Special Education Terms and Acronyms:
https://www.parentcenterhub.org/acronyms/
https://adayinourshoes.com/special-education-acronyms/
IEP vs 504:
https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/special-services/504-plan/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans
Local Organizations and Agencies plus State and Government resources;
Get a Copy of IDEA
http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/idea-copies/
Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
https://www.thinkdifferently.net/provider/hudson-valley-special-education-parent-center-westchester-institute-for-human-development/
Westchester Institute of Human Development
http://www.wihd.org
Calendar of Westchester Institute of Human Development Events
http://www.wihd.org/events/category/wihd/month/
The Child Mind Institute
https://childmind.org/
Parent to Parent of New York State is a place where families of individuals with special needs and the professionals who serve them can meet and share information.
http://parenttoparentnys.org/site/
Getting Ready for When Your Teen Reaches the Age of Majority: A Parent’s Guide
http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/age-of-majority-parentguide/
The Youth Mental Health Project
http://ymhproject.org/
NYU Langone, Child Study Center
https://nyulangone.org/locations/child-study-center
Understood, For Learning and attention issues
https://www.understood.org
Cerebral Palsy Guidance
www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/cerebral-palsy/causes/
Cluster Community Services
http://clusterinc.org/
Westchester Independent Living Center(WILC)
https://www.wilc.org/
State Special Education Website
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/
Due Process Hearing Decision
http://www.sro.nysed.gov/
Find an Advocate or Attorney
https://advocatesforspecialeducation.com/
WJCS Autism Center
http://www.wjcs.com/wjcs-autism-center/
National Center for Learning Disabilities(NCLD)
https://www.ncld.org/
The Dignity for All Students Act New York State’s Dignity for All Students Act (The Dignity Act) seeks to provide the State’s public elementary and secondary school students with a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a school bus and/or at a school function.
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/dignityact/
The pamphlet, A Parent's Guide to Response to Intervention, which provides parents, families and others with information regarding Response to Intervention is now available in Spanish, Korean, Russian, Chinese, and Haitian Creole. Please share as appropriate. Thank you.
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/RTI/parent.htm
New York State List of Approved Private Schools for Special Education
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/privateschools/home.html
New York State requirements for extended School Year :
Who is eligible for extended school year (summer) programs and services in NYS? Find out here:
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/applications/2013ESY-qa.htm
New York State diploma changes
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/publications/safetynet-compensatoryoption.html
NYS Ed Board of Regents, Blueprint for Improved Results for Students with Disabilities
https://www.regents.nysed.gov/common/regents/files/meetings/p12-accesBlueprintforImprovedResultsforStudentswithDisabilities10.19.15.pdf
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY)
http://nichcy.org/
What You Need to Know about NICHCY’s Disability Fact Sheets:Each fact sheet includes a definition, causes, characteristics, incidence, educational considerations and helpful organizations for further information.
usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/08/29/what-you-need-to-know-about-nichcys-disability-fact-sheets
Resources on co-teaching are intended to help both special and general educators co-teach effectively.
http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/coteaching/
U.S. Government office for Disabilities web Site
https://www.disability.gov/
SWIFT is a national K-8 technical assistance center that builds school capacity to provide academic and behavioral support to improve outcomes for all students through equity-based inclusion
http://www.swiftschools.org/
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness of Westchester County
http://www.nami.org/MSTemplate.cfm?MicrositeID=132
Westchester/Putman Suicide prevention center
http://www.westputspc.org/
Suicide Hotlines for New York area.
http://suicidehotlines.net/newyork.html
La Fuente is a coalition of organizations committed to reaching the Latin community in Westchester County.
http://www.lafuenteny.org
New York Alliance for Public Education
http://www.nya4pe.com/
New York State Allies for Public Education
http://www.nysape.org
Special Education Law, Advocacy and Attorneys;
Get a Copy of IDEA
http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/idea-copies/
Referral Request for Evaluation
http://www.ncld.org/parents-child-disabilities/idea-guide/chapter-3-referral-request-evaluation
Wrightslaw: Special Education Law and advocacy
http://www.wrightslaw.com/
Find an Advocate or Attorney
http://advocatesforspecialeducation.com/find_newyork.html
State Special Education Website
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/
Due Process Hearing Decision
http://www.sro.nysed.gov/
The Special Ed Advocate Archives
(1998-present)Wrightslaw
http://www.wrightslaw.com/archives.htm
Wrightslaw Blog
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/
Wrightslaw: So you want to be an Advocate 3 part series.
