PLUK News feed

Answers About Dyslexia and other Learning Differences – to Ensure Success in School and Life - Bozeman - Dates Listed

What:
This free seminar shines new light on how the natural ability to think in pictures can be a disability in word thinking settings.  10 – 15% of the population struggle with learning, are often misunderstood, leading to frustration and low self-esteem.  Strategies exist for those working hard and not getting the results they expect. 

* Thinking style—Learning differences
* The two facets of Dyslexia: The disability…and THE GIFT
* Why creativity holds a critical key to visual-spatial learning
* Overview of Davis® Dyslexia Correction Program
* Teacher Renewal and Continuing Education Units Available
* Strategies to use your way of thinking to your advantage

Presenter: Elsie Johnson, DDAI Certified Facilitator, Educational Therapist

When:
Thursday, February 23, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Saturday, February 25, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Thursday, April 19, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday, April 21, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Thursday, May 17, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Saturday. May 19, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Where:
Pilgrim Church, 2118 South 3rd Avenue
Bozeman, MT 59715

Contact:  
Elsie Johnson 
Phone: 406-282-7416
Email:  elsie@thelearningoptions.com
Website: www.thelearningoptions.com
Seating is limited - Pre-registration is required. 

2012 Girls For A Change Conference - Bozeman - February 25, 2012

Some of this year's workshops include:
Writing, Bollywod Dancing, Understanding Money, Dance NIA, DIY Fashion, International Culture, Intro to College, Japanese Drumming, Taekwondo, Personality Exploration, Sustainable Energy, Cooking and more!

What:
Keynote speaker and President of Montana State University, Dr. Waded Cruzado is the first woman and first minority to serve as a university president in the state of Montana. Her commitment to teaching and volunteer service is certain to be an inspiration for all Montana girls.

History of GFAC:
Girls for a Change is a grass-roots initiative designed to empower girls to embrace their future--confident in their individuality, supported by friends, parents and mentors, and secure in their ability to lead and achieve self-sufficiency, fulfillment, balance and success. Founded in 1997 by sixteen girls and their female mentors, Girls for a Change (GFAC) is a signature program of Thrive devoted to supporting and encouraging the successful development of girls.

GFAC Activities:
Each year GFAC plans an annual conference, does one local and one international community service project, participates and facilitates workshops and attends a retreat. GFAC participants also meet and facilitate activities with international visitors resulting in an ongoing dialogue about girls' and womens' issues in different cultures.

Outcomes of GFAC:
Girls feel confident about themselves and their ability to succeed--Girls gain public speaking skills--Girls are empowered to accomplish their goals and dreams--Girls learn what strengths they already possess and how to build on those strengths--Girls learn that there are all different kinds of beauty--Girls gain exposure to other girls from different social, cultural and international backgrounds--Girls learn to work together as a team.

When:
Saturday, February 25, 2012

Where:
MSU Strand Union Building
Bozeman, MT

Contact:
Email: gfac@allthrive.org
Phone: (406)587-3840
Website: allthrive.org

Health News - New Report Examines Autism Needs for Patients and Families in Pennsylvania

• Health News - New Report Examines Autism Needs for Patients and Families in Pennsylvania

  tags: autism survey

  • PHILADELPHIA –Results were released yesterday from the Pennsylvania Autism Needs Assessment, which includes feedback from 3,500 Pennsylvania caregivers and adults with autism, making it the largest study of its kind in the nation.  Among the findings, the study shows that training in social skills has been identified as the most common unmet need for both children and adults with autism.  The study also found that more than two-thirds of adults with autism are unemployed or underemployed. The survey was led by the Center for Mental Health Policy and Services Research in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

    “The results of the needs assessment provide the most comprehensive and specific information to date about where Pennsylvania has been successful and where we still need work in helping people with autism and their families,” said David Mandell, ScD, associate director, Center for Mental Health Policy and Services Research. “My hope is that these results will be an important driver of new policy and innovative practices for years to come.”

Special Needs Planning Solutions - Billings - February 2, 2012

What:
Join us for a presentation on "Special Needs Planning Solutions" by Michael Ray, parent of a child with disabilities and a partner at Yellowstone Financial Services.

You'll learn vital information and important steps in planning for a secure future for your child, when you're no longer here to care for him or her.

When:
Thursday, February 2, 2012
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Where:
Easter-Seals Goodwill
1537 Ave D, Suite 115
Billings, MT

Contact:
Kelly Melius
Phone: (406)657-9728

Got Transition Radio- Episode 6: Let’s Talk About Transition and School: Health & the IEP - Radio Episode/Webinar - February 22, 2012

Register here!

What:
Got Transition recognizes that health care transition often begins at home with preparation and planning- but where else do young people spend most of their time?  School!  Tune into this first episode of a series related to how healthcare transition might be addressed in the school setting.  In this episode, Eileen and Mallory will discuss the Individual Education Plan (IEP) process as a key element in transition, keeping it student centered, and real ways to incorporate goals related to health!

