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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:26:49 GMT -5
The Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Program is looking for people who understand the unique needs of persons with brain injury to serve on the Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Council. Appointments are made annually for a term that begins in January and lasts two years. Representatives are needed in the category of Survivor / Family member / Primary Care Giver.
Call the TBI Program Director, Jean Doster at 615-741-1230 with questions.
Jean Doster, Director
Traumatic Brain Injury Program
HSM 4th floor, Cordell Hull Bldg
425 Fifth Ave. N.
Nashville, TN 37243
Phone: 615-741-1230
Fax: 615-532-2785
Jean.Doster@tn.gov
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:29:23 GMT -5
Do you know someone who is trying to get on TennCare? Standard Spend Down is a way to get on TennCare. Standard Spend Down is opening on September 12, 2011 at 6:00 pm Central Time (7:00 pm Eastern Time). Standard Spend Down may be helpful for adults who can't get the health care they need. Please help us spread the word! Do you know someone who is: Disabled? Age 65 or older? A parent or caretaker-relative of a child under 18 (and sometimes under age 19) and not able to get on Families First? They may be eligible for Standard Spend Down! To get an application, they have to call 1-866-358-3230 on September 12, 2011 at 6:00 pm Central Time. Standard Spend Down is only open from 6:00-8:30 pm Central Time (7:00-9:30 pm Eastern Time) on September 12. If the line is busy, keep calling! Please go to our blog for more information about Spend Down or go here to read more about Standard Spend Down opening. Please download a flyer (in Spanish too) about Spend Down and please pass on this email to share with others! cts.vresp.com/c/?TennesseeJusticeCent/fad70c8f66/644a9adfd2/444f73ae3f |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:34:20 GMT -5
TPAC will offer audio description for Blast on Sunday,October 2 at 1:00 p.m. (Please note that American Sign Language will not be offered for this show, because there is no dialogue, only music.) Blast, a dynamic brass and percussion performance
Sunday, October 2 at 1:00 p.m. Audio description notes begin at 12:40. Anticipated running time: 1 hour and 40 minutes, with one intermission. Braille and large-print programs are available. The live narrator will be Mona Barz.
A special ticket price of $15 is available in accessible row P of the tier for recipients of this e mail. Twenty of these seats will be on hold through Monday, September 26. Regular ticket prices range from $30 in the rear balcony to $62 in the orchestra. Buy your tickets early for the best choice of seats.
To purchase tickets by telephone, call 615-782-4000 and ask for Rick Forshee between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Brief Description of Blast: Inspired by the traditions of the marching band and drum and bugle corps, Blast is pure fun for the whole family. The talented brass and percussion performers present a dynamic concert experience. The narrator will describe the athletic movement and use of color during the show.
I look forward to meeting you at TPAC,
Keely Hagan
Public Relations Associate
Tennessee Performing Arts Center
PO Box 190660 - 505 Deaderick Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37219
Direct: 615-782-4081
Audio Description and American Sign Language at TPAC this season:
+Wicked, October 23
+Memphis, November 20
+The Addams Family, January 8
+Spamalot, January 28
+South Pacific, February 12
+Mary Poppins, March 25
+Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, May 6
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:36:25 GMT -5
TNSILC SEEKING CANDIDATES TO SERVE AS COUNCIL MEMBERS
The Tennessee Statewide Independent Living Council, Inc. (TNSILC) is an independent federally mandated state council that advances Independent Living philosophy through the network of Centers for Independent Living (CILs) by promoting, supporting, and providing independent living services that are consumer controlled by and for a cross-disability population which are non-residential within an integrated, fully inclusive setting to ensure the maximum empowerment and independence of individuals with disabilities.
TNSILC is in the process of seeking candidates to serve as potential volunteer council members appointed by the Governor to three-year terms. The council is looking to fill a number of vacancies and terms that will expire at the end of the year. The council seeks diverse membership, including individuals with various disabilities, cultures, ages, and gender, geographically distributed across the State. Based on current council membership, the TNSILC hopes to enhance its diversity with members located in all geographic areas in addition to individuals with disabilities. All individuals are encouraged to apply including, but not limited to, veterans with disabilities and young adults with disabilities.
Interested candidates should complete an application form in its entirety and include a copy of their resume plus two references with contact information. This information should be sent electronically to ensure equal access during the review process to mark_m@tnsilc.org by the end of business on Friday, September 16, 2011. The recommendation and appointment process will proceed in the next few months. If you have any questions about the application, process, or duties of council members, contact the TNSILC office at (615) 255-0283 (Voice), (615) 255-2495 (Fax), or mark_m@tnsilc.org. Thank you for your interest in the council.
Mark Montgomery, Executive Director
TNSILC
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:37:43 GMT -5
The Center For Understanding's Metamorphosis groups will start this September. If you wish to have your teen join this recreational group please send a check for $45 to C4U offices and write "Meta Group Sr. or Jr." on the check. We will be having staff and volunteers to help with theses recreational groups that do NOT have parental supports. Parents will leave their teen with staff and then pick up after the event. Here is the time and dates of events:
September 17th, 10am-12:30pm Meta Sr. and Jr. GRASSMERE ZOO TRIP You may drop off your teen at the front of the zoo entrance at 10am and staff will help with him/her purchasing ticket (please bring yearly pass or cash), walking around, and eating lunch. Teen may purchase lunch at zoo restaurant. Parents will pick up teen at front entrance at 12:30pm.
