Program - Auburn University`s

Transcription

AUBUR N
UNIVERSIT Y
Transition XVII, M arch 12 - 14, 2007
Re�ections
Transition XVI
Table of Contents
•
Welcome............................................................................................................................1
Special Meetings & Events..............................................................................................2
Conference Agenda..........................................................................................................3
Pre-Conference Workshops............................................................................................4
Opening Ceremonies & Keynote Speakers................................................................. 5
Concurrent Sessions – 11:00 a.m. . ...............................................................................6
Concurrent Sessions – 1:30 p.m. ..................................................................................7
Concurrent Sessions – 2:30 p.m. ................................................................................ 8
Concurrent Sessions – 3:30 p.m. .................................................................................9
Conference Banquet...................................................................................................... 10
Banquet Speakers.......................................................................................................... 11
Share Fair . ..................................................................................................................... 12
Alabama Transition Update......................................................................................... 13
Volunteer Photos........................................................................................................... 14
Volunteer Appreciation................................................................................................ 15
Young Adults in Transition.......................................................................................... 16
Conference Presenters.................................................................................................. 17
Photo Album.................................................................................................................. 18
Transition in Al abama
Governor Bob Riley Proclaims
�ransition �ont�
“ M ar c h is
in A l abama”
February 2, 2007, Alabama State Capitol
A Note of
�elcome
When we initiated this annual event in 1991, little did we
realize how alive and well it would be 17 years later. This
commitment to transition makes our statewide conference one
of the longest running of its kind in the nation. Of course, you
are the ones that have kept going and growing stronger than
ever. To date, for example, nearly 12,000 of you have been a
part of this experience. This includes parents, youth and young
adults, teachers, rehabilitation counselors, job coaches, and
administrators at the program and agency levels. You should
take personal pride in the part you had in helping to make the
Alabama Transition Conference the tradition it is today.
We hope you will agree that we have prepared yet another
exciting program. Beginning Monday, there are eight
comprehensive workshops on current issues and practices
that affect our daily implementation of transition programs.
Catherine Fowler, Project Coordinator from the National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center is one of the
several national and state leaders who will present at these workshops. Tuesday morning’s session will formally open the
conference with the posting of the colors by members of the Auburn High School JROTC, led by Major Doug Sams. They will
be followed by the inspirational medley performed by the Auburn University Concert Choir, directed by Dr. William Powell.
You will be sure to enjoy this group of over 100 talented young voices as they perform a selection of patriotic and motivating
vocal music.
In order of photo appearance, left to right:
Ms. Nicole Weiss, Young Adults In Transition
Ms. Brittany Coston, Young Adults In Transition
Assoc. Commissioner Eranell McIntosh-Wilson, Alabama Department of MH/MR
Commissioner Steve Shivers, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Ms. Brandy Nivens, Young Adults In Transition
Dr. Karen Rabren, Director, Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
Mr. Arthur Stinson, Young Adults In Transition
Governor Bob Riley, State of Alabama
Dr. Phil Browning, Head, Rehabilitation & Special Education, Auburn University
Dr. Mabrey Whetstone, Director of Special Education Services, State Department of Education
Mr. Mario Brown, Young Adults In Transition
Mr. Dan Roth, YAIT Advisor, State Department of Education
Mr. James Greek, Young Adults In Transition
We are pleased to have as our very special guest Assistant Secretary John Hager of the U.S. Department of Education, director
of the Office of Special Education of Rehabilitative Services. Joining Mr. Hager will be Dr. Bill East and Mr. Carl Suter, executive
directors of the national associations for special education and rehabilitation, respectively. These national leaders will present a
panel discussion on current issues, policies, and trends, and—most importantly—their implications for transition services for
students in Alabama school systems, and beyond. We are honored to have the privilege of learning first-hand from these leaders
the very latest regarding the national agenda in transition.
We are pleased and honored to announce that two of Alabama’s own “shining stars” in transition will be featured at our Tuesday
night banquet, Miss Trisston Wright, Ms. Wheel Chair America/Alabama 2005, and Mr. Brian Burrows, Assistant Director of
Local Transition Partnerships. (Our original speaker, Mr. Jonathan Mooney, is experiencing a major life transition of his own;
he is expecting his first child any day now in California, and we wish him the very best.) Trisston and Brian have made their
own very successful transitions into adulthood, and they will share their stories and suggestions for assisting students as they
prepare for life after high school. This dynamic duo is sure to encourage and motivate us all. The evening will be enhanced by
the soothing melodies of harpist Melaney Jones.
Transition, by definition, is a time of change, and, as with all aspects of our lives, transition is continuous. Transition has now
occurred within transition—that is, after 17-years of dedicated service, Dr. Philip Browning has now appointed Dr. Karen
Rabren as Director of the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute. As part of her duties as director, she will oversee the annual
Alabama Transition Conference. As most of you know, for many years she has been an integral part of this conference and of
transition in our state. We see this as a seamless transition, just as transition should be.
Alabama has an abundance of talent and commitment, and plenty of determination to get things done. It is for these and
similar reasons that we have been able to remain definitive in our positions and progressive in our actions. May we continue
together on this promising journey of positively affecting the quality of life of our state’s youth and young adults with
disabilities.
Ms. Linda Hames, State Transition Coordinator, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Mr. Ryan Colburn, Young Adults In Transition
Mr. Brian Burrows, YAIT Advisor, Local Transition Partnerships
We hope you enjoy the conference,
Phil Browning and Karen Rabren
��ecial �eetin�s
and E vents
Monday, March 12, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Welcome Reception for Speakers and Exhibitors
All who present at the workshops, opening session, concurrent sessions,
and Share Fair are invited to this event.
