MAY 2011 Disabilities thread

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Computer issues have kept me from getting this started this month. Here are some current events/updates:

Feds To Offer Schools Guidance On Restraint, Seclusion:

www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/05/19/feds-guidance-restraint/13123/
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CHATTANOOGA AREA:

Upcoming educational program:
Monday June 6th from 6-8pm at the TEAM Centers offices. Light snacks will be provided.
Questions and Answers with the Developmental Pediatrician: Dr. Rubin will field questions pertaining to developmental medicine. If it feels like there is never enough time to talk with your doctor or if you'd like another opinion on a topic that is important to you, please bring your questions and join other families in discussing a variety of topics. If you've got something to ask or just want to be part of the discussion, please RSVP to 622-0500 ext 1149 and let us know if you need to have childcare provided for you. We hope to see you there for this informal question and answer session.

Save the Date: Get the Mow Down! Lawn mower races on Saturday June 25th at 4pm. A local group does lawn mower racing near Harrison, TN and they'd like to donate the proceeds to the CAC! (We, of course, do not condone racing lawn mowers at home for fun- but these adults do this recreationally and assume liability for themselves!) Come out and watch and support the CAC. There will be light concessions, games for kids and public awareness info about Autism available. A cheap night of entertainment for the whole family. See attached flyer.

THIS Saturday May 21st at 9am Belvoir Christian Academy is the new date for the 5K race, walk and Kiddie K. Some of the proceeds will also go to the Chattanooga Autism Center. Please come out to get some exercise, visit Dave at the CAC booth and support a good cause!

Save the Date: Friday November 11th 2011 for the Connections Conference at 1st Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. For families in need of resources and information regarding disabilities. See the attached flyer for more information.

Check out the First Annual Rock and Ride Festival at Hozho Therapeutic Equestrian Services and Mystery Dog Ranch on Saturday June 4th 2011 at 9am. Live music, pony rides, face painting, hayrides, games. Check out the attached flyer for more details.

PECS Basic Training in Chattanooga. July 18-19 2011. Learn how to appropriately implement the six phases of the PECS protocol, including teaching initiation, attributes, commenting and much more. PECS is much more than just using pictures… learn how to teach your students the power of communication! Cost: $395 for Professional and $295 for Parent. Workshop Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm. This workshop offers 1.3 ASHA CEUs or 15.6 BACB CEUs at no additional cost! Training is appropriate for any parent or professional working with learners with autism, related disabilities and/or limited communication skills. Please visit our website at www.pecs.com for more information. Online registration is available. Alternately, you may register via phone at 888-732-7462. The office accepts checks and purchase orders through the mail. In addition purchase orders may be faxed to the office at [phone]. Payment must be submitted with registration form found at www.pecs.com .

Support/Social groups for ASD-

Night Owls at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church. This program offers free of charge childcare for your special needs child and their siblings. The ratio of children to volunteers is 1:1. The program is the first Friday of every month. We also offer such events as Mom’s Morning Out. If you are interested please e-mail Betty: [e-mail]. Enjoy a night out!

Awesome Autism Support Group is sponsored by Siskin Center in Chattanooga and meets monthly. For more information, contact Jackie Benkert at: [phone]. Group meets the 4th Monday of the month, 7 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House next door to Erlanger. On facebook as: AwesomeAutism-please join!

Family Share Support Group meets monthly for a meal. For more information and to RSVP, contact [e-mail] or [phone].

Social Group for Chattanooga Teens affected by Aspergers. Meets regularly, local parents have started this group. For information on next meeting, call [phone].

Greater Chattanooga Aspies (GCA) is a support & social group for adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/High functioning autism in the greater Chattanooga area. Regularly scheduled meetings will be the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6 – 8pm with a speaker the first hour and support group time the second hour. Their socials are monthly with TBD dates, times, & activities. For more information, contact Scott Kramer at: [e-mail] or go to: www.meetup.com/G-C-As

CLEVELAND:
CANCELLED--- This was posted in previous announcements and has been cancelled due to the tornadoes in Bradley County. Funding and volunteers are not able to be secured to make the event possible. Hopefully it can be rescheduled in the future--Look for updates: The CCAC (Cleveland-Chattanooga Autism Center) will be hosting a Family Picnic for the Cleveland community on June 4th 2011 from 4-7pm at the Family Life Center at Waterville Baptist Church on Dalton Pike. The purpose of the event is to highlight the services and organizations in the Cleveland and Chattanooga areas to serve individuals and families affect by autism.

CANCELLED-- LUDIC YARD SALE It has been determined that due to the devastating storms that have affected the area to postpone the Ludic Yard Sale. Tentatively they are looking to reschedule for some time in September. If you are interested in donating items they will still be able to arrange for a pick up and/or drop off at any time. Please contact Darlene Porter at 423-479-2881. Once a confirmed date has been established it will be publicized.

JUNE 23 – 24, 2011 – 2011 Lee University Southeastern Autism Symposium with Keynote Speaker Sondra Williams. It will be at Lee University in Cleveland, TN. Cost is $75. For more information contact: Hariett Cannon at: [phone] or [e-mail]

MORRISTOWN:
Autism Orientation at Manley Baptist Church on Thursday September 1st 2011 from 6:30-8:30. Please see attached flyer for more information or to RSVP.

Resources Statewide:
Tennessee Justice Center


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The Tennessee Justice Center works to help children access health insurance via TennCare or CoverKids with the knowledge that access to health care can have a big impact on health, as well as school, outcomes. The center can also help children get the health care services they need once they are enrolled in TennCare. TJC has helped children get dental, physical and mental and behavioral health care services denied by TennCare, and get care when there is no doctor or specialist in the area.