October 1st Meta Jr. 10am-11:30pm Teens will be dropped off infront of the Jaymar Entertainment center and will bowl with staff (please have teens bring cash for bowling) while the parents take a Yoga class at the offices at C4U!!! Parents will then pick-up teen infront of Center at 11:30am
October 15th Meta Sr. Fishing at Percy Priest Lake 9am meeting at our offices at C4U at 9am and I wil drive teens to Percy Priest Lake for fishing. I have a van that fits 6 teens. Please email me if teen has their own rods/gear. I have five rods for use. Each person needs fishing license for the day. I will return teens to offices at 11:30am.
November 12th Meta Sr. and Jr. Thanksgiving Dinner at C4U offices at 1pm to 4pm. Parents will be able to come with a dish to share and have a feast with their teen. I will bring the Turkey, gravy and stuffing...please bring veggies, rolls, and desserts. Please bring wrapping paper and old boxes so we can have a "how-to-wrap" party after dinner!!!!!!
December 5th, Meta Sr. and Jr. Monday night 4:30 parent will drop off teen at Galleria Mall entrance (next to Talbot's) and let teen shop with staff and then have dinner at the food court. Parent's will then pick up teen at same entrance at 6:30pm.
Please call me at 300-3369 for more information.
Andrea Cates
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:38:37 GMT -5
The Autism Advocate is known as one of the most trusted and respected publications about autism. Self-advocates, parents, educators and caregivers know they can count on the Autism Society’s membership magazine for the latest and most useful information in the areas of education, environmental health, therapies and interventions, adult issues and more.
Right now, the Autism Society is giving you the opportunity to share the Autism Advocate with someone special. Donate $5 and we’ll send a copy of the most recent issue about employment, The Right to Work, to a person of your choosing.
Make a difference for someone by giving them the gift of information and empowerment. This promotion will continue for a limited time while supplies last, so please take advantage of this offer today!
Sincerely,
Autism Society
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:41:51 GMT -5
Next Chapter Book Club Meeting Times and Locations (West TN)!
1st Book Club: Wednesday’s
Location: Skinner Center (712 Tangle Wood Ave.)
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Facilitators: Easter Kirby, Sherri Penn, Debra Crutchfield, Mary Cline
Peer Assistant: Nicole Coleman
(Bring your lunch)
2nd Book Club: Friday’s
Location: Republic Coffee House (2924 Walnut Grove)
Time: 11:00 – 12:00 PM
Facilitators: Savannah Morris, Sharleen Fox, Mary Cline
Peer Assistants: Bryant Branch
3rd Book Club: Saturday’s
Location: Otherland’s Coffee Shop (641 South Cooper St.)
Time: 4:00-5:00 PM
Facilitators: Francine Stovall, Carol Williams
Peer Assistants: Nicole Coleman, Joe Elliot
4th Book Club: (Day) Wednesday’s (Bi-Weekly 2hrs)
Location: Germantown Library (1925 Exeter Road)
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Date: September 7, 2011 (Every other week)
Facilitators: Melody Pittman & Rachel Taylor
Peer Assistants: Steven Diament
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:47:15 GMT -5
Subject: FW: UCP Sports and Recreation Program Coordinator Job Description (Part Time)
We are in the process of identifying someone who will coordinate our weekly recreation program. Please see the attached job description for details and pass this information along to anyone you know who might be interested.
Our Executive Director, Deana Claiborne, requests that all correspondence be conducted via email to her: Deana_Claiborne@ucpnashville.org No telephone calls please!
Diane Dietrich
Director of Development
United Cerebral Palsy
1200 9th Avenue North, Suite 110
Nashville, Tennessee 37208
Telephone: 615-242-4091
Facsimile: 615-242-3582
Email: diane_dietrich@ucpnashville.org
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Coordinator - Sports and Recreation Program
United Cerebral Palsy of Middle Tennessee is seeking a Coordinator for our Sports and Recreation Program. This is a part time position, with responsibilities on average one evening a week. Qualifications: The Sports and Recreation Coordinator must have knowledge and skills in working with persons with disabilities as well as knowledge of recreation activities for individuals with disabilities. Physical requirements include the ability to lift and transport wheelchairs and other sports night equipment, and the ability to lift a person from the floor into a wheelchair and/or the ability to ensure that volunteers with this capacity are in attendance and assigned to these responsibilities at every activity. The Sports Night Coordinator answers to UCP Home Access Program Director John Pickett.
Specific Tasks and Responsibilities Include:
„« Design and Coordinate UCP Sport Night Activities including wheelchair bowling (summer) and wheelchair basketball & board games (fall and winter)
„« Coordinate with David Lipscomb Elementary School and AMF Pla-Mor Bowling Lanes for seasonal activities described above
„« Supervise and ensure that all activities are safe for participants and volunteers
„« Recruit and involve participants
„« Recruit and train volunteers
„« Maintain database of volunteers and participants and send database to the UCP office regularly in spreadsheet format
„« Maintain sports night equipment in good working order
„« Coordinate awards for activities
„« Coordinate special activities such as Halloween Party, movie nights, etc.
„« Coordinate periodic Fans on Wheels demonstrations at area schools
„« Pick up wheelchairs at UCP facility and return for each wheelchair basketball initiative
„« Ensure that no individual with a disability is ever left unattended at any activity - arrive early and stay late as necessary
„« Send out regular email communications about UCP activities to participants and volunteers
„« Establish Sports Night/Activities calendar
„« Ensure that cancellations or changes in event calendar are communicated well in advance to all participants and volunteers
„« Establish Emergency Communication plan for cancellations due to inclement weather, such as ice and snow, etc. so that participants and volunteers do not arrive at a venue at which an activity has been cancelled.