Featuring the music of Steel Serenity
Lobby Lounge, near Marriott hotel registration lobby
�on�erence ��en�a
Monday, March 12
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Pre-Conference Workshops
-Lunch Available on Site-Dinner on Your Own-
Tuesday, March 13
8:30 – 10:30 am
Opening Ceremonies & Keynote Presentation
The Hon. John Hager
Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Education
Mr. Carl Suter
Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation
Dr. Bill East
National Association of State Directors of Special Education
11:00 - 11:45 am
Concurrent Sessions
-Lunch Available on Site-
1:30 - 4:15 pm
Concurrent Sessions
6:30 - 9:00 pm
Conference Banquet
Ms. Trisston Wright & Mr. Brian Burrows, Speakers
Left to right: Lana Russell, Tim Spicer, and Leigh Smalley of Steel Serenity
Ms. Melaney Jones, Harpist
Tuesday, March 13, 3:30-4:45 p.m.
Wednesday, March 14
Transition Consumer Focus Group
Share Fair & Continental Breakfast
This meeting is for young adults with disabilities, ages 16 through 25, and parents of such
young adults, who have pre-registered to participate in the focus group. Participants will be
asked for ideas on gathering information about young people as they prepare to leave high
school and after they have been out for a year or so.
10:00 - Noon
Alabama Transition Update
Room 301, Executive Board Room
Dr. Mabrey Whetstone
8:00 - 9:30 am
Commissioner Steve Shivers
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Alabama Department of Education
Conference Concludes
�re-�on�erence �orks�o�s
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
9:00 am-4:00 pm
��ening �eremonies
& Keynote Speakers
•
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Dr. Phil Browning
All workshops will break at noon for lunch, and resume at 1:00 pm.
Workshop 1 Salon A of Ballroom
Workshop 5 Meeting Room 1
Introduction to Transition: From School to Community
A Developmental Approach to Self-Advocacy and Self-Determination: Jr. High through Adulthood
Newcomers to transition and those interested in the basic foundations will want to
attend this overview workshop. The presenter will emphasize transition models and
best practices, the roles of the key stakeholders, and the need for student-directed
practices. This introductory workshop looks at the past, present, and future of the
transition movement. Rebecca Curtis, Auburn University
Workshop 2 Salon C of Ballroom
Assessments: Assisting Students with Planning for Transition
This workshop, designed for both educational and vocational practitioners, gives
tools for selecting and applying age-appropriate transition assessments and tips
for tailoring evaluations to the transition objectives of individuals. Three levels of
individualized vocational evaluation will be discussed—1) for students with postsecondary education goals, 2) for students going directly to employment, and 3) for
students requiring supported or customized employment. Catherine Fowler, National Secondary Transition Technical Assistance Center; Michael Quinn, Lakeshore Rehabilitation Facility
Workshop 3 Amphitheater
The Alabama Occupational Diploma and Beyond: Transition
to VRS Services
You will be led through an up-to-date, practical, and thought-provoking workshop
addressing AOD implementation in the general education classroom, including
strategies to promote effective support for students. A transition counselor will explain the role of Vocational Rehabilitation Services in connecting students to community resources, training programs, postsecondary education, and employment
opportunities after high school. Charlie Jackson, Dan Roth, and Alicia Hodge,
Alabama State Department of Education; Yolanda Spencer, Alabama State Department of Rehabilitation Services
Transition to Transition: Training for New VRS Transition
Counselors
This workshop, led by the ADRS State Transition Coordinator, provides training
for new transition counselors in Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS). You will
learn about legislation that impacts your job, successful strategies for participation
in individualized education programs (IEPs), the role of school-based job coaches,
resources available to you, and much more. Participation in this workshop will help
you become a better transition counselor. Linda Hames, Alabama Department of
Rehabilitation Services
Knowing how to develop self-advocacy and self-determination skills is important
for all students, especially students with disabilities. This interactive workshop,
directed to all transition stakeholders (students, parents, teachers, job coaches,
and rehabilitation counselors), looks at determination and advocacy issues from
secondary school through college, training, work, and careers. You will come to
see the importance of disability awareness, advocacy clubs, and mentoring. Brian
Burrows, Local Transition Partnerships, and Trisston Wright, Ms. Wheelchair
America/Alabama 2005
Workshop 6 Salon B of Ballroom
Head of the Department of Rehabilitation & Special Education, Auburn University
Master of Ceremonies
Auburn High School JROTC Color Guard
Under the command of Major Doug Sams
Auburn University Concert Choir
Under the direction of Dr. William Powell
Dr. Karen Rabren
Director of the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
Keynote Panel Moderator
The Extended Standards Transition Connection: Planning with
a Purpose
The Hon. John H. Hager
With the national focus on high academic standards and accountability, secondary special education teachers often think they must teach academic standards at
the expense of transition and life skills. This workshop on the Alabama Extended
Standards for students with significant cognitive disabilities will show you ways to
help students plan with a purpose, and develop meaningful goals and benchmarks
that integrate and academic standards with transition goals for adult life. DaLee
Chambers and Marla Davis Holbrook, Alabama Department of Education
Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Education
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
Assistant Secretary John H. Hager, Office of Special Education and
Rehabilitative Services, served the Commonwealth of Virginia as
lieutenant governor and homeland security director before being
nominated and confirmed to his present position in 2004. Mr.
Hager received national recognition as chair of Virginia’s Disability Commission and has taken a leadership role in many civic,
charitable, and service organizations. He is a graduate of Purdue
University and of Harvard University, and has served in the U.S.
Army and Army Reserves. After a near-fatal bout with polio,
Mr. Hager rebuilt his life and his career. A lifelong athlete, he has
competed in many wheelchair races.