When:
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM MDT

Contact:
Got Transition?
Phone: 603-228-8811

Assistive Technology (AT) Evaluation: Hitting the Target and Supporting Implementation - Webinar - February 8, 2012

What:
This presentation addresses the components of a successful Assistive Technology (AT) evaluation, who needs to be involved, models for effectiveness and how to make sure that the evaluation results support successful implementation.

Webinar attendees will learn the difference between consideration and evaluation, how to leverage IEP team or 504 team participation in the evaluation process and how to translate data collection and findings from the AT evaluation into successful implementation within a plan based on the environments and tasks the individual is likely to encounter. 

This webinar will examine questions parents and advocates should ask to guide and inform participants in the evaluation process.

We will explore the legal obligations of schools to provide assistive technology evaluations and examine the factors that often go awry as well as suggestions for moving the process forward in the best and most effective manner possible.

Time is provided for questions from participants.

Registration: Cost: $50
Your purchase includes one web access and one toll-free phone line for live 90-minute event, materials and unlimited access to Webinar archive. Gather a group in one location so many can participate for one low price!

Click here for secure online purchasing!

When:
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
12:00 pm - 1:30 PM MT

Contact:
The Advocacy Institute
Phone: 540-364-0051
Email: info@advocacyinstitute.org

GraduateFIRST: The Dropout Prevention Destination - Webinar - February 28, 2012

What:
Improving graduation rates have factored into political, economic, and education discussions because earning a high school diploma has been described as having individual and community economic benefit. However, even with educational reforms, dropout rates in some communities remain high. Schools often find addressing the challenges associated with improving graduation rates to be difficult, but for students with disabilities, the challenges can be even more complex. Georgia's GraduateFIRST initiative is designed to help students with disabilities and other students who are struggling stay in school and graduate.

When:
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
10:00 am -11:30 am MST

Contact:
All registration is free. To register you can call 1-800-775-7654 or register online here!

For more information you can Email Sarah Melpignano at smelpignano@edc.org

U.S. GAO - Higher Education and Disability: Improved Federal Enforcement Needed to Better Protect Students' Rights to Testing Accommodations

• U.S. GAO - Higher Education and Disability: Improved Federal Enforcement Needed to Better Protect Students' Rights to Testing Accommodations

  tags: testing accommodations

  • Among accommodations requested and granted in the most recent testing year, approximately three-quarters were for extra time, and about half were for applicants with learning disabilities. High school and postsecondary school officials GAO interviewed reported advising students about which accommodations to request and providing documentation to testing companies, such as a student's accommodations history.

Grandparent Support Group Hosts Local Speakers - Billings - January 31, 2012

Read more here!

What:
The Yellowstone County Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group will feature a special informational presentation by Bernie Hedrick from the State of Montana Youth Services Center and LeAnn Logan from Parents Let’s Unite for Kids (PLUK) at the Tuesday, Jan. 31, meeting. Hedrick and Logan will discuss how to appropriately handle some of the behavior issues that grandparents deal with in raising their grandchildren. They will also discuss how families can best access community services when help is needed.

When:
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
6:30 pm

Where:
Forever Families building
1411 Fourth Ave
Billings, MT

Contact:
Bernie Mason
Phone: 256-2828

Free Books For Kids Now Also Available In Braille : NPR

• Free Books For Kids Now Also Available In Braille : NPR

  tags: books braille

  • Soniya Patel's 3-year-old daughter loves getting a book in the mail each month. It comes from the Dollywood Foundation's Imagination Library, which sends free books each month to hundreds of thousands of children. But Patel is blind, so reading new books to her daughter isn't so simple. Patel has the book read aloud to her, and she transcribes the text on her Braille typewriter — and then she can read the new book to her daughter.

Using Technology to Communicate with your Developmentally Disabled Child (Part 2) - Webinar - February 14, 2012

Click here for more information on this webinar! (PDF)

Register for the webinar here!

What:
Continuing with the Strategies for Success Webinar Series, parents Jennifer Bertram (Meghan's mom) and Elizabeth Aquino (Sophie's mom) share their stories of how communication programs and technology such as the iPhone and iPad have helped them communicate with their non-verbal children. Our featured speaker, Cindy Cottier, a renowned speech-language pathologist and communications specialist, provides and in depth view of various communication tools and explains how the iPad is used as a communication tool for children and youth with epilepsy and other developmentally disabilities.

• Hear Jennifer's amazing story of Meghan using her iPhone
• Listen with delight as Elizabeth shares how the iPad has bonded their family closer together
• Learn from Cindy the benefits of the iPad along with applications for varied levels of communication
• Explore other tools, techniques and apps (free and low cost) that parents can use

When:
February 14, 2012
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm MST

Contact:
Valerie Hill
Phone: 301-918-3728.
Email: parentinfo@efa.org

Technology With Trina Halama: Smart Boards and Promethean Boards - Billings - February 21, 2012

Click here for more information!

What:
Is your whiteboard frustrating you? Are you merely using it to show videos or project? Do you want to learn how to get our students out of their chair and up to the board? Do you know how to use your tool bar, find lessons, import data, embed videos? These are a few of the topics Trina will be reviewing for February's Tech Tuesday. If possible, please download Active Inspire or Notebook software on your computer before attending this session. 