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/13/nl.0716.htm
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/13/nl.0730.htm
http://myemail.constantcontact.com/So-You-Want-to-be-an-Advocate--Hone-Your-Advocacy-Skills-.html?soid=1101518003158&aid=bwiXxaj5spM&fb_action_ids=436342869813314&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582
Resolving IEP Disputes
Conflict between parents and schools is normal and inevitable.
You need to learn:
- Strategies to resolve disagreements
- Steps to take if you disagree with the school
- Options you have if unable to resolve disputes
Options for Resolving IEP Disputes
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/iep.disputes.popup.htm
What to Do When the School Doesn't Respond?
http://www.wrightslaw.com/advoc/guest/Kerr_Meetings_Progess.htm
Effective IEP Teams: Reality or Impossible Dream?
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=6651
Wrights Law Blog: The School Insists We Medicate My Daughter!
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=9227
Negotiating for Extended School Year
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/13/nl.0430.htm
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Requirement in IDEA
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=2823
Can I Write on the IEP?
IEP FAQs
In This Issue ...
Do you have questions about IEPs? You are not alone!
Do you know your rights and responsibilities as a member of the IEP Team when developing your child's Individualized Education Plan?
In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate you will get answers to your frequently asked questions about IEPs. Learn where to find the answers in the IDEA law and regulations about IEPs.
Can I Write on the IEP?
There is no legal or commonsense reason why a parent or any other IEP team member cannot write on a child’s IEP.
Has this happened to you? Find out how to take advantage of it!
When Must the IEP Team Develop a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?
IEP teams must consider behavior problems, communication problems, and other special factors.
Click on the IEP Special Factors Pop-Up for answers to questions, federal law or regulations that support these answers, and additional resources.
What Does the Law Require
- IEP Team Attendance
- Development of IEPs
- Consideration of Special Factors
- Review and Revision of IEPs
What Do I Need to Know About IDEA & IEPs?
Visit the Wrightslaw IEP Page for:
- Articles and Tips
- Tactics and strategies
- IEP Caselaw
- Free publications & recommended books
What Can I Do if My Child is Bullied
If you don't think bullying is a big problem, please think again. At Wrightslaw, we get letters every week asking advice about what to do when children are bullied... by peers, by older students, even by teachers.
Kids who have learning disabilities are especially vulnerable to bullying problems. When kids bully or, when kids are bullied by others, there are serious, lasting consequences.
In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate you will find information about bullying and harassment, prevention, legal decisions about harassment, and effective ways to respond to bullying.
Bullying, Discipline, & Confidentiality: Who's the Victim?
A special education teacher asks how much information about bullies should a school provide? Pete and Pam answer in Confidentiality v. Parent's Need to Know.
Social Skills Deficits: When Peers Avoid and Tease
"Is the School Required to Provide Social Skills Training?" My daughter with autism needs help with social skills - 90 minutes of social skills counseling a month isn't working!
When a child needs help learning to interact with friends and react appropriately to teasing or bullying, the school must address these functional needs in the IEP.
US DOE Guidance on Bullying
Read the US Department of Education guidance on school districts’ responsibilities to ensure that students with disabilities who are subject to bullying continue to receive free appropriate public education (FAPE) under IDEA.
What Works (and doesn't work) in Bullying Prevention and Intervention
More information for kids, articles, resources, free pubs at Bullying and Harassment.
In Preventing Bullying, Linda Lumsden identifies some of the warning signs, examines the problems caused by bullying, and discusses strategies to prevent this pervasive problem.
