner SUCCESS believes that parents are the experts on their children and need to be empowered with practical tools to help them manage their child's care.
The Care Notebook, created by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), helps parents and caregivers maintain an ongoing record of their child's unique care, services, providers, and notes. It is also a way to help keep the lines of communication open between the many providers and services that can make up a family’s medical home.
Health professionals recommend that parents/caregivers bring this notebook everywhere: to all medical appointments, therapies, care conferences, school meetings, even on vacations where new service providers may be necessary.
The AAP Care Notebook can even be customized online to fit the personal needs of each child.
For assistance in building a care notebook or to request links to other online examples of Care Notebooks, contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
The Care Notebook, created by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), helps parents and caregivers maintain an ongoing record of their child's unique care, services, providers, and notes. It is also a way to help keep the lines of communication open between the many providers and services that can make up a family’s medical home.
Health professionals recommend that parents/caregivers bring this notebook everywhere: to all medical appointments, therapies, care conferences, school meetings, even on vacations where new service providers may be necessary.
The AAP Care Notebook can even be customized online to fit the personal needs of each child.
For assistance in building a care notebook or to request links to other online examples of Care Notebooks, contact Lisa Simmons at 603-1580.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Low birth weight increases risk of autism, particularly in girls
Low birth weight and preterm birth increase the risk of autism in infants by about twofold, but more than threefold for girls, according to a new study. The research bolsters the suspected link between autism, low birth weight, and prematurity.
To read more details about this study, click here to visit Web MD
To read more details about this study, click here to visit Web MD
Friday, May 30, 2008
Dream Night at the Zoo....no-cost family fun!
The zoo in OKC is sponsoring a special free evening of activities for families of children with special needs next Friday, June 6th. As of today (May 30th) they still had ample tickets available.
Activity Details:
DREAMNIGHT AT THE OKC ZOO is Friday, June 6, 2008 from 4:00 until 8:00. Dinner will be served approximately 5:30 pm until 7 pm.
For the past several years, Camp Cavett has been involved with a very special "DREAMNIGHT" at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Each person (including babies) in your party will need a ticket for admission. Tickets will be scanned at the entrance; therefore no photo copied tickets will be permitted. Also, if you receive
tickets and decide not to attend, please get the tickets back to us so that another family can attend. Only so many tickets were printed..... ...it would be a shame for us NOT to pack the zoo on June 6. PLEASE take only the amount of tickets that you need for your immediate family.
This evening is a private affair for children with disabilities and special health care needs and their families.
If you are reading this note and you would like to attend DREAMNIGHT, please do one of the following to obtain *tickets:
1) E-mail the name of the child with special needs (baby to 18), the mailing address where tickets need to be mailed, and the total number of tickets needed (including child) to belinda.anderson2@hcahealthcare.com
OR
2) Call Belinda at 405-271-2271. Give Belinda the name of the child with special needs (baby to 18), the mailing address where tickets need to be mailed, and the total number of tickets needed (including child).
DREAMNIGHT at the Zoo Description and History....
Dreamnight at the Zoo is a special event that invites children with special healthcare needs and disabilities along with their families to spend a cost
free evening at their local zoo.
The goal of the Oklahoma City Zoo is to create an environment in which these children and their families would enjoy a private evening at the Zoo that
includes complimentary Zoo admission, dinner, snacks, entertainment and unique zoo experiences for all involved.
Started in 1996 by the Rotterdam Zoo, Netherlands, Dreamnight is an international event that is now hosted on the first Friday in June by 80 zoos and aquariums worldwide. The Oklahoma City Zoo held its first Dreamnight event on June 3, 2005 and over 1,800 visitors enjoyed the festivities.
Activity Details:
DREAMNIGHT AT THE OKC ZOO is Friday, June 6, 2008 from 4:00 until 8:00. Dinner will be served approximately 5:30 pm until 7 pm.
For the past several years, Camp Cavett has been involved with a very special "DREAMNIGHT" at the Oklahoma City Zoo. Each person (including babies) in your party will need a ticket for admission. Tickets will be scanned at the entrance; therefore no photo copied tickets will be permitted. Also, if you receive
tickets and decide not to attend, please get the tickets back to us so that another family can attend. Only so many tickets were printed..... ...it would be a shame for us NOT to pack the zoo on June 6. PLEASE take only the amount of tickets that you need for your immediate family.
This evening is a private affair for children with disabilities and special health care needs and their families.
If you are reading this note and you would like to attend DREAMNIGHT, please do one of the following to obtain *tickets:
1) E-mail the name of the child with special needs (baby to 18), the mailing address where tickets need to be mailed, and the total number of tickets needed (including child) to belinda.anderson2@hcahealthcare.com
OR
2) Call Belinda at 405-271-2271. Give Belinda the name of the child with special needs (baby to 18), the mailing address where tickets need to be mailed, and the total number of tickets needed (including child).
DREAMNIGHT at the Zoo Description and History....
Dreamnight at the Zoo is a special event that invites children with special healthcare needs and disabilities along with their families to spend a cost
free evening at their local zoo.
The goal of the Oklahoma City Zoo is to create an environment in which these children and their families would enjoy a private evening at the Zoo that
includes complimentary Zoo admission, dinner, snacks, entertainment and unique zoo experiences for all involved.
Started in 1996 by the Rotterdam Zoo, Netherlands, Dreamnight is an international event that is now hosted on the first Friday in June by 80 zoos and aquariums worldwide. The Oklahoma City Zoo held its first Dreamnight event on June 3, 2005 and over 1,800 visitors enjoyed the festivities.