Participants must bring a laptop computer.
Registration fee: $10

When:
February 21, 2012
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Where:
MSU-Billings College of Education Building
Room 160

Contact:
John Keener
Phone: (406)657-1743
Email:john.keener@msubillings.edu

or

Debra Miller
Phone: (406)657-2072
Email: dmiller@msubillings.edu

Some of Nation’s Finest Talk About Teaching in Rural America | ED.gov Blog

• Some of Nation’s Finest Talk About Teaching in Rural America | ED.gov Blog

  tags: US Department of Education Rural Education

  • When the White House recently celebrated the latest class of National Board Certified teachers, several of the honorees traveled to Washington from some of America’s most remote and distant rural communities to receive the teaching profession’s highest credential. During their visit, we caught up with these rural teachers to hear their stories about what it’s like to teach in rural America.

Child Find Clinics - Joliet/Laurel/Canyon Creek and other areas - Feb. 21, 22, 24, 2012

Click here for the full Child Find Brochure! (PDF)

What:
Click here to download full information on the Joliet/ Red Lodge/ Luther/ Roberts/ Bridger/ Fromberg/  Belfry Clinic! (PDF)

Click here to download full information on the the Laurel Clinic! (PDF)

Click here to download full information on the Canyon Creek/ Elysian/ Elder Grove/ Molt/ Morin/ Blue Creek Clinic! (PDF)

When and Where:
Tuesday, February 21, 2012 - Red Lodge / Luther / Joliet / Roberts   
                                                Bridger / Fromberg / Belfry

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 -  Laurel  (This clinic will be held at the “old” Laurel Middle School.)

Friday, February 24, 2012   -    Canyon Creek / Elysian / Elder Grove
                                                 Molt / Morin / Blue Creek / Pryor  
                                                 Broadview / Independent

Clinics are held at the schools that are BOLD printed

All start times are 8:30 am

Contact for appointments:
Joliet School
Phone: (406)962-3541

Laurel School
Phone: (406)628-3380

Canyon Creek School
Phone: (406)656-4471

Yellowstone-West/ Carbon County Special Services Cooperative
Phone: (406)-628-7903

Khan Academy - A free world-class education for anyone anywhere.

• Khan Academy - A free world-class education for anyone anywhere.

  tags: online education

  • The Khan Academy is an organization on a mission. We're a not-for-profit with the goal of changing education for the better by providing a free world-class education to anyone anywhere. 

      All of the site's resources are available to anyone. It doesn't matter if you are a student, teacher,  home-schooler, principal, adult returning to the classroom after 20 years, or a friendly alien just trying to get a leg up in earthly biology. The Khan Academy's materials and resources are available to you completely free of charge. 

Girls on the Spectrum: Q&A with the Author of Aspergirls - Billings, Helena, Missoula, Kalispell - April 25-28, 2012

What:
Is Asperger's syndrome really less common in girls and women, or are females just better than males at masking autistic symptoms?

Rudy Simone, a San Francisco singer, writer and stand-up comic, didn't learn that she was on the autism spectrum until her mid-40s. Simone has Asperger's syndrome - a high-functioning form of autism that leads to social problems but no intellectual disabilities - which, like all forms of autism, appear much more commonly in boys than in girls. Ten times more men are believed to reside on the spectrum than women.

But some experts think the real prevalence of Asperger's in girls may be much higher than believed, because girls tend to be far better than boys at concealing its symptoms, masking social problems and hiding the repetitive behaviors often associated with autism. So, many women go undiagnosed until middle age, along the way given other labels and therapies that do not address their real issues.

To help make up for the lack of resources available to girls with Asperger's and their families, Simone wrote Aspergirls: Empowering Females with Asperger's Syndrome. Healthland spoke with her recently.

Read more: http://healthland.time.com/2011/12/27/mind-reading-a-qa-with-the-author-of-aspergirls/#ixzz1hl7AHuDt

Ms. Simone will be speaking in Montana this spring. More details will be provided in mid-March. All of her appearances will free and open to the public.

Where and When:
Billings (CEC Conference) - April 25, 2012
Helena - April 26, 2012

Missoula - April 27, 2012
Kalispell - April 28, 2012

Contact:

Doug Doty, Coordinator

Website: www.opi.mt.gov/autism/maep
Phone: (406) 444-0907

Bozeman SEPTA Special Needs Expo - Bozeman - April 14, 2012

Click here to Register!

There are two different sessions  to choose from when registering.
Click here for more information!

What:
Spend a Saturday learning what you need to know to be the best resource to a child with Special Needs. At this first ever BOZEMAN SPECIAL NEEDS EXPO, you choose three of six focused sessions to attend. In addition, the Resources Fair will be staffed by many different organizations that provide services and support. Light breakfast and lunch are included, child care is available through registration, and raffle prizes will make this a day not to miss. This event has been approved for up to 4 OPI renewal units.

Click here for information on the classroom award!

Cost: $5.00* SEPTA Member, $10.00* Non-Septa member (Deadline April 1)
OR $25.00 at the door. Fees are recommended donation.)
All monies handled at the door - so simply sign up to attend and for child care.

When:
Saturday April 14, 2012
9:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
(Check-in at 8:15 a.m.)

