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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:30:52 GMT -5
State Library and Archives Displays Artwork by Tennessee School for the Blind Students For Immediate Release from the Tennessee Secretary of State: October 8, 2012 The Office of Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett and the State Library and Archives are again celebrating “Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month” throughout the month of October. The library is exhibiting a display of artwork created by students at the Tennessee School for the Blind (TSB). Sponsored by Art Education for the Blind, a New York-based nonprofit organization, “Art Beyond Sight Awareness Month” is celebrated in October each year. This is the third year the Tennessee State Library and Archives has hosted this free exhibit. Items on display include paintings, shadow boxes and pottery. In keeping with tradition, the centerpiece of the display is the school’s mascot, Dot, a paper mache tiger made of scraps of braille paper, which was created by TSB students in 2010. The tiger, on permanent loan to the Tennessee State Library and Archives, is meant to be touched, unlike the items in many art exhibits. Other items include “Ugly Face Jugs,” created during a study of Appalachian history and art. Historically, moonshiners were unable to lock their product away from small children, so they created jugs with ugl... Go to Press Release at tnsos.org/Press/story.php?item=424
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:31:56 GMT -5
Dear Jobseekers and other agencies, Below is information pertaining to a job fair to be held at Goodwill on October 24th 9am-1pm. If you are still looking for a job send me back an email with the type of work that you would like to hear more about. If you are currently working and would like not to receive these job leads anymore, then put Unsubscribe and your name in the subject line of the email you send me and I will take you off the list. Please pass this on to anyone that would benefit from this information of the job fair held at Goodwill.
Sincerely, Patrick Gallaher Employment Specialist patrickg@cilmtn.org Center for Independent Living of MT 955 Woodland Street Nashville, TN 37206 615-515-8629 direct line 615-383-1176 fax line
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:32:53 GMT -5
STEP, Inc. (Support and Training for Exceptional Parents) Half Time Bi-Lingual Family Educator (20 hrs. per week) Location: West TN Memphis STEP office Minimum qualifications: Working knowledge of special education laws (IDEA and TN State law); personal experience in navigating systems and/or experience assisting families in the navigation of systems; fluent in Spanish and English; strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills; demonstrated organizational and writing skills; computer skills; limited travel required. Demonstrate ability to work cooperatively with West TN Regional Coordinator, Executive Director and all members of the staff and project volunteers, promoting a cooperative atmosphere for successful project implementation. Because of the nature of this position weekend work and evenings are sometimes required. Baccalaureate degree or equivalent personal or professional experience required. Parents and/or family members of students with disabilities and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Job Summary: A flexible schedule position with STEP providing information, training activities, and support to parents and family members of children with disabilities, including culturally and linguistically diverse families. Working collaboratively with the West TN Regional Coordinator the Bi-Lingual Family Educator will: • Provide parent training workshops, information, and support services; work directly with parents of children with disabilities and youth with disabilities across West Tennessee. • Network with organizations/groups that serve students with disabilities and their families. • Provide individual assistance (including one-on-one intensive assistance), information, and referral services to parents by telephone, email, mail, and in person. • Extend the reach of the Project to families whose first language is not English, who may be disenfranchised with services or have other barriers that inhibit participation in meetings and school events. • Participate in required trainings, annual staff planning retreat, staff development, and conference calls. • Assist in planning project publications and materials, including the newsletter; contribute to print and online content. • Participate in the planning, preparation, and production of any project conference or event. • Work collaboratively with the Regional Coordinator and STEP staff in development and implementation of outreach strategies to serve linguistically and culturally diverse families and underserved populations in West TN; align activities with grant goals and Language Access Plan. • Collect and enter data of project activities. • Strong preference for applicants with experience working with linguistically and culturally diverse families, including ability to engage community members in joint initiatives serving families. Send resume and letter of interest to director@tnstep.org (Word or PDF files only)
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:33:35 GMT -5
As employment for Tennesseans with disabilities is a major priority for the Council on Developmental Disabilities, we wanted to share information with you about October being National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Held each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a national campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This year's theme is "A Strong Workforce is an Inclusive Workforce: What Can YOU Do?" Although led by the Office of Disability Employment Policy, NDEAM's true spirit lies in the many observances held at the grassroots level across the nation every year. Employers, schools and organizations of all sizes and in all communities are encouraged to participate in NDEAM. For more information, visit www.dol.gov/odep/topics/ndeam/. See the attached list of events being held across the state throughout October – we hope that you are able to attend an event in your community, and pass along information about these events to others interested in the employment of Tennesseans with disabilities. Be on the lookout for an upcoming special e-card developed by the Tennessee Developmental Disabilities Network showcasing stories about the employment of Tennesseans with disabilities later in October. We also plan to share the stories of our DD Network partners, Council members, Partners in Policymaking grads and others who are participating in Disability Mentoring Day as a part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. To learn more about Disability Mentoring Day, click here. Visit www.tennesseeworks.org for a variety of information about issues related to employment for people with disabilities in Tennessee, or to share resources about employment in your own community.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:34:51 GMT -5
I met a very sweet lady whose granddaughter has passed. She was a blessing to their family and they want her wheelchair to go to a child that can use it. If your child or someone you know needs a powered wheel chair please feel free to contact her at rhondahudgenshill@yahoo.com . You can then get info on the make and model of the wheelchair. I hope this can help someone.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:35:24 GMT -5
Tennessee Division Rehabilitation Services Leadership Team RE: Priority Category 2 Held each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a national campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. It was with great enthusiasm that the TDRS Leadership announces the opening of Priority 2 for all consumers that have been deemed eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. In the Vocational Rehabilitation Program, Priority Category 2 is defined as those individuals who have significant disabilities. This category includes those individuals who are presumed eligible for services due to the fact that they are SSI/SSDI recipients. The other criteria for this category is the individual have limitations in one or more functional capacities, require multiple vocational rehabilitation services, and those services will last over an extended period time. As of September 30, 2012, over 1900 cases were released from the waiting list and those consumers have been notified of the next steps needed to begin working on their individualized plan for employment. The opening of this priority category will allow TDRS to provide more employment services and increased employment outcomes to Tennesseans with disabilities.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:37:16 GMT -5
Tips to Make Halloween Enjoyable for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
The very things that can be so exciting to some people — wearing a costume, being outside with other kids also wearing costumes, knocking on doors and getting treats — can cause anxiety for children with autism spectrum disorders.
