2013 Transition Conference Program

Transcription

The Marriott
at Grand National
Auburn-Opelika
March 4-5, 2013
Transition
Conference
XXIII
“Transition---The Future Starts Now”
Reflections of
Tr ansition in Al aba m a
Transition XXII 2012
Table of Contents
v
The Future Starts Now..........................................................................................................2
Welcome...................................................................................................................................3
YAiT Agenda............................................................................................................................4
Conference Agenda................................................................................................................5
Huntsville..................................................................................................................................6
Exhibitors..................................................................................................................................7
Opening Ceremonies.............................................................................................................8
Featured Speakers...................................................................................................................9
Monday
Monday Morning Workshops and Concurrent Sessions.......................................10-12
Monday Afternoon Workshops and Concurrent Sessions....................................12-14
Tuesday
Tuesday Morning and Afternoon Workshops and Concurrent Sessions...........14-17
Speed Conferencing.............................................................................................................17
Poster Session Competition................................................................................................18
Share Fair................................................................................................................................19
Distinguished Panel Members...........................................................................................20
Transition Update.................................................................................................................21
Training iN Transition Series.............................................................................................22
Highlights of Alabama Transition Conference XXII.....................................................23
Youth and Young Adults in Transition.............................................................................24
Alabama State Interagency Transition Team..................................................................25
Collaborative Approach to Training Transition Specialists.........................................26
Volunteer Appreciation.......................................................................................................27
Conference Presenters.........................................................................................................28
Certificate of Attendance....................................................................................................29
Reflections of Transition XXII...........................................................................................30
Tr ansition XX I I I, M arc h 4 - 5, 2013
1
Within the darkness of night, shimmering lights cascade across the sky.
I turn towards them, hope in my heart, because,
. . . . the future starts now.
A glowing orb among the twinkling specks, the moon smiles and invites me forward.
With eagerness I embrace tomorrow, because I know
. . . . the future starts now.
At dawn, brilliant rays streak across the horizon and disintegrate the veil of darkness.
Many paths appear to beckon me, as
. . . .the future starts now.
Exploring vast space, we discover new and exciting worlds.
I direct my own course, savoring each goal before me, as
. . . my future starts now.
—KR
2
Welcome
A Note of
We are pleased that you have chosen to join us for the 23rd annual Alabama Transition Conference. Two
full days of program activities and events are scheduled to help advance your professional and personal
knowledge and skill sets so you can leave here better prepared to deliver and/or support transition services
and programs for youth and young adults with disabilities. We hope you enjoy your conference experience.
To begin, Mike Kersjes, our keynote speaker, will share his inspirational story of using the incentive of
attending Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama, to motivate his students to learn science and mathematics.
His account of his students achieving barrier-breaking accomplishments is featured in his book, A Smile as
Big as the Moon, and in the Hallmark Hall of Fame Movie of the same name, starring John Corbett. Mike’s
message and his inspirational story of a highly determined group of young people are sure to encourage us
to help our students reach for what others may think is the unreachable.
The conference agenda is packed with a number of accomplished and knowledgeable professionals and personal advocates for
persons with disabilities who will share their work and experiences in transition. Included in this line up are featured speakers
from the states of Washington and Ohio. From the west coast, Linea and Cinda Johnson will share their experiences with perhaps, one of the most misunderstood and challenging areas in the disability field–mental illness. Their recently released book,
Perfect Chaos, chronicles the struggles and triumphs of this dynamic daughter and mother duo. We are also pleased to have J.
Erin Riehle with us who will describe her innovative Project SEARCH, which is a nationally recognized program for placing
individuals with developmental disabilities in employment positions within hospitals. The remaining workshops and 55 concurrent sessions will be presented by state and local leaders from Alabama. We have a lot of home-grown talent here in our
own state and we have much to learn from each other.
A new twist this year is the Poster Session Competition which will recognize winners in three different student categories
(i.e., high school, undergraduate, and graduate) each representing the future of this field. Another new addition is Speed
Conferencing. We have borrowed from the speed dating model and altered it to fit an entirely different venue. Our hope is that,
in short segments of time, you will take away tidbits of content knowledge that you may not have otherwise been able to fit
into your packed conference agenda.
A dynamic and energetic group of self-advocates known as YAiT, or Youth and Young Adults in Transition, will be having their
own mini-conference in the board rooms, upstairs. Joining them will be group facilitators from Auburn University, students
who are majoring in collaborative special education with an emphasis in transition (see page 26). Please join me in making
these faces of the future feel welcome at the conference.
The closing conference event and a continued favorite is the Transition Update. The Update will feature three of our most
prominent state leaders from the Alabama Departments of Education, Rehabilitation Services and Mental Health. You don’t
want to miss hearing the latest information about the “State of the State” from these prominent leaders as they provide their
respective and collective viewpoints of transition programs and services.
We hope you enjoy the conference and have a great time sharing and collaborating with each other. This is a time for expanding our knowledge, strengthening our skills, and building relationships so we may be better equipped to better serve and support youth and young adults in transition. Let us go forth from here with a reflective perspective that is echoed in the futurefocused theme for this year’s conference and in the words of George Santayana, Harvard educated philosopher, essayist, poet,
and novelist:
“We must welcome the future, remembering that soon it will be the past; and we must
respect the past, remembering that it was once all that was humanly possible.”
May our actions and practices help bring a better future for youth and young adults with disabilities today and for the tomorrows yet to come.