Where:
Bozeman United Methodist Church

School and Community Partnerships for Effective Secondary Transition Planning - Billings - Feb. 28, 2012

Click here for more information!

What:
Highly interactive training that will include:

• Representatives from Montana's Office of Public Instruction, Special Educations Division, presenting to both agency and school personnel, detailing transition activities as required by law.
• Networking lunch (provided)
• Facilitated round table discussion with school personnel to more deeply explore how school should design and implement transition programs.

Speakers:
Dale Anderson was a special education teacher for many years in Billings Public Schools. After he retired, the Montana Office of Public Instruction asked him to participate in a variety of projects such as the Montana Behavioral Initiative. He has provided technical assistance in the areas of secondary transition, special education monitoring, and compliance to special education rules and procedures.

Margaret Tryon has been a special education teacher for 17 years, special education director 15 years, and school psychologist 9 years. She also works part time for the Office of Public Instruction providing technical assistance and monitoring for compliance in special education. She has been involved with transition projects for many years. She is currently working part time at Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch, Office of Public Instruction, and Custer Public Schools.

When:
February 28, 2012
8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Where:
MSU Billings Campus
College of Ed Bldg Rm 122

Contact:
Debra Miller
Phone: (406) 657-2027
Email: dmiller@msubillings.edu

Trainer of Paraeducator Academies(TOPA) Train the Trainer Session - Columbus - Feb. 1, 2012

Click here for full information! (PDF)

What:
This Trainer of Paraeducator Academies (TOPA) train the trainer session is designed for experienced educators that have worked with paraprofessionals. The session will provide an overview of the essential skills needed to be an effective presenter, how to use Powerpoint presentations, and will give each participant access to online information to teach the twenty two academies. These academies provide a solid working foundation for teachers and paraprofessionals that create a common understanding of special education goals, objectives, and language. These trainings are a great way to create a team approach to meet the needs of students.

When:
February 1, 2012
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Where:
Columbus Middle School
Mini Computer Lab

Contact:
Monica Pugh
Phone: (406) 322-5298
Email: ssgpugh11@yahoo.com

Montana AGATE Conference: Gifted Matters - Great Falls - April 12-14, 2012

Register here!! (PDF)

What:
We'll have three great keynote speakers -  Brian Housand, Marcia Gentry and James Webb - plus about 30 additional breakout sessions for you to choose from.

Click here to download the full conference schedule!

Here's your chance to sound off on a gifted education topic near and dear to you, to share your experiences, and/or develop your credentials as an expert on giftedness.   Montana AGATE is now accepting Applications to Present.   You can be a breakout session speaker or leader at our spring conference.

Applications to speak are due Friday, February 24th.

When:
April 12–14, 2012
All day

Where:
Hilton Garden Inn
Marketplace - 2520 14th St. S
Great Falls, MT

Contact:
Darci Herbstritt
Email: agsnmt@msn.com
Phone: (406) 961-3261 ext. 326

Communication with the Public - Webinar - February 17, 2012

Click here for more information! (PDF)

What:
A webinar discussing gathering from and sharing information with the public and strategies for public communication.

When:
February 17, 2012
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Mountain

Contact:
Registration information available in PDF file located at top.

3rd Annual School Mental Health Conference - Helena - March 1-2, 2012

Click here to register!

What:
The focus of this year's conference is to explore school mental health work within a 3-tiered context; we will take a strategic look at how our work can be understood as a multi-tiered system of support.  We will examine how existing support structures such as High-Fidelity Wraparound, Montana Behavioral Initiative (MBI), Montana School Counseling Program, and Comprehensive School and Community Treatment, framed within the three tiers, could provide a continuum of academic and positive behavior supports.  Nationally recognized speakers Dr. Lucille Eber and Dr. John VanDenBerg will share their expertise.

If you are interested in sharing your good work at the state conference, please apply to present!  Three 75-minute presentations will be selected and showcased during the second day of the conference.  We are looking for presentations that address the mental health needs of students within the 3-tiers and/or focuses on meeting student need within one specific tier.

Click here if you are interested in presenting!

Whether you can attend the conference or not, we ask you to contribute to this work by taking this brief survey about the provision of mental health services in your school.  This survey has been given each year and we use the data to inform statewide planning concerning school mental health.  Your perspective is critical, so please take this survey and pass it on to others in your school community who may offer additional insights.  Thank you for taking this survey today.

Click here to take the survey!

When:
March 1-2, 2012

Where:
Red Lion Colonial Hotel
Helena, MT

Contact:
Susan Bailey-Anderson
Phone: 406-444-2046
Email: sbanderson@mt.gov
Website: www.opi.mt.gov

Adapting Toys and Play - Webinar - January 25, 2012

Register here!

What:

Deidre Omahen, Director of Training and Affiliates will be presenting this 1.5 hour webinar on Lekotek's principles of toy adaptation. She will also share ideas for adapting technology including apps and adaptive software.

When:

 Wednesday, January 25

11:00 pm-12:30 pm Mountain

Cost: $30 (includes CE and EI credit)

 

HEY, no worries if you miss the "Adapting Toys and Play" webinar...Lekotek is offering the recorded version up to one year so you can learn at your leisure.