Wearing a costume is unfamiliar, as is going from house to house to ask for treats. New routines and behaviors can be enjoyable for kids on the spectrum when they are approached with planning, and the necessary supports are identified and provided. Following are some things you can do ahead of time to help your child enjoy this occasion:
1. Begin early (even a month before) to prepare your child for Halloween activities. Read a story about Halloween and the activities that surround it, like carving pumpkins, wearing costumes and trick-or-treating. Teach your child the skills involved in participating—knocking on the door, holding out the bag, saying “trick or treat” or using assistive technology (a picture or device) to communicate the message, and then saying “thank you.”
2. Help your child choose a costume that will reflect his or her interests. Let him or her practice wearing the costume around the house while practicing Halloween activities. If wearing a costume is irritating, give your child the option of wearing face paint, a scarf, or a hat on Halloween. No costume is also OK.
3. Write a social narrative describing what your child will do on Halloween. Include in this story information about wearing the costume or face paint, and carrying the trick-or-treat bag. Identify which houses your child will visit, what your child will say at each house, and what he or she will do with the treats she receives. Read more Halloween tips.
Share Your Halloween Advice for Children, Teens and Adults:
Do you have great advice to share regarding costumes, trick-or-treating, handing out candy, parties, haunted houses or any of the other spooky activities that take place during October? Please submit your tips and ideas below. The Autism Society will compile a list and share them in the October 18 edition of the Autism Society e-newsletter, ASA-Net. Submit your tip now!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:38:44 GMT -5
There are many ways to provide access to the general education curriculum for a child with a disability, and as Joanne Karger of the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) explained the provision clearly in her 2004 article Access to the general curriculum for students with disabilities: the role of the IEP, the IEP team is the appropriate authority to determine how individual students will be included in the general education classroom. Some students will start out by addressing social and/or behavioral goals within the environment of a general education classroom for limited parts of the school day. Others will participate more fully in some general education classes with behavioral or medical supports. Still others will spend a large portion of the day in general education classrooms along with their typical peers. This may be referred to as "Least Restrictive Environment" or inclusion; each school district uses its own terms to describe the ways in which students with disabilities are served. All IEP team members need to know the strategies and benefits of inclusion within general education environments in order to make a informed decisions. This month we're bringing you resources and information on serving students with disabilities in general education settings. As students with disabilities gain more and more access to the general education curriculum, there may be students you've never served before appearing in your classes. We hope these resources are useful for supporting and including children with disabilities in general education settings. Our best to you, Your friends at the National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities ----------------------------- RESOURCES FROM NICHCY! NICHCY offers an array of resources to help educators improve access to the general curriculum for students with disabilities. Here's a list of what to consult first. Addressing the general education curriculum. We've devoted an entire page of resources to the subject! Find resources to help teach students with disabilities reading, math, science, history, the arts, and more. nichcy.org/schoolage/effective-practices/gened Supports, modifications, and accommodations for students. nichcy.org/schoolage/accommodations/ What's effective for students with specific disabilities? Connect with educator guides for educating students with AD/HD, autism, behavioral/emotional disorders, hearing impairment, deafness, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and visual impairment (including blindness). nichcy.org/schoolage/effective-practices/speced Tips for teachers in our disability fact sheets. Many of our fact sheets offer a section called "Tips for Teachers"- AD/HD, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, speech-language impairments, and traumatic brain injury. Access the fact sheets of your choice at: nichcy.org/disability/specific Also, remember to look on the sidebars of each of these pages for additional resources. That's where we list valuable Related Information.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:39:09 GMT -5
FROM OUR FRIENDS AT THE IDEA PARTNERSHIP Response to Intervention: Fundamentals for Educators. This great resource is intended for school personnel with very limited knowledge about Response to Intervention (RTI); the presentation provides opportunities to learn basic RTI terminology and foundations for developing a framework to support all students. Response to Intervention: Fundamentals for Educators--PowerPoint. tinyurl.com/9vchufj Response to Intervention: Fundamentals for Educators--Presenter Guide. tinyurl.com/8ho8f5o
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:39:45 GMT -5
IT ALL STARTS IN FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES Parents' Guide to Student Success www.pta.org/4446.htmOn parent-teacher communication. Two resources from Eduguide to help parents establish a good working relationship with their child's teacher. Nine questions to guide parent-teacher communication. These 9 questions will help you get ready to meet with your child's teacher at the beginning of the school year or any time! tinyurl.com/8mnynl3 Parent-teacher communication: What teachers wish parents knew. tinyurl.com/9md6majAdvocating for your child with a disability: 9 rules of thumb. It can be very difficult for parents of children with special educational needs to advocate calmly and objectively for the educational and related services their children need. Here are a few rules of thumb from Wrightslaw. www.wrightslaw.com/info/advo.9rules.crabtree.htm THE LITTLE ONES: EARLY INTERVENTION/EARLY CHILDHOOD A Joint Position Statement of the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). www.naeyc.org/files/naeyc/file/positions/DEC_NAEYC_EC_updatedKS.pdf Indicators of "quality" in early childhood programs. This publication from NECTAC, Quality Indicators of Inclusive Early Childhood Programs/Practices, is a compilation of selected resources. www.nectac.org/~pdfs/pubs/qualityindicatorsinclusion.pdf Tiered instruction module now available in Spanish. This CONNECT module focuses on the purpose, use, and potential benefits of tiered instruction when working with young children. Now there's a Spanish version of the module, too! community.fpg.unc.edu/es/connect-modules/learners/module-7The brain science of early childhood. The neuroscientific research on the early brain is one of the most compelling bodies of evidence for investing in young children. Conveying this message broadly is critical to building support for early childhood