Workshop 7 Salon D-E of Ballroom
“Transition in Action”: Building Effective Transition Programs
This workshop will show you how to design effective transition programs for the
classroom and for the workplace. Shelby County increased the employment rate for
special needs students and developed ways to allow students to increase productivity at their own pace. Four other school systems will discuss development and
implementation of their models, including academic curriculum, community/work
training experiences, job readiness skills, and other activities. Chris Moore, Cindy
Vinson, Cindy Gilbert, Becky Goggins, and Keri Johnson, Shelby County Schools;
Terry Hyche and Sallie Lawrence, Birmingham Schools; Charles E. Clemmons,
Cullman County Schools; Tara Bruce, Colbert County Schools; Carmelita Bivens, Sharon Pearson, Brenda Dudley, and Latofia Patterson (ADRS), Bessemer
Schools
Career/Technical Education: A Partner in Transition
Career/Technical Education programs and Special Education programs work together to provide purposeful transition programming for students with disabilities. This workshop, led by two career/technical education specialists, will spotlight
collaborative and innovative programs that offer students ways to gain confidence
and experience in the workplace. Special accommodations will be addressed. Gwen
Crawford and Carolyn King, Alabama State Department of Education
Dr. Bill East
Executive Director
National Association of State
Directors of Special Education
Bill East, executive director of the National Association of State
Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), has a depth of experience in the fields of education and mental health. From 19901998, Dr. East served as state director of special education in the
Alabama State Department of Education. He has also been a high
school teacher, a supervisor in the Alabama mental health system,
an adjunct college professor, and an educational specialist. He
accomplished his educational preparation at Jacksonville State
University, The University of Alabama, and Auburn University
Montgomery. As director of NASDSE, Dr. East promotes the vision
that all students can learn to higher levels.
Mr. Carl Suter
Executive Director
Council of State Administrators
of Vocational Rehabilitation
Carl Suter, executive director of the Council of State Administrators
of Vocational Rehabilitation, was the director of the Illinois Office of
Rehabilitation Services before joining CSAVR. Mr. Suter has also served
as the executive director of the Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities and as the associate director of the Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities. Mr. Suter directs and upholds CSAVR’s mission to
maintain and enhance a strong, effective, and efficient national program
of public vocational rehabilitation services which empowers individuals with disabilities to achieve employment, economic self-sufficiency,
independence, and inclusion and integration into our communities.
�oncurrent �essions
11 a.m.
Session 1
Amphitheater
The World of Work Community-Based Job Training Program: Giving Students Work Experience
11 a.m.
Session 2
Room 1
A Conversation with John Hager of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
11 a.m.
Session 3
Room 2
What Happens to My Students When They Transition from Special Education to Vocational Rehabilitation?
11 a.m.
Session 4
Room 3
Navigating the Funding Maze: An Introduction to Grant Proposal Writing
World of Work introduces students to a variety of available careers with related hands-on community work experience. This presentation will
illustrate program information and show how students’ strengths and weaknesses are analyzed and utilized to help them become more successful
in their assigned work areas. Many of students are now employed in businesses that allowed them to train there. The businesses enjoy free labor,
and the employees enjoy working with the students. Handouts of our grading system, an employer handbook, brochures, and parent packets will
be shared with participants. Patsy Johnson and Shelley Knox, Madison County Career Technical Center
John Hager is the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education and the head of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative
Services. OSERS provides a wide array of supports to parents and individuals, school districts, and states in three main areas: special education,
vocational rehabilitation, and research. Transition happens to be one of Secretary Hager’s main interests, and he looks forward to this opportunity to
talk with the students, parents, teachers, counselors, and other stakeholders and practitioners who come to this informal discussion. John Hager
A profile of students with disabilities in Alabama who have received services from the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services will be
presented. Rehabilitation outcome data will be used to help teachers understand how rehabilitation services can affect the outcomes of their students, and how a program of special education can affect students’ independent living or employment outcomes. Understanding the differences
in definitions, services, and eligibility will help when teachers prepare students for rehabilitation services. Participants will exit this presentation
with a clear view of potential outcomes of the rehabilitation program and strategies for improving these outcomes. J. Michael Jones, Jennifer Bell,
Auburn University
1:30 p.m.
Special Session
301 - Executive
Boardroom
1:30 p.m.
Session 10
Amphitheater
Transition in Alabama with Phil
As one of the originators of the Alabama Transition Conference, Dr. Phil Browning has a unique perspective on the trajectory of transition practices in this state and, indeed, nationwide. In this special session, Phil, who is also head of Auburn University’s Department of Rehabilitation and
Special Education and author of Transition in Action, will share his best conference stories, reminiscences, and photographs in a salute to the best
of the best in “Transition in Alabama, I through XVI.” The room is intimate, and seating is limited, so go on up, find your place, and enjoy! Phil
Browning, Auburn University
Why Try? Innovative Interventions that Provide Hope and Motivate Youth to Overcome Poverty, Violence and Failure
This presentation will provide the audience with tools to help youth answer the question, “Why try in life?” when they are frustrated, confused, or
angry about life’s pressures. Christian Moore will share motivational stories from his own life as a youth with severe learning disabilities who was
able to work his way through college and earn a masters degree. He will walk the audience through several practical methods to teach emotional
intelligence, anger management, problem solving, overcoming peer pressure, keeping laws and rules, building support systems, and visualizing the
future. His strength-based approach includes use of multiple intelligence theory, music, and visual analogies (pictures). Christian Moore, The Why
Try Organization
1:30 p.m.
Session 11
Room 1
Young Adults Successfully Designing Their Futures
A major challenge for transition professionals is trying to implement innovative services without adequate financial support. Dedicated practitioners who are determined to provide their students, consumers, and families with “that something extra” may want to seek grant funding. You will
be given an overview of the comprehensive grant proposal process beginning with the preliminary idea stage and culminating with the submission
of the application for review. You will learn writing techniques and tips of the trade, as well as how to organize the proposal process, identify and
evaluate needs and interests, understand differences in types of assistance, and research potential funding sources. Suzanne Tew-Washburn, Troy
University
1:30 p.m.
Session 12
Room 2
Young Adults in Transition—A New Wave of the Future
11 a.m.
Session 5
Salon A
Center for Systemic Transitional Education and Planning Services
1:30 p.m.
Session 13
Room 3
Using Vocational Diagnostic Interview: A Road Map to Work/Job Placement
11 a.m.
Session 6
Salon B
Utilizing PASS and other SSA Work Incentives for Transition Age Youth
1:30 p.m.
Session 14
Salon A
Packaging the Gift: Preparing the Student for Future Employment
1:30 p.m.
Session 15
Salon B
A Summer Transition Program for Low Incidence Populations
1:30 p.m.
Session 16
Salon C
Getting It Done: Meeting the Mandates of No Child Left Behind
1:30 p.m.
Session 17
Salon D
My Journey to Successful Transition
1:30 p.m.