 
Contact:
Email: lekotek@lekotek.org

Developing an Effective Behavior Plan - Webinar - January 25, 2012

Register here!

What:
In this webinar, we will discuss the importance of:

• Determine the function of a behavior to plan an intervention
• Using proactive strategies to address a variety of behaviors
• Ongoing data analysis to monitor progress of an intervention

When:
January 25, 2012
4:00 pm MST

MATR News: Disability Rights Montana Attorneys Alexandra Volkerts and Andree Larose Win National Advocates of the Year Award

• MATR News: Disability Rights Montana Attorneys Alexandra Volkerts and Andree Larose Win National Advocates of the Year Award

  tags: Montana

  • On June 7th, 2011, Disability Rights Montana (DRM) http://www.disabilityrightsmt.org and its client were honored in Baltimore at the annual National Disability Rights Network and TASC conference as Advocates of the Year for the work of two of DRM's senior attorneys, Alexandra Volkerts (Missoula) and Andree Larose (Helena).

Equal Access to Education | The White House

• Equal Access to Education | The White House

  tags: US Department of Education OCR civil rights ADA 504

  • Access to a high-quality education is critical for empowering all Americans to lead rich and productive lives.  Every day, the U.S. Department of Education and my office, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), work to ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, have equal access to that important benefit.  OCR does this by enforcing federal nondiscrimination laws, including two that specifically protect individuals from discrimination on the basis of disability: the Americans with Disabilities Act (the ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504).

Get Ready to Read

• Get Ready to Read

  tags: reading early learning Learning Disabilities literacy

  • Get Ready to Read! is designed to support educators, parents, and young children in the development of early literacy skills in the years before kindergarten. Intended for use with all children, the resources and information provided on this site promote skill-building, communication between adults, and ways to address concerns.

EQUIP: A Support Group To Equip Parents As They Begin The Adoption Journey - Bozeman - Second Thursday Monthly

Click here for more information! (PDF)

What:
9-month Parent Support Group Free of Charge. This group is designed for parents who are interested in adoption, in the process of adopting, those who have newly adopted, and interested others. EQUIP is a structured, psycho-educationally based group lead by a licensed therapist. Each month, we will concentrate on a specific topic relevant to adoption and have time for both teaching and discussion. This group is designed to support those beginning the adoption journey who would like information and the camaraderie of other families at the same early stage in the process. For parents who need the support of other families in dealing with specific challenges usually encountered once their adoptees are settled in (~ 1 year or more into the adoption), we offer the CONNECT group, also available once a month.

When:
The second Thursday of each month
7:00 pm to 8:30 pm

Where:
Evangelical Free Church
S. 19th St. Bozeman, MT, Room 102

Contact:
Kate Cremer-Vogel
Phone: 582-5480
Email: cremervogel@theglobal.net

SPRC Research to Practice Webinar Bullying and Suicide Prevention - Webinar - February 2, 2012

Click here to register!

What:
Many schools and communities are struggling to find effective ways to prevent both bullying and suicidal behavior among youth.  This webinar will provide the latest research and science on the relationship between bullying and suicide and will outline some of the shared risk and protective factors. The webinar will also discuss the main principles of a comprehensive whole school approach to bullying prevention. This presentation will be interactive, with opportunities to ask questions.

Objectives:

Participants will:

1.     Recognize the complex relationship between bullying and suicide.

2.     Understand key research findings related to effective bullying prevention approaches.

3.     Identify ways to integrate both bullying prevention and suicide prevention into school violence prevention initiatives.

When:
Thursday, February 2, 2012
1:00-2:30 p.m. Mountain Time

Contact:
Tiffany Kim
Phone: 202-572-3717
Email: tkim@edc.org

Understanding Montana Common Core Math Standards - Billings - January 26, 2012

What:
Topics to be Addressed:

• Tools and strategies to address Montana Common Core Math Standards
  
  • Montana Common Core Mathematical practices
  • Montana Common Core Mathematical learning progressions
• Building support among teachers

This workshop is appropriate for math and science teachers, curriculum directors, administrators, and those interested in learning mre about Common Core Math standards.

Registrations fee
$40: Participants are responsible for their own travel and meal costs. Substitute costs will be reimbursed (process will be discussed at the workshop).

OPI Renewal Units Available

When:
January 2, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Where:
MSU Billings Downtown Broadway III

Contact:
John Keener
Phone: (406) 657-1743
Email: john.keener@msubillings.edu

Deploying iPads and iTouches to Support Students in Special Education - Webinar - January 18, 2012

Click here to register!

What:
This webinar will discuss the process of deploying iPads and iTouches district wide to support students eligible for special education. Funding, logistics, and in-depth details of the deployment will be covered. Case Studies will be used to outline the process and the academic successes of students. Apps utilized will be demonstrated and student work will be shown. Key successes will be highlighted, as will areas of the deployment needing improvement. Take home points and conclusions from the deployment will be examined.

Registration fee: $49

Discounts
Be sure to check out our discounts for all upcoming webinar broadcasts - sign up for multiple webinars or multiple attendees and receive a discount based on the number of registrations on one transaction!