policies and programs. Here's a range of tools (PowerPoint, videos, and one-page information briefs) to help non-scientists present information on early brain development and the importance of investing in early childhood programs. www.readynation.org/brainscience/5-minute video | How the brain develops executive functions. In the brain, executive functioning refers to a group of skills that helps us focus on multiple streams of information at the same time, and revise plans as necessary. Acquiring the early building blocks of these skills is one of the most important and challenging tasks of the early childhood years. tinyurl.com/8fxtl4oPre-3 CONNECT: An Evidence-Based Practice Approach to Professional Development. Early Childhood Educators, join CONNECT for a full-day pre-conference workshop at the DEC Annual Conference on October 28 2012 in Minneapolis. The workshop will include evidence-based practice resources, ways to organize professional development opportunities around early childhood inclusion, and much more. tinyurl.com/9yzr8cq SCHOOLS, K-12 Instructing Students With High-Incidence Disabilities in the General Education Classroom. An online handbook from ASCD (formerly the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development). tinyurl.com/8ud8eza Access to the general curriculum: Two online curricula. Check out the materials for educators at the National Center on Accessing the General Curriculum (NCAC), especially the two multi-part curricula available on (1) effective classroom practices and (2) curriculum enhancements. aim.cast.org/learn/historyarchive/backgroundpapers Accommodations and modifications for students with disabilities. Accommodations in the classroom are essential for supporting student access to the general curriculum. Here are resources to consult for what accommodations to make for students with different disabilities. From AD/HD to visual impairments. We mentioned this NICHCY resource above, but it's worthy mentioning again. Connect with educator guides and tips for teachers for educating students with AD/HD, autism, behavioral/emotional disorders, hearing impairment, deafness, intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and visual impairment (including blindness). nichcy.org/schoolage/effective-practices/speced Deafness. Visit PEPNet, the central resource on educating students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This page gives you access to a mighty list of accommodation publications, including: speech-to-text services, test equity for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, and serving students who have a cochlear implant. www.pepnet.org/resources/accommodations Learning disabilities. An incredible wealth of information is available online to he lp teachers understand LD and support the learning needs of students with LD. Find out the best sources at: nichcy.org/disability/specific/ld#teachers Visual impairment. Find a great list of accommodations and modifications to help students with visual impairments access the general curriculum in the broad areas of: instruction, materials, assignments, classroom testing, assistive technology, and the environment. tinyurl.com/7p5b7bk Adaptations and accommodations in different SUBJECTS of the school curriculum. These resources will help teacher adapti instruction in math, reading, science, and other courses of the core academic curriculum and beyond. Math in middle school. Check out Accessibility Strategies in Mathematics -- Middle School: Online Guides, where you'll find materials to help teachers make middle school mathematics more accessible to a wide range of students, including those with special needs. www2.edc.org/accessmath/resources/strategies.asp Physical education. This resource discusses common adaptations in P.E. class, modifications for selected activities, rules of thumb for communication, and helpful hints about teaching materials. projects.fpg.unc.edu/~ncodh/htmls/adaptedphyed.htm Reading. Visit Reading Rockets, the national multimedia project focused exclusively on teaching children to read, especially those who struggle with this complicated but essential skill. www.readingrockets.org/ STEM. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. Here's a hefty book to consult to find out what accommodations to offer to students with disabilities in STEM classes from middle school to the university. www.catea.gatech.edu/scitrain/accommodating.pdf
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:40:47 GMT -5
STATE & SYSTEM TOOLS What does "reading disability resulting from organic dysfunction" mean? New from the AIM Center, this policy brief discusses the meaning and implications for LEAs and SEAs of the term "reading disability resulting from organic dysfunction," one of the four disability categories that determine a student's eligibility for accessible instructional materials under IDEA. aim.cast.org/learn/policy/federal/organic_dysfunction Meeting the educational needs of students with disabilities in short-term detention facilities | CD-ROM. This CD-ROM provides an overview of the issues and strategies involved in the delivery of special education and related services in jails and detention centers. tinyurl.com/8rkvb5v The National Indian Education Study: 2011. Interested in the education experience of American Indian/Alaskan Native students? The National Indian Education Study (NIES) is designed to describe the condition of education for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) students in the United States. nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2012466 Need guidance on how to make communications accessible to people with disabilities? The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has developed an Accessibility Clearinghouse with descriptions of a variety of products and services designed to improve accessibility of communications for people with disabilities. The website includes fact sheets on a wide range of topics such as computer access, housing accommodations, emergency systems, assistive technology funding, and more. Resources can be found by type of disability or communications topic. apps.fcc.gov/accessibilityclearinghouse/index.htmlWe need your feedback! Feel free to share your thoughts about our website, our newsletter, or the resources that we share. Contact us at nichcy@fhi360.org. We're here to help you help children with disabilities.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:42:06 GMT -5
Enclosed you will find the latest edition of the Legislative Monitor. While we are still mailing hard copies to those who need them, we are diligently trying to transition to electronic versions where ever possible. Therefore, if your email address changes please notify us so your subscription won’t lapse. You can find an Adobe .pdf version of this newsletter on our Web site: www.thearctn.org/Monitor.php Thank you, The Arc Tennessee
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:45:15 GMT -5
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Kick-a-thon Participants can WIN MONEY! ANY kid can join this event. All you have to do is get a few people to pledge for you, show up October 27th before 10am, and then KICK for 5 minutes! That's it. First prize wins $50, 2nd prize is $30, and $20 for 3rd place. However, Sensei Green hinted at even more prize categories so even more chances to win. Let us know you're coming by contacting buck.dave@gmail.com and download the pledge form to begin collecting pledges today!