Student Advocacy
http://www.studentadvocacy.net/?utm_source=March+Learning+Opportunities+at+Student+Advocacy&utm_campaign=March+2013+Training&utm_medium=email
iadvocate app from Syracuse University.
http://iadvocate.syr.edu/
Resources for Autism Spectrum and DSM-5 groups and information:
Autism Speaks
http://www.autismspeaks.org/
Autism Speaks: Family Services, Support and Resources
http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services
Autism Speaks blog with their summary of the proposed changes to the dsm-5
http://blog.autismspeaks.org/2010/02/10/a-single-diagnostic-category-for-autism/
WJCS Autism Services & The Autism Center
http://www.wjcs.com/index.php?submenu=AutismServices&src=gendocs&ref=AutismServices&category=Special%2520Needs
Autism after 16, A web site with articles and resources for young adults with Autism transitioning from secondary education and beyond.
http://www.autismafter16.com/
Autism-live.com: Autism Live is an interactive web show providing support, resources, information, facts, entertainment and inspiration to parents, teachers and practitioners working with children on the autism spectrum.
Autism-Live.com
AUTISM SPECTRUM NEWS: Your Trusted Source of Science-Based Autism Education,Information, Advocacy, and Community Resources
www.mhnews-autism.org
15 Indispensible Websites for Parents of Children with Autism
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2013/07/15/15-indispensible-websites-for-parents-of-children-with-autism/
2013 Autism Center for Excellence Webcast Series, These webcasts are not free but it appears to be a very good series of topics.
http://www.vcuautismcenter.org/registration/webcast/index.cfm?webcastID=212
This Autism and Related Disorders seminar from the Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, is lead by Yale Autism Program Director Fred Volkmar, and is available as a course on iTunes U. The downloads are free.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/course/autism-and-related-disorders/id495056283?enlh=7&mt=10&ls=1
Resource for Adults and Seniors Citizens with Autism:
Thanks to Noelle and her Students at the Learning Haven for this link
www.parentgiving.com/elder-care/caring-for-seniors-with-autism/
http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/09/02/436742377/neurotribes-examines-the-history-and-myths-of-the-autism-spectrum
Free assistive technology webinars: Shannon Des Roches Rosa discusses and explains why the dynamic display, touch screen, and the portability of the iPad can help learning and leisure for autistic individuals."
http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/assistivewares-assistive-technology/id454672565
The American Psychiatric Association, DSM- 5 Proposed Criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder
http://www.psych.org/MainMenu/Newsroom/NewsReleases/2012-News-Releases/DSM-5-Proposed-Criteria-for-Autism-Spectrum-Disorder-Designed.aspx?FT=.pdf
FAQs about DSM-5 recently published by University of Rochester department of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/childrens-hospital/developmental-disabilities/conditions/Autism-Spectrum-Disorders/DSM-5-Autism-Spectrum-Disorder-%28ASD%29.aspx
The Department of Health and Human Services,the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) ;Subcommittee for Basic and Translational Research DSM-5 resources
https://iacc.hhs.gov/subcommittees/basic-translational-research/dsm-5/dsm5-resources.shtml
Wrong Planet: is the web community designed for individuals (and parents / professionals of those) with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, PDDs, and other neurological differences.
http://www.wrongplanet.net/
ADHD and Sensory resources;
CHADD: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
http://www.chadd.org/
CHADD of Putnam and Vicinity, Meetings are held the 1st Tues of the month except Sep and Jan. Location and other information included on schedule.
2013 - 2014 Printable Meeting Schedule
List of AMC Theatres nationwide that hold Sensory Friendly showings
http://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
List of Sensory Accommodations:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x18y4BlGRPk/UVJlzhhy0qI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/T-ABhky6Ng8/s1600/Sesnory_Acccommodations.jpg
Neurological and Mental Health resources;
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness of Westchester County
http://www.nami.org/MSTemplate.cfm?MicrositeID=132
The OCD Foundation
www.OCfoundation.org
The Child Mind Institute
http://www.childmind.org/
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
http://bbrfoundation.org/
National Tourette Syndrome Association
http://www.tsa-usa.org/
Autoimmune disorders;
P.A.N.D.A.S.: Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections
http://intramural.nimh.nih.gov/pdn/web.htm
Information on LD and RTI;
The pamphlet, A Parent's Guide to Response to Intervention, which provides parents, families and others with information regarding Response to Intervention is now available in Spanish, Korean, Russian, Chinese, and Haitian Creole. Please share as appropriate. Thank you.
