October 2011 Disabilities Thread

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Weakley County Schools and STEP, Inc. invite you to attend: The Weakley County Transition Institute and Information Fair

Where: Westview High School in Martin, TN

When: Saturday, October 22 from 8:00 am – 3:30 pm

Cost: Free!! (And if you register by Oct 20, your breakfast and lunch will be included, too!)

A flyer and link to registration is available online at www.tnstep.org. You can also follow the link below to go directly to the registration page:

events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=g9nas4eab&oeidk=a07e4tmw3k48d994301

We are looking forward to a great day for transition age students with disabilities, their families, teachers, and service providers! There will be information available on a range of topics from preparing for college, tips on getting and keeping the first job, how student’s can speak up for themselves, employment options, to wills and conservatorship discussions. You'll also have lots of opportunities to learn about state and local resources.

The keynote presenter will be Joey Ellis, STEP’s Regional Coordinator for Middle TN. He is a graduate of UT Martin and as an individual with Cerebral Palsy, knows first hand how to navigate a successful transition.

Everyone is welcome! Visit the website and register today!

Karen S. Harrison
Executive Director
STEP, Inc.
www.tnstep.org
Phone: [phone] ext. 11
Fax: [phone]
712 Professional Plaza Drive Greeneville, TN 37745

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JOB OPPORTUNITY!!!!

Arc Tn is looking for someone with a disability to be part time with a partner for the People Talking to People contract in our area. If you know of anyone who might be interested, you can contact either Steve Jacobs or Frank Meeuwis with Arc TN. This is not limited to any particular disability and the person does not have to have an MR diagnosis.

In your work and day-to-day activities, please keep your eyes and ears open for a possible candidate to fill the open position in the Region3 PTP team-based in Soddy Daisy in Hamilton County.

PTP is a part-time position for a person with a disability. This is an excellent opportunity for anybody who isn't too shy/enjoys talking to others and is fairly out-going.

Frank Meeuwis, MSSW
Director, People Talking to People Project
The Arc Tennessee
151 Athens Way, Suite 100
Nashville, TN 37228
Voice: [phone] x23
Fax: [phone]
Toll-free: [phone]
[e-mail]<mailto:[e-mail]>

The Arc Tennessee does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin or Limited English Proficiency. If you feel you have been discriminated against please contact Peggy Cooper, Title VI coordinator, The Arc TN, 800-835-7077 ext. 15, [e-mail]<mailto:[e-mail]>.

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History in the Making: Oscar Pistorius

Oscar Pistorius will be the first double amputee to run at the world championships, and next year he will be the first to race at the Olympics. CNN recently interviewed the South African designated “the bullet in the chamber” who is determined to prove himself against the best athletes in the world, both at the upcoming Olympics and Paralympic games.

"For me there is always a space for Paralympic sport. I am a very, very proud Paralympian and when I've had the platform or the opportunity to educate people about disability I've done so without hesitation and I'm very excited for the Paralympics next year," he said.
"I look at Beijing as one of the highlights of my career. I can't wait to run in next year's Games and I still feel there's a lot of recognition Paralympic athletes deserve that they're not getting, and I'm really fighting that."

For the whole article and video clips, go to: edition.cnn.com/2011/09/30/sport/olympics-pistorius-london-2012/index.html

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President Signs the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act

In the Oval Office with a small group of families who have a member with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, advocates from disability organizations, and a sponsor of the act, Representative Chris Smith of New Jersey, in attendance, President Obama signed the Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011 on Friday.

This legislation renews the Combating Autism Act of 2006, which was due to expire today. The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011 continues the federal commitment for autism research, services and treatment at current levels, authorizing $693 million over the next three years.

Since the 2006 act became law, the prevalence of autism has risen to 1 in 110 individuals, and 1 in 70 boys, prompting the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to label autism a public health emergency. Critical research now underway has made significant advances in determining potential causes for the developmental disorder as well as advancing promising new early intervention behavioral treatments.

Though the legislation had broad support, it almost didn’t make it out of the Senate. The measure passed the House without controversy, but several Republican senators blocked it, citing budgetary concerns and a distaste for legislating "disease-specific laws". The bill cleared the Senate Monday night after lawmakers agreed that the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) will examine the use of federal funding for autism research.

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Get in on the Action

Would you like to receive legislative alerts targeted to your local community?