TJC is connected to a large network of social service agencies throughout Tennessee and refer clients as necessary to other agencies. Currently, they serve clients up to age 21. Interpreting service is available as needed. Referrals are accepted but not necessary. Parents and providers regularly call our office with questions about health care for a child.
TJC can be reached at 1-877-608-1009. Contact: Susanne Bennett



Volunteer Opportunities
We have a number of volunteer opportunities to pass along to you and hope that you will respond to this email if you'd like to sign up to help with any of these events.

Upcoming community events that we would like to exhibit the Chattanooga Autism Center poster board and information about ASD. As well as info on Art and Autism and activities for children. We need volunteers to sign up for shifts to man the booth and hand out information about our center and encourage them to sign up for our email distribution list. We will provide all of the needed items: folding table, CAC board, flyers, pamphlets, children's activities etc.

-Saturday and Sunday May 28-29th from 10-6pm Who Fest in Ren Park (beside Coolidge Park). Art festival where we hope to include Art and Autism booth with a 'chalk walk' (area on the sidewalk for kids to draw with chalk)

- Saturday June 4th at Hozho Rock N Ride equestrian festival. Please see attachment for details. We need someone to man the CAC booth and hand out information.

-Thursday and Friday June 23 and 24 at the LUDIC conference at Lee University. Annual conference on Autism where we hope that the Cleveland and Chattanooga Autism Center's can be represented.

We will need a few volunteers to help out at the lawn mower races on Sat June 25th as well. We'll need some folks to help with concession sales and parking possibly.We hope to sell some lemonade and watermelon etc which we hope to get donated. If you'd like to volunteer day of or help get these things donated, please let me know.
Thank you very much for considering to help out the CAC! Please respond to this email if you'd like to volunteer!

Melanie Chakwin

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Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes

The TNABA (Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes) offers local, state, regional, and national adapted competitions, sports, and recreational activities to athletes who are blind or visually impaired. Activities are for children and adults of all ages and include swimming, cycling, gymnastics, track and field, goal ball, and many other sports. Recreational activities such as camping, hiking, aerobics, yoga, and many others are available as well.

The mission is to enhance the lives and overall health of Tennesseans who are blind and visually impaired; to promote physical fitness through world-class athletic opportunities and recreational activities; to create more opportunities for individuals who are blind and visually impaired; and to educate the public on the athletic abilities of individuals who are blind and visually impaired.

To find out more about The Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes us check us out on the web at www.tnaba.org or contact Ricky Jones, Executive Director, via email at [e-mail] or by phone at [phone].

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Help Rate State Policies, Practices, and Strategies Promoting Employment in TN

Please join us in rating the state policies, practices and strategies that promote Employment in TN using the national scorecard from the Alliance for Full Participation. There are many ways to share your opinion!

Take take the survey visit: j.mp/gyh4oN or call The Arc TN [phone].

1. Who can take this survey?
Any adult in TN can take this survey. We really want to hear from people with disabilities, family members and care providers, professionals who work with adults with disabilities, like teachers, therapists, employment professionals, etc...

2. Who is collecting this information?
The leaders of Employment initiatives from the TN Developmental Disabilities Network, The Arc TN, the Department of Intellectual Developmental Disabilities and Division of Rehabilitation Services, the state government agencies that promote employment are all very interested in this information.

3. What will they use it for?
We plan to examine what policies, practices and strategies can be changed to improve the percentage of people with disabilities who are in employed.

Please share this opportunity with your co-workers, family members, friends, and other people in your network. A flyer is attached to this email. Please share.


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MegaConference is Just Weeks Away - Are You Ready?

To learn more visit: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org/

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Summer Art Institute to Focus on the Cowboy Culture

VSA Tennessee is offering its 9th annual art institute at Volunteer State Community College at the end of July. The focus of the Art Institute this year will be the Cowboy Culture. This is a fun and educational week for children with and without disabilities. VSA does offer scholarships for children who cannot afford the $35 fee.

Participants will learn about the cowboy culture through dance, music, visual art and literature. At the end of the week, the participants will have the opportunity to demonstrate what they have learned through performance and an exhibition. The students will also receive a special performance by Cowboy Dan.

Cowboy Dan was born in the ranch country of West Texas and earned a degree in agriculture. He moved to Nashville in 1990. "Writing and performing children's music was not something I planned on doing when I came to town. It kinda pursued me. Now I can't imagine doing anything else." states Cowboy Dan.

While working for the music city cattle exchange, he was approached by the Tennessee Beef Industry Council to develop an assembly program for elementary age students. Since 1996, he has performed his high energy show for over 450,000 kids, parents and teachers. In addition to covering the entire state of Tennessee, Cowboy Dan performed for families at such major events as the Houston TX State Fair & Rodeo and the TX State Fair as well as in large markets like Chicago. Major television network and newspapers in Memphis, Dallas, Houston and Nashville have all featured Cowboy Dan. His Album "Yee Haw Says It All" won Best Children's Album at the Nashville Music Awards in 1998.

Teaching Artists for the week include:



Music - Tammy Vice

Tammy believes that every child enjoys and deserves the opportunity to be creative."

This Nashville recording artist is produced by GodsChild Records. Her CDs include “Love Can Grow”, “Miracles & Memories”, “Breaking The Chains”, & "More Than Just Getting By". As a songwriter and artist, Tammy has had four songs hit #1 on Christian and Country charts. She was the Country Music Hall of Fame's 2009 Nominee for the Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Award. Tammy is the originator and host of the annual “Breaking The Chains” event held at the Bluebird, each year in April, to promote autism awareness. She has become a strong advocate after her younger daughter, Morgan, was diagnosed at age 3.



Visual Arts – Tiffany Dyer



Tiffany is responsible for the visual art activities and instruction. Tiffany Dyer is a certified and highly qualified K-12 art educator and practicing visual artist. She has taught in the elementary classroom for nine years and has taught numerous workshops to artists of all ages including professional development to art educators. She has organized and led her own art camps for a number of years. She is the owner, director and curator of Talula Gallery in Nashville and is a member of the Nashville arts community. Her work has been show all over Tennessee, Kentucky and Massachusetts. She is currently working on her Master of Fine Arts in a low residency program at The Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University in Boston, MA.