Needing 20+ volunteers on Sun Oct 21st from 1-6 for the CAC Fall Fest at Mystery Dog Ranch. If you are a parent of a family that is planning to attend, we would rather that you enjoy the festivities than having to help! So, if you know of other people who would like to help us, point this request to them. Duties would include but not limited too: helping with horse riders, helping with different activities, concession stand etc. Contact Cynthia at cynjoyner@gmail.com
Potential Autism Support group starting: Alyce Benson and Cynthia Joyner are looking to see if there is interest in starting an autism support group at the CAC called H.O.P.E. (Helping Other Parents Excel). It'd be for family members to meet and talk about positive experiences, helpful ideas that have worked for them, and help others solve problems in everyday life. They are trying to figure out days & times that would be most helpful for people to be able to attend. If this sounds like something you would like to come to, please contact cynjoyner@gmail.com or Alyce Benson at 423-260-1115.
Spots available in CAC art class It's only $10 per child for three sessions! Syblings are invited too. This is going to a very special program with such great results. See our Facebook invite for dates, times, and other info. Contact Trish Cox at tscox@epbfi.com Research Participants sought Do you have a child between the ages of 3 years old and 6 years old with challenging behaviors? Have you received services before for these behaviors? If so, you can be in this study. Participation involves 3-5 interviews (each approximately 60 minutes) at a convenient location and time for you. A $50 VISA GIFT CARD will be provided to each family after completion of all interviews. To see if you qualify, contact: Laura Berryhill, M.Ed, BCBA (423) 326-8285 laura.forkum@gmail.com
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 9, 2012 14:45:58 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS STAGES - planning meeting When: October 9th,6:30 - 7:30 Where: CAC 1400 McCallie Avenue, Suite 100 What: This is a project committee dedicated to creating an transition program for young adults with ASD. You should join this group if you are interested in establishing a transitional housing program in our region to help adults with ASD move from dependent living to more independent living. CLICK HERE for more info. You can also contact Sue Lowery via a contact form on that link. Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: October 13, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Jonathan Christianson, Psychiatrist This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome! Hamilton County School Autism Workshop (continuation) When: Monday, Oct 15, 2012, Time: 6-7pm Where: Hixson Middle School – Library, 5681 Old Hixson Pike, Hixson Topic: How to help your child/student with Autism Spectrum Disorder become more independent as he/she progresses through school. Hamilton County Department of Education Exceptional Education invites you to attend an informative parent training session with Dr. Sue Kabot, Director, Clinical and Therapeutic Services with NOVA Southeastern University. Chattanooga Autism Center Fall Festival When: Sunday, October 21 2-5pm Where: Mystery Dog Ranch, 975 Wooten Rd, Ringgold, GA 30736 RSVP at our facebook event page: www.facebook.com/events/147076172102376/This is for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families, friends, and advocates. Fun activities for the whole Family! We'll get together to connect and socialize and check out the fall colors, while the kids get to paint pumpkins, do a hayride, and all that fun stuff. C-CAC autism support group [DATE CHANGE] When: Monday, October 22, 2012 from 6:45 to 8pm Where: Broad Street United Methodist Church, 155 Central Ave NW, Cleveland, TN 37311 What: All families are welcome to meet and connect and help support each other. Check out their Facebook Group for more info on the Cleveland CAC and this PAGE for more on this support group. Free Training Session When: Monday, October 22, 2012 from 5:30 – 7:30pm Where; Hamilton County Department of Education Board Room Speaker: Mary Hollowell, SLP, with Stellar Therapy Topic: Strategies for improving speech and language at home and at school and benefits of a team approach. Click LINK to view or download invitation. Free Autism Orientation When: Tuesday, October 23rd 6:00 – 8:00pm Where: Siskin, 2nd floor training rm, 1101 Carter St. Chattanooga Speakers: Karen Weigle, PhD & Trish Cox Workshop is conducted by an autism professional and a parent of a child with autism, this orientation is for parents of newly and previously diagnosed children, grandparents, caregivers, educators, therapists, psychologists, pediatricians and other medical professionals, and other interested community members. This event is FREE, but enrollment is limited. Link to flier. RSVP required: Contact Karen Coleman at karen.coleman@siskin.org or (423) 648-1754 PACT Meeting When: Friday, October 26, 9:00am Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue, suite 100 First PACT meeting after a long break. We'll provide updates on existing programs and get re-aquainted. This is a chance to get plugged into the autism community, present your ideas, and even create new programs. Ideas and action! We have to have the meeting earlier in the day because Hamilton County lets out at noon that Friday. 