The Disability Coalition is upgrading our alert system and we would love to have you join our efforts. Simply click the link below to update your contact information. It's that easy.

tndisability.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=088ba7579477f44de53c5eded&id=53b772353f&e=2876e3927c

Our mailing address is:

Tennessee Disability Coalition
955 Woodland Street
Nashville, TN 37206

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www.marketwatch.com/story/national-autism-association-naa-says-vinegar-soaked-cotton-balls-in-disabled-students-mouths-underscores-need-for-aversives-ban-2011-09-27

National Autism Association (NAA) Says Vinegar-Soaked Cotton Balls in Disabled Students' Mouths Underscores Need for 'Aversives' Ban

KATY, Texas, Sept. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Monday night, in an effort to demonstrate inhumane practices known as "aversives" happening in special-ed classrooms across the county, school district officials in Texas were asked to insert vinegar-soaked cotton balls into their mouths. The request came from advocate and NAA board member Leslie Phillips following multiple reports from local parents who say their children attending Exley Elementary school in Katy were force-fed cotton balls soaked with vinegar as a form of discipline. "There were no takers to the request," said Phillips.

According to parents, Exley students, some of whom are nonverbal, were sometimes forced to get on a classroom treadmill, ostensibly there for exercise breaks and forced to go faster or longer than they wanted. In addition, cotton balls saturated with vinegar were placed into their mouths to control behavior. Parents say they were told certain "procedures" had been used on their children without their knowledge or consent, and the district would address the issue. Exley Elementary School Principal Imelda Medrano used only vague references, saying, "a treadmill was used" and "vinegar was introduced." Parents Carol and Bill Rutar said they were dumbfounded to learn these strategies were not illegal. "If I were to attempt to force an adult to do something like this, I would be arrested and charged with assault and battery. Further, if this happened to a student in a general education setting, there would be public outrage. It's precisely the type of bullying behavior between students that is the focus of national attention and expressly prohibited," said Carol Rutar. Parents still await information from the investigation, conducted by the district's own police department who has confirmed the matter has been handed over to the District Attorney.

Aversive interventions tantamount to child abuse are being used in many schools across the country. "Withholding food and water, lemon spray to the eyes, force feeding, sensory exploitation, shaving cream to the mouth, peppers to the mouth - these are just some of the assaults that have been used on schoolchildren as a failed means to control behavior," says Lori McIlwain, executive director of NAA. "Positive behavioral interventions have been proven successful, there is no excuse for aversives in our schools." Phillips, who spoke with a Texas Education Agency official about the case, was told that while Texas is one of few states that regulates seclusion and restraint in public schools, "... there is no law that says aversive interventions are or are not legal in Texas."

The advocate hopes school principals nationwide will take positive action. "My message to principals is this: if aversive interventions are happening in your schools, you should act to stop it. Positive support training is needed, and law or no law, aversives are abusive and dehumanizing. They should be banned in your school." For more information, please visit nationalautism.org and autismsafety.org.

Contact:Leslie Phillips (Katy, TX) 281-573-2793Lori McIlwain (Cary, NC) 919-741-1646

SOURCE National Autism Association

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Attention Parents of Gifted and Special Needs Children in Williamson County Schools!

wcsLink is a collaborative effort between parents and WCS student support services in order to create a strong partnership between parents and our schools. wcsLink as a group has two main goals. One, is to help educate families about the many aspects of gifted and special education in our district, and two, is to build connections among families so that we can be resources to each other.

"Coffee with Carol"
Have coffee, learn more about WCS Student Support Services, and talk with Carol Hendlmyer (director of SSS)

Friday, October 7th from 9:00-10:00 am at Brentwood Library

and also...

Q & A with WCS Superintendent! Join wcsLink and Superintendent, Dr. Mike Looney as he addresses special education families. He will discuss Williamson County Schools gifted and special education programs. There will be a Q & A session as well.

Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 6-7pm - Franklin High School Library

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Partners grad offering yoga for kids with and without disabilities; registration and fee info

Yoga classes are inclusive but pre registration a good idea, so that I can have an idea about a child's particular needs. I have been trained in the "Yoga for the Special Child" method, and you can locate information about that here:

www.specialyoga.com/ (for information) and have been working with my own child who has muscular dystrophy as well as the Downs Syndrome Association of Middle Tennessee and various other private yoga students with disabilities and organizations.
Continued blessings on the work you all are doing.
Love... joy... peace... light,

Michele M. Priddy, M.Ed.
mpcYOGAwell
Yoga (groups and private sessions) and Workshop Development
[e-mail]
103 Ridgemar Trail
Hendersonville, TN 37075
615-289-9300

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Call for Board Members - In order to achieve ASMT's mission of enriching the lives and experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum, their families, and their surrounding community through support, advocacy and education, we must maintain a robust and active Board of Directors.

ASMT is currently seeking new Members for our Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is responsible for the strategic governance of ASMT. Ideal Board members have professional expertise in any of the following areas: fundraising, financial management, marketing and public relations, business development, operational management and/or non-profit management.

If you know of a talented, committed individual who possesses any of these characteristics, please forward their contact information to Wendy Leutgens at [e-mail].

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Due to the size of our conference, the convention center couldn't handle us on our original date so we're changing it to May 4th, 2012. If you forwarded this call for papers to anyone, please send them this revised one that has the new date. Thanks!