New special education policy and procedures manual now available
The 2007 Policies and Procedures for Special Education in Oklahoma manual is now available. You can view it at the Department of Education's website (it's 388 pages!) OR call them at (405) 522-3248 and request that a hard copy be mailed to you.
Join the team at the Oklahoma Family Network
The Oklahoma Family Network (OFN)is currently recruiting parents who have a child with special needs to join their staff. Interested parents can consider applying for the following positions (including one right here in Northwest Oklahoma!):
Native American Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should be of Native American descent, have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability, and possess Native American cultural competency with a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the Native American Coordinator will include providing outreach to their personal tribal community then to other tribal communities across the state. They will identify and develop relationships with Native American families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN), existing groups and agencies such as SoonerStart, the county health departments, Indian Health Centers, hospitals, medical clinics, etc. that support Native American families with CSHCN. With the support of administrative staff, this person will coordinate and provide regional training to Native American families and the professionals who serve them.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 15
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience.
SE Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the SE Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the southeast quadrant of the state including the following counties: Okfuskee, McIntosh, Haskell, Le Flore, Latimer, Pittsburg, Coal, Pontotoc, Murray, Johnston, Marshall, Coal, Hughes, Atoka, Bryan, Choctaw, Pushmataha and Mc Curtain.
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 15
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
NW Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the NW Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the northwest quadrant of the state including the following counties: Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Nobel, Payne, Garfield, Blaine, Major, Woodward, Ellis, Roger Mills, Dewey and Custer.
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area and share them with families.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 12
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
Intake Coordinator/Resource Specialist (I.C.)
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: Receive calls, fill out intake forms, forward family information to appropriate staff member, research and locate health care and financial resources, and disseminate that information and the newsletter via list servs and web site. I.C. will also assist in reviewing surveys, compiling data on the 10 most common family issues to determine titles of information sheets to be developed, and compile data from conference evaluations to be distributed.
Hire Date: June 1, 2008
Hours Per Week: 20 (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 5 hours per day)
$8-10 per hour (Hours should be between 8:30am and 4pm at the OU Health Sciences Center office)
How to learn more:
Contact Joni Bruce at jbruceofn@sbcglobal.net or 405-203-8745 for further information.
Please send resume to
Joni Bruce, Executive Director
Oklahoma Family Network
PO Box 21072
OK City, Oklahoma 73156-1072
or jbruceofn@sbcglobal.net
Native American Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should be of Native American descent, have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability, and possess Native American cultural competency with a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the Native American Coordinator will include providing outreach to their personal tribal community then to other tribal communities across the state. They will identify and develop relationships with Native American families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN), existing groups and agencies such as SoonerStart, the county health departments, Indian Health Centers, hospitals, medical clinics, etc. that support Native American families with CSHCN. With the support of administrative staff, this person will coordinate and provide regional training to Native American families and the professionals who serve them.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 15
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience.
SE Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the SE Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the southeast quadrant of the state including the following counties: Okfuskee, McIntosh, Haskell, Le Flore, Latimer, Pittsburg, Coal, Pontotoc, Murray, Johnston, Marshall, Coal, Hughes, Atoka, Bryan, Choctaw, Pushmataha and Mc Curtain.
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 15
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
NW Regional Coordinator
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: The role of the NW Regional Coordinator will be to provide outreach to families of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in the northwest quadrant of the state including the following counties: Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, Harper, Woods, Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Nobel, Payne, Garfield, Blaine, Major, Woodward, Ellis, Roger Mills, Dewey and Custer.
Duties will include identifying and training potential supporting families in their region, match referred families with trained supporting parents and assist families in finding resources they need with follow-up. Lastly, they will provide public relations work in their region and research for existing parent groups of CSHCN and resources in their area and share them with families.
Hire date: June 1, 2008
Hours per week: 12
Pay Range: $8-$9.50 per hour depending on level of experience
Intake Coordinator/Resource Specialist (I.C.)
Required Characteristics: Applicants should have a child of any age with special health care needs or a disability and possess a good working knowledge of services available to children with special health care needs (CSHCN) in their community. Preference will be shown to family members who are identified in their community as one who is already supporting families of CSHCN.
Role: Receive calls, fill out intake forms, forward family information to appropriate staff member, research and locate health care and financial resources, and disseminate that information and the newsletter via list servs and web site. I.C. will also assist in reviewing surveys, compiling data on the 10 most common family issues to determine titles of information sheets to be developed, and compile data from conference evaluations to be distributed.
Hire Date: June 1, 2008
Hours Per Week: 20 (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 5 hours per day)
$8-10 per hour (Hours should be between 8:30am and 4pm at the OU Health Sciences Center office)
How to learn more:
Contact Joni Bruce at jbruceofn@sbcglobal.net or 405-203-8745 for further information.
Please send resume to
Joni Bruce, Executive Director
Oklahoma Family Network
PO Box 21072
OK City, Oklahoma 73156-1072
or jbruceofn@sbcglobal.net
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Win $$$ and technology for your school with a 100 word essay!
Hope for Education was created by Samsung in 2004 to provide U.S. K-12 schools with the latest technology products to assist in the educational process. Each year the program challenges students, teachers, parents, or anyone who knows of a school in need to write an essay regarding the importance of technology in education, and how it can benefit a school in their community.
This year's essay:
"How has technology educated you on helping the environment and how or why has it changed your behavior to be more environmentally friendly?"
In the past four years, through a partnership with Microsoft Corporation, the Hope for Education program has provided more than $7 million in Samsung technology and software to K-12 schools in the United States. This year the program has added another partner, DIRECTV, Inc., who will provide cash grants and educational television programming packages to the winning schools.