2nd annual KICK-A-THON FUNDRAISER When: Saturday, October 27, 10:00 Where: Lookout Valley High School 350 Lookout High Street, Lookout Valley, TN 37415 Kids will have fun AND raise money for the CAC. Any child can participate. No martial arts training required. Kids spend a few weeks asking neighbors, friends, relatives to sponsor their number of kicks (for example, if a sponsor does $.05 per kick, 100 kicks raises $5, 200 kicks raises $10 and so on). During the event, the kids are given 5 minutes to produce as many kicks as possible while volunteers hold a target and count. Various prizes are given to participants who raise the most in donations (more kicks leads to more donations) and a prize goes to the person with the most kicks. Everyone leaves with goodies. Contact buck.dave@gmail.com and download pledge form to get started today! Fall for a Cause - Fall festival When: October 27th from 10:00am to 4pm. Where: 1345 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga What: The Scottish Rite is hosting an awareness event for Autism and for Cancer as well. There will be tons of vendors (including the CAC) and a Chili Cookoff. Click HERE for a flier and more info. River Maze/Pumpkin Patch Family outing When: October 28, 3:00 to 4:30 Where: Ocoee, TN DIRECTIONS $4.00 per person this price includes a hayride, 1 free token, and one ride on the cow train. Put on by the Cleveland CAC Click LINK for more details. Sensory-Sensitive Film: Disney's Wreck-It Ralph When: Saturday, November 3rd, 10am to noon Where: UEC Theater 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd SW. Cleveland, TN Cost; $5 per person. You can bring your own snacks! The lights aren't turned all the way down & the sound is not up too high. Talking & moving around is no big deal. It will just be JUST our families in there! If we can get good attendance on this movie, it can be an on going thing! More info on Facebook Event page. Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: November 10, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Lisa A. Dupree, M.Ed., "Preparing Your Heart and Home for the Holidays." This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome! PINTS FOR AUTISM - SUNDAY NOVEMBER 11 Where: Honest Pint, 35 Patten Parkway, Chattanooga, TN 37402 When 5-10pm. Cost: $5 per adult. Adults night out! (must be 21 or older). Great music and adult drinks. Excellent gifts and goodies you can get for cheap at the silent auction. All money goes to CAC. We'll have more info, but for now, clear your calendar. The inaugeral Pints for Autism event was VERY successful and well loved by those who attended. See more on Facebook. Download this cool Flyer and post it! Parents Night Out (respite) Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue, Chattanooga TN, 37404 When: November 11, 4:30pm to 8:00pm Cost: $25 per child and $10 for additional syblings. Melissa Bennett is trained in ABA therapy and has developed a special program within the CAC to provide respite to parents and caregivers, but to enrich the participants’ lives through educational activities, sensory play and facilitated interactions with typical peers. Open to children 2-16 with ASD and their siblings • Trained staff with low ratio of children to adults • Variety of Themed Activities o Sensory o Arts & Crafts o Storytime o Calm Room o Educational Computer Games Limited Space Availble – Reservations will be taken on a first come basis. Contact Melissa at for more information. --------------------------------------- cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/af67244df9/a41e3feaa7/cbb7c018e7Tel: (423) 260-1115 Fax: (423) 521-8094
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 10, 2012 15:48:05 GMT -5
The Tennessee Disability Coalition, the Tennessee Autism Summit Team, and the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center are conducting a statewide, web-based survey on autism services. This survey will inform us of the needs for different services and service coordination throughout Tennessee. We will use this information to develop a state plan to improve services and service coordination for children with autism and other related disabilities. If you are a parent of guardian of a child with autism we are interested in hearing about access to services and service coordination for your child. We are particularly looking to get additional responses from individuals living in rural areas and from minority groups so that we can accurately assess the need for services for these groups. This survey should take approximately 25-30 minutes to complete. Your responses are entirely voluntary and will be used, anonymously, to tell us about services and resources for children with autism-ASD in TN. If you would like to participate in this survey, please go to the link: kc.vanderbilt.edu/AutismServicesSurvey We are also happy to mail you a paper copy if you do not have access to the internet. For more information: Email: AutismServicesSurvey@vanderbilt.edu Phone: Nashville (615) 322-8240 Toll-free (866) 936-8852 La Coalición de Discapacidad de Tennessee (Tennessee Disability Coalition), el Grupo de Autismo de Tennessee (Tennessee Autism Summit Team), y Vanderbilt Kennedy Center están realizando una encuesta online en todo el estado. La misma nos informará de las necesidades sobre servicios diferentes y la coordinación de estos en el estado de Tennessee. Se usará esta información para elaborar un plan que permita al estado de Tennessee mejorar los servicios y la coordinación de estos para niños con autismo y otras discapacidades. Esta encuesta tardará 25-30 minutos en ser completada. Sus respuestas son totalmente voluntarias y se utilizarán de forma anónima para informarnos de los servicios y recursos para los niños con autismo en Tennessee. Si usted es padre o tutor de un niño con autismo y le gustaría participar en esta encuesta, siga este link: kc.vanderbilt.edu/Encuesta_para_ Padres_de_Niños_con_Autismo Para más información: Email: encuesta_autismo@vanderbilt.edu Teléfono: Nashville (615) 875-5083 Toll free/Sin Cargo: (800) 640-4636