Dear parents and advocates:

We're gearing up for 3rd annual Community Conference on Autism and are accepting proposals for presentation. "Fill your Toolbox" is the theme of next year's conference (April 13th, 2012). Our goal is for all participants to leave every workshop with a new skill or idea that they can put to use and make an immediate impact. And, we're adding a whole series just for teachers so they can gain tools for their classroom.

We'll have three tracts:
+Tools/Interventions (for experienced advocates and parents or professionals seekingCEUs)
+Parent’sCorner (for newparents or parents who are new to a particular topic within the field of Autism)
+Inthe Classroom (presentationsfor educators)

If you're a professional in an area of Autism or have a presentation you think will fit, please submit your proposal before the end of November.

Also, please pass this invitation along to speakers you'd like to appear at the conference and encourage them to submit their talks. We encourage online submissions. Simply go to our home page at www.chattanoogaautismcenter.org and click the "SUBMIT PROPOSAL ONLINE" link, after reading the submission guidelines and instructions.

Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Below is a list of a few upcoming events . If you know of more events that would be relevent for our mailing list please mail Melissa Hill at [e-mail]. Have a fantastic month and a safe Halloween!

Join the TEEN TITANS..a group for teens with disabilities who meet once per month for social outings!! Our OCTOBER outing is to The Enchanted Corn Maize!!!

Join our Hip-Hop Dance class Tuesdays at 7:00pm at Ginger Brown's Dance Academy. For more information about the above two events please contact Robin Smith, Parent Mentor, Catoosa County Schools Special Olympics Coordinator, Special Education Department, 2 Barnhardt Circle, Ft. Oglethorpe, GA 30742 [phone]/[phone] fax

Saturday October 15th: The 4th Annual "Chattanooga Karate Classic" will be held at Lookout Valley High School, Lookout Valley TN. We will also have our first ever kick-a-thon to benefit the Chattanooga Autism Center! go to www.greenskarate.com for more info

Monday, October 24th: 5:45-6:45 PACT Meeting at Team Center 1000 East 3rd St.

October 28th: 9:00 AM Conference Planning Committee Meeting at Team Center,1000 3rd St

November 7th: 6-8 PM Free Autism Workshop "Troublesome Behaviours", Speaker: Christina Moore at Team Center 1000 East 3rd St

Saturday December 3rd: 2nd Annual Christmas Party!! Thanks to support from ASA-ETC, the CAC and Heartland Ranch are throwing a big Christmas Party, complete with Santa, presents, food, and lots of fun. The party is for parents of kids with ASD as well as advocates. ALL children will receive presents from Santa (syblings too). Location: Mystery Dog Ranch, 975 Wooten Road, Ringgold, GA 30736. For more information and to RSVP, contact Marie at 706-935-5559 or email her at [e-mail]

Monday December 5th: 6-8 PM - Free Autism Workshop "Organizational Skills and Autism"
Speaker: Susan Jones-Hayes.
Location: 1000 East 3rd Street, Chattanooga TN, 37403
Childcare available
--
Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org

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Volunteer State Rehabilitation Association
Fall Training Conference
October 27, 2011
Tennessee Rehabilitation Center (gym)
Smyrna, TN

Lynette Henderson is the keynote
There are 4 concurrent afternoon breakout sessions.

Thank you in advance for registering and for sharing this email with anyone you think may be interested in this reasonably priced training event.

Mary Jane Ware, MS, CRC
Transition Program Coordinator
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Citizens Plaza State Office Building, 14th Floor
400 Deaderick Street
Nashville, TN 37243-1403
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
email: [e-mail]

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ETTAC hosts workshop to show Don Johnston products for students with disabilities

The East Tennessee Technology Access Center will hold a workshop by Zach Bender of Don Johnston, Inc. on October 26th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at ETTAC’s Knoxville office. He will demonstrate Solo 6, Bookstream and Improv, in addition to providing participants with opportunities to try these new products for students with learning or communication disabilities. The workshop is open to parents, teachers and therapists.

Solo6 is a suite of individual reading and writing software tools that can be used completely independent of each other, but are also designed to work seamlessly together. Solo6 contains the four most commonly recommended types of assistive technology accommodations most cited on IEP’s—a text reader, graphic organizer, talking word processor, and word prediction.

Bookstream is a new product providing an easy way to manage and share eBooks, and it’s all online. There is no software to install and maintain, and with less than 30 minutes needed to upload eBook files to Bookstream. This product offers teachers an easy way to implement accessible instructional materials.

Improv is a new augmentative communication framework designed to speed up communication for those who have speech disabilities. With Improv, augmentative communicators will not be limited to the words programmed in their devices or the words they can spell. Instead, users of Improv will have the precise word or phrase available to them by just entering a few letters. In this session, participants will see how Improv learns new vocabulary, phrases, and stories.