How to Enter
Students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members can enter the contest by going to the program's Web site and submitting a 100-word essay about their school, answering the question: "How has technology educated you on helping the environment, and how or why has it changed your behavior to be more environmentally friendly?" Essay entries may be written in either Spanish or English.
The prizes.....
Schools that submit essays are entered for the opportunity to win the grand prize of over $200,000 in Samsung technology, Microsoft software, a cash grant from DIRECTV, as well as the School Choice educational television programming package.
Samsung will also be working with NEADS(Dogs For Deaf and Disabled Americans) to provide a classroom assistance dog to a special education teacher at the grand prize winning school.
In addition, 30 first prize schools will each be awarded over $60,000 in Samsung technology, Microsoft software, and cash grants from DIRECTV, as well as the School Choice package.
Visit the Hope for Education Web site for complete program details. Contest deadline is August 31, 2008.
This year's essay:
"How has technology educated you on helping the environment and how or why has it changed your behavior to be more environmentally friendly?"
In the past four years, through a partnership with Microsoft Corporation, the Hope for Education program has provided more than $7 million in Samsung technology and software to K-12 schools in the United States. This year the program has added another partner, DIRECTV, Inc., who will provide cash grants and educational television programming packages to the winning schools.
How to Enter
Students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members can enter the contest by going to the program's Web site and submitting a 100-word essay about their school, answering the question: "How has technology educated you on helping the environment, and how or why has it changed your behavior to be more environmentally friendly?" Essay entries may be written in either Spanish or English.
The prizes.....
Schools that submit essays are entered for the opportunity to win the grand prize of over $200,000 in Samsung technology, Microsoft software, a cash grant from DIRECTV, as well as the School Choice educational television programming package.
Samsung will also be working with NEADS(Dogs For Deaf and Disabled Americans) to provide a classroom assistance dog to a special education teacher at the grand prize winning school.
In addition, 30 first prize schools will each be awarded over $60,000 in Samsung technology, Microsoft software, and cash grants from DIRECTV, as well as the School Choice package.
Visit the Hope for Education Web site for complete program details. Contest deadline is August 31, 2008.
New grant to help families with medical expenses not covered by insurance
The United Healthcare Children's Foundation is now offering grants to assist children who need critical health care treatment, services, or equipment that are not covered or not fully covered by their parents' health benefit plans.
UHCCF provides grants to families to help pay for child health care services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy sessions, prescriptions, and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, orthotics, and eyeglasses.
Parents and legal guardians can apply for grants of up to $5,000 by completing an online application at the UHCCF Web site.
To be eligible for grants, children must be 16 years of age or younger. Families must meet income guidelines, reside in the United States, and be covered by a commercial health benefit plan not Medicaid of SCHIPS.
Learn more by visiting the UHCCF website!
UHCCF provides grants to families to help pay for child health care services such as speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy sessions, prescriptions, and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, orthotics, and eyeglasses.
Parents and legal guardians can apply for grants of up to $5,000 by completing an online application at the UHCCF Web site.
To be eligible for grants, children must be 16 years of age or younger. Families must meet income guidelines, reside in the United States, and be covered by a commercial health benefit plan not Medicaid of SCHIPS.
Learn more by visiting the UHCCF website!
Learn what it's like to grow up Bipolar......
Newsweek magazine recently did it's cover story on Max, a 10-year-old boy who is bipolar. The article takes you for a walk inside the daily life of Max and his family.
You see, Bipolar disorder may be a mystery and a subject of medical debate for the rest of the world, but for the Blakes, it's just reality.
Click here to read Max's story:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/137517?GT1=43002
You see, Bipolar disorder may be a mystery and a subject of medical debate for the rest of the world, but for the Blakes, it's just reality.
Click here to read Max's story:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/137517?GT1=43002
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Exceptional FREE training for parent raising children with special needs
The Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council is currently accepting applications for the next class of Partners in Policymaking.
Partners in Policymaking is a FREE 9 month advocacy training course for parents of children with disabilities, adult self-advocates and advocates for persons with disabilities. They provide training in best practice state-of-the-art information from national experts in the felid of developmental disabilities.
Topics covered include:
1. History of services and perceptions
2. People First Language
3. Inclusive education
4. IEP’s and school advocacy
5. Inclusive community living
6. Sexuality and disability
7. Supported employment
8. State and federal legislative processes
9. State systems and service coordination
10. Medicaid and Medicare
11. Natural family supports
12. Assistive technology
13. Behavior and non-aversive interventions
14. Advocacy strategies, grass roots organizing and working with the media.
The goal is to educate participants to be active partners with those who make policy and foster development of positive relationships with policymakers. Partners are trained to advocate for supports and services to increase independence, productivity and inclusion into the community for people with disabilities.
PIP has a one day mandatory orientation (August 23rd) and meets one weekend a month from September through May. They do not meet in December so everyone can be with their families. They provide mileage reimbursement, hotel rooms for those living 60 miles or more away, and pay reasonable childcare expenses. Also included are all meals during training.
The application form:
The application is on the OKDDC website at: www.okddc.ok.gov and you can view a Partners in Policymaking video to get more information.
For more information:
Call LeAnna Hart at 800-836-4470 or 405-521-4984 with any questions. They will be conducting phone interviews to seat the class through mid June.
PIP classes accept 30 participants each session.
Partners in Policymaking is a FREE 9 month advocacy training course for parents of children with disabilities, adult self-advocates and advocates for persons with disabilities. They provide training in best practice state-of-the-art information from national experts in the felid of developmental disabilities.