„« Create and organize periodic "Fans on Wheels" activities at area sporting events such as Predators Hockey, Sounds Baseball, area football, etc.
Compensation: UCP pays the coordinator $50 for each regular Sports Night activity and for each ¡§UCP Hoops¡¨ Event. UCP also reimburses for mileage at the State of Tennessee prevailing mileage rate. Alternatively, if the coordinator wishes to store wheelchairs and equipment at a site away from the UCP building, UCP pays $50 per month for storage and transportation. UCP does not compensate for ¡§Fans on Wheels¡¨ activities, however, if UCP acquires tickets for these events, the Sports Night Coordinator and one other person (guest of Sports Night Coordinator) may receive a ticket at no charge.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:49:09 GMT -5
Tyler Smothers Is The Arc’s Achieve with us Contest Winner! Between June and August, The Arc invited people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to share their stories of achievement in an online contest on our Facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/thearcus. More than 25,000 votes were tallied for 119 contestants to narrow the field down to the top 10 finalists in The Arc’s Achieve with us Contest. Then The Arc had the difficult task of determining who would ultimately win the Grand Prize of a trip for two for two days to Washington D.C. to share their story of achievement with The Arc’s National Office and a chance to talk with their representatives on Capitol Hill. Every single story was an inspiration and each contestant should be applauded for their remarkable achievements. But we did have to choose just one winner, and the winner is Tyler Smothers from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. For four years, Tyler has been the driving…or, rather bicycling…force behind an annual bike riding fundraiser for The Arc of East Central Iowa. Motivated to raise money to help his community recover after historic floods in 2008, the annual ride has turned into a celebrated event raising tens of thousands of dollars each year. Using an adaptive bike, Tyler leads the ride, regardless of the challenges presented by a rare condition. Delaine Petersen, Executive Director of The Arc of East Central Iowa, says Tyler is “the perfect example of what The Arc stands for. He has done wonders for the community.” Because of those achievements we are proud to invite Tyler to Washington, D.C. When we told Tyler he was the Grand Prize winner, he said “This is the most exciting and coolest day ever. I would love to see Mr. Obama and Michelle!” While meeting the President may not be possible (this time), The Arc is working to arrange a trip to the Capitol for a chance for Tyler to talk to his representatives in Congress in November. Stay tuned to news from The Arc about Tyler’s trip on our blog and in upcoming e-mails and publications. Thank you to everyone who participated in the contest either as an entrant, someone who voted or simply someone who visited our Facebook page to read these amazing stories. We invite you to continue to Achieve with us on Facebook, Twitter or at www.thearc.org. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We want to thank ABILITY Magazine for sponsoring this contest. The grand prize winner will be featured in an upcoming issue of the magazine and receive complimentary copies of that issue and a one-year subscription. The Arc 1660 L Street, NW, Suite 301, Washington, DC 20036 Phone: 800.433.5255 | Contact Us |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:52:58 GMT -5
Transition Academy 2011 Saturday, September 17, 2011 - 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. East Ridge High School 4320 Bennett Road East Ridge, TN 37412 What happens when the school bus stops coming for your child with special educational needs? Do you have a plan? Does your child have a plan? When will they graduate? With what kind of diploma will they graduate? Will they go to college? Where will they work? Where will they live? Where will they play? How can they gain experience before and after graduation? Do you have a transition plan for their medical and their educational care? Do you know what will happen when the bus stops coming? Do you know that the plan will work? What role should the parents and the student play in this transition? Join us and find out how to put all the pieces together! Some of the Breakout Sessions and Fair Resources: · Medicaid Waiver · Conservatorship · Guardianship · Eligibility · Transition Plans · Employment Opportunities · Graduation Requirements · Self Determination & Self Advocacy Skills · Medical Care Transition . Estate Planning · Social Security · Vocational Rehabilitation · Independent Living Options...and MORE! We are empowering parents and encouraging students in their transition to adult life! While this conference is geared for parents and transition-age students age 12 to 22, professionals and educators are welcomed and encouraged to attend as well! Open to all counties this year! Register Today! Don't Wait! Limited Spaces! Register as Exhibitor and Attendee at www.TransitionAcademy.orgPresented by a Collaboration: LifeLine, Inc., STEP, Inc., Hamilton County Schools and Walker County Schools. Lisa Mattheiss, Executive Director LifeLine, Inc. Reaching Families with Special Needs With Support, Education, and Training 1609 McCallie Avenue Chattanooga, TN 37404 Office: 423-622-4007 Mobile: 423-645-0504 lifelineministry@juno.com lisa_mattheiss@lifelinefamilies.org www.LifeLineFamilies.org |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 9:58:20 GMT -5
Marcus Autism Center and Autism Speaks invite you to attend a special presentation: Trust and Estate Planning for Individuals with Disabilities
7 p.m. - Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011
Marcus Autism Center - Third Floor Boardroom
Presented by:
Bill Frazier
Group Vice President, SunTrust
Division Manager,
Recovery Management Division
This seminar gives families tips for making a support plan. Frazier will talk about using a special needs trust to help people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).
Snacks will be provided. Email Elizabeth.Marvel@choa.org to RSVP.
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Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Sept 2, 2011 11:29:38 GMT -5
From the link on the post at 9:29 above re travel reimbursement:
"You get to count 0.42 cents per mile."