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 10, 2012 15:48:42 GMT -5
The East Tennessee Technology Access Center along with six other disability organizations---Breakthrough Corporation, Disability Law and Advocacy Center, Sunshine Ambassadors Inc., Club Vibes, Hearing and Speech Foundation, and Joni and Friends International Disability Center are selling battery-operated candles to light up the window sills in people’s homes and businesses this Christmas. We have the support of the City of Knoxville’s tourism bureau to do so in hopes to really light up downtown and the rest of the region on the night after Thanksgiving and throughout the holidays. To order an eight inch high candle, call 219-0130 or go to our website: www.discoveret.org/ettac to get an order form. You will be asked which of the disability organizations you wish to support. If you would like add to our book that we are creating of stories of people with disabilities of any age, at the top of the second page on the order form is a place to honor them. We will be using stories as part of our publicity. The lights cost $20. Thank you for whatever help you can give us. Louise McKown Public Awareness Coordinator/Systems Change Analyst East Tennessee Technology Access Center Celebrating 25 years of service to people with disabilities in East Tennessee ~ 1988-2013 116 Childress Street Knoxville, TN 37920 (865) 219-0130 lamckown@bellsouth.net www.discoveret.org/ettacWhere disabilities become possibilities
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 12, 2012 9:51:40 GMT -5
Happy National Disability Employment Awareness Month! The Council on Developmental Disabilities and the DD Network hopes you enjoy this e-card sharing employment success stories of Tennesseans with disabilities, and we invite you to share this among your networks to increase awareness of the issue of employment for people with disabilities. Click here to view this page on the web: kc.vanderbilt.edu/kennedy_email/empl2012/
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 12, 2012 9:55:38 GMT -5
You Are Invited Tennessee Disability Pathfinder would like to invite YOU to our second annual Disability and Cultural Diversity Conference What: This conference will define multicultural awareness and focus on the values, principles, attitudes, and policies impacting the delivery of disability services to culturally diverse individuals and their families. The content will focus on immigrants and refugees with disabilities in Tennessee. Guest Speakers include: · Dr. Katherine Donato – Chair, Department of Sociology, Vanderbilt University · Will Pedigo – Associate Produce Next Door Neighbors, Nashville Public Television · Panel Presentation – Disability & Resettlement Services in Tennessee will include: Tennessee Office of Resettlement, World Relief, Tennessee Disability Pathfinder · Dr. Arie Nettles – Director, Office of Inclusion and Health Equity, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt When: Tuesday, November 13, 2012 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Where: Lipscomb University One University Park Drive Ezell Building, Room 363 Nashville, Tennessee Cost: $30.00 Fee includes lunch and workshop materials RSVP: Please click here to register Pre-registration is required. No registration available day of conference Continuing Education Credits: Available for Social Workers only Sponsors & Partners: · Lipscomb University · Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, a project of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities Please see attached flyer for more details. If you have any questions, please contact Carolina Meyerson at (615) 400-4422 or carolina.meyerson@vanderbilt.edu ------------------------------------ www.familypathfinder.orgPhone: 800-640-4636 e-mail: tnpathfinder@vanderbilt.edu Resources in Spanish: www.caminoseguro.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 12, 2012 9:56:21 GMT -5
I am writing to share with you an announcement about the new Center on Secondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders at Vanderbilt University. The Center is launching an exciting research project focused on fostering positive relationship and social connections for high school students with autism spectrum disorders. The project is seeking parents, family members, educators, administrators, advocates, employers, service providers, youth without disabilities, and other community members to provide ideas and input on strategies for helping youth with autism spectrum disorders to flourish socially. If you have prior or current experience with high school students with autism, you are invited to be part of an engaging and important discussion. You will receive a $25 gift card for participating and also have a chance to shape the work of this national center and schools around the country. In addition, the team is interested in inviting youth and young adults with autism spectrum disorders to share their feedback and ideas on this same topic through an individual interview. The interview can be done in person, online, or by electronic questionnaire. Each participating young person will receive a $10 gift card for sharing his/ her views. To sign up or learn more, visit kc.vanderbilt.edu/transition. If you know of others in your community who may be interested or have your own questions about the project, please contact Jenny Redding at jenny.redding@vanderbilt.edu .