Session 18
Salon E
How Will Wages Affect My SSI and Medicaid, and What Is This Ticket to Work Stuff?
11 a.m.
Session 7
Salon C
11 a.m.
Session 8
Salon D
11 a.m.
Session 9
Salon E
The College of Education at the University of South Alabama proposes the creation of a Center for Systemic Transitional Education and Planning
Services that would support research, teaching, and service that promotes independence, self-determination, health fitness, and community integration for persons with developmental disabilities. The STEPS Center will coordinate efforts among parents, students, public schools, and community
agencies; gather information about family, school, and community resources; and educate and inform stakeholders. Participants will get an overview
of the STEPS Center Model and its projected partners, and will be able to discuss their views and suggestions. David Ellis and Dennis Campbell,
University of South Alabama
Youth with disabilities, their parents, teachers, and professionals who work with them can learn in this session the importance of the Social Security
and SSI work incentives, including the Ticket to Work program. They will learn how earnings affect benefits, and how using work incentives allows
the worker to maintain health insurance and a portion of their benefits while working. Plan to Achieve Self Support is sometimes overlooked as a
work incentive. Find out who to call and how easy it is to determine if PASS is for you or someone you work with. This training is conducted by
a PASS specialist who works with PASS every day and makes decisions regarding PASS for the eight southeastern states. Wanda M. Berry, Social
Security Administration, PASS Cadre
Proposed Model for Inclusion
The members of a special cadre, charged with the issue of inclusion and collaboration in Alabama, developed the foundation for an inclusion model
that is flexible and multi-faceted. This model brims with possibilities because its use is not limited by resources. It may be easily implemented by
a school system, adopted by an individual school, or adapted for an individual instructor’s classroom. The model provides instruction delivery for
gifted/high functioning students, academically challenged students, English language learners, and students without labels. The presentation includes
the Focused Professional Development component and the Collaboration Service Team from Boaz High School. John Lowery, Shelia Remington,
Anita Gipson, Debbie Samples, Brenda Coleman, Anita Thompson, Michelle Walker, Pam Gilbreath, Trisha Bates, Beckie Boddie, and Jody
Bolinger from Boaz City Schools
Thinking Outside the Box of Traditional Employment
By thinking outside the box of normalcy regarding employment after high school, one can see the possibilities of living a life of reward, success, and
happiness. When Garrett Cobbs was 12 years old, he became intrigued with woodworking. Although secular and structured work environments
did not work for him, his individualized education plan was written with goals and objectives for Garrett’s self-employed business, regardless of his
inability to read or write. The presenters will share community, state, and federal resources available to make dreams and interests into self-based
businesses without losing financial resources. The audience will realize the potential in self-employment based on individual interest. Rita F. Cobbs,
Children’s Rehabilitation Services; Garrett A Cobbs, student; Jerry W. Cobbs, The University of Alabama in Huntsville
Independence: Balancing Academics and Functional Skills for Secondary Students with Mental Retardation
Secondary school students with mental retardation need to be independent. Independence comes from instruction in both academics and functional skills. Materials for direct instruction for students in reading, math, language arts, spelling, and driver’s education will be demonstrated. A
functional skill curriculum will also be demonstrated, and will include Cooking for Learning, workstations, and daily living skills. Behavior management for students with disabilities will be addressed. Alexandra Conniff, Eufala City Schools
It is important for parents and teachers to assist young adults with disabilities to be better prepared for “real life” after high school. Many important
decisions need to be made during this time that impact adult life. In this session we will discuss a timeline for making these decisions and we will
provide resources to students, parents, and teachers to assist in the transition planning process. The presenter is a doctoral student and a former
special education teacher. This session will benefit the audience by providing a timeline for making important decisions that will affect the lives of
young adults. Shelley Henthorne, Auburn University
Young Adults in Transition (YAIT) is a newly formed panel of youth and young adults with disabilities who will make recommendations to state
policymakers on improving transition services. Members of the YAIT panel will present their ideas during the session. They will also use this forum
to recruit new members. Youth and young adults with disabilities need a way to express their ideas and concerns and to be heard for positive change
in transition for youth with disabilities. Nicole Weiss, Mario Brown, Jamey Greek, Brittany Coston, and Brandy Nivens, YAIT panel members;
Brian Burrows, Local Transition Partnerships
A comprehensive and thorough interview is essential in obtaining information to properly serve our students. The focus of this presentation will
be on the usage of the Vocational Diagnostic Interview (VDI) and students transitioning from school to work. This presentation will also include
a comprehensive discussion on how parents, educators, and other interested parties (for example, grandparents and advocates) could assist the
student entering the workforce by obtaining, maintaining, and retaining gainful and meaningful employment. Gray H. Broughton, Broughton
Associates, Inc., and J. Chad Duncan, Auburn University
This presentation will focus on the behavioral strategies that can be used at the secondary level to prepare students with disabilities for future
employment. Participants will learn how to use a student’s gifts and talents to prepare them for their role in the workplace. This session complements
content covered in “Delivering the Gift: The Right Worker for the Right Situation,” which will focus on the work environment. The presenters are
doctoral students focusing on autism and behavior disorders; they have work experience in teaching, diagnostics, consultation, and professional
development. Whitney Wayne Meade and Doris L. Hill, Auburn University
For three years, Montgomery Public Schools has held a Summer Transition Program for forty special education students from all four high schools,
emphasizing the transition from school to work and independent community living. Designed to involve students three days per week for eight
weeks, the program offers functional academics, self-advocacy training, work experiences, and social/leisure skills practice. This presentation shows
how academic, social, and work goals can be addressed in a summer program for high school low incidence populations, and how community
agencies can team to benefit this population of students. Handouts include a Transition Toolkit, summer yearbook, and Transition Newsletter. Gayle
Stewart and Kitty Rainey, Montgomery Public Schools
Meeting the mandates of No Child Left Behind has been a struggle for secondary schools. This presentation will briefly touch on making a smooth
transition from middle school to high school, and then we will highlight intervention programs that work in a secondary setting, providing data to
show the success of such interventions. We will define the roles of the individuals involved in a successful co-teaching model, and provide relevant
data from the Alabama High School Graduation Exam to support the co-teaching model. Jeanna Chandler and Trey Holladay, Oxford High
School
This presentation will focus on the presenter’s transition experience as a person with a disability (spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis and a
closed head injury) that began at age 17 from a motor vehicle collision caused by a drunk driver. Mr. Sisson will detail his transition from rehabilitation to college to full time work, marriage and home life, and recreational hobbies. This presentation will focus on personal life experiences and is
meant to be informative and motivational. It will also deal with the setting of high but reasonable expectations for persons with disabilities. Learn
strategies for successful transition in life and gain a new or different perspective on transition for a person with a disability. Graham L. Sisson, Jr.,
This session will present a discussion of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligibility rules along with the major work incentives provided for students drawing SSI. We will discuss the new 2007 Social Security Administration numbers regarding work incentives and Medicaid. Transition students will begin receiving a Ticket to Work at age 18, and need to know the benefits of utilizing the Ticket. We will also cover how a student can use
work incentives, SSI, school and Vocational Rehabilitation all at the same time. John A. Roberts, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
�oncurrent �essions
(Continued from page 7)
2:30 p.m.