Less than 1/2 cent per mile? What a waste of time filling out the forms.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 2, 2011 13:14:13 GMT -5
Yeah....I don't write 'em, I just post 'em. I'm fairly certain that they meant $0.42 per mile, which is the State of TN mileage reimbursement rate.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 5, 2011 13:38:27 GMT -5
On October 13, 2011 the city of Memphis and the Memphis Advisory Council for Citizens with Disabilities (MACCD) will be holding its first ever Disability Awareness Summit. The summit will be held at Christ United Methodist Church located at 4488 Poplar Avenue from 9:00-3:00 PM. A free lunch will be provided to all registered participants. The purpose of the Disability Awareness Summit is to increase awareness about issues facing people with disabilities in the areas of housing, transportation, education, healthcare, and employment. We also want to work towards identifying and discussing solutions. Participants will also be able to learn about resources available for people with disabilities through an information fair. The keynote speaker will be Steve Gold, a practicing attorney, who is an advocate for people with disabilities with knowledge in a multitude of areas including housing, healthcare, employment, and transportation. Registration for the summit is quick and easy! You can register for the event by clicking on the link below or if you do not have internet access you can call Christina Clift at (901) 726-6404 Ext. 108 to RSVP. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/195710 |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 5, 2011 13:57:00 GMT -5
APRAIS is a group of organizations dedicated to preventing the use of restraint and seclusion in schools. Following is a memo directed to the U.S. Department of Education (OSERS and OSEP) in anticipation of the issuance of guidelines in this area.
Memorandum
TO: Alexa Posny, Assistant Secretary, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
Melody Musgrove, Director, Office of Special Education Programs
From: APRAIS Member Organizations
RE: Anticipated Restraint and Seclusion Prevention Guidelines
We understand that the Department of Education plans to release guidance to the field soon on restraint and seclusion use in schools. The release of such guidance responds to an urgent need expressed by school personnel and parents to provide meaningful direction regarding these practices. Reducing the use of restraint and seclusion is squarely aligned with other important school reform efforts, such as the prevention of bullying and the focus on safe and effective school climates. APRAIS member organizations applaud these efforts and offer the collective expertise of the organizations we represent as the Administration continues to move forward on this issue.
Ultimately, the course of action the Department of Education and all school districts take must be toward improvement in the overall safety of everyone involved and towards the reduction of use of these techniques. When positive school climate, safety of all, and reduction of the use of restraint and seclusion are the overarching principles, evidence-based practices are implemented with greater success.
To that end, we strongly encourage the Administration and the Department of Education to use the available evidence base as a guidepost for reducing and preventing use of restraint and seclusion in schools. Important elements reflected in this ample body of work from other disciplines form the basis for the items in the checklist provided below.
We encourage these checklist items to be used to evaluate pending recommendations or policy guidance from the Department.
” Clearly establishes the goal as constant and deliberate reduction in the use and duration of restraint and seclusion in educational settings, programs, and schools.
” Encourages a proactive and positive framework for all students; not specifically focused on any subgroup of students, such as students with disabilities.
” Establishes a framework based on the SAMSHA Six Core Strategies to reduce the use of Restraint and Seclusion in schools and educational settings or programs. Such a framework is demonstrated as effective and is essential to assure focus is on identifying risk factors for conflict and dangerous behaviors before they occur, along with putting in place early intervention strategies to immediately respond to conflict so that dangerous behaviors and the use of restraint and seclusion can be prevented. [1] The Six Core Strategies, and important components under each, include:
· Leadership toward Organizational Change.
o Develop a model district or building-wide policy statement that outlines the global prevention/reduction approach to the use of restraint and seclusion;
o Encourages:
§ identification of data-driven goals to reduce use;
§ Routine analysis of progress, targeted plans for areas needing improvement and celebration of successes;
§ Identification of restraint and seclusion reduction champions at all horizontal and vertical organizational layers; and
§ Assigns these staff to specific prevention roles within District, State or Department hierarchies.
· The Use of Data to Inform Practice.
o Data is encouraged to be used in a way that allows administrators to identify and share successful restraint and seclusion prevention practices.
o Data collected and reported should be consistent with that already begun by the Department of Education Office of Civil Rights in 2010.
o Transparency of the data is an essential component for successful reduction. Data should be reported at the local, state, and federal levels, and available to the public on an accessible and easily accessed website as a matter of public record.
o Senior administrators should analyze trends within the school and among schools to ensure that restraints and seclusion are used only in the rarest of situations, when absolutely unavoidable and that positive behavioral intervention and de-escalation techniques are emphasized and implemented.
· Workforce Development.
o Promotes use of training programs that, at a minimum, increase knowledge and skills in evidence-based practices shown to be effective in:
§ the prevention of physical restraint;
§ in keeping both school personnel and students safe in imposing physical restraint if necessary to remove an imminent danger of harm.
§ in the use of evidence-based positive behavior interventions and supports, safe physical escort, conflict prevention, behavioral antecedents, functional behavioral assessments, de-escalation of challenging behaviors, and conflict management;
§ in first aid, including the signs of medical distress, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and
§ certification for school personnel should be required to be renewed on a periodic basis.
o Staff training should also address:
§ the growing evidence that many restraint and seclusion events occur because of win-lose conflicts set up by the numerous rules that govern building operations and the role of staff in enforcing these rules.
§ the principle that imposition of restraint or seclusion is not educational or behavioral strategy, but the failure of educational or behavioral strategy.