Dance - Deanne Collins

As a teaching artist, Deanne is known for her lively, information-packed happy presentations. Activities become metaphors for curricula concepts and at the same time make the art form accessible to teachers and students. Deanne traveled throughout the United States as one of the original Movement Specialists with the National Endowment for the Arts Arts-in-schools program, and was affiliated with Wolf-Trap, the Nashville Art Institute and the Kennedy Center’s Events for Teachers Program, and is part of the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Teaching Artist Roster. Deanne has done several programs for VSA Tennessee in both dance and theater and has always received rave reviews. She works with our summer arts camp in dance every year. Deanne has a hearing impairment and is considered an artist with a disability.

Literature - Debbie Watts

Debbie Watts is an award winning author who has worked with the Art Institute for many years. She also taught for several years in the Sumner County system.

For more information, contact Lori Kissinger at [e-mail] or [phone].

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Inviting you to contribute to our special annual issue of Breaking Ground devoted to the arts.

Do you write short stories or poetry? Do you paint, draw or take pictures? Then we’d like to see your work for possible publication!issue of breaking ground devoted to the arts

The editor will consider:

• fiction, up to 1,000 words, and poems, whether traditional or modern.
• photos and all other forms of artwork.

All entries must be submitted by June 15, 2011. Content is devoted to materials by or about persons with disabilities. We’ll give contributors a prominent by-line, a biographical note and copies of the issue. Please include your name, complete contact information and a two- or three-sentence biography with your submission.

Send your submissions to:

Ned Andrew Solomon /Managing Editor, Breaking Ground
Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities
Parkway Towers, Suite 130 • 404 James Robertson Parkway
Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0228 • [e-mail]

Questions? call 615-532-6556

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The Cheatham County School District is seeking an itinerant teacher for students that are deaf and/or hearing impaired.

Candidates should have appropriate certification and know sign language at a functional level. The ability to work independently and supervise employees are essential components of the job.

An application can be downloaded from the district website: cheatham.k12tn.net
For more information, please contact Crystal McCarver at [e-mail] or 615-792-2070.

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I am again seeking preferably an art therapist and/or teacher to work with my teen daughter--Grace Goad (www.GraceGoad.com) who has autism--sporadically this summer and definitely in the fall. This person would serve the role more so as an art facilitator, providing the space, materials (will pay for) and light guidance/interaction. If you know of any interested, affordable candidates, please let us know. We are in Nashville. Feel free to share this request. Thank you--

Leisa A. Hammett
Author-Speaker-Advocate
Blog: www.leisahammett.com
Book: www.fromheartachetohope.org
Art: www.GraceGoad.com

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Camp VIVA - TNABA Proudly Presents Camp VIVA:
An Adaptive Sports, Health Education, and Self Advocacy Camp (July 29 – 31st)

The Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes is pleased to announce that we are now excepting application for this year’s second annual CAMP VIVA. This camp is open to blind or visually impaired children 14 years old and up and adults. We will introduce and highlight adaptive sports such as wrestling, goalball, swimming, bowling, and other adaptive PE programs. Campers will have an opportunity to learn helpful exercise and Nutrition tips and learn how to effectively advocate for themselves and others. The camp will conclude with a mini goalball tournament. The camp fee is $35 per person and includes a year’s membership to TNABA and a youth membership to the USABA. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Applications are due by July 15th 2011. For more detail please contact Ricky Jones Camp Director at 615-390-4178 or via email at [e-mail] . We hope you will come join us for a wonderful camp full of fun. Space is limited so apply today.

Sincerely

Ricky Jones
Camp VIVA Director

Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes
1081 Zophi Street, Nashville TN 37216
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: [phone]
Web: www.tnaba.org

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You Are Invited -
Tennessee Disability Pathfinder / Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, UT Boling Center, & LINC/2-1-1 would like to invite YOU to our next Community Education Series featuring Advocacy Services.

What: The following organizations will share important information about the advocacy services that they provide:

· Center for Independent Living, Memphis
· The Arc Mid-South
· Tennessee Voices for Children
· Disability Law & Advocacy of Tennessee
· Tennessee Justice Center
· Tennessee Disability Pathfinder

When: Wednesday, June 15, 2011 - 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Where: Benjamin L. Hooks Public Library
3030 Poplar Avenue, Meeting Room C
Memphis, TN

Cost: Free

RSVP: Please register online. If you have any questions, please contact Megan Hart at [phone] or [e-mail]

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ETTAC is hosting the third part in a webinar series for businesses on June 16th. This one is about seven commonsense steps to make businesses more accessible for employees and customers with disabilities. The ADA was signed into law in 1990 by President George H. W. Bush. Still not all businesses are accessible, and many businesses that aren’t, don’t know where to begin. This webinar may help them. Please help me let others know they are welcome to attend. Thank you,

Louise McKown
Public Awareness Coordinator/Systems Change Analyst
East Tennessee Technology Access Center
116 Childress Street
Knoxville, TN 37920
[phone]
[e-mail]
www.discoveret.org/ettac

Where disabilities become possibilities

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An excellent website with great information and resources for those affected by autism:

www.autism-society.org/

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Dear Community:

We have been so blessed to have so many individuals and groups send donations for our Youth Leadership Forums in the past!

We will again be hosting this free leadership and self-advocacy training for high school students with disabilities from across the state, July 11-14, on Vanderbilt University campus.

The students, and young volunteer staff so appreciate the backpacks full of goodies that greet them on opening day.

Please consider sending something again this year!

It does not have to be a costly item. We have had, and love getting:

Pens
Pencils
Sticky note pads
Pocket calendars
Combs
Tiny shampoo and lotion bottles
Water bottles
Baseball caps
Compasses
Lip Balm
Sun screen
Writing pads

You name it, it will be well-received!