Please call ETTAC at [phone] to register by October 24th, as space is limited. For directions to ETTAC, go to www.discoveret.org/ettac, and click on the Contact link under Maps.

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Announcement

The Advisory Council for the Education of Students with Disabilities will be meeting on October 24, 2011 in the Hardison Building Auditorium (TPS Campus, 1252 Foster Avenue, Nashville, TN 37243.) The meeting will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Note: There will be an opportunity for limited public input during the Advisory Council Meeting. Please contact the Secretary of the Council at 615-741-2851 or the Council Chair at [e-mail]. The time will be scheduled on a first come-first serve basis.

Directions:

+Coming West on I-40 - Come to Exit 213 (Spence Lane) on I-40/24 West, go to top of ramp and turn left onto Spence Lane and go to stoplight; turn right onto Murfreesboro Road. At second stoplight (in front of Jack-In-the-Box) turn left onto Foster Ave.
When you reach the TPS campus, proceed past the main entrance (there is a brick sign for the TPS campus). Continue past the Center for Adoption and the Anna Russell Cole Auditorium. Turn into the campus at the south entrance (there will be an entrance sign to Nashville School of the Arts), and the Hardison Building will be directly in front of you. Park in the lot to your left after you enter the campus (please do not park on the grass). On the right side of the building, you will see an entrance with a sign that says “Training and Conference Room.” Enter at this entrance and proceed straight down the hall to the auditorium.

+Coming West on I-24 - Go to Exit 52 (Murfreesboro Road) to light at end of ramp and turn left onto Murfreesboro Road. At second stoplight (Jack-In-the-Box) turn left onto Foster Ave.
When you reach the TPS campus, proceed past the main entrance (there is a brick sign for the TPS Complex). Continue past the Center for Adoption and the Anna Russell Cole Auditorium. Turn into the campus at the south entrance (there will be an entrance sign to Nashville School of the Arts), and the Hardison Building will be directly in front of you. Park in the lot to your left after you enter the campus (please do not park on the grass). On the right side of the building, you will see an entrance with a sign that says “Training and Conference Room.” Enter at this entrance and proceed straight down the hall to the auditorium.

+Coming East on I-40 / South on 65/24 / North on 65 - Follow signs for I-40 East toward Knoxville. Go to Exit 212 (Fesslers Lane) on I-40/24 East. Go to light at top of ramp and turn right onto Fesslers Lane. Go to second stoplight (Murfreesboro Road – Carl Black Chevrolet) and turn left. Get into far right hand lane and go to second stoplight (Jack-in-the-Box); turn right onto Foster Avenue.
When you reach the TPS campus, proceed past the main entrance (there is a brick sign for the TPS Complex). Continue past the Center for Adoption and the Anna Russell Cole Auditorium. Turn into the campus at the south entrance (there will be an entrance sign to Nashville School of the Arts), and the Hardison Building will be directly in front of you. Park in the lot to your left after you enter the campus (please do not park on the grass). On the right side of the building, you will see an entrance with a sign that says “Training and Conference Room.” Enter at this entrance and proceed straight down the hall to the auditorium.

PLEASE DO NOT PARK ON THE GRASS. THANK YOU!

Jessica Harbison, ASA II
TN Department of Education
Division of College & Career Readiness
Office of Data Management
710 James Robertson Pkwy.
Nashville, TN 37243
615.532.6275 phone
615.532.9412 fax

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Discrepancies in Discipline of Students with Disabilities

“This is a civil rights issue,” said Daniel Losen, author of the report and director of the Center for Civil Rights Remedies at UCLA. “The application of discipline is unfair and unequal in this country.” The report, “Discipline Policies, Successful Schools, and Racial Justice,” was based on federal Department of Education data, and published this week by the National Education Policy Center. It found that in 2006, at least one district in each of 46 states imposed long-term suspensions or expulsions on students with disabilities significantly more often than on nondisabled students.

In some states, including Tennessee, 19% or more of all districts reported that there were "significant discrepancies in long-term exclusionary discipline between students with disabilities and their non-disabled peers." Among students with disabilities, racial disparities in discipline are also evident. In 2008, many states suspended more than one in five African American students with disabilities.

A conclusion drawn at the end of this report is that students with disabilities are being disproportionately disciplined and are therefore “missing important instructional time and are at greater risk of disengagement and diminished educational opportunities.” Read the report at: nepc.colorado.edu/publication/discipline-policies

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Ari Ne’eman & the Neurodiversity Movement

The first official White House appointee in history with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ari Ne’eman’s nomination by President Obama to the National Council on Disability was controversial. His analysis of this controversy, he explained in an interview with Wired.com, is that “what we have is a national dialogue on autism without the voices of the people who should be at the center: those who are on the autism spectrum ourselves. We need to stop making autism advocacy about trying to create a world where there aren’t any autistic people, and start building one in which autistic people have the rights and support they deserve. That’s the goal of the Neurodiversity Movement as a whole.”