Session 19
Amphitheater
How to Use Your Local Community Rehabilitation Programs in Transition
3:30 p.m.
Session 28
Amphitheater
Creative Ideas to Fill the Transition Gap in Your School
2:30 p.m.
Session 20
Room 1
Designing for Life Skills: Why Didn’t I Think of That?
3:30 p.m.
Session 29
Room 1
An Individualized Approach to Vocational Evaluation: Best Practices in Transition Assessment and Planning
2:30 p.m.
Session 21
Room 2
Sharedwork.org — An IDEA That Will Really Work.
3:30 p.m.
Session 30
Room 2
Situational Assessments and Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
2:30 p.m.
Session 22
Room 3
Utilizing the FLAPP to Facilitate Employment
3:30 p.m.
Session 31
Room 3
2:30 p.m.
Session 23
Salon A
Delivering the Gift—The Right Worker for the Right Situation
3:30 p.m.
Session 32
Salon A
Transition’s Top Model
2:30 p.m.
Session 24
Salon B
Just SWEAT It: The Student Wellness Exercise and Advocacy Training Program at AUM
3:30 p.m.
Session 33
Salon B
Self-Directed Services: We Can Do It in Alabama, Too!!!
2:30 p.m.
Session 25
Salon C
How to Write IEP’s that Make Sense and Are Legally Sound
3:30 p.m.
Session 34
Salon C
Alabama Occupational Diploma Question & Answer Session
Distance Education: Special Education and Rehabilitation Master’s Degrees from Auburn University
Transition Outcomes of Students with High Incidence Disabilities in Alabama
3:30 p.m.
Session 35
Salon D
A House Divided: Building a Bridge from Special Education to Vocational Rehabilitation
Comprehensive Diversity Awareness: What About People with Disabilities?
3:30 p.m.
Session 36
Salon E
2:30 p.m.
Session 26
Salon D
2:30 p.m.
Session 27
Salon E
Tennessee Valley Rehabilitation Center, Inc, in Decatur, Alabama, has developed a model school-based transition program that begins with students
as young as 15 years of age and follows them until they are successfully employed. In 2005-06, 500 students in four counties (26 high schools) were
served. The program consists of courses that equip students to transition into the world of work. TVRC has designed the courses to help meet
Alabama Occupational Diploma requirements from an outside agency. Teachers love the courses and the job placement service assisting students
with AOD requirement of 270 hours of employment. Teachers and parents will learn how to use their local CRPs to help. Janet Hill, Tennessee
Valley Rehabilitation Center, Inc. and Lisa Anderson, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Teachers often have limited time frames for preparing students for a variety of future experiences beyond the classroom. Designing instructional
strategies for life skills education requires professionals to be imaginative, creative, and innovative in their thinking. Since learning from others can
inspire new plans for teaching life skills, this presentation will offer unique ideas and examples for incorporating life skills training into everyday
activities and settings. The presenter is a doctoral student with experience teaching students with more significant disabilities. Stephanie T. Zito,
Auburn University
Sharedwork.org is a Web site developed and funded by the IDEA Partnership Communities of Practice. This website is designed to support and
facilitate the shared work that occurs among individuals, organizations and agencies at the local, district, state, and national levels. This presentation
will demonstrate how to use and benefit from the sharedwork.org Web site. This presentation will give the audience a way to share their work with
one another across the state. Brian Burrows, Local Transition Partnerships; Dan Roth, Alabama State Department of Education; Linda Hames,
Employment is a genuine concern for individuals with disAbilities. Where will I work? How will I find work? Can I work? What do I want to
do? These are important questions. Join us as we explore how to address these concerns using the dynamic and creative FLAPP (Full Life Ahead
Planning Process) to achieve an individual’s transition and employment goals. Our program offers a unique process for unleashing the resources
and expertise of the system and community to build a full life for those who experience disAbility. We will share success stories and ways around
the challenges. We will explore creative ideas that a person can use to find community support and put it into an action plan. Lisa Manley and Judy
Barclay, The Full Life Ahead Foundation
This presentation emphasizes the importance of carrying over classroom behavior training to strategies for use in the workplace. The use of visual
supports, positive reinforcement, staff training, structure, and routine provides benefits to supervisors and employees alike. These strategies brought
to the workplace are valuable for maintaining a viable, healthy work environment, and facilitate the student’s transition from school to work. The
presenters are doctoral students with a focus in autism and behavior disorders, and have many years of classroom experience. Doris L. Hill and
Whitney Wayne Meade, Auburn University
The Student Wellness Exercise and Advocacy Training (SWEAT) program at Auburn University Montgomery (AUM) was a collaborative exercise
program between the AUM Center for Special Services (CSS) and the Montgomery Public Schools Extended Year Services Summer Transition
program. The SWEAT program involved approximately 50 students and 10 MPS teachers/aids from two local schools in walking and computer
training programs for seven weeks. This presentation will discuss this unique partnership, its funding, program components, and coordination,
and could benefit postsecondary and high school programs looking for creative, collaborative projects for summer transition programs.Tamara
Massey-Garrett, Keyonna Dailey, and Alice Boggs, Auburn University Montgomery
Are you struggling with how to write Individualized Education Programs that make sense for students? Do you worry about legal ramifications
from the IEPs for which you are responsible? If so, attend this session to learn how you can make a legally sound working document that is the
blueprint for what a student should be learning during a school year. Topics to be covered in this session include new requirements under IDEA,
the key ingredients for a great IEP, and helpful tips in developing IEPs that make sense. Also, participants will gain knowledge on how to make IEPs
user-friendly for all who are responsible for the implementation of the plans. This is a fast paced, “bottom line” overview. Camilla Gibson and Eric
Baker, Alabama State Department of Education
Over the past 50 years the importance of a high school education has changed dramatically, and the transition from high school is one of the
most difficult developmental challenges confronting adolescents. This session presents a study identifying factors associated with the engagement,
satisfaction of post school life, and perception of preparedness of former students with high incidence disabilities in Alabama, as reported to the
Alabama Student Tracking System’s Post School Transition Survey. The session creates an opportunity to dialogue about ways to incorporate into
the general education curriculum the practices that were being used in the former Alabama Occupational Diploma curriculum. DaShonera Griffin,
Clark Atlanta University
Have you ever been to a diversity training or class? Did the instructor cover issues such as gender identity, age, race, religion, and sexual orientation?