Topics covered include:
1. History of services and perceptions
2. People First Language
3. Inclusive education
4. IEP’s and school advocacy
5. Inclusive community living
6. Sexuality and disability
7. Supported employment
8. State and federal legislative processes
9. State systems and service coordination
10. Medicaid and Medicare
11. Natural family supports
12. Assistive technology
13. Behavior and non-aversive interventions
14. Advocacy strategies, grass roots organizing and working with the media.
The goal is to educate participants to be active partners with those who make policy and foster development of positive relationships with policymakers. Partners are trained to advocate for supports and services to increase independence, productivity and inclusion into the community for people with disabilities.
PIP has a one day mandatory orientation (August 23rd) and meets one weekend a month from September through May. They do not meet in December so everyone can be with their families. They provide mileage reimbursement, hotel rooms for those living 60 miles or more away, and pay reasonable childcare expenses. Also included are all meals during training.
The application form:
The application is on the OKDDC website at: www.okddc.ok.gov and you can view a Partners in Policymaking video to get more information.
For more information:
Call LeAnna Hart at 800-836-4470 or 405-521-4984 with any questions. They will be conducting phone interviews to seat the class through mid June.
PIP classes accept 30 participants each session.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Sooner Start Family Forum in Enid
The Oklahoma Family Network will host Family Forums across the state of Oklahoma along with the facilitators from Emerald Consulting Inc.
Emerald Consulting Inc. is a nationally recognized firm with many years of experience in the evaluation of early intervention programs.
These Forums are open to all families who are currently participating or have participated in the Sooner Start system. This is an opportunity for you to learn more about the Sooner Start system evaluation and to share your thoughts, ideas and recommendations about how to improve the SoonerStart system for all Oklahoma families and their children with special needs. What we want to hear from you — what worked, what didn’t, what recommendations you have to improve Sooner Start.
Enid Family Forum
Monday, June 2, 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Location: Garfield County Health Department
2501 Mercer Drive
Enid, Oklahoma 73701
If you need special accommodations please call (405) 521-4155
Emerald Consulting Inc. is a nationally recognized firm with many years of experience in the evaluation of early intervention programs.
These Forums are open to all families who are currently participating or have participated in the Sooner Start system. This is an opportunity for you to learn more about the Sooner Start system evaluation and to share your thoughts, ideas and recommendations about how to improve the SoonerStart system for all Oklahoma families and their children with special needs. What we want to hear from you — what worked, what didn’t, what recommendations you have to improve Sooner Start.
Enid Family Forum
Monday, June 2, 2008
Time: 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Location: Garfield County Health Department
2501 Mercer Drive
Enid, Oklahoma 73701
If you need special accommodations please call (405) 521-4155
Public Hearings on Changes in Voc Rehab Services
The Department of Rehabilitation Services will hold public hearings to receive comments on proposed amendments and updates to the Department’s State Plan for Vocational Rehabilitation Services (Title I) and Supported Employment Services (Title VI).
Copies of the proposed State Plan will be available May 12, 2008 and may be obtained from:
Melinda Fruendt, Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 N.W. 58th, Suite 500
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112
or by e-mail mfruendt@drs.state.ok.us
or by calling (405) 951-3547
Toll free 1-800-845-8476.
Copies of the plan will also be available on the DRS website the week of May 12, 2008 at: http://www.okrehab.org/whatsnew.html
PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD:
MONDAY, MAY 19, 2008
1:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES
CAREER PLANNING CENTER - CONFERENCE ROOM
444 SOUTH HOUSTON – EDMONDSON BLDG
TULSA, OKLAHOMA
TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2008
1:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
GREAT PLAINS TECHNICAL CENTER
BUILDING 600 – ROOM 614
4500 WEST LEE BLVD
LAWTON, OKLAHOMA
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2008
4:00 P.M. — 6:00 P.M.
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES
2ND FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM
3535 NW 58TH STREET
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA
If you would like to comment, but are unable to attend the public hearings, written comments may be sent to the attention of Melinda Fruendt, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-4824. Written comments must be received no later than May 23, 2008.
Copies of the proposed State Plan will be available May 12, 2008 and may be obtained from:
Melinda Fruendt, Department of Rehabilitation Services
3535 N.W. 58th, Suite 500
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112
or by e-mail mfruendt@drs.state.ok.us
or by calling (405) 951-3547
Toll free 1-800-845-8476.
Copies of the plan will also be available on the DRS website the week of May 12, 2008 at: http://www.okrehab.org/whatsnew.html
PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD:
MONDAY, MAY 19, 2008
1:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES
CAREER PLANNING CENTER - CONFERENCE ROOM
444 SOUTH HOUSTON – EDMONDSON BLDG
TULSA, OKLAHOMA
TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2008
1:00 P.M. — 3:00 P.M.
GREAT PLAINS TECHNICAL CENTER
BUILDING 600 – ROOM 614
4500 WEST LEE BLVD
LAWTON, OKLAHOMA
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2008
4:00 P.M. — 6:00 P.M.
DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION SERVICES
2ND FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM
3535 NW 58TH STREET
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA
If you would like to comment, but are unable to attend the public hearings, written comments may be sent to the attention of Melinda Fruendt, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, 3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500, Oklahoma City, OK 73112-4824. Written comments must be received no later than May 23, 2008.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Free Online Seminar: Treatment Options for Developmentally Delayed Patients with Epilepsy
To Register, go to: http://www.epliveonline.org/cyberonics20080608.html
Treatment Options for the Developmentally Delayed Patient with Epilepsy
When: June 08, 2008 / 7:30 9:00 PM EDT
Live
This seminar will take place at the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA) Annual Education Conference to be held in Foxwoods Resorts, CT this June.