· Use of Prevention Tools.
o Promote the use of preventative methodologies such as school-wide positive behavior support, de-escalation strategies.
o Provide clear guidance for staff to assess if/when behavior presents an imminent danger of harm.
o Emphasize the need for positive approaches to be tried and documented prior to imposition of restraint upon students or use of seclusion for any length of time.
o Encourage the use of individual plans (consistent with existing requirements under State and Federal Law) for purposes of communicating and documenting proactive means of problem-solving, de-escalation and interruption that make the use of restraint or seclusion less likely or unnecessary.
o Emphasizes best practice and comprehensive approach to the issue; for example, as behavior is a form of communication, need to ensure students are provided with alternative and augmentative communication or other educational supports, accommodations or instructional strategies that are effective in reducing or eliminating need for exhibition of problem behaviors.
· Supporting Student, Family and Advocate Roles.
o Involving students, family members, and external advocates in a variety of roles in district and building planning can have a powerful impact, both as a primary prevention strategy to reduce the use of restraint and seclusion, and as an ongoing systems change strategy.
· Debriefing Tools.
o Successful efforts to reduce the use of restraint and seclusion use event debriefing procedures to inform policy, procedures, and practices and reduce future use of these interventions. A secondary goal of this strategy is to mitigate the adverse and potentially traumatizing effects of a restraint or seclusion event for involved staff and students, families, and for all witnesses to the event.
o Policies and procedures to be followed after each incident involving the imposition of physical restraint or seclusion upon a student, including procedures to provide to the parent of the student, with respect to each incident, verbal and written notification.
o Immediate and long term debriefing sessions focused on rigorous problem-solving methods to review and analyze the event, or sequence of events. The goal of such planning to prevent and reduce reoccurrence of the use of physical restraint or use of seclusion.
o Debriefing should involve at minimum:
§ Identification of antecedents to the physical restraint;
§ Consideration of relevant information in the student’s records, from teachers, other professionals, the parent and student;
§ Consideration of the results of any Functional Behavioral Assessments, whether positive behavior plans were implemented with fidelity,
§ Recommendations of appropriate positive behavioral interventions and supports to assist personnel responsible for the student’s educational plan, Individualized Education Program for a student eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and for plans providing for reasonable accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act;
§ A plan to have a functional behavioral assessment conducted, reviewed, or revised by qualified professionals, the parent and the student; and
§ For any student not identified as eligible under Section 504 or the IDEA, evidence of such a referral or documentation of the basis for declining to refer the student.
In addition to the core strategies defined above, we urge the Department to:
” Provide clear guidance on the use of restraint:
· Limits use to situations in which there is imminent danger of harm.
· Emphasizes the danger of any physical restraint technique that restricts breathing or uses extreme force.
· Clarifies that the techniques may not be used for destruction of property, convenience of staff or discipline.
· Specifies that restraint must be limited to only such reasonable force as is necessary to achieve safety, and that it must end as soon as the threat of imminent danger of harm is over.
· Emphasize the need for face-to-face monitoring to ensure student safety.
” Provide clear guidance regarding seclusion:
· Limits use to situations in which there is imminent danger of harm.
· Specifies the extreme danger of placing students in a locked room or other space from which they cannot exit.
· Provides technical assistance to clearly differentiate seclusion from time-out.
· Encourages that techniques such as time-out are only used as part of evidence based, comprehensive, positive support plan developed in accordance with requirements under existing State and Federal law and regulation.
· Emphasize the need for face-to-face monitoring to ensure student safety.
Please let us know if you have specific questions or would like additional information regarding any of the points in this document. We appreciate the opportunity for input on this important topic and encourage continued dialogue with diverse stakeholders prior to the release of any such recommendations or guidance.
[1] Six Core Strategies© to Reduce the Use of Seclusion and Restraint in Inpatient Facilities, outlined below. See Huckshorn, K.A., Re-Designing State Mental Health Policy to Prevent the Use of Seclusion and Restraint, 33 Administration and Policy in Mental Health 4 (2006) at 482-491; and Huckshorn, K.A., Reducing the Use of Seclusion and Restraint in Mental Health Systems: A Public Health Prevention Approach with Interventions, 42 J. of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services 9 (Sept. 2004).
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 5, 2011 13:58:08 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 5, 2011 13:58:42 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 6, 2011 14:47:43 GMT -5
2 US Department of State Employment Opportunities For Youth:
#1 - We are pleased to inform you that we are now accepting applications for the U.S. Department of State's Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP).
Click here (http://careers.state.gov/students/programs) to read more about STEP, and to start the application process. Please note that the deadline to submit completed applications is September 30, 2011.
To be eligible for this program, you must be:
At least 16 years of age
A U.S. citizen
Enrolled in a degree, certificate or diploma (minimum half-time) program
In good academic standing at your school (minimum 2.0 GPA)
Able to meet security requirements
You can also visit our Student Programs forum (http://careers.state.gov/engage/forums/student-programs) to post questions or read discussions about this program.
We appreciate your interest in a career with the U.S. Department of State.
U.S. citizenship is required. An equal opportunity employer.
#2 - We are pleased to inform you that we are now accepting applications for the U.S. Department of State's Student Career Experience Program (SCEP).
Click here (http://careers.state.gov/students/programs) to read more about SCEP, and to start the application process. Please note that the deadline to submit completed applications is September 30, 2011.