Emerging as a leader of the Neurodiversity Movement, Ne’eman is the founder of a national organization called the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, which helps people network with one another to gain access to crucial support services and fight for their civil rights. He sees the movement as a natural outgrowth of the civil rights, women’s rights, and disability rights movements of the late 20th century. The National Council on Disability is an independent federal agency charged with advising the President, Congress, and other federal agencies regarding policies, programs, practices, and procedures that affect people with disabilities. In this role, Ne'eman's self proclaimed “intention is to be a voice for the issues that matter for all autistic people and our families, such as services, support, and education.” He expresses that “making community services more accessible would be a huge game changer for all kinds of people with disabilities.”

For the whole interview, go to:http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2010/10/exclusive-ari-neeman-qa/all/1

The National Council on Disability was also in the news this week as a new board member was confirmed by the US Senate. Matan Aryeh Koch, an Associate at Kramer, Levin, Naftalis, & Frankel LLP, will be joing Ari Ne'eman on the 15 person Council. The Council Chairman, Jonathan Young, described Koch's experiences doing "pro bono work for parents seeking guardianship of adult children with disabilities and helping prepare a brief for a mental health nonprofit to the New York State Court of Appeals," and expressed excitement to move forward with his participation.

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Survey on Emerging Employment Issues for People with Disabilities

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) and the Employment & Disability Institute at Cornell University invite you to participate in a brief (5-10 minute) survey on emerging employment issues for people with disabilities. This research will provide a foundation for policy development around:

•Disability disclosure in the workplace
•Leave as a reasonable accommodation
•Job applicant screening criteria that may differentially impact people with disabilities in the hiring process.
By completing this survey you are agreeing to participate in the research. You are not likely to have any direct benefit from being in this research study. Your participation is voluntary and there is no penalty if you choose not to participate.Your responses will be kept strictly confidential, and digital data will be stored in secure computer files. Reports based on this survey will not include any individually identifiable information. The hosts anticipate that participation in this survey presents no greater risk than everyday use of the Internet, however electronic communications are not necessarily secure and could be viewed by a third party.

Thank you in advance for sharing your time and experience.

To take the survey, go to: sri.cornell.edu/AAPD/AAPD_L/survey.cfm?page=_main&firstLogin=true&CFID=5039019&CFTOKEN=54486769

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New Tool: The Medicaid Reference Desk

Medicaid provides coverage and access to care for many people with individuals, and is the largest source of financing for disabilities services in the United States. However, it can be confusing given that state law varies widely and federal law contains detailed requirements and limitations on eligibility, services, and financing. The Medicaid Reference Desk is a tool to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find out what Medicaid can offer them.

Some of the offerings of this website are:

•State by State information about Medicaid benefits
•A glossary of terms
•Answers to frequently asked questions
•Person-centered planning resources
•A blog from The Arc’s training specialist about issues related to Medicaid, self-advocacy and person-centered planning.

This resource was developed by the Arc of the United States, a national community-based organization advocating for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, a government agency whose mission is to make sure that people with developmental disabilities have access to the community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that they need.

Check out the Medicaid Reference Desk at: www.thedesk.info/

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Would you like to receive legislative alerts targeted to your local community?

The Disability Coalition is upgrading our alert system and we would love to have you join our efforts. Simply click the link below to update your contact information. It's that easy.

tndisability.org/content/join_disability_action_network

Tennessee Disability Coalition
955 Woodland Street
Nashville, TN 37206

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The Tennessee Performing Arts Center will provide audio description, American Sign Language, and open captioning on Sunday, November 20 at 1:00 p.m. for Memphis, the winner of the 2010 Tony Award for Best Musical.

Memphis - Sunday, November 20 at 1:00 p.m.; audio description notes begin at 12:40.
Anticipated Running time: 2 hours and 30 minutes with one intermission.
Braille and large-print programs are available. Beth Moss and Brooke Roy will provide American Sign Language.

We are pleased to announce that open captioning will be launched at Memphis. For more information about TPAC’s open captioning service, and to be on the mailing list for future notices, please contact Keely Hagan at 487-4081 or [e-mail].

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, October 31. Regular ticket prices range from $28 in the rear balcony to $50 in the orchestra. Buy your tickets as soon as possible 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. The number for TPAC’s TDD line for deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons is 615-782-6562. It is answered Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Memphis, November 15-20, 2011 - From the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, Tennessee, comes a hot, new Broadway musical that bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. Inspired by actual events, Memphis is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves – filled with laughter, soaring emotions and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll. The Associated Press calls Memphis, “The very essence of what a Broadway musical should be.”
Hope to see you soon at TPAC!