Company logos are absolutely fine, as long as the company does not also sell alcohol, tobacco, firearms - or anything else we would not want to promote with our young participants, please!

IF POSSIBLE, please include 22 of whatever item you are donating. If that's not possible, and you are wanting to give 1 or 2 of something, we can give those away during a special evening event.

Please send packages to me at the address below, by Friday, July 1st.

If you have any questions, please let me know.

Thanks for ALL you do!

Gratefully,

Ned Andrew Solomon


Ned Andrew Solomon
Director, Partners in Policymaking
TN Council on Developmental Disabilities
Parkway Towers
404 James Robertson Pkwy
Suite 130
Nashville, TN 37243-0228
615-532-6556
[e-mail]

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MegaConference News:

To view the full program of the Tennessee Disability MegaConference, see Program Information at: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org

MegaMarketplace: June 2, 2011 5:30 to 7:30pm
Nashville Airport Marriott in the Cumberland Ballroom

Entrepreneurs with disabilities will be selling or advertising their goods and services. MegaMarketplace is open to the public. Support self-employment endeavors and invite your friends.

MegaConference Exhibitor space is sold out! Exhibits will be open from 9am-6pm on Thursday, June 2 and from 9am- 2:30pm on Friday, June 3.

Location: Salons D, E and the Foyer. Please visit each table to see what services and items are available. There will be an Exhibitor Reception Thursday evening with light refreshments and door prizes from 4:30-5:30pm.

It’s not too late to register! Visit, www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org

Tennessee Disability MegaConference is Tennessee’s largest disability-specific conference for individuals with disabilities, families, and professionals. At the conference, people share the latest information and innovations on many topics including housing, employment, education, health care, recreation and leisure, mental health, and others.

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The Volunteer Advocacy Project
The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities
Connections for Disability and Employment-University of Tennessee LifeLine
East Tennessee State University
Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP)
Susan Gray School
The Arc of Davidson County
The Arc of the Mid-South
The Arc of Williamson County
The University of Tennessee-Boling Center
The University of Tennessee at Martin
West Tennessee Healthcare

Fall 2011 Advocacy Project Application
kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy/vap/
The purpose of this project is to train volunteer advocates to provide instrumental and affective support to parents of children with disabilities. In this training, participants will learn more about special education law and advocacy strategies. At the end of the training, each participant will shadow an advocate who is working with a family. Following graduation from the program, you will be linked with a family of a child with a disability. Each volunteer advocate is expected to work with, at least, four families, at the discretion of The Arc and STEP.

This is a comprehensive 6-week training to be held in the fall of 2011 (September 10th, September 24th, October 8th, October 22nd, November 5th, and November 19th). Each training session will last 6 hours (beginning at 9:00AM (CST) and ending at 3:00PM (CST) and, in Eastern Tennessee, the training begins at 10:00AM (EST) and ends at 4:00PM, (EST)). The training will include a binder of materials including passages from: the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, No Child Left Behind, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, the participants will be given copies of each training session’s powerpoints along with relevant materials. For each training session, the participant will be expected to read pertinent materials. The training will be held on the Vanderbilt campus in The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center. The training will also be video-conferenced to other sites across the state.

Furthermore, there is a $30 charge to cover the cost of materials for the training.

We look forward to receiving your application to the Advocacy Project. You may e-mail your application to [e-mail]. The application is due by September 1st, 2011. If we receive applications, which outnumber the available spots, we will encourage those not participating in this training session to attend a future training session.

Thank you,

Meghan Burke
[e-mail]

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FAMILY VOICES JOB OPENING: Planning Coordinator - Middle Tennessee

Location: US-TN-Nashville
Base Pay: $30,000-$33,000 (Depending on Experience)
Employee Type: Full-Time Employee
Industry: Not for Profit - Charitable
Job Description: Coordinator, Family Voices of Tennessee

Minimum qualifications: Parent or family member of a child with special health care needs; must have working knowledge through training and/or experience of health care and related service systems for children with chronic illnesses or disabilities; strong interpersonal and presentation skills; demonstrated organizational and writing skills; proficiency with computer software; must be able to travel (mostly in-state); baccalaureate degree or equivalent experience.

Supervisory and administrative responsibilities:

• Supervisory responsibility for Family Voices staff, including recruiting, interviewing, hiring, orienting, coaching, managing and evaluating
• Overall responsibility for Family Voices administration, including preparation and submission of project-related reports and proposals; management of fiscal and human resources; working with funders
• Responsible for logging, reporting contacts with families/health care professionals/etc., data entry and collation, and preparation of reports on activities

Tennessee Family-to-Family (F2F) Health Information Center Project Director Functional Duties (60% time):

• Provide family-to-family support and assistance
• Document activities in database
• Participate in required Coalition training and conference calls
• Organize and report program data
• Provide training for project staff
• Plan and coordinate project advisory committee activities and communications
• Coordinate project evaluation activities
• Coordinate development and dissemination of project training and evaluation materials
• Coordinate with contractors for language translators and consultation/training in cultural competence
• Write articles and provide editorial direction and oversight of Family Voices section of newsletter
• Coordinate with project partners for access to in-kind contributions (training facilities, child care)
• Develop project training programs
• Present trainings and give educational presentations to groups
• Represent the project at conferences, workshops, and meetings affecting CSHCN as appropriate

LEND: Family Faculty Advisor Functional Duties (40% time):

• Participate in faculty meetings (2 X month) in person or phone
• Provide family perspective in discussions
• Make presentations on Family-Centered Care as part of trainee orientation
• Assist in coordination of Family-Centered Care family panel for Core Seminar
• Coordinate Medical Home Core Seminar and Workgroup
• Coordinate LEND trainee involvement in Family-to-Family Annual Outreach Conference
• Participate in LEND family discipline listserv and conference calls
• Supervise LEND family trainees
• Assist in coordination of LEND trainees’ Family Mentor Experience
• Attend and participate in Autism Summit Team quarterly meetings
• Recruit, recommend, and supervise LEND family trainee

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Please help The Arc Tennessee plan its regional education sessions for the coming year and take a brief survey to let us know your interests. You may access the survey by clicking on this link: Family and Self-Advocate Education Session Survey or by pasting this link into your browser: redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=v8jPrg.