What about people with disabilities? This presentation will demonstrate and provide examples of how to develop a comprehensive diversity format
for discussions held with your classes, staff development sessions, and/or family and friends. The presenters draw on many years of counseling and
teaching experience. Jane Turnbull and Jonte’ C. Taylor, Auburn University
Jefferson County job coaches will share their creative and unique approaches to connecting the puzzle pieces for successful transition. In an effort
to look at the “Big Picture” for transition for each student, the job coaches have developed and participated in many exciting programs. Participants
will leave with information on how to develop their own Transition Teams, Summer Job Readiness Classes, Outside Speakers Bureau, Mentoring
Day, and Connection with Agencies. As a team, we are closing the gap to help our students better prepare for success, not only for the present, but
for the future after high school. Coordination of services is the key to their successful transition program. Clara Christopher and Kendra Boyd,
Jefferson County School System
An individualized vocational evaluation can provide valuable information for transition planning, assessment, follow-through, and IEP planning.
Furthermore, the vocational evaluation provides transition documentation to be shared between secondary and postsecondary service agencies.
But what are the elements of an individualized vocational evaluation? This presentation will detail the Guiding Principles set forth in 1992 by the
Interdisciplinary Council on Vocational Evaluation and Assessment. These principles are equivalent to best practices in evaluation and, as such, are
aligned with recommendations for best practices in transition assessment by experts in that field. Mimi Smith, Auburn University
In order for a person with ASD to be considered employable, the situational assessment must be clearly thought out. The individual’s strengths and
weaknesses must be addressed prior to being placed in a situation that assesses his/her employability. The presenter will discuss how to focus on
an individual’s characteristics, sensory issues, strengths, weaknesses, likes, dislikes, and learning style when considering situational assessments.
The audience will learn what an interest career inventory for people with ASD should contain, how to effectively gain a situational assessment for
adolescents with ASD, and how to take characteristics of an adolescent with ASD and find a job match. Jennifer Sellers, Auburn University
MH/MR Initiatives: Consumer-Driven Approaches to Independent and Supported Living
All young people look forward to greater independence after high school. Weaving together a self-supporting plan for students with cognitive
disabilities can be challenging and rewarding. Current knowledge of housing options, program initiatives, and associations for consumer empowerment and advocacy can assist in the planning process. This workshop will help the transition practitioner become familiar with eligibility
qualifications, the application process, vouchers, federal programs, Section 8 requirements, state programs, and other initiatives to promote and
support independence for young citizens. The presenter is Associate Commissioner of ADRS for MR Services. Eranell McIntosh-Wilson, Alabama
Department of Rehabilitation Services
Modeling is a widely used technique for instructing students on how to perform new skills and activities, and can be used effectively in teaching
transition skills. This instructional strategy allows for consistent instruction and reinforcement of a targeted skill. Although modeling is a commonly
used teaching technique, in recent years a number of new modeling approaches have been successful both inside and outside of the classroom. The
presenter, experienced in teaching students with behavioral and emotional disorders in a variety of settings, will describe the components of modeling and introduce a variety of modeling strategies that teachers can use as instructional tools for transition. Jonte’ C. Taylor, Auburn University
We Can Do It in Alabama, Too!!! is a project that will teach people how to use formal and informal supports to make self-directed services and supports a reality for Alabamians. Self-directed services are a direct result of the self-determination initiative that has taken our nation by storm over the
last two decades. Ability Alliance of West Alabama is currently exploring self-directed services with five families across the state. This presentation
will provide information on how families and persons with developmental disabilities can direct their own services. The presenters will also discuss
case management services, explaining them for persons with disabilities, their families, and other agencies. Vicki H. Turnage, Brenda McComb,
and Bettye Reeses, Ability Alliance of West Alabama
This workshop will provide participants an overview and update of the Alabama Occupational Diploma requirements and implementation in the
general education setting. It will also provide participants the opportunity to ask questions regarding their individual concerns with the implementation of the option. The presenters are educational specialists in Special Education Services. Charlie Jackson and Alicia Hodge, Alabama State
Department of Education
Auburn University offers three accredited master’s degree programs by distance that are of interest to those in the fields of Special Education and
Rehabilitation. Education professionals can pursue degrees in Collaborative Teacher and/or Early Childhood Special Education programs designed
specifically for certified teachers in Alabama who are working in Special Education or who have special needs students in their classrooms. Our
Rehabilitation Counseling program addresses the unique learning needs of employed rehabilitation practitioners and has been producing successful graduates since 1999. These established distance education offerings combine the benefits of traditional on-campus classroom experience with
state-of-the-art instructional technology. Richelle Rice and Dawn Browning, Auburn University
This presentation will explore the need for a collaborative relationship between special education and rehabilitation. The role and services of the
vocational rehabilitation counselor will be explained and suggestions for building strong relations with the local counselor will be discussed. The
presenter is currently employed as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, serving the deaf/hard of hearing population. He has been employed with
the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation services for the past nine years.