To be eligible for this program, you must be:
At least 16 years of age
A U.S. citizen
Enrolled in a degree, certificate or diploma (minimum half-time) program
In good academic standing at your school (minimum 2.0 GPA)
Able to meet security requirements
You can also visit our Student Programs forum (http://careers.state.gov/engage/forums/student-programs) to post questions or read discussions about this program.
We appreciate your interest in a career with the U.S. Department of State.
U.S. citizenship is required. An equal opportunity employer.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 6, 2011 14:49:31 GMT -5
On Tuesday, October 4th, 2011, Belmont Campus is presenting an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) training workshop. This workshop will address introductory uses and opportunities in AAC, from 9 am till 3:30 pm. The training is not just for professionals in this area, but also individuals with disabilities and family members, as well as other educators. There is no cost, but there is a registration at www.dynavoxtech.com/training/on-location/AAC-implementation-workshops/. For more information about the course, please see the attached flyer, or contact Mary Eadie (mary.eadie@dynavoxtech.com). Please pass this information on to other individuals who may be interested or benefit from it. |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 7, 2011 14:21:41 GMT -5
Today we witnessed a big step toward preserving federal funding for autism-related research, treatments, screening and interventions. The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee unanimously passed the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act (CARA) during its committee meeting this morning, which means the bill can be debated on the Senate floor.
The Autism Society would like to thank the HELP Committee, including Chairman Tom Harkin (D-IA), Ranking Member Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) for their leadership, as well as all sponsors of the bill for their support.
While today’s results were positive, we still have more work to ensure CARA is passed by September 30, the day the Combating Autism Act of 2006 will expire and the $693 million in federal funding it appropriates will disappear. Passage in the Senate will provide vital support to getting the reauthorization passed in the House.
Please continue to reach out to your Representatives in both the House and Senate and urge them to support this critically important reauthorization.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 7, 2011 14:23:31 GMT -5
Open Doors Loudon Special Needs Support
Please join us September 22nd, 6-8pm, for a discussion about caregivers and respite care.
Special Guest Speaker: Marsha Poore of Tennessee Respite Coalition
Location: First Baptist Church in Lenoir City
2085 Simpson Rd. (enter at the playground, go upstairs to room 207)
The Tennessee Respite Coalition (TRC) provides relief to families and caregivers from the extraordinary and intensive demands of providing ongoing care. Respite is temporary relief for caregivers and families. It is a service in which care is provided to individuals with disabilities and other special needs.
The Tennessee Respite Coalition was formed in the early 1990s by a group of professionals that were interested in Respite for families that had children with special needs, especially those with children that had mental health diagnoses. Many of these professionals were in the state department of Mental Health and other state departments. As the group grew and became more organized, others that were involved directly with families joined. tnrespite.org
Please RSVP at early111@bellsouth.net or 865-621-3661
Childcare will be available on a first come basis with advanced arrangements.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 7, 2011 14:30:37 GMT -5
For more information please call 1/800-280-7837. Any families who would like to call in to register please call the toll free number listed. Links to register for conferences and institutes are on the STEP website, as each registration opens. www.tnstep.org Middle TN Parent Multicultural Leadership Conference: This conference is designed for parents and caregivers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who have children with special needs , including those whose first language is not English. The purpose of the conference is to provide information, strategies, and tools that empower families on issues related to special education and parent engagement. Childcare will be provided at the Clarksville conference. For information in Spanish call 1 (800) 975-2919. Sessions will be interpreted in Spanish for this conference. Saturday, September 24th Faith Outreach Church, Clarksville, TN (Montgomery County) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TN TIME- Transition Information Made Easy Funded through a grant from the Tennessee Department of Education It’s TIME to start planning for your life after High School!! STEP is collaborating with the Tennessee Department of Education and local school systems to provide one day Transition Institutes across the state. The Transition Institutes will have information fairs and numerous presentations with information about adult disability resources and services. The institutes will have four main strands of information: Self Advocacy/Self Determination Independent Living Post Secondary Education Employment Our goal is to provide you with the tools and information necessary that will empower young adults with disabilities to successfully transition from high school to adulthood. The information and resources that will be provided at these events will enable you to lead successful and independent adult lives. Carter County Transition Institute and Information Fair Saturday, September 10th Elizabethton, TN Happy Valley High School (Carter County) Hamilton County Transition Institute (partnering with LIFELINE to present this conference) see website for more information) East Ridge High School Saturday, September 17th Chattanooga, TN Weakley County Transition Institute Saturday, October 22nd. Hold the date! Registration and additional information will be posted regarding that event soon. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Applebee’s fundraiser! Saturday October 8th Nashville location is 335 Harding Place contact person is Ann Curl 615/310-6986 Johnson City location is 2100 N. Roan Street contact person is Linda Burrows 423/639-0125 ext 17 Volunteers are needed in many capacities for these events. If you or a group you know would like to volunteer for one of the events, please email Karen Harrison at mailto:karen.harrison@tnstep.org Karen S. Harrison Executive Director STEP, Inc. www.tnstep.orgPhone: 423-639-0125 ext. 11 Fax: 423-636-8217 712 Professional Plaza Drive Greeneville, TN 37745 |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:08:52 GMT -5
STEP is collaborating with the Tennessee Department of Education and Carter County Schools to provide a day-long Transition Institute in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Our goal is to provide you with the tools and information necessary that will empower young adults with disabilities to successfully transition from high school to adulthood. The information and resources that will be provided at these events will enable you to lead successful and independent adult lives. Carter County Transition Institute and Information Fair Date: Saturday, Sept 10, 2011 Time: 8 am—3 pm Location: Happy Valley High School, Elizabethton, TN Cost: Free -- Sponsored by the Tennessee Department of Education, Carter County Schools and STEP, Inc. Space is limited, so register today! The Conference will Feature a Keynote Address by Bryan Hilbert, MS. Along with Sessions and Booths with Information About: Employment Post Secondary Education Independent Living Options Planning for the Future Self Determination and Self Advocacy Resources Available Through State and Local Agencies This free event is open to anyone across the state, and registration is open now. If you register by September 8 (Today!), STEP will buy your breakfast and lunch. Carter County Residents: Carter County is offering transportation to this event. If you are interested, please contact your Special Educator to make arrangements. To register visit the STEP website at www.tnstep.org or call 1-800-280-7837. ********** ********** ********** If the location or date of the Carter County Transition Institute is not convenient for you, events are being planned in all three regions. Upcoming Opportunities include: East TN TIME Institute in Hamilton County Saturday, September 17, 2011 Chattanooga, TN West TN TIME Institute in Weakley County Saturday, October 22, 2011 Martin, TN Five additional Transition Institutes will be announced throughout the 2011-2012 School Year! To register for these events or to keep an eye on future dates, please visit www.tnstep.org. |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:11:09 GMT -5