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/RTI/parent.htm
LD OnLine, Learning Disability and ADHD web site
http://www.ldonline.org/index.php
LD Field Guide, resources and links.
http://ldfieldguide.com/index.html
The only national mentoring movement that pairs kids who have learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (LD / ADHD) with college and high school mentors who have been similarly labeled.
eyetoeyenational.org
A resource for Learning and Attention issues.
understood.org
NCLD Apps for iPad and iPhone to help students with LD: Three links are listed here
How to make your iPad even better
accessibility tips and tricks using Apple’s operating system easily lays out (visuals included!) how to bring the features to life.
“There’s an App for That! But Is It Right for You?”
Webinars and Videos about dyslexia
http://www.kildonan.org/page.cfm?p=753
Apps for organization and Study, for children with LD
http://www.ncld.org/students-disabilities/assistive-technology-education/apps-students-ld-organization-study
Federal Job Training for People With LD: The Workforce Investment Act
http://www.ncld.org/ld-insights/blogs/federal-job-training-workforce-investment-act
Scholarships for students with Learning Disability article from US News and World Report:
www.usnews.com/education/blogs/the-scholarship-coach/2012/10/25/5-scholarships-for-students-with-learning-disabilities?goback=.gde_149741_member_180640290
FREE E-Book: Understanding High-Stakes Testing and Its Impact on Students with Learning Disabilities
http://info.ncld.org/free-e-book-understanding-high-stakes--testing-and-its-impact--on-students-with--learning-disabilities/?utm_source=LDOnLine.org&utm_medium=Twitter
Student Educational Development Fund: Helping to meet the needs of students with leaning differences.
http://www.sedfund.org/
Questions Parents should ask about RTI:
http://www.ncld.org/students-disabilities/rti-parent-school-relationship/questions-parents-should-ask-about-rti
Parents Guide and Questions to ask about RTI: From Wrightslaw
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/rti.parent.guide.htm
Typical Behavior Problems at Formal Events—and How to Prevent Them. From NCLD
http://www.ncld.org/parents-child-disabilities/social-emotional-skills/how-to-prevent-typical-behavior-problems-formal-events?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=FB&utm_campaign=social_for_parents
After School, Sports and Camps;
WJCS After-School & Weekend Programs
http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs038/1102918552911/archive/1110381423610.htm
Camp Guides by Special Need:
http://fcsn.org/camps/
The Miracle League of Westchester County's mission is to establish and sustain baseball programs for people (of all ages) with disabilities. Our objective is to provide an opportunity for those individuals to experience the joy and benefits that come from playing our national pastime.
http://www.mlwny.org/
Backyard Sports Plus: Four Seasons Of Special Needs Sports Programming
http://byardsports.com/special-needs.html
WJCS Autism Family Center Camp Guide 2013
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=pkddrfdab&v=001C8QXJYUMj5dcQ4dDSveBDP2yOwNDKFtP9mOINlZHH9eZZqxB8bnu8xLFP3bdEc6B8AV56nlMGm54htpAX2k5uBs6M-GwAdOngCxfFNbgkO8uLRcurvaBavKRZ8DTniem
SPARC catalog for 2013-14; Recreational programs for persons with developmental disabilities
http://www.sparcinc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/sparc_brochure_2013-2014.pdf
The Rolling Thunder NJ Running Program for children with special needs.
Each runner has a one on one coach.
http://triplehelixblog.com/2012/01/grassroots-special-needs-program-seeks-the-paralympic-dream/
http://www.rtsnp.org/Home/Home.html
Anti Bullying Resources and Articles;
Bullying Prevention resources: Many are federal and national resources, some are state specific but may have NY sites
http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=975835
Bullying and Your Child’s Legal Rights, from NCLD
http://www.ncld.org/parents-child-disabilities/bullying/bullying-child-legal-rights
Assistive Technology and Apps;
The Friendship Circle App Review gives you the ability to browse through hundreds of special needs apps
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2013/01/29/friendship-circle-launches-the-special-needs-app-review/
Family Center on Technology and Disability: A resource for assistive technologies
http://www.fctd.info/
IEP Information and Articles:
Resolving IEP Disputes
Conflict between parents and schools is normal and inevitable.