Please share far and wide with families and self-advocates. If people do not have access to a computer but would like to take the survey, please contact The Arc at 1-800-835-7077 and mention that you want to take the “Family and Self-Advocate Education Session Survey” and ask for Carrie or Lori.

Thank you for helping The Arc plan its activities for the coming year!

redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=v8jPrg

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Autism Leads Rise of Developmental Disabilities in U.S. Kids by Nicole Ostrow
May 23 (Bloomberg) -- Developmental disabilities among American children increased 17 percent in the past decade led by a rise in autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a U.S. government study found. The prevalence of the developmental disorders rose to 15 percent of U.S. children, or about 10 million, in 2006-2008, from 12.8 percent, or about 8 million, in 1997-1999, according to the study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The research is published in the journal Pediatrics.

Researchers said the increase may be due in part to more preterm births and parents having children at older ages. They also said that improvements in screenings, diagnosis and awareness have pushed the numbers higher. About one in six children in the U.S. now have a developmental disability, and that will likely increase demand for health and education services, researchers said. “Because the prevalence of some of these developmental disabilities is increasing, there’s going to be an increased demand on the health system for these kind of specialized medical services,” Sheree Boulet, the study author and an epidemiologist at the Atlanta-based CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, said in a May 20 telephone interview. Today’s study is the first to document the prevalence of developmental disabilities in U.S. children since 1994, Boulet said.

National Health Interview

The researchers looked at data on children ages 3 to 17 years from the 1997 to 2008 National Health Interview Surveys. The surveys are representative samples of U.S. households and asked parents to report diagnoses of ADHD, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, autism, seizures, stuttering or stammering, moderate to profound hearing loss, blindness, learning disorders and other developmental delays. Autism, a lifelong and disabling condition caused by abnormal brain development, had the largest increase over the study, rising nearly fourfold to 0.74 percent of children in 2006-2008 from 0.19 percent in 1997-1999, the paper showed. The disorder hinders a person’s ability to communicate and engage in social interactions. They found that the number of children with ADHD rose 33 percent during the period to 7.6 percent from 5.7 percent. The disorder was “chiefly responsible” for the higher overall incidence of developmental disabilities in the U.S., the authors wrote.

Less Stigma

Michael Rosanoff, associate director of Public Health Research and Scientific Review for the nonprofit advocacy group Autism Speaks in New York, said some of the increase in autism could be explained by better diagnosis, more awareness by parents and doctors and less stigma surrounding the condition making parents more likely to report their children having the condition. Still, more studies are needed to identify the environmental factors that may cause autism, he said. “From this information, the federal government can see that developmental disabilities are more prevalent than previously believed and that resources should be allocated accordingly for dealing with these conditions,” he said in a May 20 telephone interview. The study also found a number of children with moderate to profound hearing loss declined 31 percent. Boys were more likely than girls to have developmental disabilities, while low-income families and those on public health insurance had a higher likelihood of having children with the disorders, the study found. Autism varies in severity and symptoms. Those with the condition may have trouble making eye contact, understanding facial expressions, and learning to share and follow instructions. Children with the disorder also may show compulsive interests or behaviors.

Need for Services

Andrew Adesman, chief of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, New York, said families need to speak to their doctors if they are concerned about their children and make sure they get the services they need. Adesman wasn’t an author on today’s paper. “Realistically kids aren’t going to get better on their own and they need the benefit of services,” he said in a May 20 telephone interview. “There is a danger that at a time when numerically there seems to be an increased number of children with problems, many governments are looking to scale back and reduce services. That certainly is undesirable.” More studies are needed to identify preventable causes of the disabilities and the benefits of early services for children with developmental disorders, Boulet said. The CDC also plans a follow-up study in the future to see if the prevalence of these disorders continues to rise.

--Editors: Angela Zimm, Andrew Pollack

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ACBIS -Academy for the Certification of Brain Injury Specialists

The Academy for the Certification of Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS) offers a voluntary national certification program for both entry-level staff and experienced professionals working in brain injury services. ACBIS provides staff and professionals the opportunity to learn important information about brain injury, to demonstrate their learning in a written examination, and to earn a nationally recognized credential.

The ACBIS certification program is based on the belief that well trained staff is necessary to provide the wide array of care required in brain injury services. It is a first step towards creating a recognized career path specific to brain injury. The ACBIS program provides recognition of advanced studies in brain injury services, not verification that an individual is suitable for employment. Certification is not restricted to any one profession or discipline. Rather, it is intended for anyone who delivers services specific to brain injury. Since brain injury rehabilitation and services are dynamic, evolving professions, the ACBIS program will be updated regularly.

For information regarding the new, fully electronic CBIS/CBIT application, testing, certification and renewal process, please visit www.acbis.pro

Questions regarding the ACBIS Program? Contact: Jessica Kerney
Email: [e-mail] / Phone: [phone] extension 631

If you are interested in participating in review classes to prepare for the written exam and/or wish to sit for the written exam in Memphis, Tennessee, please contact:
Carolyn Chambers, Email: [e-mail] / Phone: [phone]

Tentative Review Classes: Chapters 1 and 2 - Tuesday, June 21, 2011 @ 6-8 pm
Chapters 3 and 4 - Thursday, June 23, 2011 @ 6-8 pm
Chapters 5 and 6 - Tuesday, July 12, 2011 @ 6-8 pm
Chapters 7 and 8 - Thursday, July 14, 2011 @ 6-8 pm

Proctored Examination: Saturday, July 15th 2011 @ 9 am - Noon

NOTE: Review Classes and Exam will be offered for a Group of 8 or more only.