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 15, 2012 15:08:53 GMT -5
NYAPRS Note: The following comes from Michael Miriello who urges submissions to a new publication of Yale University named The Perch, which is intended to be “a ‘venue’ of kind for artists, particularly the literary and visual artist whose life has been affected by mental illness, it’s lived experience, or by any kind of patient or ex-patient status within psychiatric practice. Michael goes on to write that “as a published poet I am very enthusiastic about this publication and what it represents in the way of opportunity for the artist. I have no doubt that artists who have their work successfully accepted for publication will continue to experience the opportunity for positive feelings of self-esteem and pride in their work. And anyone who submits can be proud to be an artist living in a world where such prospect for recognition is available.” The Perch An arts and literary magazine from the Yale Program for Recovery and Community Health Mission: Our arts and literary magazine, a publication of the Yale University Program for Recovery and Community Health, aims to present a wide range of voices on mental health and recovery—both from established writers and from new, emerging authors and artists. We look to publish original, creative work in a variety of genres, including but not limited to, essays, poetry, fiction, and personal narratives. In addition, we welcome visual artwork and multi-media contributions for publication in our Parachute Factory section. The Perch is a venue for individuals—whether living with a mental illness themselves, friends or family of someone who has a mental illness, working in the mental health field, or simply interested in exploring issues related to mental health—to share their work. About the title: We conceptualize a “perch” as both a higher vantage point from which to survey an area and gain a new perspective as well as a place upon which to rest. Our magazine’s goal is to paint a broad landscape of the many paths to recovery, and offer a vantage point from which to listen to voices that are often silenced or ignored. We also see the image of an object perched on a branch as a metaphor for what can be, for some, a delicate balancing act of attending to wellness while at the same time living a full life in which mental illness is just one component. Last, but not least, we chose the title because we are a publication of the Yale Program for Recovery and Community Health (PRCH). Our section for visual and multimedia art is called The Parachute Factory, a gesture towards the history of the building where Yale-PRCH is housed, which was used to manufacture parachutes during World War II and which currently serves as a gallery space. We also like to think of our magazine as providing a comfortable space for risk-taking in the arts and self-expression, much like a parachute allows for soft landings, even amidst the harshest territory. Instructions for submitting your work: Writing: All submissions should be double spaced, in 12-point font, and under 5,000 words. You can submit one piece of prose (fiction or nonfiction) and up to five poems at a time. Please include a brief description of your work (e.g. nonfiction, poem) and tell us how you found out about The Perch. Arts & multimedia: If you are submitting artwork to the Parachute Factory section, we require a high resolution image of your piece. You can also submit multimedia files. Privacy: Please make sure not to include identifying information for individuals other than yourself in your work. You can refer to HIPAA guidelines to make sure that you are respecting others’ privacy. Emailing submissions: You can email your submissions, including artwork and multimedia pieces, toerica.stern@yale.edu. Please attach your submission as a word document to an email with the subject line “SUBMISSION: THE PERCH.” Mailing Submissions: If you are mailing a hard copy of your piece, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Please do not send your original manuscript as we will not be able to return submissions. You can send copies to: Erica Stern, Managing Editor The Perch Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry Program for Recovery and Community Health Erector Square, 319 Peck Street, Building 1 New Haven, CT 06511 Queries? Email erica.stern@yale.edu
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 15, 2012 15:11:25 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 15, 2012 15:16:11 GMT -5
New Mobility, a monthly magazine for active wheelchair users, explores recreation, accessible travel, technology, relationships, sexuality, parenting, home, creativity, education, employment and more. Click here to view or download an issue of New Mobility.: sg.newmobility.com/wf/click?upn=sZ-2B73WSHebU2rhsU-2FulTlEn7hbiyhYppC3CU-2BYzm4RW-2BIq2qanG4bTbx0CyroBE-2BTPSUbBKl20frmfTjDqFC6pGA8FP9oCMzyPokSJsFKaY-3D_wSpDjtv9LXAh5y6k5ChoLk3lTEotlIQ4dRQn3oR8vdi2En-2BhFZAuuG6H0Aq70-2BYKvJJlvM50fuvzW-2BtSkbo6lrB02w1d3xbvE57zwTUFDep78uSM0-2BPMc9uNIP5n3p2u0uAN3-2Fp2pgU-2F93NpniDgOP-2FoEW2ZcHowGVuDTfR0rt0-3DFor only $19.95, you get 12 issues of New Mobility, access to the online issue and a Wheelchair Cinch Bag* (a $15.95 value)! Click here to order online or call us at (800) 404-2898, ext. 7260 : sg.newmobility.com/wf/click?upn=sZ-2B73WSHebU2rhsU-2FulTlEn7hbiyhYppC3CU-2BYzm4RW-2BIq2qanG4bTbx0CyroBE-2BTPSUbBKl20frmfTjDqFC6gS4-2BhuDu02QcyZpNPoprt0-3D_wSpDjtv9LXAh5y6k5ChoLk3lTEotlIQ4dRQn3oR8vdi2En-2BhFZAuuG6H0Aq70-2BYK6tkwFc4J3FEg-2BagRI7XxC54-2BWu4bF7A-2FzG0phu2CP05-2F7svsuLy68-2BcdqavwpygJh0kL-2B9Uz8b2b9WQNHDyHUvo-2FBQmPkkOQZNiYab-2BzA78-3D
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 15:50:49 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 15:52:42 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:07:43 GMT -5
Imagine if you had a child who could not use her hands to play with typical toys. Then imagine if you found out that she could push a button to make a battery operated toy work, so she could play with a toy. But then you learned that the adapted toy cost $75 and the button cost just as much, and your medical bills to care for that child were never ending. You still want to give her a toy for Christmas, so you call East Tennessee Technology Access Center to see if they have any available, because ETTAC has these wonderful volunteers who take apart the battery component of toys you find on the shelves at any store. They rewire them to a button for these kids to push. Then we give them away in early December at a party. We generally have 60 to 100 parents a year within our 24 county service area request these toys. The problem we have this year is that people aren’t donating toys to us as they have in the past. So please help us by donating battery operated toys for our adapters to process. We need them in our office, the sooner the better, but definitely no later than November 16th. Attached is the Press Release. Thank you for your help. Louise McKown Public Awareness Coordinator/Systems Change Analyst East Tennessee Technology Access Center Celebrating 25 years of service to people with disabilities in East Tennessee ~ 1988-2013 116 Childress Street Knoxville, TN 37920 (865) 219-0130 lamckown@bellsouth.net www.discoveret.org/ettacWhere disabilities become possibilities