Karen
Karen Rabren, PhD
Director
Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
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Youth and Young Adults in Transition
Monday, March 4, 2013
7:15 AM – 8:15 AM Breakfast with Exhibitors – Lobby Lounge
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Opening Welcome & Keynote Address – Grand Ballroom
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM Refreshment Break – Lobby Lounge & Conference Center Lower Level
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM A Chat with Mike Kersjes
YAiT Meet-n-Greet, sponsored by Young Emerging Leaders (YEL) – Fireplace Lobby
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Healthy Living with Anna Beck, Rachel Forsyth, and Jackie Hayes – Room 301
A Former Survivor Contestant Talks “Surviving in School and Work”
with Bobby Jon Drinkard – Room 303
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch for All -- Both Levels of Conference Center
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM Life Strategies 101 with Kasey Kaschak, Drew Lambert, Jackie Hayes, Anna Beck, Rachel Forsyth, and Nate Dyrendahl – Room 301
Welcome to Reality with Kasey Kaschak, Drew Lambert, and Nate Dyrendahl – Room 303
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM Welcome to Reality with Kasey Kaschak, Drew Lambert, and Nate Dyrendahl – Room 301
Life Strategies 101 with Kasey Kaschak, Drew Lambert, Jackie Hayes, Anna Beck,
Rachel Forsyth, and Nate Dyrendahl – Room 303
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM Breakfast with Exhibitors – Lobby Lounge
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM Career Match: Linking Who You Are With What You’ll Love to Do
with Teanna Moore, Anna Walraven, and Lindsay Norris – Room 301
Now What? A Guide to Getting the Job You Want
9:15 AM – 10:15 AM Now What? A Guide to Getting the Job You Want
Career Match: Linking Who You Are With What You’ll Love to Do
10:15 AM – 10:30 AM Refreshment Break – Lobby Lounge & Conference Center Lower Level
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM Updates on Alabama Diploma Option
with Philip Cleveland and Alicia Myrick – Salons C, D, & E
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM Lunch for All – Both Levels of Conference Center
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM Speed Conferencing I/II/III – Rooms 1, 2, & 3 or
Share Fair & Poster Competition – Grand Ballroom
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1:45 PM – 3:15 PM Transition Update – Grand Ballroom
3:15 PM Conference Concludes
2013Conference Agenda
Sunday, March 3
6:00 – 8:00 PM
Conference Registration
Monday, March 4
7:15 – 8:15 AM
Conference Registration
Breakfast with the Exhibitors
8:30 – 10:00 AM
General Session:
Welcome & Keynote Address
Refreshment Break
10:00 – 10:15 AM
10:15 – 12:30 PM
Choice of one Workshop
or two Concurrent Sessions
Lunch Provided for Registrants
12:30 – 1:30 PM
1:30 – 3:45 PM
Tuesday, March 5
7:00 – 8:00 AM
Breakfast with the Exhibitors
8:00 – 10:15 AM
10:15 – 10:30 AM
Refreshment Break
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Choice of Concurrent Session
11:30 – 12:30 PM
Lunch Provided for Registrants
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Speed Conferencing
Poster Competition
Share Fair
1:30 – 1:45 PM
Refreshment Break
1:45 – 3:15 PM
Transition Update
3:15 PM
Conference Concludes
5
Huntsville:
Partner in Transition
6
Exhibitors
Breakfast with Exhibitors
Lobby Lounge
Monday, March 4, 7:15 – 8:15
Tuesday, March 5, 7:00 – 8:00
Ability Loan Program, Montgomery, Alabama
The Ability Loan Program is a low-interest, extended-term financial loan program specifically for
individuals with disabilities and their family members. This program enables consumers to
purchase assistive technology.
Achievement Center, Opelika, Alabama
The Achievement Center Easter Seals utilizes a variety of training options to prepare persons with
disabilities to reach maximum employment potential. Services offered include vocational evaluation,
job readiness, adult education, basic computer, driver’s education, cashiering, landscaping, production
training, community-based job training, job placement and job coaching.
Auburn Transition Leadership Institute, Auburn University
The Auburn Transition Leadership Institute (ATLI) is a unit within Auburn University’s College of
Education, affiliated with the Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation & Counseling. The institute
endeavors to improve employment, academic, and independence outcomes for youth and young adults
with disabilities through its instructional, outreach and research practices.
The Horizons School, Birmingham Alabama
The Horizons School is a postsecondary, non-degree, “college-like” experience for students with learning
differences. Students practice self-determination while learning personal, social, and career independence
skills.
The Montgomery Center for Independent Living , Montgomery, Alabama
The Montgomery Center for Independent Living is a nonprofit organization that empowers people with
disabilities to fully participate in their community by providing education, skills, training, peer support
and advocacy.
Huntsville Space Camp, Huntsville, Alabama
Space Camp has become known as one of the premier math/science/technology programs in the United
States. Over 600,000 students and adults have attended SPACE CAMP since the program began in June,
1982. “Space is Special” is a program for students with disabilities.
Sponsor
James Stanfield Company
The James Stanfield Company offers the nation’s best video modeling curriculum for special education,
as specialists in special education and school-to-life transitions. They feature over 60 research-based
programs that deliver real-world solutions to problems faced by youth and young adults ranging in age
from pre-school to early adulthood.
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OpeningCeremonies
&
Keynote Presentation
Monday, March 4, 2013
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Welcome
Dr. Karen Rabren
Director, Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
Dr. Carl Pinkert
Associate Vice President for Research, Auburn University
Dr. Royrickers Cook
Assistant Vice President for Outreach, Auburn University
Presentation of the Colors
Lyman Ward Military Academy Color Guard
Under the command of Cadet Sergeant First Class Tristan Sanders
The National Anthem
and Other Selections
Angela Harrison
2011 – 2012 Auburn University CATTS Scholar
2012-2013 AU Rhythm Dance Troupe
Led by dance captain Tiffany Jolly
Introduction of Keynote Speaker
Richard Anderson
Member, Youth and Young Adults in Transition (YAiT)
Keynote Presentation
Power of the Human Spirit
Mike Kersjes
Richard Anderson is a
12th grader attending
Auburn High School,
where he is president
of the Auburn High
School YAiT group.
Richard is employed
with Auburn Hardware.
Post-school goals include
admission to a culinary program or obtaining
employment with an airline.
8
Mike Kersjes is known for his innovative
instructional approaches for students with
emotional and learning disabilities. One of his
great accomplishments as a special education
teacher was preparing and accompanying
the first group of students with disabilities
to ever attend Huntsville Space Camp, an
experience traditionally reserved for students
engaged in gifted programs. Following the successful venture
of these students, Mike became the president and founder of
Space is Special, Inc. which has sent nearly 2,600 children with
special needs to Huntsville Space Camp. In 2002 he published A
Smile as Big as the Moon, which became a Hallmark Hall of Fame
movie, documenting the experiences of the first group of students
with special needs to attend Huntsville Space Camp. The movie
A Smile as Big as the Moon won the FAITH AND FREEDOMTELEVISION category at the 21st annual Movieguide Awards.
Featured Speakers
Let’s give them a warm Al abama welcome!
J. Erin Riehle
will lead an 8:00
Tuesday morning workshop, The
Nuts and Bolts of Project SEARCH.
As the founder and Senior
Director of Project SEARCH at
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Erin is a recognized authority,
national leader, author and conference presenter promoting employment opportunities for people with
disabilities and other barriers to employment. Project
SEARCH has received national recognition for innovative practices in placing individuals with developmental
disabilities in positions within the hospital which led to
a staffing solution as well as improved quality of life for
the individuals securing employment positions. Erin has
been a board member for the United States Business
Leadership Network (USBLN) and the Association of
People Supporting Employment (APSE).
Bobby Jon Drinkard
will present Alabama
Industrial Development Training: Alabama’s Total Workforce Delivery System
on Monday morning at 10:15. Drinkard
will also present A Former Survivor Contestant Talks Surviving in School and Work
to Alabama’s Youth and Young Adults in
Transition (YAiT) group. A native of Troy,
Alabama, Bobby Jon brings an interesting background to his
current position as Project Manager with Alabama Industrial
Development Training (AIDT). While pursuing a career in
entertainment, Drinkard appeared on news segments such as
Entertainment Tonight, Entertainment Weekly, Good Morning America and The E Channel, among others. He is perhaps
best known as a member of Season 10, Survivor: Palau, and
Season 11, Survivor: Guatemala. Currently Drinkard hosts and
co-produces AIDT’s weekly On The Job, which focuses on often
overlooked jobs and educational opportunities in Alabama, as
well as being Project Manager for AIDT’s television and film
crew-based training program EMPACT (Entertainment Media
Production and Crew Training). For more information, visit
empactalabama.org.