When:
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Mountain Time

Contact:
Toll-Free: 877-OUR-ATIA (687-2842)
Phone: 312-321-5172
E-mail: info@ATIA.org

New iPad Accessories and TidBits - Webinar - January 11, 2012

Click here to register!

 

What:

Start the New Year with great educational webinars!  Hear from these leaders in their field and use this opportunity to discuss your unique situations.

Learn the ins and outs of the new iPAD operating system 5.0 such as how to use all the accessibility features, new gestures, how to organize apps, how to find and make informed decisions on apps; Bluetooth switches, keyboards, speakers, mounts and iPAD protectors; three new ways to make and mount an iPAD; how to present and teach with an iPAD; how to document student performance; assessment tools for the iPAD; changing iPAD settings; returning iPAD apps that you don't want and much more.

REGISTRATION FEE:  $49

Discounts 

Be sure to check out our discounts for all upcoming webinar broadcasts - sign up for multiple webinars or multiple attendees and receive a discount based on the number of registrations on one transaction!

When:
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Mountain Time

Contact:
Toll-Free: 877-OUR-ATIA (687-2842)
Phone: 312-321-5172
E-mail: info@ATIA.org

2012 AMCHP Annual Conference: Improving Maternal and Child Health Across the Life Span - Washington, D.C. - Feb. 11-14, 2012

Click here for Registration and more information!

What and When:
Adolescent and Young Adult Health Institutue
Saturday, Feb. 11, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Interested in learning more about how your maternal and child health program can better serve adolescents? How well do you understand adolescent development? We know that adolescence is a time of biological, psychological and social changes – but we often view adolescence as a monolithic stage of development and design adolescent health programs accordingly. However, the reality is that there are several stages of development within adolescence – each with its own unique biological, psychological and social changes. If you’re interested in learning more about the different stages, needs and risk factors of adolescence and considering how these differences can impact your program design and implementation, join us for a two-part, day-long Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Institute.

Special Events
Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Block Grant Training-Current Initiatives and Updates
Saturday, Feb. 11, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

This session will provide an update on Title V MCH Block Grant activities. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and hear about the latest enhancements to the Title V Information System (TVIS); changes to the FY 2013 Title V MCH Block Grant Application/FY 2011 Annual Report submission process; revisions to the MCH Block Grant Application/Annual Report Guidance; new Women’s Health Profiles available on TVIS; State Priorities from 2000 to 2010, as reported in the 5-year Needs Assessments; and an update on the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program.

Sunday, February 12, 2012 1:00-3:30 p.m.
Networking Reception and John C. MacQueen Memorial Lecture (TBD)

Be an Influencer: How You Can Create Change for Healthy Tomorrows
Monday, February 13, 2012

Do you experience resistant and persistent personal, team, or organizational problems? Do you feel that you have the skills you need to motivate those you work with and exert your influence in your personal and professional lives? How can we improve MCH outcomes if we are not agents of change and influence in our organizations? Join us for a discussion of proven strategies you can use to uproot entrenched habits and create change initiatives for your team and your entire organization in this real-life, solution focused session. Want more after the session? Our presenter, Candace Bertotti, will convene a workshop for interested participants who want to know more about the Influencer model immediately following the general session.

Where:
Washington, D.C.

Contact:
AMCHP Help Desk
Phone: (202) 775-0436

Plain Talk About Reading - New Orleans, Louisiana - April 30 - May 2, 2012

Register here Or Click here for Hotel Accomodations, Reservations, etc...

What:
Plain Talk About Reading is heralded as the nation's premier reading institute. The Institute gained its reputation because of its clear focus on providing the latest scientifically based reading research (SBRR) and strategies for those who teach reading at all ages and grade levels.  

 

From the nation's leading researchers, you will learn the current findings on reading instruction, reading difficulties and reading intervention.

 

From seasoned practitioners, learn classroom strategies that put this knowledge to work. 

This Institute features a "who's who" of experts from researchers to practitioners, including Louisa Moats, Daniel Willingham, Maryanne Wolf, Anita Archer, Kate Cain, Sam Goldstein, Virginia Buysse, Joe Torgesen, Michael Fullan, Jack Fletcher, Jan Hasbrouck, Robert Pasternack, Judi Dodson, Cate Heroman, Linda Farrell, Mel Riddile, Anne Whitney, Susan Ebbers, Vicki Gibson, and many, many more!

Registration Fee: 

$645 per person (if received between 10/1/11 - 3/2/12)

$745 per person (if received after 3/2/12)

When:
April 30 - May 2nd, 2012

Where:
New Orleans, Louisiana

Contact:
The Center for Development and Learning
Website: learn@cdl.org
Phone: (504) 840-9786
Email: www.cdl.org

Region II CSPD Presents: Mental Math & Model Drawing - Great Falls, Havre - February 28- 29, 2012

For registration and more information click here! (PDF)

What:
Going Mental Over Math (a.m.)
Participants will develop strategies for doing and teaching mental math, learn and apply mental math strategies, as well as plan for classroom implementation of mental math strategies.