Bedarius Bell, Auburn University
�on�erence �an�uet
�an�uet ��eakers
Brian Burrows
Tuesday, March 13, 6:30–9:00 p.m.
•
Brian Burrows, born in Sacramento, California, in 1972, was
diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 6 months of age. He received
a mainstreamed education throughout elementary and secondary schools. His parents and teachers taught him to be as
independent as possible, and he needed few, if any, supports
during school. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in Special
Education from The University of Alabama, Mr. Burrows
enjoyed classroom teaching. He then found an opportunity to attend and work at Auburn University, and in 2003
received his master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling.
Mr. Burrows currently works at Auburn and Opelika
High Schools as the assistant director of Local Transition
Partnerships. Mr. Burrows also serves on many statewide
committees, including Alabama’s Special Education
Advisory Panel (SEAP) and the Youth Leadership
Forum for Students with Disabilities (YLF)
Steering Committee. He is a strong advocate
of self-awareness, self-determination, and
disability awareness.
Grand Ballroom
All conference registrants are welcome.
Featuring:
Dinner buffet
Guest speakers Trisston Wright and Brian Burrows
Harp music by Melaney Jones
Door prizes
We wish to thank the following for their kind donations
of door prizes:
Auburn University Bookstore
Auburn University College of Education
Belk
Best Buy
Big Blue Bookstore
Burger King
Chick-fil-A
Chili’s
CiCi’s Pizza
Firehouse Subs
Gourmet Tiger
HairMasters
Heartstrings
Hibbett Sporting Goods
Jersey Mike’s Subs
Lee Spa Nails
Logan’s Roadhouse
Marble Slab Creamery
Niffer’s Place
Office Max
Outback Steakhouse
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
The University of Alabama
10
Trisston Wright
“advocating, educating,
and promoting the
abilities of people with
disabilities”
Shortly after her birth in 1975, Trisston Wright
was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which affects
her fine-motor skills and her ability to to walk.
However, from the day she was born, the word “can’t”
has never been in her vocabulary. Trisston was the
first student with a disability, in the history of the
Autauga County School System, to be mainstreamed,
from first grade through twelfth. At 17, she received
her Advanced Alabama High School Diploma with honors. In 2000, Miss Wright graduated from Auburn University
Montgomery’s School of Business summa cum laude, and was
named a Chancellor’s Scholar. Ms. Wright then turned her
attention to pursuing her love of painting and writing. Today,
she has paintings in galleries throughout Alabama and her
columns appear in local newspapers. In 2004, Ms. Wright was
crowned “Ms. Wheelchair America/Alabama 2005,” giving her
extensive opportunities to travel and accomplish her life’s mission—advocating, educating, and promoting the abilities of
people with disabilities.
11
�ransition
Alabama
and �ontinental �reak�ast
Wednesday, March 14, 8:00-9:30 a.m.
Grand Ballroom and Pre-Function Foyer
�eaturin�:
Ability Alliance of West Alabama
Ability Foundation
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
AmeriCorps Programs
Governor’s Office on Community & Faith-Based Initiatives
U pdate
Wednesday, March 14
10:00 a.m.-12 noon
Grand Ballroom
Get up-to-the minute news on Transition in Alabama from the State Department
of Education and the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. Dr. Mabrey
Whetstone and Commissioner Steve Shivers offer information you won’t want to
miss, followed by a question-and-answer period to conclude the conference.
Crossing Points
The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa City Schools and Tuscaloosa County Schools
Distance Education Graduate Programs
Auburn University Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education
Full Life Ahead Foundation
Learning Center Greenhouses
Etowah County Schools
Paulk Enterprises Supported Employment
The Arc of Tuscaloosa
People First of Alabama
SharedWork.Org: A Web site of The IDEA Partnership Communities of Practice
Social Security Administration
STAR—Alabama’s Assistive Technology Act Program
State of Alabama Client Assistance Program
“Transition in Alabama” and Transition-in-Action
Auburn University Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education
World of Work, Madison County School System
Young Adults in Transition
12
Steve Shivers
Commissioner
Commissioner Steve Shivers has been with ADRS
thirty-five years. He started work at the agency in
1972 as a vocational counselor after having received,
that same year, a Meritorious Services Award from
the U.S. Marines. Mr. Shivers earned a master’s
degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from The
University of Alabama after doing undergraduate
work in Berry College, Rome, Georgia. Mr. Shivers
was appointed ADRS Commissioner in 1999 and is
the recipient of many awards for his service to
persons with disabilities and for his agency and
civic leadership.
Mabrey Whetstone
Director of Special Education Services
Alabama State Department of Education
Dr. Mabrey Whetstone received his doctor of philosophy degree in Special Education from Auburn
University. Before coming to the State Department of
Education, he taught students with disabilities at the
elementary, junior high, and high school levels for
twelve years. At the state department, he has served
as director of the Alabama Transition Initiative, as an
education administrator, and, for the last eight years,
as director for Special Education Services. Under Dr.
Whetstone’s leadership, progress has been made in
diploma options, minority disproportionality, teacher
performance standards, and student outcomes.
13
�on�erence �olunteers
�olunteer ��reciation
The Auburn Transition Leadership Institute (ATLI), College of Education, Auburn
University, wishes to thank the following AU students for their important and much appreciated contributions to the 2007 Alabama Transition Conference. (If you are a conference
participant who is in a position to hire, please keep these dedicated and energetic students
in mind. Many missed “Career Day” at Auburn in order to be of service at the conference.)