You need to learn:
- Strategies to resolve disagreements
- Steps to take if you disagree with the school
- Options you have if unable to resolve disputes
Options for Resolving IEP Disputes
http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/iep.disputes.popup.htm
What to Do When the School Doesn't Respond?
http://www.wrightslaw.com/advoc/guest/Kerr_Meetings_Progess.htm
Effective IEP Teams: Reality or Impossible Dream?
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=6651
Wrights Law Blog: The School Insists We Medicate My Daughter!
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=9227
Negotiating for Extended School Year
http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/13/nl.0430.htm
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) Requirement in IDEA
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=2823
Can I Write on the IEP?
IEP FAQs
In This Issue ... Do you have questions about IEPs? You are not alone!
Do you know your rights and responsibilities as a member of the IEP Team when developing your child's Individualized Education Plan?
In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate you will get answers to your frequently asked questions about IEPs. Learn where to find the answers in the IDEA law and regulations about IEPs.
Please don't hesitate to forward this series to other friends, families, or colleagues.
Not a subscriber? Sign up FREE Today! Read previous issues Find Wrightslaw on Facebook
Can I Write on the IEP?
There is no legal or commonsense reason why a parent or any other IEP team member cannot write on a child’s IEP.
Has this happened to you? Find out how to take advantage of it!
When Must the IEP Team Develop a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?
IEP teams must consider behavior problems, communication problems, and other special factors.
Click on the IEP Special Factors Pop-Up for answers to questions, federal law or regulations that support these answers, and additional resources.
What Does the Law Require
- IEP Team Attendance
- Development of IEPs
- Consideration of Special Factors
- Review and Revision of IEPs
What Do I Need to Know About IDEA & IEPs?
Visit the Wrightslaw IEP Page for:
- Articles and Tips
- Tactics and strategies
- IEP Caselaw
- Free publications & recommended books
Case of the Year from Wrightslaw
Parent Participation in the IEP
In This Issue ...
Parents have an important role as members of the IEP Team.
Has your school held an IEP meeting when you were not able to attend?
If there are scheduling conflicts for an IEP meeting, whose attendance has priority?
In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate learn the Court's decision in a landmark case about parent participation at IEP meetings. Parent attendance must take priority over attendance of other team members.
Please don't hesitate to forward this series to other friends, families, or colleagues.
Failing to Include a Parent at the IEP Meeting Violates IDEA
In Doug C. v. Hawaii, the Court said failing to include the parent at the IEP meeting violated the procedural requirement of IDEA and invalidated the IEP. This ruling is one reason Pete is nominating Doug C. to be "Case of the Year."
Read Pete's analysis of Doug C. v. Hawaii
Note: All parents and all special education staff who conduct IEP meetings should be familiar with this landmark ruling.
Pete Walks You Through the Case Ruling
Watch the video discussion of Doug C. Download and print the Decision.
You will see the actual decision on screen as Pete walks you through it, highlighting key provisions.
Grab your highlighter and be prepared to pause, back up, and replay video portions as you read and digest what happened in this case.
IEP Team Meetings: The Excusal Rule
Do parents have to excuse members of the IEP Team?
Are there penalties for schools that routinely excuse IEP Team members?
If you don't know, find the answers in Chapter 2 of Wrightslaw: All About IEPs
Poll: Required IEP Team Members
We know parents are required members of the IEP team. Do you know the other members required by IDEA?
Who is not required?
IEP information from Wrightslaw:
Does your child's IEP measure up?
Good IEPs set the standard for good education.
- Does your child's IEP provide quality services?
- Does it focus on teaching your child to read, write, and do math?
- Does it list all the accommodations & modifications your child needs?
Please don't hesitate to forward this series to other friends, families, or colleagues.
Not a subscriber? Sign up FREE Today! Read previous issues Find Wrightslaw on Facebook
Tactics & Strategies for Getting SMART IEPs
If your child's IEP is not SMART and does not include academic and functional goals, it is defective and may deny FAPE.
Learn how to ensure that your child's IEP goals are specific, comprehensive - and measurable.
Tips and Tricks for Getting Effective IEPs
Want an effective IEP this year? Get 10 Tips and Tricks!