Cinda and Linea Johnson will present Conversations about
Mental Health and Disability, a 10:15 Monday morning workshop. The mother and daughter duo recently coauthored a
book entitled Perfect Chaos, A Daughter’s Journey to Survive
Bipolar and a Mother’s Struggle to Save Her, which chronicles
their journey through mental illness, while sharing the courage
they find in each other.
Cinda is a professor and director of the special education
graduate program at Seattle University. She
is also principal investigator and director of
the Center for Change in Transition Services. Dr. Johnson has written articles and book
chapters in the area of secondary special
education and transition services including
youth with emotional and behavioral disorders and mental illness.
Linea is a graduate of Seattle University with
a major in English and Creative Writing.
Having recently worked as an intern at the
World Health Organization in the Mental
Health department in Geneva, Switzerland, Linea is currently a Research Study
Assistant at the University of Washington.
Through speaking engagements and written
word, Linea advocates for understanding
and support for people with mental illness
as well as the elimination of its stigma.
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Monday Concurrent Sessions & Workshop
2-hour workshop @ 10:15
Workshop I – Amphitheater, 10:15 – 12:30
Conversations about Mental Health and Disability
Linea and Cinda Johnson’s inspiring journey breaks through
the stigma of what it means to have bipolar disorder, but more
importantly, what it takes to live with it. As this mother and
daughter take down wall upon wall and face their greatest
fears, they share their struggle against a debilitating illness and
Linea’s personal journey to self-determination and advocacy.
Finding one’s “voice” is critical to stability and recovery. They
share research, strategies and insight in developing these skills
while participating in a larger community and advocating for
human rights and social justice for people with mental illness.
Cinda Johnson, Seattle University and Linea Johnson,
Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, WA
1-hour sessions @ 10:15
Session 4 – Salon A, 10:15 – 11:15
Session 1 – Room 1, 10:15 – 11:15
The Cutting Edge: ADA New Developments that
Impact Transition
Students transitioning from high school to college may struggle with academic success due to reading, note-taking, and
studying challenges. Using technology, students can increase
their independence and make their own accommodations to
access the curriculum.
This session will:
• explore various assistive technology tools including: Livescribe Smartpen, free computer programs, websites and apps;
• introduce computer software programs providing auditory text ;
• overview apps for mobile devices, tablets, and iPads used to make accommodations; and
•
offer note-taking and studying strategies using
technology.
Laura Parks, United Cerebral Palsy
Session 5 – Salon B, 10:15 – 11:15
Studying with Technology
Session 2 – Room 2, 10:15 – 11:15
Youth Can Build a Better Future with Social Security
Administration’s Work Incentives
A functional knowledge of the Social Security Administration’s
(SSA) work incentives can be essential information in transition
planning.
This session will:
• provide updates on the 2013 Social Security Work
Incentives and rates and other SSA updates;
• explain how to utilize the work incentives while working;
• discuss the effect of earnings on Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits and where to get more information and counseling on work incentives; and
• demonstrate how Ticket to Work legislation can help.
Wanda Berry, Disability Rights and Resources
Session 3 – Room 3, 10:15 – 11:15
Building an Innovative Transition Program
Boaz High School’s special education program is using innovative ways such as an in-system mail route, monthly grocery
store trips, and a large scale greenhouse operation to introduce
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students to needful post-education skills.
This session will:
• deliver fresh ideas such as how to implement an in-
system mail delivery program to give students a sense of belonging, pride, and responsibility within the school system;
• analyze ways to use a greenhouse to address numerous student needs such as social skills, community involve-
ment, work ethic, monetary exchange, and sensory input; and
•
suggest ways to engage students with significant
disabilities utilizing teachable moments in natural
settings such as grocery stores, restaurants, malls, and movie theaters.
Andy Sims and Amy Creech, Boaz City Schools
This interactive session will focus on new Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) provisions on physical accessibility for
individuals with disabilities and new anti-discrimination provisions. A question time will conclude the session.
Participants will:
• gain basic understanding of 2010 Accessible Design Standards;
• learn 2010 Accessible Design Standard changes that
apply in transition settings;
• be introduced to new anti-discrimination provisions on service animals under ADA and Fair Housing Act; and
•
learn new anti-discrimination provisions on ticket and hotel reservations, among others.
Graham Sisson, Governor’s Office on Disability,
Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Ethical Principles, Ethical Practices: The 2010
Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor
Certification (CRCC) Code of Professional Ethics for
Rehabilitation Counselors
The Code of Professional Ethics for Rehabilitation Counselors
(2010), referred to as the “Code," is a guide to ethical practice and a comprehensive and enforceable set of standards
based upon principles of ethical behavior. Rehabilitation
counselors who understand the Code’s contents and have
the ability to apply the Code in practice are enabled to make
ethical decisions which promote the profession’s genuine
respect for the rights and dignity of all human beings.
This session will:
• review principles of ethical behavior and the Code’s core components;
• discuss emerging issues and review the 2010 revisions to the Code;
• analyze contemporary decision-making models used to solve ethical dilemmas; and
• engage in group problem solving activities involving
common, yet critical, ethical dilemmas.
Laura Smith, Auburn University
Monday Concurrent Sessions
Session 6 – Salon C, 10:15 – 11:15
AIDT: Alabama’s Total Workforce Delivery System
Effective counseling with consumers and students requires that
the professional have some active knowledge of the current labor
market situation.
This session will:
• introduce Alabama Industrial Development Training (AIDT);
• share obtainable training resource information;
• discuss current labor market information in Alabama; and
• explore the future of Alabama’s work force.
Bobby Jon Drinkard, Alabama Industrial Development Training
Session 7 – Salon D, 10:15 – 11:15
Student-led IEPs for Students with Significant & Mild
Disabilities
Currently there is a great deal of research on the benefits and
methods of allowing students to lead their own Individualized
Education Program (IEP) meetings. However, much of it is not
applicable to students with more significant disabilities. In this
session we will take a deeper look and provide a follow up session on how all students can lead their IEP meetings and how
teachers can help facilitate the planning.
This session will:
• provide an overview of the importance of student-focused planning with emphasis on teaching students with
significant disabilities to lead their own IEP meetings;
• present current literature on the rationale, methods and effectiveness of student-led IEPs from expert researchers and organizations in the field of transition;
• provide resources and different pre-planning student-led IEP templates for each participant; and
• discuss adaptations of ideas and materials for students with more significant disabilities.
Soli Walker and Carla Layton, Shelby County Schools
Session 8 –Salon E, 10:15 – 11:15
Benefits of Response to Intervention to
Collaborative Teachers
Presenters will examine Response to Intervention (RTI) and how it
can assist special educators (K-12) in two important areas: 1) eligibility of special education services and 2) progress monitoring.
This session will:
• examine criterion-referenced online computer assessment;
• discuss additional tools to determine strengths and
weaknesses;
• review the use of data for constructing students’ IEPs; and
• explain considerations of progress monitoring for every student who is not on grade level.