Medicaid Spend Down Briefly Reopens on Sept. 12th The state has announced that there will be a brief window for individuals to apply for one of 2,500 slots program on Monday, September 12th from 6-8:30pm CST. However, you must call in to apply as soon as the phone lines open because the window of opportunity could literally close in only a few hours. Standard Spend Down is available through a waiver to the Medicaid program for a limited number of qualified low income individuals, or those with high, unpaid medical bills who are aged, blind, disabled, or the caretaker relative of a Medicaid eligible child. Eligible individuals must have enough unpaid medical bills to meet the “spend down” threshold to qualify for coverage. A special call-in phone line through DHS has been set up for interested applicants. The only way to request an application is by calling the toll-free number, 1-(866)- 358-3230 during the designated hours. The phone lines will be open from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on September 12th and subsequent weekdays until 2,500 interested applicants call in. To read more, including eligibility criteria as well as download a program overview: tndisability.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=65d16be261&e=2876e3927cThe TN Health Care Campaign will be hosting two webinars this week about Tennessee's Spend Down Openings. To learn more visit: www.thcc2.org |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:12:13 GMT -5
Special Educator to Join "The Amazing Race" This Fall
A special education teacher will be jetting around the world beginning Sept. 25th on CBS’s “The Amazing Race” and she says that teaching students with disabilities has prepared her for the challenge. The special educator from Stone Mountain, Ga. will compete alongside her brother, Justin Young, 31, against 10 other teams to be the first to make it through a number of mental and physical challenges across four continents.
The winning team gets $1 million. In an interview on the reality show’s website, Jennifer Young said that her work teaching students with disabilities is her biggest accomplishment and that it has given her the skills to take on The Amazing Racing. “Teaching special education has taught me that the sky is the limit and the only stumbling block is you,” she said. “It takes a special person to teach and an extra special person to teach special education.”
The Youngs will have their work cut out for them as they attempt to travel 40,000 miles around the globe. Other contestants on the show include a pair of “Survivor” winners, two Olympians, a former NFL player and the youngest person to ever sail around the world alone. “The Amazing Race” premieres Sept. 25 on CBS. Source: Disability Scoop
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:13:13 GMT -5
TNSILC Seeking Candidates for Statewide Council Tennessee Statewide Independent Living Council is seeking candidates to serve as potential volunteer council members appointed by the Governor to three-year terms. The council seeks diverse membership, including individuals with various disabilities, cultures, ages, and gender, geographically distributed across the State. Interested candidates should complete an application form in its entirety and include a copy of their resume plus two references with contact information. This information should be sent electronically to ensure equal access during the review process to mark_m@tnsilc.org by the end of business on Friday, September 16, 2011. To read the full announcement: tndisability.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=fa57eb35dc&e=2876e3927c Mark Montgomery, Executive Director TNSILC |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:14:48 GMT -5
Support for Visitable Housing Continues to Gain Traction A number of public and private groups are pushing the idea that all new housing should at least be “visitable,” or accessible to people with mobility issues. So if Grandpa’s in a wheelchair or junior has broken a leg in a football game, either one can come to dinner without a lot of fuss. The U.S. Conference of Mayors, citing the growing numbers of seniors and people with mobility issues, adopted a resolution in June 2005 supporting local and state initiatives to promote visitable housing. Visitability standards have become part of the building codes of Vermont, Texas and Kansas; Atlanta; Pima County, Ariz.; and the Illinois municipalities of Chicago, Naperville, Bolinbrook and Urbana. Essential elements of a visitable home: •One zero-step entrance, at the front, back or side of the house. •All main floor doors, including bathrooms, with at least 32 inches of clear passage space. •At least a half bath, preferably a full bath, on the main floor. Concrete Change, which is based in Georgia, has been called the leading national advocacy organization for visitability. The group’s founder, Eleanor Smith, who contracted a severe case of polio as a child in the 1940s, drafted the model visitability ordinances adopted by Atlanta in 1992 and by Austin in 1998. To read more: tndisability.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=001a0d940e&e=2876e3927c |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 8, 2011 14:15:53 GMT -5
Coalition's Fall Small Grants Competition is Open The Tennessee Disability Coalition is pleased to announce its request for Letters of Interest for the November 2011 grant cycle. The purpose of the organizational grants is to build capacity in the disability community to serve individuals with disabilities and their families. Nonprofit capacity building refers to activities that improve and enhance a nonprofit’s ability to achieve its mission and sustain itself over time. In general, there is no funding available for one-time conferences. In general, the Coalition makes $100,000 available for discretionary grant each year, dependent upon funds availability, with $50,000 available for the Spring grants and $50,000 available for the Fall grants. Five grants for up to $10,000 each for a one-year term may be awarded in a grant cycle. Awards will be merit-based, following a point system outlined in the application. The initial deadline for Letters of Interest with budget outline is September 20th by noon (Central Time). To learn more about the entire grant process, including Letter of Interest and Sample Application Guidlines visit our grant announcement page: tndisability.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=48ff8ab5b4&e=2876e3927c |
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 13, 2011 13:48:56 GMT -5
We are making a formal, concerted effort to get together in the three grand regions, and we decided to call these get-togethers "TABS Third Thursdays" - meaning, each "meeting" will be on the third Thursday of every month! We will have a group on Memphis, Nashville, and Knoxville getting together at the same time at a location (see below for the details) in their area. If you know of any other adult sibs in your area that may be interested in getting connected, this would be the perfect opportunity!