- what to do before the IEP meeting
- how to prepare
- what you need to learn
- what to request
- how & when to review
Learn how to design accurate and up-to-date present levels so you can get the program, placement, or education your child needs.
Present Levels: The Foundation of the IEP
Who can override an IEP, from Wrightslaw:
http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=2189
Landmark Case Affects IEP Meetings By joslyngray | July 19th, 2013 at 3:36 pm
http://www.babble.com/mom/special-education-landmark-case-affects-iep-meetings/
As special education teachers and parents of special needs kids know equally well, sometimes it’s all in the details. Children with special education needs have carefully-crafted Individual Education Plans, or IEPs.
IEPs are legal documents, and there are a lot of seemingly tiny details involved. Because any one of those details can change everything about your child’s education, IEP meetings are incredibly important (and often incredible stressful).
In a landmark ruling recently issued by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, an important decision was made about parental participation at IEP meetings.
The case, Doug C. vs. Hawaii (12-15079), involves a child, Spencer C., whose IEP meeting was held in the parent’s absence. The child’s father, Doug C., requested a due process hearing. He lost the due process hearing, and appealed that decision to the U.S. District Court, which upheld the Hearing Officer’s decision. The case was then appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. (For clarification, the U.S. Court of Appeals is a step below the Supreme Court.)
Hawaii’s Department of Education argued that the IEP meeting needed to take place before the IEP annual review deadline, or else services would “lapse.” Therefore, they held the meeting at its scheduled time and day, despite Doug C. requesting a change because he was sick that day.
Ultimately, the 9th Circuit sided with Doug C., saying that having a parent present at an IEP meeting must take priority over both the schedules of the staff, and even the looming deadline to get the IEP document done.
The education law website wrightslaw has an excellent analysis of the case, offering some salient points that affect families with IEPs:
- “Services do not lapse because of the lack of a new IEP,” says the analysis, co-written by Pete Wright, Esq. and Pamela Wright, MA, MSW.
- Parent involvement is critical in the creation of the IEP; after-the-fact parental involvement, even within 30 days of the creation of the IEP, is not enough.
- The attendance of the parent must take priority over other members’ attendance. The Wrights quote the court’s decision: “The attendance of [the]. . . parent, must take priority over other members’ attendance . . . an agency cannot exclude a parent from an IEP meeting in order to prioritize its representatives’ schedules.”
Read more from Joslyn on Babble and at her blog, stark. raving. mad. mommy. You can also follow Joslyn on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
504 information;
Section 504 and IDEA Comparison Chart
School can be a stressful environment for the child and a time of vulnerability. Appropriate accommodations and modifications can reduce stress and can assist in achieving and maintaining educational success.
As a parent, you are your child's greatest advocate, supporter, and cheerleader. By becoming knowledgeable regarding educational laws as well as services and programs available within your community, you can ensure that your child receives a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). There are two primary laws that cover your child's rights to a public education:
- Individuals with Disability Education Improvement Act (IDEA)
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Understanding how Section 504 and IDEA work with each other and complement each other allows you as the parent to better assist your child's educational team in ensuring your child's right to a Free and Appropriate Education (FAPE) is provided allowing for maximum educational success.
http://www.ncld.org/disability-advocacy/learn-ld-laws/adaaa-section-504/section-504-idea-comparison-chart
Frequently Asked Questions About Section 504 and the Education of Children with Disabilities
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/504faq.html
Post Secondary and Adult planning;
Individualized Learning Plan Fact Sheet, a guide for secondary school to help plan for post secondary.
http://www.ncwd-youth.info/fact-sheet/individualized-learning-plan
Community Building 101 for Adults with Disabilities, FRED conference provides actionable information
http://blog.sfgate.com/lshumaker/2012/03/07/community-building-101-for-adults-with-disabilities-fred-conference-provides-actionable-information/
We Connect is dedicated to uniting college students with disabilities in access to higher education and employment issues.
http://weconnectnow.wordpress.com/
Terminology and Definitions;
What You Need to Know about NICHCY’s Disability Fact Sheets:Each fact sheet includes a definition, causes, characteristics, incidence, educational considerations and helpful organizations for further information.
usodep.blogs.govdelivery.com/2012/08/29/what-you-need-to-know-about-nichcys-disability-fact-sheets
Accommodations versus modifications: What is the difference and when are they used.
http://nichcy.org/accommodations-and-modifications#.UU8tMeY6cSs.twitter
What is FAPE, and what does it mean for my child
http://www.ncld.org/parents-child-disabilities/ld-rights/what-is-fape-what-can-it-mean-my-child
Religious Services for children and young adults:
Yad B'Yad is a synagogue based inclusive program for Jewish teenagers with
developmental challenges that focuses on social skills and Jewish education.