Upcoming Shows:

The Addams Family, January 8
Spamalot, January 28
South Pacific, February 12
Mary Poppins, March 25
Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles, May 6

Keely Hagan
Public Relations Associate
Tennessee Performing Arts Center
PO Box 190660 - 505 Deaderick Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37219
Direct: 615-782-4081

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www.knoxnews.com/news/2011/oct/11/anderson-program-offered-for-students-uneasy-in/

Anderson program offered for students uneasy in typical classrooms By Bob Fowler

CLINTON — Students in Anderson County's 21st Century Workplace Program don't attend school, educators say. Instead, the students go to what's called the office, clock in, quietly work at their own pace in their own cubicles, and even eat lunches there. The innovative program is located in a classroom in one corner of the Anderson County Career and Technical Center next to Anderson County High. It removes participants from the mainstream classroom atmosphere they dislike for varying reasons while providing frequent one-on-one interaction with teachers.

"I like to do things on my own, and before I came here, I wasn't even planning to go to college," said 17-year-old Victoria McClure of Andersonville. But after scoring highly on her ACT tests, making her eligible for the state's lottery-funded scholarship, "I realized I could do it,'' she said. McClure said she's now planning to study nursing at the Tennessee Technology Center in Jacksboro, Tenn., after she graduates.

Now in its 16th year, the 21st Century Workplace Program is thought to have been the first of its kind in Tennessee. Longtime educator Kathleen Benedict came out of retirement to coordinate the effort. Other schools have since adopted variations of the program, she said.
It's for students uncomfortable in the conventional high school setting, Benedict said. "They're treated like employees and have set work to do," she said. "They sign in and out like it's an office, yet they are completing normal (high school) credits at the same time." "It's definitely a more organized, smaller group," said 17-year-old student William Hurt, plugged-in iPod blaring music as he scanned a textbook. "You have more one-on-one time and if you have questions, you can get the answers immediately instead of having to wait."

The informal atmosphere produces surprising results, says teacher E.T. Stamey, now in his second year with the program. "With a 98 percent graduation rate, that's something you can brag about," he said. The program, part of the system's alternative school, is limited to 20 students referred by guidance counselors. "We run the gamut," Benedict said. "We have students who excel academically but we also have students who may be 14 credits behind.'

After attending three different middle schools and cruising through the easiest classes she could find during her first two years of high school, McClure said she ended up in the program after becoming pregnant. "I like being on my own," she said of the program, "but there's help here if you need it." Alumna Angela Bond, 19, of Clinton, infant son in tow, is a frequent visitor to the office/classroom. Bond said she was referred to the program because she didn't fit in the typical high school scene. "I had a stillbirth, and everyone made fun of me and said it was because I was on drugs." "I had some anger issues, and I wasn't going to do well," she said.
But after two years in the program, Bond said she was able to graduate and get her life back on track. "This program is amazing," she said. "If it wasn't for it, I wouldn't have graduated."
"I never dreamed that I would still be teaching at 63 years old, but when you enjoy something so much and see so much success, you really want to continue," Benedict said.

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ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT TO REGISTER - REGISTER HERE AT: www.tnaba.org
DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS OCT. 15th

SPORTS AFTER BLINDNESS - Paralympic Experience & Adaptive Sports Conference

Just a reminder, you have just 4 days to register for the Saturday October 22, 2011 TNABA “Sports After Blindness” Paralympic Experience and Adaptive Sports Conference. This is your opportunity to come and get hands on experience of adaptive sports and recreation for the blind and visually impaired. Experience Goalball, Tandem Cycling, Soccer, Track& Field, Judo, and much more. Best of all you will get to meet and hear from Paralympic athletes that have or will represent our country in the Paralympics. This event is proudly hosted by the TNABA, The United States Association of Blind Athletes, and the U.S. Paralympics.

Whether you are a blind adult or child, a parent, physical education teacher, vision or special education teacher, coaches, community program coordinator, or a student getting ready to enter into a career, you can be sure there is something for everyone. Enjoy all the exciting hands on sessions, speakers, lunch, door prizes, and much more for just $15.00. There is lots more information being put up daily on our website at www.tnaba.org . There you can register to join us as we celebrate the incredible talents of blind athletes. SIGN UP TODAY!

And please pass this information on to everyone you know. Remember no one is promised another day with sight, however life is less than over. You just have to look at it from a different prospective. I look forward to seeing you at the conference.

Warmest Regards,

Ricky Jones
TNABA Executive 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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'Good, bad, ugly' typical in K-12 - Written by Margaret Spellings

www.tennessean.com/article/20111012/OPINION03/310120073/2069/OPINION/-Good--bad--ugly---typical-in-K-12?source=nletter-news

While the Tennessee state slogan, “America at its best” is one of pride and achievement, when we look to the current state of Tennessee’s education system we are reminded of a common catchphrase: “the good, the bad, and the ugly.” It is no coincidence that we chose the latter slogan for the title of a report published by the National Chamber Foundation, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Institute for a Competitive Workforce. The report took a snapshot of all 50 states and the District of Columbia comparing the state of K-12 education in nine key categories. While Tennessee certainly has its share of “ugly” and “bad,” there is much “good” to celebrate, as well. Click above link for the rest of the story...