Online
Join EP LiveOnline to view the event live on the internet‹free of charge and nation-wide. The archived (streaming video) version of the event will then be posted for 90 days following the live event on: http://www.epliveonline.org/eplive-archive3.html
Who Should Attend
Parents, families, caregivers, teachers, school nurses, developmental disability nurses, police, firemen, first-responders, coaches, primary care practitioners, pediatricians and all who work with children and adults who have epilepsy and seizure disorders, Exceptional Family Member Program of the U.S. Military
This program is made possible by an educational grant from Cyberonics, Inc.
There is no registration fee to participate in this program.
Presented by
Lucretia Long, RN, MS CNP
Assistant Clinical Professor, Neurology, Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
Supported by
The American Academy of Development Medicine and Dentistry, Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey.
To Register, go to: http://www.epliveonline.org/cyberonics20080608.html
Treatment Options for the Developmentally Delayed Patient with Epilepsy
When: June 08, 2008 / 7:30 9:00 PM EDT
Live
This seminar will take place at the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA) Annual Education Conference to be held in Foxwoods Resorts, CT this June.
Online
Join EP LiveOnline to view the event live on the internet‹free of charge and nation-wide. The archived (streaming video) version of the event will then be posted for 90 days following the live event on: http://www.epliveonline.org/eplive-archive3.html
Who Should Attend
Parents, families, caregivers, teachers, school nurses, developmental disability nurses, police, firemen, first-responders, coaches, primary care practitioners, pediatricians and all who work with children and adults who have epilepsy and seizure disorders, Exceptional Family Member Program of the U.S. Military
This program is made possible by an educational grant from Cyberonics, Inc.
There is no registration fee to participate in this program.
Presented by
Lucretia Long, RN, MS CNP
Assistant Clinical Professor, Neurology, Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
Supported by
The American Academy of Development Medicine and Dentistry, Epilepsy Foundation of New Jersey.
To Register, go to: http://www.epliveonline.org/cyberonics20080608.html
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Epilepsy Drug Dilantin May Speed Bone Loss
Researchers report that young women taking the epilepsy drug Dilantin may risk bone loss and fracture with long-term use.
In a recent study, researchers followed 93 premenopausal women (age 18-40) taking one of four different epilepsy drugs: carbamazepine (also known with brand names Tegretol and Carbatrol), lamotrigine (Lamictal), valproate (Depakene), and Dilantin, for one year. Bone mineral density of the spine and two areas of the hip (femoral neck and total hip) were measured at the start and end of the study.
The results, published in Neurology, showed that women taking Dilantin experienced an average of 2.6% bone loss in the femoral neck only. No significant bone loss was found among those taking the other three epilepsy drugs.
Click here to learn more
In a recent study, researchers followed 93 premenopausal women (age 18-40) taking one of four different epilepsy drugs: carbamazepine (also known with brand names Tegretol and Carbatrol), lamotrigine (Lamictal), valproate (Depakene), and Dilantin, for one year. Bone mineral density of the spine and two areas of the hip (femoral neck and total hip) were measured at the start and end of the study.
The results, published in Neurology, showed that women taking Dilantin experienced an average of 2.6% bone loss in the femoral neck only. No significant bone loss was found among those taking the other three epilepsy drugs.
Click here to learn more
Social Hour for Kids with Autism
Helping children on the autism spectrum develop social skills can be a real challenge, especially as they enter adolescense....a time when all kids seem to struggle with social skills and fitting in.
However, sometimes all it takes is a little extra effort and some creativity. Check the innovative plan of Mary Hawkins, a pediatric therapist for Our Children's House in Coppell, TX.
News Story
Supper club gives autistic kids a helping of inclusion
Video Link
See the supper club on video
However, sometimes all it takes is a little extra effort and some creativity. Check the innovative plan of Mary Hawkins, a pediatric therapist for Our Children's House in Coppell, TX.
News Story
Supper club gives autistic kids a helping of inclusion
Video Link
See the supper club on video
Friday, April 25, 2008
Understanding Evaluations: What Parents and Teachers Need to Know
Join LD Talk for an Online Discussion: Understanding Evaluations: What Parents and Teachers Need to Know to Drive Instruction and Promote School Success
Date: April 30, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM EDT
Parents and teachers need to understand all aspects of the evaluation process in order to make decisions that will positively benefit a student being considered for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA contains very specific requirements for a student evaluation and the results will be used to make important decisions about the student's future.
Dr. Blanche Podhajski helps us unravel and understand the important questions in the evaluation process such as timing, what the proposed tests measure and what the outcomes mean when a comprehensive evaluation is conducted.
Joining this LD Talk is as easy as 1-2-3
Since LD Talks are text-based discussions, all you'll need is Internet access to participate. You can submit your question in advance of the Talk, or during the scheduled event. In either case, participating is as easy as 1-2-3!
Date: April 30, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM EDT
Parents and teachers need to understand all aspects of the evaluation process in order to make decisions that will positively benefit a student being considered for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA contains very specific requirements for a student evaluation and the results will be used to make important decisions about the student's future.
Dr. Blanche Podhajski helps us unravel and understand the important questions in the evaluation process such as timing, what the proposed tests measure and what the outcomes mean when a comprehensive evaluation is conducted.
Joining this LD Talk is as easy as 1-2-3
Since LD Talks are text-based discussions, all you'll need is Internet access to participate. You can submit your question in advance of the Talk, or during the scheduled event. In either case, participating is as easy as 1-2-3!
- Click here. This will take you to a page featuring a detailed description of this Talk, as well as the biography of the participating expert and additional resources on the topic;
- Type your question in the field provided;
- Click "Ask your Question."