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TACE IV News Flash
THE TACE CENTER: REGION IV IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE

Transition Webinar Series
Social Security Administration and Transition
An Overview of SSI and SSDI and Implications for Transition Planning
Date: Jun 28, 2011

Time: 12:00 -2:00pm EST 11:00am -1:00pm CST

Register: tacesoutheast.org/webinars/2011/062811/index.php

Description

Social Security benefits play a large role in transition planning. Families and young people need to be aware of the value of these programs to youth and adults with disabilities in funding adult services and medical insurance, and also of the possibility of work incentives to help fund employment. Families and youth also need accurate information about the impact of income on these benefits. (Many people still believe that if they go to work, expand their hours, or accept raises they will no longer receive financial or medical benefits.) This session will provide an overview of SSI and SSDI and explain the impact of income on both. Don’t let misinformation be a barrier to employment for youth on your caseload!



Social Security Work Incentives and Transition
Date: July 21, 2011

Time: 12:00 -2:00pm EST 11:00am -1:00pm CST

Register: tacesoutheast.org/webinars/2011/072111/index.php

Description:

This session builds on the previous session to explain and illustrate how Social Security Work Incentives can be used to support transition from school to work for youth with disabilities. Some youth can access work incentives while they are still in school. They have been able to purchase services that augment what the school provides for employment preparation or save for future costs of supports needed to work. Other youth access work incentives as they exit school and can use these incentives to pay for supports lasting beyond the initial Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) investment. For youth who are in need of extended employment supports in order to work, Social Security work incentives have been used to leverage VR funds when no other funding was available to pay for the needed extended employment services.

Community Employment for Everyone
Date: August 24, 2011

Time: 12:00 -2:00pm EST 11:00am -1:00pm CST

Presenters: Ellen Condon and Norciva Shumpert

Register: tacesoutheast.org/webinars/2011/082411/index.php

Description:

Are you concerned that your son or daughter has too significant a disability to work? Are you concerned that if they go to work and earn a paycheck they will lose their social security and Medicaid? This session will share stories about young adults with various disabilities working in their communities. Information will also be shared about the impact of a paycheck on SSI and SSDI, state and individual Medicaid thresholds for earnings and social security work incentives that encourage people to try out work without fear of losing their benefits. This session targets families.

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Department of Education Issues Guidance on Rights of Students With Disabilities When Educational Institutions Use Technology - May 26, 2011 (Contact: [phone], [e-mail])

Today, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued guidance through Dear Colleague Letters to elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education along with a Frequently Asked Questions document on the legal obligation to provide students with disabilities an equal opportunity to enjoy the benefits of technology. This guidance is a critical step in the Department's ongoing efforts to ensure that students with disabilities receive equal access to the educational benefits and services provided by their schools, colleges and universities. All students, including those with disabilities, must have the tools needed to obtain a world-class education that prepares them for success in college and careers.

Today's guidance provides information to schools about their responsibilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The guidance supplements a June 2010 letter issued jointly by OCR and the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. The June letter explains that technological devices must be accessible to students with disabilities, including students who are blind or have low vision, unless the benefits of the technology are provided equally through other means. Today's guidance highlights what educational institutions need to know and take into consideration in order to ensure that students with disabilities enjoy equal access when information and resources are provided through technology.

"Technology can be a critical investment in enhancing educational opportunities for all students," said Russlynn Ali, assistant secretary for civil rights. "The Department is firmly committed to ensuring that schools provide students with disabilities equal access to the benefits of technological advances."

Today's guidance is part of a larger effort by the Department and Obama administration to better serve the needs of people with disabilities. Last month, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan joined Kareem Dale, associate director for the White House Office of Public Engagement and special assistant to the President for disability policy, for a conference call with stakeholders to talk about some of the Department's efforts. During the call, Duncan discussed the Department's commitment to maintaining accountability in No Child Left Behind for all subgroups, including students with disabilities, and highlighted the Department's proposal to increase funding for students with disabilities in the fiscal year 2012 budget. Ali will also join Dale for a stakeholder conference call where she will discuss today's guidance and address the Department's work to ensure that all schools are fulfilling their responsibilities under the federal disability laws that OCR enforces.

To read the Dear Colleague Letter to elementary and secondary schools, see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-201105-ese.html.

To read the Dear Colleague Letter to institutions of higher education, see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-201105-pse.html.

The FAQ is available at www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/dcl-ebook-faq-201105.html.

To read the June 29, 2010 letter, see www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-20100629.html.

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Dear friends—The Special Education Behavioral Supports Act has passed both houses of the TN legislature. Once the bill is signed into law by Governor Haslam, TN’s students with disabilities and their families will have new rights and protections related to the use of isolation and restraint. In addition, educators will receive the training they need and want in crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques, positive behavioral interventions and supports, and other strategies which will enhance their capacity to keep their students and themselves safer, and are likely to improve school climate as well.

The previous restraint and isolation statute which took effect in January 2009 marked the first effort to address “the unreasonable, unsafe and unwarranted uses of isolation and restraint practices” with students receiving special education services. Public Chapter 1063 was landmark legislation, and established essential protections.

After the rulemaking process for the statute was completed, and with a year’s implementation, it became increasingly clear to DCE’s membership that some measure of revision was necessary to ensure that the stated purposes of the law were fulfilled. We prepared a draft bill, with multiple—multiple—revisions. With the Arc TN taking the lead, House Bill 1336 was introduced by Representative Sherry Jones, and Senate Bill 1993 by Senator Eric Stewart. Kudos to Rep. Jones and Sen. Stewart for championing the bill. The bill once again underwent revision, refinement and amendment with input from a number of parties. We will be glad to provide greater detail to anyone who is interested in the legislative process.