Jennifer West, Victoria Hensley, and Rachel Evans, Madison
County Schools
Session 9 –Room 1, 11:30 – 12:30
The Growing Place in Shelby County, “We’re Still
Growing!”
The Growing Place, located in Shelby County, provides young
adults with disabilities the skills they need to be productive and
independent citizens, while helping them build the self-confidence needed to use these skills.
This session will:
• provide an overview of the process of developing and implementing a transition school program which offers students the opportunity to develop daily living skills and work specific behaviors and abilities;
• examine skills which have been developed by students with disabilities as they have worked in the Daily Living Cottage and the Greenhouse;
• review the program as shared by representative students; and
• share the process of data collection.
Chris Oyer, Cheri Brennan, and Linda Dowdy, Shelby County
Schools
Session 10 – Room 2, 11:30 – 12:30
Does Your IEP Jive with your IPE?
Transition planning for the high school student with special
needs is a continuum of services beginning with the student’s
Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP is a predictor of
what services will need to be addressed within the student’s Individual Plan for Employment ( IPE). These two documents should
work closely together to develop the best possible transition
plan for the student with special needs.
This session will:
• define the purpose and function of an IEP and an IPE;
• identify benefits of the two documents “jiving” (both legally and in best practice);
• share applied practices that will ensure that the two documents “jive”;
• analyze an IEP and IPE to support practices learned;
• construct documents that “jive”; and
• evaluate the two documents as they apply to established criteria.
Cherlyn Thomley, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation
Services and Charles Lowery, Shelby County Schools
Session 11 – Room 3, 11:30 – 12:30
What’s in Your 21st Century Technology Backpack?
Educators, parents, and students have access to multiple websites that can be used to accommodate and support instruction
in the general education classroom.
This session will:
• provide attendees with many ways technology can be
integrated into a student’s education or a classroom;
• introduce free online tools and resources for teachers,
students, and parents to use to support student’s learning; and
• impart an understanding of the many ways technology can enhance and enrich teaching and learning.
Cynthia Massey, Roanoke City Schools
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Monday Concurrent Sessions & Workshop
Session 12 – Salon A, 11:30 – 12:30
Creating a Job Readiness Club
Collaborative efforts between the Alabama Department of
Rehabilitation Services and other partners can provide job
readiness instruction to consumers.
This session will introduce the job readiness club, with instruction on:
• interviewing skills, accessibility, navigating resources, and self-directed job search;
• measurable outcomes, as well as giving consumers a
feeling of empowerment;
• strategies to implement a successful job readiness
program;
• improving counselor/consumer communications; and
• increasing awareness of what is needed for successful job retention.
Sam Feibelman, Deaf Support Specialist, Alabama
Department of Rehabilitation Services
Session 13 – Salon B, 11:30 – 12:30
Preparing for Success in Community College
and Beyond
This topic is relevant for entry into one of the colleges or technical schools within the Alabama Community College System.
This session will provide:
• functional knowledge of admission process for entry into an Alabama community and technical college;
• understanding of federal financial aid options available to students; and
• awareness of Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012, to include updates on Ability-to Benefit.
Michelle Sylvester, Alabama Department of Postsecondary
Education
Session 14 – Salon C, 11:30 – 12:30
New Assessments for Secondary Education
Alabama is in the process of implementing its new college and
career ready standards in English language arts and mathematics. Included in this implementation is the transition to a new
assessment program that is aligned to those standards. This session will provide:
• an update on the direction of the new assessment
program;
• an update on the status for the implementation of the new assessment program; and
• an overview of the assessment of special populations.
Gloria Turner, Alabama Department of Education
Session 15 – Salon D, 11:30 – 12:30
What’s in your Transition Toolbox?
This presentation will provide ideas and tools for your teaching toolbox that are supported by empirically based transition
strategies and techniques. These tools will help facilitate or
enhance a successful transition program. Whether you have
unlimited resources or limited resources, this presentation will
offer strategies on how to “think outside the box.”
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This session will:
• provide at least 8 empirically based transition strategies;
• teach how to collaborate with other transition educators and stakeholders throughout the state of Alabama using programs such as “Dropbox” ;
• share valuable resources on how to further your
knowledge in transition; and
• explain the difference between on-site transition
instruction and off-site community-based instruction.
Betty Schiffer and Nina Casper, Auburn City Schools
Session 16 – Salon E, 11:30 – 12:30
Teaching Transition Skills to Students Using a
Therapeutic Adventure Curriculum
Teachers will present a fun adventure curriculum that meets
student transition needs that are difficult to teach in a traditional
classroom setting. In a course that combines counseling, physical
education, and social skills training, students use games and
personal reflections to improve transition skills.
This session will:
• identify who should enroll from transition assessment to transition course;
• explain transition skills addressed through Adventure Programming;
• share a day in the course, with examples of tasks,
reflections, and journals;
• offer participants the opportunity to participate in a Therapeutic Adventure lesson; and
• demonstrate progress monitoring of transition skills.
Emily Day and Amber Hipps, Gadsden City Schools
2-hour workshops @ 1:30
WORKSHOP II – Amphitheater, 1:30 – 3:45
Using Assessment for Transition Planning
Presenters will review federal Indicator 13, the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEIA, 2004),
components of Alabama’s Individualized Education Program, and
more specifically how to utilize appropriate assessments during
transition planning. In accordance with IDEIA, 2004, transition
assessments are required and must be age-appropriate. Participants will learn about how assessments assist in determining a
student’s postsecondary transition goals in related areas such as
training, education, employment, and, independent living skills.
This session will include a “how to” segment offering participants
the opportunity to gain feedback on four diverse case studies.
Caroline Dunn and Courtney Dotson, Auburn University
Workshop III – Room 1, 1:30 – 3:45
Monday Concurrent Sessions & Workshops
Making a Difference in the Lives of People with
Disabilities by Creating a Community Transition Team
The Jefferson County Community Transition Team (JCCTT) is a
collaborative network of stakeholders committed to equipping
and empowering individuals with disabilities with the skills and
resources necessary to successfully transition from school to life
in the community. Through collaboration with many community agencies, parents, students and school personnel, the Jefferson County Community Transition Team evolved. This team
was started with no outside funding; it was strictly the combined passion of people wanting to join together to improve
the lives of individuals with disabilities. The JCCTT would like
to share their transition journey and encourage you to either
initiate your own team, or strengthen your current team with
new ideas.
Janis Braue, United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham;
Clara Christopher and Mary Roth, Jefferson County Schools;
Pamella Parker, Jefferson County Community Transition Team
Workshop IV – Salon D & Salon E, 1:30 – 3:45
Transition in Transition
Serving students in transition in Alabama is undergoing
significant changes. The present emphasis on serving more
individuals with significant disabilities, higher quality services
and changes in the use of job coaches requires modifications in
the delivery of transition services. This session will describe the
changes, challenges, and how to meet the challenges. The presenters and panel will discuss providing unique and expanded
services and how to be resourceful in rural areas.