Doctoral Level Students
Masters Level Students
Bedarius Bell, RSE
Calvin Cannon, RSE
Jian Fang*, COMP
Shelley Henthorne*, RSE
Whitney Meade, RSE
Laura (Mimi) Smith, RSE
Jonte’ Taylor, RSE
Jane Turnbull*, RSE
Nitin Yogi*, ELEC
Stephanie Zito*, RSE
* ATLI Staff members
Ashley Bloodworth, RSCT
Duanna Couey, RSCT
Katina Dunkerly, RSEC
Lauren Durham, RSEC
Doris Hill-RSE
Lauren Hill, RSEC
Bindu Mathews, RSCT
Virginia Oleinick, RSCT
Sarah Sandifer, RSCT
Nicole Tate, RSEC
Junior and Senior Students
Rachel Autrey, Sr-RSCT
Elise Bowen, Sr-RSCT
Sarah Burger, Sr-RSEC
Emily Coker, Sr-RSEC
Eric Currington, Sr-RSCT
Ashley Daniel, Sr-RSCT
Laura Daniel, Sr-RSEC
Caroline Dennis, Sr-RSEC
Dawn Gamble, Sr-RSEC
Brittany Hemric, Sr-RSCT
Mary Kate Jones, Sr-RSCT
Melissa Junker, Sr-RSCT
Mary Killpack, Sr-RSEC
Jessica McEnerney, Sr-RSCT
Margaret Sanders, Sr-RSEC
Cynthia Terry, Sr-RSEC
Elizabeth Williams, Sr-RSCT
Kacey Wilson, Sr-RSEC
Julie Allbritton, Jr-RSCT
Ashley Anderson, Jr-RSCT
Rachel Bradford, Jr-RSCT
Alyshia Chavez, Jr-RSCT
Shannon Coleman, Jr-RSCT
Alison Conley, Jr-RSCT
Mary Elizabeth Goodrich, Jr-RSCT
Trey Simpson, Jr-RSCT
Kate Smythe, Jr-RSCT
RSE-Rehabilitation & Special Education; RSR-Rehabilitation Services; RSCTCollaborative Teacher; RSEC-Early Childhood Special Education; ELEC-Electrical
Engineering; COMP- Computer Science & Software Engineering
14
15
�oun� Adults
Conference Presenters
in T ransition
A
Anderson, Lisa
Young Adults in Transition (YAIT, pronounced
like “Wyatt”) is a newly
formed panel of youth
and young adults with
disabilities who will
make recommendations
to state policymakers
on improving transition services. They are
actively recruiting new
members to help carry
out their mission.
C
Campbell, Dennis
Chambers, DaLee
Chandler, Jeanna
Christopher, Clara
Clemmons, Charles
Cobbs, Garrett
Cobbs, Jerry
Cobbs, Rita
Coleman, Brenda
Conniff, Alexandra
Coston, Brittany
Crawford, Gwen
Curtis, Rebecca
YAIT members at the Alabama State Capitol: Brandy Nivens, Chelsea; James Greek, Elba;
Nicole Weiss, Auburn; Arthur Stinson, Auburn; Ryan Colburn, Montgomery; Mario Brown,
Fairfield; Brittany Coston, Thomasville.
Mission
Young Adults Helping Other Young Adults Transition
to the Real World
Goals
Increase communication between service providers
Increase disability awareness in the community
Increase resources to provide better transition services
Arthur Stinson
Brittany Coston
Brandy Nivens
Ryan Colburn
James Greek
YAIT is facilitated by
Asst. Director, Local Transition Partnerships,
Auburn-Opelika
Alabama Department of Education, Special Education Services
Linda Hames
State Transition Coordinator, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Dan Roth
Education Specialist, Alabama State Department
of Education
8
8
6
9
6
4
6
8
6
9
7
7
9
7
4
4, 7, 8, 11
6
4
7
9
4
6
6
6
6
6
7
4
D
Dudley, Brenda
Duncan, J. Chad
4
7
E
East, Bill
Ellis, David
5
6
F
Fowler, Catherine
4
G
Gibson, Camilla
Gilbert, Cindy
Gilbreath, Pam
Gipson, Anita
Goggins, Becky
Greek, James
Griffin, DaShonera
8
4
6
6
4
7
8
H
Hager, John1, 5, 6
Hames, Linda
4, 8
Henthorne, Shelley
7
Hill, Doris
7, 8
Hill, Janet
8
Hodge, Alicia
4, 9
Holbrook, Marla
4
Holladay, Trey
7
Hyche, Terry
4
J
Jackson, Charlie
Johnson, Keri
Johnson, Patsy
Jones, J. Michael
4, 9
4
6
6
K
King, Carolyn
4
L
Lawrence, Sallie
Lowery, John
4
6
M
Manley, Lisa
Massey-Garrett, Tamara
McComb, Brenda
McIntosh-Wilson, Eranell
Meade, Whitney
Moore, Chris
Moore, Christian
N
Nivens, Brandy
8
8
9
9
7, 8
4
7
7
P
Patterson, Latofia
Pearson, Sharon
4
4
Q
Quinn, Michael
4
R
Rainey, Kitty
Reeses, Betty
Remington, Shelia
Rice, Richelle
Roberts, John
Roth, Dan
7
9
6
9
7
4, 8
S
Samples, Debbie
6
Sellers, Jennifer
9
Shivers, Steve13
Sisson, Graham
7
Smith, Mimi
9
Spencer, Yolanda
4
Stewart, Gayle
7
Suter, Carl
5
T
Taylor, Jonte’ Tew-Washburn
Thompson, Anita
Turnage, Vicki
Turnbull, Jane
V
Vinson, Cindy
8, 9
6
6
9
8
4
W
Walker, Michelle
6
Weiss, Nicole
7
Whetstone, Mabrey13
Wright, Trisston
4, 11
Z
Zito, Stephanie
8
Mario Brown
Advisors
Brian Burrows
16
NicoleWeiss
B
Baker, Eric
Barclay, Judy
Bates, Trisha
Bell, Bedarius
Berry, Wanda
Bivens, Carmelita
Boddie, Becky
Boggs, Alice
Bolinger, Judy
Boyd, Kendra
Broughton, Gray
Brown, Mario
Browning, Dawn
Browning, Phil
Bruce, Tara
Burrows, Brian
8
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services,
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
National Association of State Directors of Special
Education
17
18
19
20

Program - Auburn University`s

Transcription

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