“Mental math provides both tools for solving problems and filters for evaluating answers. When a student has strong mental math skills, he or she can quickly test different approaches to a problem to determine whether the resulting path will lead toward a viable solution.”
(NCTM President, 2005)

Model Drawing (aka Bar Modeling) 101 (p.m.)
Participants will learn how to adapt a Singapore approach to meet the needs of your American classroom, practice a strategy that appeals to diverse learners by encouraging students to reach the same answer in different ways,  learn how to develop the critical sense of number and number relationships , and learn how to help your students (and quite possibly you) conquer their fear of word problems.

When and Where:
February 28, 2012, Great Falls, MT
Hampton Inn

February 29, 2012, Havre, MT
Fifth Avenue Christian Church

Contact:
Region II CSPD
Phone: (406) 265-4356 ext. 322

Transition To Adulthood - Billings - January 20, 2012

Click here for more information! (PDF)

What:
Join our statewide network of information and resource sharing for families and caregivers of children with
emotional or behavior difficulties.

Together our voices will be heard by the state agencies and providers of services for our children. Be part of a life-changing movement.

Space is limited. Please RSVP by January 17, 2012.

When:
Friday, January 20, 2012
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Where:
Billings, MT
Tumbleweed
505 North 24th Street

Contact:
Jami Machler
Phone: (406) 850-2938
Email: jami.machler@pluk.org

Findings from the 2009-2010 National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs - Webinar - January 19, 2012

For full information and registration click here!

What:
This program coincides with the data release of the 2009-2010  National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs (NS-CSHCN). Over the course of the program, four speakers will discuss the purpose, methodology, key findings, and ways to access both state and national data of the 2009-2010 NS-CSHCN.

When:
Thursday, January 19, 2012
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Mountain

Contact:
Michael D. Kogan, PhD
Phone 301-443-3145
Email: mkogan@hrsa.gov

MCT Presents: Once Upon A Mattress - Missoula - January 24, 2012

Click here for more information!

What:
MCT in Missoula is putting on two special performances of Once Upon A Mattress, designed specifically for people with Autism and Aspergers.  This means they will be moderating noise levels, using increased visual aids, eliminating any lights shining into the audience and making other adaptations to make the play accessible and enjoyable for people with different sensory processing. Quiet areas will be provided for children who want to withdraw for a break.  A company in New York originally did an adaptive play for school children on the autism spectrum to great success and heartfelt appreciation by the children and their families. MCT is adopting some of the lessons learned by the NY company and doing some adapting of their own. MCT plans to put on at least two performances and may extend if that seems desirable.

To help apprehensive theatre-goers who might not know what to expect, a website is being created so that families can travel step-by-step through the evening and be fully prepared for the fun to follow.

When:
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Show begins at 6:30 pm

Where:
Missoula, MT
Missoula Childrens Theatre

Contact and Reservations:
Alexandra Volkerts - (406)449-2344 or email her at Alexis@disabilityrightsmt.org
Tickets are available at the MCT Box Office or to make your reservations call (406) 728-7529.
All seats are $10.

Tool Box Night - Hamilton - January 19, 2012

Click here to download the flyer for more information!

What:
The Parent Group will offer resources, tools, strategies, and support, along with time for parents to share concerns and brainstorm ideas and a snack.

Weekly topic examples:

• Bedtime struggles  /  building routines
• Helping your child organize
• Discipline strategies
• Melt downs
• Expectations for public settings
• Accepting who your child is
• Help your child ‘fit in’ academically, socially and emotionally

Kids Fun Night will provide children with a place to interact socially with other kids, games and educational centers, a friendship circle to practice friendship skills, and a snack.

When:
Thursdays beginning January 19, 2012
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Where:
Hamilton, MT
South Valley Child and Family Center 
515 W. Madison

Contact:
Doug Cochran-Roberts, Therapist [240-3510]                            
Deb Ellingson, Former School Counselor [529-4893]              
Kathy Cook, Retired Teacher [961-3951]                                 
Carolyn Durgin, Para-educator [214-7031]
Nicole Turner, Parent [381-8476]
Kathy Molesh, Parent [531-3437]
Louise Kingston, Parent [961-512]

Montana Youth Youth Leadership Forum (MYLF) - Helena - July 16-20, 2012

Download  the 2012 MYLF Application here! (PDF) 

What:
We're inviting future community leaders to attend the annual Montana Youth Leadership Forum (MYLF) for students with disabiliites.

Applications forms must be postmarked by March 30, 2012.

When:
July 16-20, 2012

Where:
Helena, MT
Carroll College

Contact:
June Hermanson
1617 Euclid Suite 1
Helena, MT  59601
Phone: (406) 442-2576
Fax: (406) 443-3796
Email: mylfjuneh@bresnan.net
Website: www.montanaylf.org

 

Dare To Dream: Our Journey Continues - Spearfish, SD - June 10-12, 2012

What:
The mission of the biennial Dare to Dream Conference is to provide people with disabilities and others an opportunity to gain knowledge, enhance skills, develop friendships and have fun!

If you are a parent or caretaker of a person with a disability or have a disability of any kinds, you won't want to miss this informative, uplifting event!

When:
June 10-12, 2012

Where:
Spearfish, SD
Spearfish Holiday Inn

Contact:
SD Parent Connection: 1-800-640-4553
SD Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities: 1-800-210-0143

For more information visit www.usd.edu/cd.