Jon Sanders and Yolanda Spencer, Alabama Department of
Rehabilitation Services
Session 17 – Room 2, 1:30 – 2:30
Looking Back and Forward: Post-school Outcomes
This session will review the Alabama Post-School Outcome
(PSO) Survey results from the past three years, in terms of
changes in the federal measure reported for Indicator 14, as
well as changes in these former students’ responses to particular PSO Survey questions.
Discussion points include changes in:
• engagement in postsecondary education, training, or
employment;
• demographics (race, gender, and disability);
• high school transition program; and
• level of satisfaction one year after exiting high school.
George Hall, Auburn University
Session 18 – Room 3, 1:30 – 2:30
to teach students; and
• provide familiarity with developmentally appropriate
behaviors with friends, family, and romantic partners.
Sadi Fox and Joshua Turchan, Auburn University
Session 19 – Salon A, 1:30 – 2:30
Navigating the Transition to College
This session will provide a road map to help students, parents,
teachers, and counselors navigate the challenges often associated with beginning college.
Participants will:
• leave this session with a greater understanding of the
challenges students with disabilities and parents often
experience with the transition to college;
• learn about important considerations for choosing a
post-secondary institution, applying for admission, as well as locating and using support services; and
• exit session with a wealth of tips and resources to aid in the navigation of transitioning to post-secondary institutions.
Allison Solomon and Valerie DuBose, University of Alabama at
Birmingham
Session 20 – Salon B, 1:30 – 2:30
Skills for Effective Parent Advocacy
The goal of this session is to empower parents to become effective advocates for their children, resulting in obtaining needed
services. This will be achieved by providing information and an
opportunity to practice skills in a supportive environment.
Parents will:
• understand what “advocacy” means;
• learn the skills necessary to be an effective advocate;
• be introduced to additional resources they may need; and
• discover where to go for more information.
Lorraine Barnes, Alabama Parent Education Center
Session 21 – Salon C, 1:30 – 2:30
Ten Strategies Proven to Inspire Even the Most
Challenging Youth
How do you engage the most challenging students? This
session will provide 10 strategies that have proven to build relationships, grab attention, and inspire students in grades K-12,
and mental health and correctional organizations worldwide.
In this session learn:
• how to empower youth to overcome poverty, violence and failure;
• how youth can take the challenges they face in life and
channel them in a positive direction; and
• how to help youth build positive support systems.
Christian Moore, Why Try Program
Conflict Resolution
One of the major stressors in students’ lives is the interpersonal
conflicts they experience with their peers, family, and teachers.
Training in conflict resolution may ultimately result in reduced
stress levels.
This session will:
• identify different conflict resolution styles;
• introduce conflict resolution skills for problem solving;
• give an overview of effective behavior management skills Tr ansition XX I I I, M arc h 4 - 5, 2013
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Monday Concurrent Sessions & TuesdayWorkshops
Session 22 – Room 2, 2:45 – 3:45
Letting Go: Preparing Parents for Postsecondary
Transition
Just as adolescents experience detachment and adjustment
issues when beginning postsecondary coursework, parents
have similar issues. Actively involving parents in enhanced transition activities may assist in promoting their son's or daughter’s
independence prior to their postsecondary experience.
This session will:
• distinguish parents’ roles under the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA);
• compare and contrast self-advocacy skills developed in high school to self-advocacy skills students will need in post-secondary settings;
• suggest ways to prepare parents and students for
transitioning to post-secondary options while still in
high school;
• describe the role of disability support services regarding assistance and communication with parents; and
• explore reasons why it is difficult for parents to let go
of responsibility for their son or daughter when
postsecondary years begin.
Dwannal McGahee, George Mason University
Session 23 – Room 3, 2:45 – 3:45
The Medical Impact on Transition Toward
Independence
This session will speak to educators at all levels, rehabilitation
professionals, mental health professionals, parents, and students regarding the potential for individuals with disabilities to
gain proficiency in managing their medical conditions.
Gain an overview of the student’s potential for managing their
medical condition, including:
• insight into medication management, skilled procedures, self-care vs. attendant care related to catheterization,
infusion, tracheostomy care, feeding tubes etc.;
• familiarity with durable medical equipment planning and procurement;
• review of managing healthcare with respect to
appointments, medication refills, medical supplies and emergent care needs;
• understanding of health insurance coverage, co-pays, and pharmacy/specialty pharmacy requirements; and
• introduction to community resources for care.
Kay Cooper and Wanda Brady, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Session 24 – Salon A, 2:45 – 3:45
Visual Tools for Teaching 6-12 College Readiness
Language Arts Content-Literacy
This session will provide an overview of Genius Content-Literacy
Model, a research-validated program utilizing interactive “Smart
Visuals” for increasing grades 6-12 content-literacy ACT CollegeReadiness Standards. A panel of Alabama educators discussing
implementation experiences will follow the overview.
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This session will:
• increase knowledge of classroom technology (computers, tablets, Smart Boards);
• provide an understanding of what Smart Visuals are and how to use them to teach essential ACT College-readiness standards; and
• introduce Genius Content-Literacy Model impact on test performance in Alabama secondary schools.
Edwin Ellis, University of Alabama
Session 25 – Salon B, 2:45 – 3:45
Securing our Future through Community Integration
This interactive session will discuss creating and cultivating ties
with the business community to provide students with intellectual and developmental disabilities opportunities to acquire and
practice job readiness skills. The presenter will share time saving
tips, success stories, and challenges. Attendees will receive practical ideas they can implement immediately.
In this session:
• learn how to develop plans for implementing a community work-based program;
• identify practical steps to complete prior to establishing a job site;
• review tools to document and/or assess student progress in the workplace; and
• explore ways to address liability and safety on the job site.
Jacqueline Wilson-Bradley, Madison City Schools
Session 26 – Salon C, 2:45 – 3:45
Instructional Techniques, Strategies and Resources
for Implementing Transition Goals while Serving
Individuals with Significant Disabilities
This presentation will include an overview of the Alabama
Extended Standards for students with significant disabilities
and using these standards in writing Individualized Education
Programs (IEP). Discussion will be related to the transition assessment and its use in writing transition goals in the IEP. Learn how to:
• develop an understanding of the Alabama Extended
Standards for students with significant disabilities;
• understand the requirements of writing IEPs to the
Alabama Extended Standards;
• understand requirements related to the transition
assessment;
• become familiar with a variety of pre-vocational classroom activities for students with significant disabilities; and
• review resources and strategies for instruction of the Alabama Extended Standards for students with significant disabilities.
Cindy Robinson, Alabama Department of Education
2- hour tuesday workshops @ 8:00
Workshop V – Amphitheater, 8:00 – 10:15
Getting to the Heart of a Student Driven
Individualized Program
Postsecondary goals must be developed taking into account
students' interests, preferences, needs, and strengths. The focus
of this session will be to follow assessment through deciding
Tuesday Concurrent Sessions & Workshops
appropriate services. We will look at several case studies that
include examples of information designed to organize a student
driven IEP meeting. Specific tools will be discussed that can be
used in the beginning and during this process.