That's all there is to it. Once the Talk is live, you'll see the questions that have been asked and our expert's answers. Please note: Due to the volume of questions submitted, our expert may not be able to answer each individual question.
Did you miss something?
Don't worry if you aren't available to join the live Talk — we'll save the transcript for you, and you can visit this online resource as often as you like. Transcripts of previous discussions are available for your review at NCLDtalks.org. For an archive of NCLD Talk transcripts from 2000-2007, click here.
About the Expert:
Dr. Blanche Podhajski is President and Founder of the Stern Center for Language and Learning. Established in 1983, the non-profit Stern Center provides literacy services for children and adults, professional development opportunities for educators and medical professionals, and research on best literacy practices. Dr. Podhajski is also Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences. She also is a member of the Professional Advisory Board for the National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD).
Dr. Podhajski received her Ph.D. in Communication Disorders, specializing in Learning Disabilities, from Northwestern University. She holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech Pathology from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association.
Dr. Podhajski is the co-author of the Sounds Abound Program: Teaching Phonological Awareness in the Classroom, published by LinguiSystems. She created TIME for Teachers™, a professional development initiative to bring information about current research-proven reading interventions to classroom teachers. In collaboration with Marilyn Varricchio, Nancy Mather and Janice Sammons, Dr. Podhajski has extended TIME into Mastering the Alphabetic Principle: A Course in how we MAP speech to print for teaching reading and spelling, a robust distance learning course for primary educators soon to be published by Paul H. Brookes in a stand-alone version for personnel preparation and professional development. She has also co-authored Identification of Reading Difficulties and Best Referral Practices: A Guide for Future Physicians, a CD-ROM course for medical students.
For over 35 years, Dr. Podhajski has published and presented papers on the interrelationships between increases in teacher knowledge and children’s literacy outcomes. She also has extensive experience and has presented throughout the country on the differential diagnosis of language learning disorders.
DHS / DDSD Waiting List Meeting Next Week in OKC
DHS / DDSD Waiting List Meeting
Sequoyah Memorial Office Building
C-47
Wednesday – April 30, 2008
1:30 PM
Agenda:
1. Introductions
The is a time to go around the room and give your name, where you’re from and your interest in the waiting list or DDSD services, i.e. family member, waiting for services, receiving services.
2. Status of the Waiting List – Jim Nicholson
3. Status of the Self Directed Services pilot for the In-Home Supports Waiver – Jim Nicholson
4. TEFRA Eligibility Determination – Debbie Harmon, LPN (OHCA – Oklahoma Health Care Authority)
5. Family Questions & Comments
6. Schedule Next Meeting
7. Adjournment
This is an excellent opportunity for parents to ask questions, raise concerns, and talk with those at DHS in authority.
Sequoyah Memorial Office Building
C-47
Wednesday – April 30, 2008
1:30 PM
Agenda:
1. Introductions
The is a time to go around the room and give your name, where you’re from and your interest in the waiting list or DDSD services, i.e. family member, waiting for services, receiving services.
2. Status of the Waiting List – Jim Nicholson
3. Status of the Self Directed Services pilot for the In-Home Supports Waiver – Jim Nicholson
4. TEFRA Eligibility Determination – Debbie Harmon, LPN (OHCA – Oklahoma Health Care Authority)
5. Family Questions & Comments
6. Schedule Next Meeting
7. Adjournment
This is an excellent opportunity for parents to ask questions, raise concerns, and talk with those at DHS in authority.
Save the date.....
On September 23rd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sooner SUCCESS is partnering with the Oklahoma Autism Network to bring Northwest Oklahoma a full day of practical, informative training on supporting children with autism.
So mark your calendars now......
When: September 23, 2008
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center (between Kingfisher & Watonga on Highway 33)
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stay tuned for more details......it's going to be a great day of learning!
So mark your calendars now......
When: September 23, 2008
Where: Chisholm Trail Technology Center (between Kingfisher & Watonga on Highway 33)
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Stay tuned for more details......it's going to be a great day of learning!
Ask Congress to Support the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act, H.R. 4188!
Help Parents Recover Expert Witness Fees and Level the Playing Field!
Please call your congressman on Tuesday, May 6th and ask them to co-sponsor the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act, H.R. 4188.
This bill will allow parents who prevail in due process or litigation under IDEA recover their expert witness fees. Few parents can afford the thousands of dollars needed to pay for expert testimony that is often necessary to prevail in IDEA cases. But school districts can use tax dollars to employ and pay for psychologists and other paid experts. Parents have fewer resources and yet must bear a greater financial burden. H.R. 4188 is necessary to restore Congress' original intent and allow parents to recover their expert witness fees. Introduced by Congressman Chris Van Hollen (Maryland) and Pete Sessions (Texas), it will help level the playing field for the parents of millions of children with disabilities.
Over 100 disability organizations, including the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities, Arc, Easter Seals, the Council of Parent Attorneys & Advocates, Inc., National Disability Rights Network, National Down Syndrome Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, Learning Disabilities Association, National Center for Learning Disabilities, CHADD, Our Children Left Behind, and others support H.R. 4188. But we need your help to get it passed. Call Congress on Tuesday, May 6, 2008. Ask them to Cosponsor H.R. 4188. It will only take 2-3 minutes.
If you do not know who your Congressional Representative is, go to http://www.house.gov and put your zip code into the box in the upper left corner. You can also use http://www.congress.org to look up Representatives and phone numbers.
Congress needs to hear our voices and hear from as many parents and child advocates as possible! It helps if you ask for the Education Aide, but you can also talk to the person who answers the phone. You can leave a voicemail message. Tell them you are a constituent and would like the Congressperson to co-sponsor H.R. 4188, the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act.