(Margaret Spellings is senior adviser to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, president of the U.S. Chamber’s Forum for Policy Innovation and a former U.S. secretary of education.)

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www.t-g.com/story/1772464.html

Schools go home through eLearning - By TRACY SIMMONS ~ [e-mail]

Students in Bedford and surrounding counties have a new educational option -- online courses offered by the Bedford County Board of Education in their eLearning program. The county has made use of eLearning for six years now, with classes mostly offered to homebound students, those at risk of dropping out and for classroom credit recovery.

New initiative

In May, the Tennessee General Assembly passed the Virtual Public Schools Act, which gives authority to public school systems to establish online schools and allows students to complete all of their primary and secondary education online. The act also allows private companies to contract with school systems to provide the online classes. Most notable of these is Union County public schools, which contracted with Virginia-based for-profit firm K12 Inc. to provide a family-friendly learning platform. Officials there estimate 1,100 students have signed up to take online classes after the academy launched earlier this year. For each student Union County attracts, at least $5,387 -- the state's per-pupil spending -- will go to that school system and leave local coffers.

20 locals 'attend'

As 20 students in Bedford County submitted withdrawal requests to attend the east Tennessee school system, county eLearning supervisor Betsy Norris recognized the necessity of making the online classes widely available. "I have been in eLearning for the past six years and I have seen it work for 300-plus Bedford County students," said Norris. "The flexible scheduling allows the working student the capability to [do schoolwork] on weekends or after work. "What is going on in the state and across the states in online education is amazing. No longer do geographical lines define learning. Effective classes can be taught 24/7 from anywhere."

Bedford steps in

While metropolitan school systems statewide are scrambling to put together their own online learning academies for the next school year, Bedford County is ready to accept incoming students now. Classes are overseen by current teachers and retirees, and careful guidelines are in place to ensure learning is taking place. Additionally, Bedford County is prepared to make accommodations for those students who are economically disadvantaged and who don't have a computer or internet access.

Success stories

Norris cites many successes among students who have already made use of the online courses. "I once proctored a final exam where a student rocked her baby while she took her final exam. I've seen students that had given up on graduating, then suddenly found renewed motivation at the thought of working on a computer to complete that last course or two," she says. "I once worked with a senior that was on that path to not graduate. After two weeks of the online course, she suddenly said, 'I get this!' She was a faithful online student that logged on every day, kept a notebook full of notes, and completed the class with her first A. She went on to MTSU and did extremely well."

Adjustments

Online learning is emerging, and Norris expects some growing pains in the coming weeks.
"However, the Bedford County school system recognizes that not all students learn the same," Norris said. "Students often need flexibility in order to graduate. This district is working hard to offer options to ensure that every student has an opportunity to get a good education and to graduate," said Norris.

For more information, contact Norris at 684-3284.

Applications are available online at www.bedfordk12tn.com/education/co....

© Copyright 2011, Shelbyville Times-Gazette
Story URL: www.t-g.com/story/1772464.html

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Dear friends—the kids rights project through the metro public defender’s office has put together a great series of low reading level booklets on an assortment of topics related to special education, as described below. They can be accessed through the legal aid society’s website which follows. They are based on materials developed by Bev Adcock, with legal aid, & mike remus, & beth cruz with kids’ rights, marsha Wilson w/the nashville prevention partnership & i, thru the arc Davidson co. developed these versions. We all have paper copies of them as well. While there are a couple of references to metro nashville, all of the information is accurate for any school system in TN.

www.las.org/booklets/family_problems/special_education

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands - Special Education

Special education is extra help for children with disabilities. It doesn’t always mean separate classes or schools. Your child may stay in the same class and get more help there. Some schools call special education “Exceptional Education”. It is the same thing.

Is your child having trouble in school?

· Failing?
· OR having problems obeying the rules?
· OR having trouble seeing, hearing, speaking or moving?
· OR struggling with homework?
· OR not keeping up with other kids the same age?
· OR having serious trouble getting along with others?

Your child may need extra help in school. You can ask the school to test your child for special education. Click on the yellow button called "Testing for special education" to learn what to do.

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If you are a student with a disability in middle or high school and you want to know as much as you can to have a successful life after high school; information about getting a job, going to college, living on your own, and how to speak up for yourself – you won’t want to miss this FREE event at Westview High School in Martin TN on Saturday, October 22nd.

If you are the parent or family member of a middle of high school student with a disability and you want to know as much as you can to help them be successful and have a full life after high school, register today for this Transition Institute and Information Fair in Martin TN on Saturday, October 22, 2011.

If you are a teacher and provide information and services to families and students who are 14 or older, this is the event to attend to fill your toolbox with great ideas on helping your students plan for their future after high school!