The first meeting will be this coming Thursday, September 15th at 6:00 PM! I'm sorry for the late notice, but I think it is important that we go ahead and get together! I hope you can make it to your local group - and if there is not one close to you, maybe you would consider finding some other adult sibs in your area and starting a group! I am more than happy to be of assistance - just let me know!
Here are the details for the initial meetings:
Knoxville: West Knoxville/Bearden Library (corner of Kinsgton Pike and Golf Club Drive) - a flyer for this particular event is attached to this email! Carol Robbins is the contact (robbinc@tsd.k12.tn.us)
Nashville: Panera in Brentwood (782 Old Hickory Blvd - in the Target shopping center just east of I-65). Ashley Coulter is the contact (ashley.coulter@vanderbilt.edu). After we get together for some food and discussion, we may go a few doors down for some ice cream or across the parking lot for a drink!
Memphis: TBD - I am looking for someone to help coordinate a group in this area. Be looking for more information on this. And please let me know if you may be interested in helping coordinate (basically decide on a location that would be central, affordable, have easy parking, etc)!
At these initial meetings, the group can decide what they want out of their group. Do you prefer happy hours? Do you want to pick a different location? Do you want it to be social? Do you prefer more of an informational group? Would you like a book club? Or any combination of these items?
I'm really looking forward to these groups being a great way for other adult sibs to get connected to the TABS organization, and for us to stay connected throughout the year!
Please let me know if you have any questions at all!
Thanks,
Ashley F. Coulter
Sibling Project Coordinator
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
230 Appleton Place
PMB 40
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615.343.0545
ashley.coulter@vanderbilt.edu
kc.vanderbilt.edu
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Sept 13, 2011 13:51:49 GMT -5
It is time to STEP UP for Down Syndrome! Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 16th * 12-4 pm at Memphis Botanic Garden Register now and get your Team started! There are three ways to register: Visit www.dsamemphis.org/suds to find out more information and link to the registration site. Download the Registration Form, fill it out and mail back to the DSAM office. Here are important dates to remember leading up to the STEP UP event: STEP UP Bios are due Friday, Sept. 16! Complete a Bio Form and send the form and your picture to christineferris@att.net. We want the community to see the talents and accomplishments of children, teens and adults with Down syndrome. Self Advocate letter writing is Sunday, Sept. 25 from 1:30-4:30 pm at the home of Keith Greenwald. Self Advocates are invited to help write invitations to community leaders for the upcoming Oct. 16th STEP UP for Down Syndrome event. There will be food and fun! Contact Carol Greenwald to rsvp at 901-454-0410 or carolgreenwald@bellsouth.net. Lori M. Siegal Partners in Progress Award Nominations due! Know a person or company that is a role model for demonstrating the inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome? Show your appreciation and nominate them! Write a short paragraph or two telling us about your nominee and why they should receive the award. Email the nomination to director@dsamemphis.org. Register today and STEP UP! The registration fee for STEP UP is only $10 per person and includes event t-shirt, picnic, games and entertainment. Consider making a donation in addition to your registration fee! Donations raised through STEP UP for Down Syndrome support efforts to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, as well as enable DSAM to operate year round. Credit card payments can be accepted online only. Even if you can't be at STEP UP for Down Syndrome, you can still make a charitable donation to help support the Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & the Mid-South. Donations can be made online or sent to the DSAM office. Donations can be assigned to a specific Team or fundraising individual. Want to know more about signing up your Team, Team Recruitment ideas, or fundraising ideas? Check out www.dsamemphis.org/suds or contact the DSAM office at 901.547.7588 or email events@dsamemphis.org. STEP UP and be a part of the largest disability awareness event in the Mid-South! By participating in STEP UP for Down Syndrome, you will help make strides for all individuals with Down syndrome. Help us share in celebrating the beautiful lives of individuals with Down syndrome in our community. Help us make strides as we STEP UP for Down Syndrome! The Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & the Mid-South provides this email distribution for informational purposes only. DSAM cannot guarantee the accuracy of information sent to us by external providers. We do not share our list with outside parties. Down Syndrome Association of Memphis & the Mid-South 2893 S. Mendenhall Rd., Ste. 3, Memphis, TN 38115 901-547-7588 office 901-547-7589 fax www.dsamemphis.org Supporting and Empowering People with Down Syndrome & Their Families |
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