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:08:18 GMT -5
People First of Tennessee, Inc. is having a Volunteer Advisor Training for people interested in helping to start and support local People First chapters in Tennessee in November! For more information and to register go to: pftnvolunteeradvisortraining.eventbrite.comRuthie-Marie Beckwith, Ph.D. Executive Director Tennessee Microboards Association, Inc. 1509 Van Cleve Lane Murfreesboro, TN 37129 (615) 898-0300 o (615) 904-0308 f www.tnmicroboards.org"Make yourself necessary to someone.." -- Ralph Waldo Emerson
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:08:57 GMT -5
From LBPH Director Ruth Hemphill: Karen Keninger, the Director of the National Library Service for the Blind & Physically Handicapped (LBPH)/Library of Congress, has “tasked” the nation’s libraries for the blind and those with physical disabilities to reach out to eligible persons who have NOT yet registered for LBPH service. In fact, Ms. Keninger has challenged Tennessee to increase our usership by 20%....within the next five years! If you know of readers who have physical disabilities that prevent them from reading standard print…whether it’s a visual problem, a manual dexterity problem which makes holding a book and/or turning pages difficult, OR a reading disability please refer them to the Tennessee LBPH. Any patrons who need large print should be eligible to borrow audio and large print from us, too! We have over 60,000 audio titles and 10,000 large print titles available to supplement your collections. A copy of our most recent issue of the LBPH newsletter, Summer, 2012, is attached. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Ruth Hemphill, Regional Librarian Tennessee Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped 403 Seventh Avenue North Nashville TN 37243 Phone: (615) 741-3915 or (800) 342-3308, toll-free E-mail: Ruth.Hemphill@tn.gov Website: www.tennessee.gov/tsla/lbph
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:10:13 GMT -5
Deaf/Hard of Hearing Family Meeting
When: November 19, 2012 Where: Vanderbilt Medical Center, Room 8342 (8th Floor) Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Food: Light snacks Contact: Tonya Bowman, Parent Rep., TN H&V at 615-383-9442 or tonya@tnhandsandvoices.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:10:58 GMT -5
There are still seats available for this webinar next week. Hope you can join us! 10/23/2012 12:30 - 1:30 EST STEP LUNCHTIME LEADERS WEBINAR Updates on the Department of Education Initiatives Dr. Kathleen Airhart will present a webinar designed to inform families and students, and those who work with them, about current Department of Education initiatives. Dr. Airhart was appointed as Deputy Commissioner for the Tennessee Department of Education in January 2012. Previously she has served in roles for the Putnam County School System, including teacher, Special Education Supervisor and for the past 6 years, Director of Schools. She holds a Doctorate from Tennessee State University in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelors, Masters, and Ed.S. from Tennessee Tech University. She has authored numerous articles and received various awards related to education. She was named Superintendent of the Year by the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents for 2011-2012. During the course of her career, Dr. Airhart has actively engaged and led education reform efforts to improve PK-12 educational results for all children in Tennessee. Please join us for this opportunity to hear from the Deputy Commissioner! Topics to be covered include: . Education reform through Tennessee's First to the Top plan . Review of the Department's structure including Field Service Centers . Common core standards . Changes to assessment that are on the horizon . Elementary and Secondary Education Waiver (ESEA) . Strategic priorities to reach 6% gap closure for students with disabilities When: Tuesday, October 23, 2012 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Central Time 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern Time Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now at: www4.gotomeeting.com/register/207441783 _____________________________________________________________________ Webinar Coming in December! Information About TN's Virtual Academy! 12/4/2012 12:30 - 1:30 EST STEP LUNCHTIME LEADERS WEBINAR Join Us in Welcoming Randy Bretza, for Training on TN's Virtual Academy and What It Offers TN Students! STEP will be hosting a webinar on the Tennessee Virtual Academy (TNVA) to share information about this free online public school. The TNVA has been authorized by the Union County School District to serve students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Randy Bretza, Local Development Manager for TNVA, will be our guest presenter for this webinar. In addition to sharing what is available to students through this online academy and how it works, Randy will also open the session up to answer your questions. The TN Virtual Academy is open for any student in TN to enroll during their open enrollment beginning in March and running through July. Many families have found TNVA to be a another option to meet the educational needs of their children. In situations such as, *child didn't fit into the traditional classroom setting *wanted a small learning environment without the costs *had bullying issues *has learning disabilities *wanted to receive instruction on their level *wanted to move at a faster or slower pace, TNVA has been a great alternative for their children. Students socialize with each other through the virtual online academy as well as on field trips. Participants may submit questions before and during the webinar to be addressed during the presentation, Submitted questions will be compiled into a FAQ sheet and posted on our website. When: Tuesday, December 4, 2012 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM Central Time 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern Time To learn more about TNVA, Register Here Now for this Exciting Training! As always, check our website as events are added often. www.tnstep.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on Oct 22, 2012 16:14:36 GMT -5
The Exceptional Education Family Advisory Council together with the Department of Exceptional Education Community Meetings
Days Places Times October 22nd - Haynes Middle School 510 West Trinity Lane, 37207 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
October 29th - Antioch Community Center 5023 Blue Hole Rd , 37013 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November 1st - West Police Precinct 5500 Charlotte Pike, 37209 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November 5th - MNEA Building 531 Fairground Ct, 37211 12:30 pm. - 2:00 pm.
November 13th - Carter Lawrence 1118 12th Ave. South, 37203 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
November 27th - East Community Center 600 Woodland Street, 37206 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
If you have questions please contact: Charlene Comer (615) 259-8698
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