Want more detailed information?
Download COPAA's complete brochure on the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act and enabling parents to recover expert fees at: http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MurphyBrochure.pdf
There is also a Spanish language version, http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MSSpanish.pdf(Lea aqui en Espanol: Murphy y los derechos de los padres para recuperar el costo de los expertos: http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MSSpanish.pdf )
You can read H.R. 4188 here: http://www.copaa.org/news/IRFAct.html
You can read letters from over 100 disability organizations supporting H.R. 4188 at: http://www.copaa.org/news/organizations.html
Please call your congressman on Tuesday, May 6th and ask them to co-sponsor the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act, H.R. 4188.
This bill will allow parents who prevail in due process or litigation under IDEA recover their expert witness fees. Few parents can afford the thousands of dollars needed to pay for expert testimony that is often necessary to prevail in IDEA cases. But school districts can use tax dollars to employ and pay for psychologists and other paid experts. Parents have fewer resources and yet must bear a greater financial burden. H.R. 4188 is necessary to restore Congress' original intent and allow parents to recover their expert witness fees. Introduced by Congressman Chris Van Hollen (Maryland) and Pete Sessions (Texas), it will help level the playing field for the parents of millions of children with disabilities.
Over 100 disability organizations, including the Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities, Arc, Easter Seals, the Council of Parent Attorneys & Advocates, Inc., National Disability Rights Network, National Down Syndrome Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, Learning Disabilities Association, National Center for Learning Disabilities, CHADD, Our Children Left Behind, and others support H.R. 4188. But we need your help to get it passed. Call Congress on Tuesday, May 6, 2008. Ask them to Cosponsor H.R. 4188. It will only take 2-3 minutes.
If you do not know who your Congressional Representative is, go to http://www.house.gov and put your zip code into the box in the upper left corner. You can also use http://www.congress.org to look up Representatives and phone numbers.
Congress needs to hear our voices and hear from as many parents and child advocates as possible! It helps if you ask for the Education Aide, but you can also talk to the person who answers the phone. You can leave a voicemail message. Tell them you are a constituent and would like the Congressperson to co-sponsor H.R. 4188, the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act.
Want more detailed information?
Download COPAA's complete brochure on the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act and enabling parents to recover expert fees at: http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MurphyBrochure.pdf
There is also a Spanish language version, http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MSSpanish.pdf(Lea aqui en Espanol: Murphy y los derechos de los padres para recuperar el costo de los expertos: http://www.copaa.org/pdf/MSSpanish.pdf )
You can read H.R. 4188 here: http://www.copaa.org/news/IRFAct.html
You can read letters from over 100 disability organizations supporting H.R. 4188 at: http://www.copaa.org/news/organizations.html
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
American Heart Association Calls for Electrocardiograms Before Kids Take ADHD Drugs
The American Heart Association now recommends that children and teens taking stimulants to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be screened for hidden heart problems.
Stimulants like the ADHD drugs Ritalin, Adderall, Dexedrine, and Concerta are known to increase heart rates and blood pressure. The risk is not considered significant in otherwise healthy children who take the drugs for attention disorders, however if a child has an undiagnosed heart problem, the risk can be very significant. An ECK can help doctors and parents identify heart problems.
Click here for more information on this new medical recommendation
Stimulants like the ADHD drugs Ritalin, Adderall, Dexedrine, and Concerta are known to increase heart rates and blood pressure. The risk is not considered significant in otherwise healthy children who take the drugs for attention disorders, however if a child has an undiagnosed heart problem, the risk can be very significant. An ECK can help doctors and parents identify heart problems.
Click here for more information on this new medical recommendation
Friday, April 18, 2008
Bridges Out of Poverty
Smart Start Logan & Kingfisher Counties, Sooner Success, & Strenghtening Families present:
“Bridges Out of Poverty”: an overview by MONICA BEINS
IN GUTHRIE
Date: Fri. May 2nd 2008
Time: 9:00-11:30 am
Place: The Depot
409 W. Oklahoma
IN KINGFISHER
Date: Sat. May 3rd, 2008
Time: 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Place: Rose Rock Bank
320 N. Main St.
Who: Anyone that comes into contact with people in poverty; Child Care, Law Enforcement, DHS, State, County, & Medical Personnel, Parents, & Logan or Kingfisher Co. residents interested in the future of young children.
Registration Necessary: Call 405-293-9098
RSVP before Monday, April 28th and receive a free copy of Ruby Payne’s “Bridges Out of Poverty” book valued at $15.00.
“Bridges Out of Poverty”: an overview by MONICA BEINS
IN GUTHRIE
Date: Fri. May 2nd 2008
Time: 9:00-11:30 am
Place: The Depot
409 W. Oklahoma
IN KINGFISHER
Date: Sat. May 3rd, 2008
Time: 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Place: Rose Rock Bank
320 N. Main St.
Who: Anyone that comes into contact with people in poverty; Child Care, Law Enforcement, DHS, State, County, & Medical Personnel, Parents, & Logan or Kingfisher Co. residents interested in the future of young children.
Registration Necessary: Call 405-293-9098
RSVP before Monday, April 28th and receive a free copy of Ruby Payne’s “Bridges Out of Poverty” book valued at $15.00.
Project ACTION: Helping Schools Meet the Transportation Needs of Students with Disabilities
Easter Seals Project ACTION (ESPA) has posted a Request for Proposal (RFP) announcement for, “Project ACTION in Action Helping Schools Meet the Transportation Needs of Students with Disabilities.”
ESPA seeks school districts that will bring together a team of district employees and other community members to discuss problems and propose solutions for transportation services for students with disabilities.