Susan Goldthwaite, Alabama Department of Education and
Marna Reeves, Montgomery Public Schools
Workshop VI – Room 1, 8:00 – 10:15
The Nuts and Bolts of Project SEARCH
Erin Riehle began her career at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
Medical Center as a staff nurse in the pediatric intensive care unit
and advanced to clinical director of the emergency department.
Her interest in employment for people with disabilities grew from
her frustration with high turnover rates among workers performing critical tasks such as re-stocking emergency room supply
shelves. She found that placing individuals with developmental
disabilities in these positions was both an effective solution to her
staffing problems and an improvement in quality of life for the
workers she employed. This positive experience led to a systematic, hospital-wide effort, led by Ms. Riehle, to explore job possibilities for people with disabilities and ultimately to her founding
of Project SEARCH.
Erin Riehle, Project SEARCH
Workshop VII – Salon D & Salon E, 8:00 – 10:15
Maximizing Services Using Alabama Department of
Tighter state budgets and the increased cost of providing services require that state agencies make maximum use of all available funds. This session will explore how coordination of efforts
through various state agencies can ensure maximum utilization
of available funds. The presenters will also include discussion of
the immediate state budgets, and how they may impact service
delivery.
Rehabilitation Professionals, Alabama Department of
Session 27 – Room 2, 8:00 – 9:00
Planning for Life: Building a Transition Portfolio
The transition portfolio is a working file designed to be used
throughout the high school years to document progress of transition skills, as well as to serve as a body of evidence to support
the Summary of Performance (SOP) when the student exits high
school.
Attendees may expect to gain insight into transition as an integral
component of high school through examples of:
• portfolio contents;
• transition activities; and
• rubrics to measure activities and/or behaviors.
Shaun Eller, Calhoun County Schools
Session 28 – Room 3, 8:00 – 9:00
Children as Carers of Parents with Disabilities
This session will address the issue of children as carers of parents
with disabilities. Although the number of young carers is on the
rise, there remains a lack of empirical studies that examine the
nature of ongoing relationships between children and/or young
adults and their parents with special needs for whom they are
caretakers.
Attend this session to:
• understand the definition of “young carers”;
• identify the specific characteristics of young carers;
• verbalize the unmet needs of young carers;
• identify recommended strategies to address unmet needs; and
• discuss proposed support programs identified in recent literature.
Shannon Byrd, Alabama Department of Mental Health
Session 29 – Salon A, 8:00 – 9:00
Transition Planning and Services for Students with
Autism: A Team Can Put the Puzzle Together
Transition planning for students with autism uses a team
approach to create a variety of services and supports that are
student-specific. For students with autism, transition planning typically begins much earlier than age 14 or 8th grade.
Transition services often involve social skills groups, peer mentoring, self-advocacy instruction, and the involvement of the
special education behavioral team.
Discover:
• how to develop social skills groups in grades K-12;
• the effectiveness of peer mentoring in the middle and high school grades;
• creative ways to set up peer mentoring groups in your district;
• how to establish a behavioral team in your district;
• how to do transition planning with students younger than age 14 or grade 8; and
• how to use an open-minded approach when addressing the transition needs of students.
Patricia Austin, Lameika Pegues and Denise Collier, Oxford
School District, Mississippi
Session 30 – Salon B, 8:00 – 9:00
Living at Home Independently with Assistive
Technology
Participants will explore various tools that can help an individual live at home independently. Tools will include iPad and smart
phone apps, picture supports, video modeling, websites for
explicit instruction, environmental controls, specialized alarm
clocks, and safety monitors. Many of the tools demonstrated
may be free or low cost.
Attend this session to explore:
• programs, websites, and easy ways to create video
modeling;
• visual support strategies and resources;
• assistive technology tools to enable independent living; and
• apps to assist with independent living.
Laura Parks, United Cerebral Palsy and Helen Baker, Alabama
Department of Rehabilitation Services
Session 31 – Salon C, 8:00 – 9:00
School-based Mental Health
The establishment of a working partnership between mental
health providers and local school systems will assist with early
intervention, crisis intervention, treatment, and promotion
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Tuesday Concurrent Sessions
of positive social and emotional development. School-based
programs offer the promise of improving access to diagnosis of
and treatment for the mental health concerns of children and
adolescents.
This session will:
• provide information on the development of school-based mental health programs;
• examine the treatment being provided in schools; and
• review the positive effects of this partnership for mental health providers, school systems, children and families.
Mabrey Whetsone, Consultant, Alabama Department of Education and Mark Lee, Alabama Department of Mental Health
Session 32 – Room 2, 9:15 – 10:15
Writing Instruction with Post-secondary Students
with Developmental Disabilities
This session will present the findings of an investigation of the
efficacy of a writing strategy designed to improve the essaytest responses of post-secondary students with developmental
disabilities.
Attendees will:
• be provided with an overview of the ANSWER strategy and current research;
• learn the ANSWER strategy steps and instructional
procedures;
• be able to list the ANSWER strategy’s instructional
components; and
• be exposed to the study results.
Suzanne Woods-Groves, University of Iowa
Session 33 – Room 3, 9:15 – 10:15
Secondary Special Educators’ Efficacy: Who is Really
Responsible?
Secondary special educators should have the confidence and
knowledge to promote effective student learning. This impacts
their sense of self-efficacy. Special educators’ self-efficacy plays
a key role in classroom learning and predicting positive postschool outcomes.
This session will:
• define teacher efficacy;
• explore the efficacy of secondary teachers instructing students with disabilities; and
• identify methods to maintain teacher efficacy.
Stephanie Taylor, Auburn City Schools
Session 34 – Salon A, 9:15 – 10:15
Breaking the Ice: Sexuality and Disability
How can parents and professionals make positive contributions
to the social-sexual growth of adolescents with disabilities?
Opportunities for healthy education and exploration of sexuality among people with disabilities, especially adolescents, are
limited.
Attendees will:
• increase professional awareness and knowledge of the complex issues concerning sexuality and disability; and
• be provided practical information and guidance in
preparing adolescents with disabilities to make healthy, 16
responsible decisions about adult relationships.
Bedarius Bell, Jr., Alabama Department of Rehabilitation
Services
Session 35 – Salon B, 9:15 – 10:15
They’re Back; Now What?
This interactive session is designed to engage school educators,
administrators, and parents in the facilitation of youth in their
re-integration into the conventional school environment.
Attendees will:
• expand awareness of ideas and effective strategies to
support a seamless transition for students;
• be given practical guidance for school-based stakeholders to support youth transition back into school;
• increase understanding concerning the reintegration of youth into the usual school environment;
• discuss steps to promote educational success and reduce
negative behaviors; and
• review current research data and transition models from
different states.
Margaret Jones, Alabama Department of Youth Services
Session 36 – Salon C, 9:15 – 10:15
Easy and Effective: Evidence-based Classroom
Management Strategies You Can Use
This presentation provides evidence-based interventions to
improve the classroom environment and academic success of
students with and without disabilities. The interventions complement a variety of teaching styles.