The target population for the program is Jewish teens ages
13 to 21 who struggle with social interactions and may have learning,
cognitive or emotional challenges.
http://www.nykolami.org/youth-programming/yad-b-yad
Blogs and You Tube channels for information concerning special needs:
The Coffee Klatch Special Needs Blog Talk Radio
http://thecoffeeklatch.com/
Special Needs Talk Radio
http://www.specialneedstalkradio.com/
The Coffee Klatch YouTube Channel
http://thecoffeeklatch.com/coffeeklatchvideos/
NPR Fresh Air interview, Neurotribes- examines the history and myths of the Autism Spectrum
http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/09/02/436742377/neurotribes-examines-the-history-and-myths-of-the-autism-spectrum
Videos, Documentaries and Television coverage:
Extended Interview: David Mitchell disputes the notion that those with autism lack empathy. A discussion of the book, Why I Jump, written by a 13 year old young man with Autism.
http://on.cc.com/18sLMLV
HEROES GET REMEMBERED BUT LEGENDS NEVER DIE, The story of John Cleaver Kelly, a film about the life of John Kelly and his battle with OCD.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDJGSHF6hJk
Limited Funds, Lingering Bias Has Delayed States' ADA Compliance
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/government_programs/july-dec13/ada_08-07.html
1-hour interactive interview on the integration of neuroscience and clinical practice for emotional and behavior disorders in youth with Dr. Adam Weissman.
s3.amazonaws.com/tpi-audios-authors/AdamWeissman.mp3
National Center for Learning Disabilities Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t qualify for an #IEP! There are alternatives. Watch this video.
http://www.ncld.org/learning-disability-resources/videos/video-iep-advice-not-eligible
Making Inclusion a Reality for Your School 08/10 by The Inclusive Class Podcast
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/the-inclusive-class/2012/08/10/making-inclusion-a-reality-for-your-school
A NCLD video explaining Response to Intervention,(RTI).
http://www.ncld.org/learning-disability-resources/videos/video-what-is-response-to-intervention-rti
PBS; Newshour, Five misconceptions about Learning Disabilities
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2012/03/five-misconceptions-about-learning-disabilities.html?utm_source=LDOnLine.org&utm_medium=Twitter
Articles and Blogs:
A Child With Autism Becomes a Teenager With Expectations By PRISCILLA GILMAN
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/10/20/a-child-with-autism-becomes-a-teenager-with-expectations/?_r=1&
Intense Training Program Helps Students With Autism Land Jobs - WSJ.com
http://m.us.wsj.com/articles/a/SB10001424127887324094704579069090866313258?mg=reno64-wsj
What is Neurodiversity? Neurodiversity means many things to people. Here's my first person definition;
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/my-life-aspergers/201310/what-is-neurodiversity
Info about data privacy and inBloom from NYSED at the NYC Council hearings; NO parent opt out or district opt-out EVER
NYC Public School Parents: The good news and mostly bad news from NYSED at the NYC Council...nycpublicschoolparents.blogspot.com
Behavior at School
http://nichcy.org/schoolage/behavior/atschool
16 Tips for Traveling with a child with special needs, from the Friendship Circle Blog:
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2012/01/09/a-special-needs-pre-flight-checklist/
Child Mind Institute: When to Wait: Getting Kids Care, concern about a child's development or behavior.
http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/articles/2013-7-16-when-wait-guide-getting-kids-care-or-not
Bullying and Your Child’s Legal Rights, from NCLD
http://www.ncld.org/parents-child-disabilities/bullying/bullying-child-legal-rights
Animals, Nature Offer Children a Fresh Start Two special-needs schools help kids succeed using horses, dogs, sheep—even injured birds of prey
http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/articles/2013-4-30-animals-nature-offer-children-fresh-start
Defining Ourselves: Why Language Matters Posted By Administration, Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Written by Mark Martin, Esq. and Jennifer Laviano, Esq.