All the key components identified by DCE are represented in the final bill. Training and data collection have been reinstated—those elements were removed from the original bill because of cost. Perhaps the most critical improvement is the language clarifying that whether or not the practices are written into a student’s IEP, restraint and isolation are procedures of last resort, and must be used only in emergency situations: in other words, restraint & isolation are not to be used as routine practices, but only as necessary to prevent physical harm to the student or others. Families will be notified every time restraint or isolation is employed. In the previous statute, notification was not required once restraint/isolation had been written into an IEP. Isolation rooms must have dimensions of at least 40 square feet. The reach of the statute has also been broadened to cover students placed in a private facility by the local or state education agency.

I’ve melded together the current statute with the final amended bill for a sense of how the law will change. Although the formatting is <not> pretty at this point, please let me know at [e-mail] if you’d like a copy. This link should take you to the final bill: www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/107/Amend/SA0613.pdf

Heartfelt gratitude is extended to all of you who contacted your legislators in support of this bill. Grassroots advocacy works, as was made powerfully evident last year when our community fended off a revision which would have allowed locked isolation. Never underestimate the persuasive influence carried by a personal story. We appreciate the educators and administrators who worked together with us to communicate the value—and effectiveness—of positive behavioral supports and to ensure that TN’s students with disabilities are safe, and treated with dignity. Carrie Hobbs-Guiden, the Executive Director of The Arc TN, was seemingly tireless on Capitol Hill: the bill would not have passed without her stalwart advocacy. If you’re not already a member of the state or a local chapter of The Arc, visit www.thearctn.org.

We can count off a victory, friends, that will make a real-world difference for children with disabilities. Onward & upward.

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The Chattanooga Autism Center wishes to thank Coker Tire which has graciously selected the CAC as the recipient of proceeds from the Great Race which will begin in Chattanooga on June 11th. Check out www.greatrace.com!

CHATTANOOGA AREA:
Upcoming educational program:
Monday June 6th from 6-8pm at the TEAM Centers offices. Light snacks will be provided.
Questions and Answers with the Developmental Pediatrician: Dr. Rubin will field questions pertaining to developmental medicine. If it feels like there is never enough time to talk with your doctor or if you'd like another opinion on a topic that is important to you, please bring your questions and join other families in discussing a variety of topics. If you've got something to ask or just want to be part of the discussion, please RSVP to 622-0500 ext 1149 and let us know if you need to have childcare provided for you. We hope to see you there for this informal question and answer session.

Save the Date: Get the Mow Down! Lawn mower races on Saturday June 25th at 4pm. A local group does lawn mower racing near Harrison, TN and they'd like to donate the proceeds to the CAC! (We, of course, do not condone racing lawn mowers at home for fun- but these adults do this recreationally and assume liability for themselves!) Come out and watch and support the CAC. There will be light concessions, games for kids and public awareness info about Autism available. A cheap night of entertainment for the whole family.

Save the Date: Friday November 11th 2011 for the Connections Conference at 1st Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. For families in need of resources and information regarding disabilities. See the attached flyer for more information.

Check out the First Annual Rock and Ride Festival at Hozho Therapeutic Equestrian Services and Mystery Dog Ranch on Saturday June 4th 2011 at 9am. Live music, pony rides, face painting, hayrides, games. Check out the attached flyer for more details.

PECS Basic Training in Chattanooga. July 18-19 2011. Learn how to appropriately implement the six phases of the PECS protocol, including teaching initiation, attributes, commenting and much more. PECS is much more than just using pictures… learn how to teach your students the power of communication! Cost: $395 for Professional and $295 for Parent. Workshop Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm. This workshop offers 1.3 ASHA CEUs or 15.6 BACB CEUs at no additional cost! Training is appropriate for any parent or professional working with learners with autism, related disabilities and/or limited communication skills. Please visit our website at www.pecs.com for more information. Online registration is available. Alternately, you may register via phone at 888-732-7462. The office accepts checks and purchase orders through the mail. In addition purchase orders may be faxed to the office at [phone]. Payment must be submitted with registration form found at www.pecs.com .

Support/Social groups for ASD-

Night Owls at Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church. This program offers free of charge childcare for your special needs child and their siblings. The ratio of children to volunteers is 1:1. The program is the first Friday of every month. We also offer such events as Mom’s Morning Out. If you are interested please e-mail Betty: [e-mail]. Enjoy a night out!

Awesome Autism Support Group is sponsored by Siskin Center in Chattanooga and meets monthly. For more information, contact Jackie Benkert at: [phone]. Group meets the 4th Monday of the month, 7 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House next door to Erlanger. On facebook as: AwesomeAutism-please join!

Family Share Support Group meets monthly for a meal. For more information and to RSVP, contact [e-mail] or [phone].

Social Group for Chattanooga Teens affected by Aspergers. Meets regularly, local parents have started this group. For information on next meeting, call [phone].

Greater Chattanooga Aspies (GCA) is a support & social group for adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/High functioning autism in the greater Chattanooga area. Regularly scheduled meetings will be the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 6 – 8pm with a speaker the first hour and support group time the second hour. Their socials are monthly with TBD dates, times, & activities. For more information, contact Scott Kramer at: [e-mail] or go to: www.meetup.com/G-C-As

CLEVELAND:
JUNE 23 – 24, 2011 – 2011 Lee University Southeastern Autism Symposium with Keynote Speaker Sondra Williams. It will be at Lee University in Cleveland, TN. Cost is $75. For more information contact: Hariett Cannon at: [phone] or [e-mail]
MORRISTOWN:
Autism Orientation at Manley Baptist Church on Thursday September 1st 2011 from 6:30-8:30. Please see attached flyer for more information or to RSVP.


Volunteer Opportunities:

We have a number of volunteer opportunities to pass along to you and hope that you will respond to this email if you'd like to sign up to help with any of these events.

Upcoming community events that we would like to exhibit the Chattanooga Autism Center poster board and information about ASD. As well as info on Art and Autism and activities for children. We need volunteers to sign up for shifts to man the booth and hand out information about our center and encourage them to sign up for our email distribution list. We will provide all of the needed items: folding table, CAC board, flyers, pamphlets, children's activities etc.