This presenter will:
• share behavioral strategies to improve the overall class
room environment;
• review strategies to improve the behavior of Tier 2 students in their classroom;
• teach strategies to increase student engagement; and
• explain the importance of teaching expectations to
students.
Regina Kearly, Auburn University
Session 37 – Room 1, 10:30 – 11:30
Project SEARCH, Alabama Initiative
During this session, the teachers and job coaches from the current Alabama Project SEARCH initiatives will compare their experiences about starting a Project SEARCH program. This session
is for anyone who is interested in starting a Project SEARCH program in his or her district or would like to learn more about this
school to work transition initiative. The Project SEARCH initiatives
are a collaborative partnership between Alabama’s Departments
of Education, Mental Health and Rehabilitation Services.
The presenters will share the Project SEARCH:
• application, selection and Individualized Education
Program process;
• methods for developing policies and handbooks;
• process for developing internship sites in a business;
• experiences; and
• impact on interns.
Tuesday Concurrent Sessions
Lacy Day Jordan, Shelby County Schools; Valerie Johnson,
Montgomery City Schools; Kim Bryant, Arc of Shelby County;
Scott Watson, United Cerebral Palsy
Session 38 – Room 2, 10:30 – 11:30
Transition University – Making the Transition from
High School to Community Life
Transition U is a program that partners students who are prevocational high school and 18-21 years old, with Education
majors attending Jacksonville State University (JSU). The high
school students travel to JSU weekly to work on transition skills
including hands-on activities, mentoring and behind-the-scenes
field trips.
This session will explain:
• how to set up a similar program in your system, with
coordinator and superintendent support; • how and who to contact at your local university;
•funding;
• benefit to students in transition; and
• benefit to college students.
Beth Eller and Jackie Kelley, Calhoun County Schools; Cynthia
Connor and Lynetta Owens, Jacksonville State University
Session 39 – Room 3, 10:30 – 11:30
A Chat with Mike Kersjes
Having been involved in special education since 1979, Mike has
experienced many challenges as well as successes along the
way to founding and serving as president of Space is Special,
Inc., which has sent almost 2600 students with special needs to
Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama.
Take this opportunity to:
• follow-up on Mike Kersjes’ keynote address within a small group setting;
• discover Mike’s suggestions for staying positive with your students even when the progress toward mutually desired goals is not proceeding as smoothly as you would like; and
• understand one person has the ability to influence the lives of many.
Mike Kersjes, Space is Special, Inc.
Session 40 – Salon A, 10:30 – 11:30
Job Placement in Transition
The desired culmination of the rehabilitation and education
process is to obtain successful employment. This session will
provide information on job placement which is important for
anyone who is working with secondary students in transition to
employment. Rehabilitation professionals will provide an overview and update of various job placement options, aligned with
the most recent state updates.
Attendees will:
• be provided information to be used in job placement; and
• be given tips and tools for successful job placement.
Darden Rehabilitation Center and Alabama Department of
Rehabilitation Services’ Business Consultant
a grant in which the coordinators for the project are young
adults with disabilities. The target population for the training
experience is youth 14 to 26 years of age.
This presentation will explain the grant goals, training and
activities in which:
• information from teams of youth with disabilities around our state (ages 14 to16) report on their experience of
working in their communities to impact human rights
issues and build inclusive communities;
• teams have identified issues such as discrimination,
segregation, employment, affordable and safe housing, poverty, medical care, or other rights issues that affect their community; and
• training opportunities are shared in which the participants will explore human and civil rights issues for the team to address.
Crystal Lawley, People First of Alabama; Katy Johnson, the Arc
of Shelby County; and Karen Willis, Elmore County Schools
Session 42 – Salon C, D, and E, (overflow in the
Amphitheater), 10:30 – 11:30
Updates on Alabama Diploma Option
Conference attendees will be provided with an overview of
Alabama’s Diploma Option and be informed about updates
associated with Career Technical Education and Special Education Services. The information presented during this session is
intended for all transition stakeholders: students, parents, administrators, educators, job coaches, rehabilitation and mental
health professionals, and employers.
This session will:
• describe the Pathways to Alabama’s Diploma Option;
• explain Alabama’s requirements for credentialing; and
• discuss ways to link Career Technical Education and Special Education Services for students with disabilities,
anticipating effective development and implementation of transition plans.
Philip Cleveland and Alicia Myrick, Alabama Department of
Education
Speed Conferencing @ 12:30
Room 1, Room 2, Room 3, 12-30 – 1:30
Attend one of three speed conferencing settings from the Alabama Department of Education, Alabama Department of Mental
Health, and Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. This
fast-paced, yet informative format will communicate key points
in a concentrated amount of time.
Linda Hames, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services;
Steve LaFreniere, Alabama Department of Mental Health
Services; and Crystal Richardson, Alabama Department of
Education
Session 41 – Salon B, 10:30 – 11:30
Youth Emerging Leaders (YEL): Self-Advocacy is about
Civil Rights and Human Rights
The Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities has funded
Linda Hames
Steve LaFreniere
Crystal Richardson
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Poster Sessions
Competition
Tuesday Afternoon
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom
High school and college students were invited to present posters designed to inform conference participants of important concepts that can be grasped visually. A panel of judges will evaluate the posters for the most informative and best representation
of a transition topic. The high school and graduate division winners will be announced Tuesday afternoon during the Transition
Update and acknowledged on a plaque which will be on display during future Alabama Transition Conferences, and at the
Auburn Transition Leadership Institute at Auburn University.
High School
Project SEARCH
Project SEARCH Interns, Shelby County
Graduate
Career Guidance and Exploration in Transition
Tory Bock, Auburn University
Children as Carers of Parents with Disabilities
Shannon Byrd, Auburn University
Choosing a Postsecondary Option: College or University vs. Community College vs. Vocational Technical Schools
Marlayna Armstrong, Auburn University
College Preparation: FAQs for Students with Disabilities and their Supports
Eric Peebles, Auburn University
Could Bullying Lead to Suicidal Ideation among Students with Disabilities?
Tyler Booker and Nizam Koc, Auburn University
Impact of Gun Control Debate on the Mental Health Community
Ashley Malchow and Karin Hansing, , Auburn University
Self-determination: The Key to Your Future
Michele Mairtin and Angie Moorer, Auburn University
Students with Disabilities' Relationships and Sexualiy: A Topic often Ignored
Sadi Fox, Auburn University
Teaching Self-determination in Classrooms
Teanna Moore, Auburn University
The Role of the Media in Perpetuating Stigmatizing Images of Mental Illness
April Scott, Auburn University
Transition, an International Perspective: The Parent Voice
Dwannal McGahee, George Mason University
Transitioning through Discovery
Christine Fleming and Yolandria Rachel, Auburn University
What’s in Your 21st Century Backpack?