Individuals and organizations, including people with disabilities and family members, are encouraged to submit proposals for presentations. You can do so by contacting the aforementioned contacts.
The deadline for submission of proposals is January 31, 2012.

Presentation Proposal Information and Form - Click Here 

 

Suicide Prevention Coalition Hosts Monthly Meetings - Billings - Every 3rd Monday of each Month

What:
The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Yellowstone Valley is committed to community collaboration efforts to prevent suicide. Interested persons are encouraged to attend.

When:
Third Monday of each month from 12 to 1 p.m.

Where:
123 S. 27th St., Billings, MT
RiverStone Health
Big Horn Room

Contact:
Michael Yakawich
Email: yak.mike@gmail.com
Phone: 254-2445.

Region II CSPD Presents: The Mandt System - Havre - February 3rd-4th, 2012

For more information and registration click here!

What:
The Mandt System builds on skill development through a system of gradual and graded alternatives for deescalating and assisting people using a combination of interpersonal communication skills, conflict resolution strategies and physical interaction techniques.

The goal is to assist others in managing themselves and the safety of all involved through skillful and nonphysical means. Physical strategies are also taught to provide additional “least restrictive” options in the event the person poses a clear threat of substantial harm to self or others if physically unassisted.

The focus of The Mandt System is primarily on prevention.

When:
February 3, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

February 4, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Where:
Havre, MT
Fifth Avenue Christian Church

Contact:
Aileen Couch
Phone: (406) 265-4356 ext. 322

Disabled hunter to receive Safari Club award

• Disabled hunter to receive Safari Club award

  tags: Montana assistive technology recreation

  • In August, he learned that he will be one of two people worldwide to be awarded the prestigious Safari Club International Pathfinder Award, given annually to two people who have shown leadership and determination to overcome a disability, especially when it comes to outdoor activities.

Legal Implications of Response to Intervention and Special Education Identification

• Legal Implications of Response to Intervention and Special Education Identification

  tags: RTI IDEA

  • The Response-to-Intervention (RtI) movement is enabling public education in the United States to evolve from a reactive model in which students had to seriously deteriorate before being moved on to special education programs, to one that emphasizes early and high-quality research-based interventions in regular programs that generate useful data with which to make key decisions for each struggling student. This evolution, however, has taken place against a backdrop of legal requirements for special education referrals and evaluations that remain almost unchanged from those of more than 30 years ago. The meeting of RtI innovations and the traditional child-find requirement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004) has many scratching their heads over exactly how the rules fit into the modern intervention era. Both the misconceptions that have become commonplace, as well as the legal disputes created by this juncture, make one wonder whether we truly grasp the fundamental child-find obligation of the IDEA in its present context.

Education Week Teacher: Parent Meetings: Bypassing the Dance of Blame

• Education Week Teacher: Parent Meetings: Bypassing the Dance of Blame

  tags: meetings parents school parent meetings

  • Do you dread parent meetings—or find that they don't yield the results you wish they did?

    At their worst, such meetings (especially when they focus on a problem) are packed with defensiveness, frustration, guilt, and fear for parents, teachers, and students. All parties want to "get it over with." But by sharpening your facilitation skills, you can keep a parent meeting from degenerating into a dance of blame.

5 Steps to Getting an iPad Covered by Insurance | Include Me from the Start

• 5 Steps to Getting an iPad Covered by Insurance | Include Me from the Start

  tags: iPad funding insurance

  • As a parent of a child with special needs, I understand firsthand the financial struggles that come with the job.  When I discovered the iPad and the benefits it could have for my son, it became my mission to find a way to provide one for him.  This is a simplified version of the steps I took in getting my iPad covered by insurance, and it is my hope that others can benefit from this information.

Video Glossary | Autism Speaks

• Video Glossary | Autism Speaks

  • We are pleased to announce the launch of the Treatment section of the ASD Video Glossary. The treatments presented here include some of the more commonly used interventions for children on the autism spectrum: behavioral interventions, developmental interventions, structured teaching and supports, clinical therapies, and toddler treatment models.

The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bond: Focus on Children in Poverty

• The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bond: Focus on Children in Poverty

  tags: AAP play

  • Play is essential to the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being of children beginning in early childhood. It  is a natural tool for children to develop resiliency as they learn to cooperate, overcome challenges, and negotiate with others.

Education Week: Superintendents Push Dramatic Changes for Conn. Schools

• Education Week: Superintendents Push Dramatic Changes for Conn. Schools

  tags: school reform

  • The Connecticut classroom of the future may not be limited by a traditional school year, the four walls of a classroom, or even the standard progression of grades, based on a proposed package of unusually bold changes that are being advanced by the state’s school superintendents.

    Instead, the current system would be replaced by a “learner-centered” education program that would begin at age 3; offer parents a menu of options, including charter schools and magnet schools; and provide assessments when an individual child is ready to be tested, rather than having all children tested in a class at the same time.

    The superintendents’ recommendations also promote the long-resisted idea of consolidating some of the state’s 165 school districts, 21 of which consist of only one school.