Make plans to attend this FREE event. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Many statewide and local agencies will have information booths set up throughout the day and be available to answer you questions?

Please register today and bring someone with you! Register today at www.tnstep.org or call 1-800-280-7837

What? Transition Institute and Information Fair

Where? Westview High, 8161 Highway 45, Martin, TN 38237

When? Saturday. October 22, 2011, 8 am – 3 pm

Cost? Free!! Breakfast & Lunch will be free, too, if you register in advance!

Questions? Call STEP: 1-800-280-7837

If you are a service provider for youth and young adults with disabilities and would like to set up an information booth at this Transition Institute and Information Fair, please visit the STEP website at www.tnstep.org and register for an exhibitor table. We will provide your lunch and the booth is free unless you are selling a product! Help us get the word to as many families and students in the area as we can.

Karen S. Harrison
Executive Director
STEP, Inc.
www.tnstep.org
Phone: [phone] ext. 11
Fax: [phone]
712 Professional Plaza Drive Greeneville, TN 37745

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Hello!

I wanted to let you know that we have opened up the call for proposals for the Fourth Annual Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters Conference. It will be held April 20-21, 2012 in Nashville, TN. If you or someone you know is interested in submitting a proposal to present at the conference, please submit the form by November 18, 2011. You may submit the form by email to [e-mail].

Please let me know if you have any additional questions!

Thanks so much,

Ashley F. Coulter
Sibling Project Coordinator
Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
230 Appleton Place
PMB 40
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: [phone]
[e-mail]
kc.vanderbilt.edu

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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Profit by Investing In Workers with Disabilities

Thursday, October 27, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m

TRC/Smyrna will be hosting an Open House to educate the public about TRC and highlight our various programs. We will be inviting schools, the public, prospective employers, internship sites, vocational training boards, DHS employees, etc.

Linda Baharloo, Supervisor VocTraining 460 Ninth Ave. Smyrna, TN 37167
615-459-6811 ext. 375
615-355-1373 (Fax)

The VISION of the Division of Rehabilitation Services is to enhance the development of a diverse workforce so that individuals with disabilities can achieve and maintain meaningful careers.

NOTE: This transmission, regardless of modality, contains confidential information and may be subject to protection under the law, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). If you are not the intended recipient, or an authorized agent for the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that use, such as but not limited to disclosure, copying, or distribution, is PROHIBITED! Please destroy any and all copies immediately and notify the sender of this erroneous receipt.



Linda Baharloo, Supervisor VocTraining 460 Ninth Ave. Smyrna, TN 37167
615-459-6811 ext. 375
615-355-1373 (Fax)


The VISION of the Division of Rehabilitation Services is to enhance the development of a diverse workforce so that individuals with disabilities can achieve and maintain meaningful careers.

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Fourth Annual Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters (TABS) Conference

Conference Date: April 20-21, 2012

Location: Nashville, TN

The planning committee of the Fourth Annual Tennessee Adult Brothers and Sisters (TABS) Conference is seeking presentations and posters that will educate and empower adult siblings who have a brother or a sister with a disability. Topic areas include, but are not limited to, health care; employment; housing; family dynamics; younger siblings/older siblings; relationships/sexuality; sibling roles; sibling-in-laws; self-advocacy; future planning; and emotional support.

Submission Deadline: November 18, 2011

kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy_files/TABS-CFP.pdf

For more information, you may contact the TABS Planning Committee at: [e-mail].

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REGISTER FOR 2nd ANNUAL CONNECTIONS CONFERENCE!

WHAT: A conference for families who have children with any variety of special needs.
WHEN: Friday, November 11, 2011 - 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: First-Centenary United Methodist Church
Oak Street Center, 416 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37402
COST: $20/individual (scholarships available)
REGISTER: chattconnectionsconference.org/registration/
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WHAT: Haunted ranch and hayride!
WHEN: Oct 14-15, 21-22, 28-29: Opens at 7pm, 1st hayride leaves at dusk
WHERE: Mystery Dog Ranch, 975 Wooten RD Ringgold Georgia
COST: $10
Movies and concessions by the bonfire. Mystery Dog Ranch sponsors fantastic programs for people with all types of disabilities and for people with ASD.
www.mysterydoghauntedranchandhayride.net/
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"Attention ALL moms and female guardians of children on the autism spectrum: please join us at Coolidge Park on Sunday, Nov. 13th at 2pm for a Chattanooga area "Autism Moms Photo Session"!!! WEAR BLACK! This event is meant to support and establish relationships between autism mothers, as well as prove that WE ARE NOT ALONE! The finished photo will be submitted to an internationally recognized autism magazine (see YouTube video "Autism Moms: The Final Cut"). Photographer will be Shelby Demory of Shelby J Photography. "

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Chattanooga Autism Center
Where the Pieces Come Together
ChattanoogaAutismCenter.org