-Saturday and Sunday May 28-29th from 10-6pm Who Fest in Ren Park (beside Coolidge Park). Art festival where we hope to include Art and Autism booth with a 'chalk walk' (area on the sidewalk for kids to draw with chalk)

-Thursday and Friday June 23 and 24 at the LUDIC conference at Lee University. Annual conference on Autism where we hope that the Cleveland and Chattanooga Autism Center's can be represented.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
We will need a few volunteers to help out at the lawn mower races on Sat June 25th as well. We'll need some folks to help with concession sales and parking possibly.
We hope to sell some lemonade and watermelon etc which we hope to get donated. If you'd like to volunteer day of or help get these things donated, please let me know.

Thank you very much for considering to help out the CAC!

Melanie Chakwin

--
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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AAPD is proud to partner with the University of Michigan and their disability studies department to support a national disability survey. If you would please take 5 minutes to complete this 10-question survey, we can learn more about your disability connections and the meaning of disability in our communities. This information will help us better direct our programs and policy work. Thank you in advance:

Take the survey online at: tinyurl.com/RottensteinLab

Towards the end of the survey, please remember to select “AAPD” for the question: “How did you learn about this survey?”

Questions can be directed to: [e-mail], and more information is online at: www.psychologyofdisability.org.

Thank you very much for your time and input!

The AAPD Team



Mailing Address:
AAPD
1629 K Street, NW
Suite 950
Washington, WA 20006

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DON'T MISS OUT - Register TODAY!

Time is almost up to register for the 2011 Caleb Thompson Memorial Golf Tournament, taking place NEXT WEEK at Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin, TN, Thursday, June 9, 2011.



If you're interested in registering or for further information, CLICK HERE!

www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/tools/refer.php?s=3404560961&u=23715627&v=3&key=1271&skey=68153caaa3&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdsamt.ejoinme.org%2FMyPages%2F2011CalebThompsonMemorialGolfTournament%2Ftabid%2F277156%2FDefault.aspx

Foursome $500 / Individual player $125



Your entry fee includes:

18 holes of golf at the exclusive Vanderbilt Legends Club
Greens and cart fees, range balls
Continental Breakfast
Beverages on course
Contest entries
Pavillion Cookout following play
Executive goody bag
Team photos

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Please help The Arc Tennessee plan its regional education sessions for the coming year and take a brief survey to let us know your interests. You may access the survey by clicking on this link: Family and Self-Advocate Education Session Survey or by pasting this link into your browser: redcap.vanderbilt.edu/surveys/?s=v8jPrg.



Please share far and wide with families and self-advocates. If people do not have access to a computer but would like to take the survey, please contact The Arc at 1-800-835-7077 and mention that you want to take the “Family and Self-Advocate Education Session Survey” and ask for Carrie or Lori.



Thank you for helping The Arc plan its activities for the coming year!

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www.bazelon.org/News-Publications/Press-Releases.aspx

Montgomery Public Schools Discriminate against Children with Mental Illnesses, Say Legal Filings by Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program and Bazelon Center

Montgomery, AL \250C May 31, 2011 \250C On behalf of Montgomery school children, the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP), the Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, and the Law Offices of Sears & Sears, PC, filed three complaints today with the Alabama State Department of Education, citing systemic failures by Montgomery Public Schools to educate children with emotional disturbance. These failures constitute violations of federal civil rights laws prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities.

\250DThese students\241\252and many more like them in Montgomery Public Schools\241\252are children with hopes and dreams, and talents and interests, just like other children. We all lose when the school district doesn\241\257t work with families to cultivate the potential of our young people," said Nancy Anderson, an ADAP attorney. "Schools have a responsibility to teach all of their students \250C not just some of them.\241\254

According to the complaints, Montgomery schools fail to identify, and provide mental health services to, children with emotional disturbance who are entitled to special education and other services under federal civil rights laws. Nearly 32,000 children are enrolled in Montgomery Public Schools, but the district has identified only 85 students as qualifying for special education services for this reason.

Rather than provide necessary services, these schools often punish children for conduct related to their disabilities and push these students out -- to \250Dalternative schools,\241\254 the juvenile justice system, or home. Montgomery schools also fail to train teachers and administrators in how to help these students learn, the complaints state.

James Tucker, legal director for ADAP, explained, \250DWe asked the district to work with us to resolve these failures regarding educating children with emotional disturbance. Unfortunately, they were not interested in collaborating to address these urgent problems.\241\254

"The law is specific about the services schools must provide so that children with emotional disturbance receive an education," stated Ira Burnim, legal director for the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law. "Montgomery schools fail miserably in providing the services these children need to learn," said Burnim. "Instead of educating these children, Montgomery schools push them out of the neighborhood schools and into the juvenile court. Out of sight, out of mind.\241\254

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Located in Tuscaloosa, the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP, http://www.adap.net) is part of the nationwide federally funded protection and advocacy (P&A) system. ADAP's mission is to provide quality, legally based advocacy services to Alabamians with disabilities in order to protect, promote and expand their rights. ADAP's vision is one of a society where persons with BAZELON CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH LAW 2

disabilities are valued and exercise self-determination through meaningful choices, and have equality of opportunity.

The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law (www.bazelon.org) is the leading national legal-advocacy organization representing people with mental disabilities. It promotes laws and policies that can enable people with psychiatric or developmental disabilities to exercise their life choices and access the resources they need to participate fully in their communities.

The Law Offices of Sears & Sears, in Birmingham and Mobile, Alabama, represents clients throughout Alabama in education law, criminal defense, juvenile law, and personal injury and insurance claims.

Click here to read a redacted complaint. For more information or to speak to an expert from ADAP or the Bazelon Center on this issue, contact James Tucker, at [e-mail] or 205.310.5906, or Dominic Holt, at Dominic @ bazelon.org or 202.467.5730, ext. 311