The original federal special education laws were enacted over 35 years ago, as one of many pieces of federal legislation which sought to enforce the Civil Rights that were being denied to disenfranchised or underrepresented individuals. Yet, somewhere along the way, it seems that people have forgotten that special education is a Civil Rights issue.
http://www.copaa.org/blogpost/895540/161625/Defining-Ourselves-Why-Language-Matters
Neurodiversity IS the Next Civil Rights Movement
http://ollibean.com/2013/02/21/neurodiversity-civil-rights-movement/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=neurodiversity-civil-rights-movement
NY Times: A Guide in the Darkness,
For-families-struggling-with-mental-illness-carolyn-wolf-is-a-guide-in-the-darkness
http://nyti.ms/XtUm4n
Redefining Inclusion: A great blog about what inclusion really needs to be.
http://blog.kitonline.org/2013/02/04/redefine-inclusion/
NY Times: A Child With Down Syndrome Keeps His Place at the Table
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/26/opinion/a-child-with-down-syndrome-keeps-his-place-at-the-table.html?smid=fb-share&_r=0
Inclusion Resolution: 10 Ways To Include A Child With Special Needs In 2013, from Friendship Circle's Blog:
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2013/01/03/inclusion-resolution-10-ways-to-include-a-child-with-special-needs-in-2013/
What Kind of Organizer is Your Child?
http://special-ism.com/what-kind-of-organizer-is-your-child/
NYTimes: Laws of Physics Can't Trump the Bonds of Love
http://nyti.ms/W2cmmf
NYTimes: The Autism Advantage
http://nyti.ms/UcrOg7
http://nyti.ms/UcrOg7New York State Bill S7722A Special Education Change is Pushed: Street Journal Article
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304211804577501082865373076.html
Trauma-Sensitive Schools Are Better Schools
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jane-ellen-stevens/trauma-sensitive-schools_b_1625924.html
NY State to Propose New Graduation Requirements for Students with Disabilities – SchoolBook
http://www.nytimes.com/schoolbook/2012/04/20/state-to-propose-new-graduation-requirements-for-students-with-disabilities/
Education Weekly Special Education Spotlight: This file has several articles lots of information.
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=gmail&attid=0.1&thid=136bb040b7653869&mt=application/pdf&url=https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui%3D2%26ik%3Db048510f9c%26view%3Datt%26th%3D136bb040b7653869%26attid%3D0.1%26disp%3Dsafe%26zw&sig=AHIEtbRgqznK469gj3E_KVyPyp7EH0CXrA&pli=1
Aging Out: When kids with Autism Grow Up
http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/articles/2012-4-2-aging-out-when-kids-autism-grow-up-lose-services
Learning to Drive with ADHD
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/27/health/add-and-adhd-challenge-those-seeking-drivers-license.html?_r=2&hp=&pagewanted=all
Autism and Parenting: Don't be Afraid to Ask for Help
http://blog.sfgate.com/lshumaker/2012/03/10/autism-and-parenting-dont-be-afraid-to-ask-for-help/
Special Education Articles
http://www.specialeducationadvisor.com/special-education/special-education-articles/
NY Times Article, "Navigating Love and Autism"
http://nyti.ms/v6MIDq
NY Times Article, "New Film Tells Story of Torres’s Struggles With A.D.H.D."
New Film Tells Story of Torres's Struggles With A.D.H.D.
New Definition of Autism May Exclude Many, Study Suggests
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/20/health/research/new-autism-definition-would-exclude-many-study-suggests.html?emc=eta1
Special Education Advisor "Playing (and winning) the School districts game of chicken"
http://www.specialeducationadvisor.com/playing-and-winning-the-school-districts-game-of-chicken/
Thirteen things to keep in mind as your child with ASD reaches adolescence
http://autismcollege.com/blog/2012/03/02/13-things-to-keep-in-mind-as-your-child-with-asd-reaches-adolescence/I
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