Applicants are expected to describe project plans that can realistically be accomplished within the contract term of June 1, 2008 to August 15, 2008. The deadline for submission is May 15, 2008.
Further information can be found at www.projectaction.org on the request for proposals page.
If you have questions about this project, contact Ken Thompson, Technical Assistance Contract Specialist, Easter Seals Project ACTION, Tel: 202-347-3066.
Easter Seals Project ACTION
1425 K Street NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: 202-347-3066, Fax: 202-737-7914
ESPA seeks school districts that will bring together a team of district employees and other community members to discuss problems and propose solutions for transportation services for students with disabilities.
Applicants are expected to describe project plans that can realistically be accomplished within the contract term of June 1, 2008 to August 15, 2008. The deadline for submission is May 15, 2008.
Further information can be found at www.projectaction.org on the request for proposals page.
If you have questions about this project, contact Ken Thompson, Technical Assistance Contract Specialist, Easter Seals Project ACTION, Tel: 202-347-3066.
Easter Seals Project ACTION
1425 K Street NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005
Tel: 202-347-3066, Fax: 202-737-7914
Thursday, April 17, 2008
What is Nick's Law.....
Recently Oklahoma has been making national news as a group of parents and advocates have worked tirelessly to have Nick's Law considered for passage into law by our state legislature. In case you haven't kept up with the debate...here is a brief overview to catch you up!
FACTS:
Autism is the fasting growing developmental disability in the US. The CDC reports the prevalence at 1 out of 150 children are currently being diagnosed on the autism spectrum. In Oklahoma, more than 2,025 children between 3 and 21 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are enrolled in Special Education in our public schools....a 60% increase in just three years.
There is no known cure for autism, yet early, intensive, structured behavioral therapies have proven effective in helping children gain intellectual functioning and progress educationally.
PROBLEM:
Most private health insurance plans do not cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder, leaving many parents to rely on government-sponsored services, including extensive school-based services.
Parents often end up paying for therapies out of their own pockets, creating an immense financial burden. Without the negotiating powers of an insurance company behind them, parents can spend tens of thousands of dollars per year on services, in addition to their insurance premiums!
Oklahoma’s high-risk pool contains the very same exclusions: services to treat autism are specifically excluded from coverage.
PLEASE CONSIDER THIS:
Eighteen other states have passed similar legislation. Since 2001, when Indiana passed such a law, there have been NO premium increases linked to the coverage and NO increase in the numbers of uninsured in that state!
The Council for Affordable Health Insurance (the industry’s own policy organization) reports that autism insurance coverage would increase costs by less than 1 percent.
Nick’s Law calls for private insurance to cover these services, when prescribed by a physician as part of a treatment plan, with a $75,000 annual cap on behavioral therapies.
Private insurance coverage of these type items would save public taxpayer dollars.
Members of the House of Representatives are currently considering this law. Please contact your local Representative and Speaker Benge and speak out on this issue. Please identify yourself as a provider or otherwise friend to a person with autism. They need to hear from a wider circle of constituents. They need to know that this issue is bigger than just us. They need to hear about Nick’s Law. Thank you for caring about our children.
Sincerely,
Oklahoma Parents of Children with Autism
Nick’s Law is part of the 2008 Legislative Agenda for Children. For more information, contact Anne Roberts at the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, 405 / 236-KIDS, or aroberts@oica.org.
Address:
Speaker of the House Chris Benge
Oklahoma State Capitol
2300 N. Lincoln - Rm 432D
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 557-7340
FACTS:
Autism is the fasting growing developmental disability in the US. The CDC reports the prevalence at 1 out of 150 children are currently being diagnosed on the autism spectrum. In Oklahoma, more than 2,025 children between 3 and 21 diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are enrolled in Special Education in our public schools....a 60% increase in just three years.
There is no known cure for autism, yet early, intensive, structured behavioral therapies have proven effective in helping children gain intellectual functioning and progress educationally.
PROBLEM:
Most private health insurance plans do not cover the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder, leaving many parents to rely on government-sponsored services, including extensive school-based services.
Parents often end up paying for therapies out of their own pockets, creating an immense financial burden. Without the negotiating powers of an insurance company behind them, parents can spend tens of thousands of dollars per year on services, in addition to their insurance premiums!
Oklahoma’s high-risk pool contains the very same exclusions: services to treat autism are specifically excluded from coverage.
PLEASE CONSIDER THIS:
Eighteen other states have passed similar legislation. Since 2001, when Indiana passed such a law, there have been NO premium increases linked to the coverage and NO increase in the numbers of uninsured in that state!
The Council for Affordable Health Insurance (the industry’s own policy organization) reports that autism insurance coverage would increase costs by less than 1 percent.
Nick’s Law calls for private insurance to cover these services, when prescribed by a physician as part of a treatment plan, with a $75,000 annual cap on behavioral therapies.
Private insurance coverage of these type items would save public taxpayer dollars.
Members of the House of Representatives are currently considering this law. Please contact your local Representative and Speaker Benge and speak out on this issue. Please identify yourself as a provider or otherwise friend to a person with autism. They need to hear from a wider circle of constituents. They need to know that this issue is bigger than just us. They need to hear about Nick’s Law. Thank you for caring about our children.
Sincerely,
Oklahoma Parents of Children with Autism
Nick’s Law is part of the 2008 Legislative Agenda for Children. For more information, contact Anne Roberts at the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, 405 / 236-KIDS, or aroberts@oica.org.
Address:
Speaker of the House Chris Benge
Oklahoma State Capitol
2300 N. Lincoln - Rm 432D
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
(405) 557-7340
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