Cynthia Massey, Auburn University
Where Do We Go from Here? Information for Parents
Clarence Merckerson, Kelly Brumbeloe and Tabitha Brecke, Auburn University
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Share Fair
Tuesday Afternoon
12:30 – 1:30 PM
Grand Ballroom
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
Alabama Governor’s Youth Leadership Forum
Community-based Instruction
Auburn High School
Disability Rights and Resources
How to Get Parents Involved
Opelika High School
Introduction to Alabama’s Transition Standards (2011)
A collaborative effort of the Alabama Department of Education
and the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
STAR, Alabama’s Assistive Technology Resource
Therapy Dogs on Call (DOC), Easter Seals, Inc
Special Thanks to:
Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County
Governor Robert Bentley
Dr. Phil Browning, and Dr. Mabrey Whetstone
Poster Session Competition Judges
The Marriott Hotel and Conference Center at Grand National
for providing breakfast Monday, March 4, 2013
The Marriott Hotel and Conference Center at Grand National
for donating two nights at the Battlehouse Rennaissance Hotel and Spa
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Distinguished Panel Members
Thomas R. Bice, EdD
Superintendent
Alabama Department of Education
Dr. Tommy Bice assumed the position of State Superintendent of Education on January 1, 2012.
Prior to his appointment, Dr. Bice served as Alabama’s Deputy State Superintendent of Education
for Instructional Services and as Superintendent of the Alexander City School System. He began his
career as a teacher at the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, and has served as a high school
principal, a career technical education director, an alternative school teacher/director, a special education/residential school director, and an early childhood teacher/parent trainer. Dr. Bice received
his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Education degrees from Auburn University, and his Master of
Science degree from the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
Cary Boswell, EdD
Commissioner
Dr. Boswell was appointed commissioner of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
(ADRS) in early 2009, after working 31 years in various capacities serving people with disabilities.
He has had extensive experience in the fields of education and rehabilitation. For ADRS, he previously held the positions of Assistant Commissioner of the Children’s Rehabilitation Service Division,
State Coordinator of Transition from School to Work programs, and Coordinator of Supported
Employment. Previous to his employment with the rehabilitation agency, Dr. Boswell worked with
the Alabama Department of Education’s Special Education Services and served Tuscaloosa City
School as a special education teacher and administrator.
Jim Reddoch, J.D.
Commissioner
Alabama Department of Mental Health
Attorney Jim Reddoch was appointed commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health
(ADMH) on July 1, 2012. Commissioner Reddoch came to the department with more than 40 years
experience in government, health care, and law. Most recently, he served as executive director of
Indian Rivers Mental Health Center in Tuscaloosa, with prior experience as director of ADMS’s
Taylor Hardin Secure Medical Facility in Tuscaloosa from 2000 to 2009, and director of Bryce
Hospital in Tuscaloosa from 1992 to 2000. Commissioner Reddoch also served as ADMH’s deputy
commissioner from 1988 to 1992.
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Transition
U pdate
Highlights of Transition 2013
Greetings and Welcome
Dr. Karen Rabren, Director
Introduction of Speakers
Mr. John Waldrip
Member, Youth & Young Adults in Transition (YAiT)
Addresses by Distinguished Panel Members
Dr. Thomas Bice, State Superintendent
Dr. Cary Boswell, Commissioner
Jim Reddoch, J.D., Commissioner
Question & Answer Session
Closing Comments & Announcements
John Waldrip is in the
11th grade at Opelika
High School in Opelika,
Alabama. As a member of
Health Occupation Student
Organization (HOSA),
John works with his dad
in completing weekly
time cards and logging
employment information
on-line. Other memberships include YAiT and the
Opelika High School Band.
John volunteers at East
Alabama Medical Center
and also enjoys playing
the piano and computer
games. His future plans
include attending college
and becoming a nurse.
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TRAINING iN TRANSITION “TNT” SERIES
Training iN Transition (TNT) is a comprehensive series of
workshops, online training modules, and webinars that provide ongoing professional development for service providers as well as personal development for young people with
disabilities, their parents, and other interested transition
stakeholders. Expansion of the series continues each year,
with updates and additions reflecting the progression of state
and national transition policies and practices. Interested
participants can find information about onsite trainings and
access the online training through the Auburn Transition
Leadership Institute’s website, auburn.edu/atli.
Foundations of Transition
An overview of recommended practices, definitions, legislation, and models of transition.
Assessment for Transition Planning
A review of assessment types and examples for transition.
My Plan for Transition Series
A series of lessons focused on student development and student-focused planning.
Lesson 1 – Student Version
Student-led training that includes activities for developing self-determination skills.
Lesson 2 – Professional Version
Teacher-led training that includes recommended practices for student development and disability awareness.
Alabama Transition Standards and the Individualized Education Program Series
A series of lessons introducing the development and use of Alabama’s Transition Standards (2011).
Lesson 1 – Introduction to Alabama’s Transition Standards and the IEP
An introduction to Alabama’s Transition Standards (2011) as well as an overview of components Alabama’s Individualized
Education Program (IEP) as it relates to transition.
Lesson 2 – Using Assessment for Transition Planning (in development)
A review of “how to” use assessments to assist in determining students’ postsecondary transition goals in related areas such as
education, training, employment, and independent living skills.
Lesson 3 - Writing Standards-based IEPs using Alabama’s Transition Standards (in development)
Training focused on learning “how to” write standard-based Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that address students’ transition needs that focus on student development for positive post-school outcomes.
Transition Partners in Alabama Series
A series of lessons focused on building and sustaining collaborative partnerships and an overview of transition-related roles and
resources.
Lesson 1 – Foundations of Interagency Collaboration
An overview of recommended practices, definitions, legislation, and an introduction to transition-related agencies and organizations, as well as how each level of interagency collaboration promotes positive post-school outcomes.
Lesson 2 – Transition Stakeholder’s Roles and Responsibilities (in development)
A review and identification of transition-related stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities as they relate to providing transition services.
Live Webinars
Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
Online & Onsite Availability
Closed Captioning
A collaborative effort of the Alabama Department of Education and the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute
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Youth & Young Adults in Transition
YAiT, pronounced “Wyatt” is a statewide group of students with disabilities
who encourage and facilitate the development of self-determination and
leadership skills in youth and young adults with disabilities.
Alabama Leadership Events
Annual Alabama Transition Conference
(Student Waivers Available)
Annual Governor’s Proclamation Event
Youth Leadership Forum (YLF)
Membership on Alabama’s State Interagency
Transition Team
Local Community Transition Expositions
Highlighted in Auburn Transition Leadership Institute’s
Directions Newsletter
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS IN TRANSITION
STATE ADVISORS
Courtney Dotson, Auburn University
Susan Goldthwaite, Alabama Department of Education
Linda Hames, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
Alicia Myrick, Alabama Department of Education
Karen Rabren, Ph.D., Auburn University
Daniel Roth, William E. Burkett Center
Stephanie Smith, Ph.D., Saraland City Schools CURRENT YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS IN TRANSITION
GROUPS & FACILITATORS
Auburn City Schools, Betty Schiffer
Baldwin County Schools, Leann McPherson
Blount County Schools, Cindy Augustine
Jefferson County Schools, Cheryl White
Opelika City Schools, April Halverson
Saraland City Schools, Barbara English
Shelby County Schools, Christopher Moore
For more information about Alabama’s YAiT Initiative
visit: auburn.edu/atli
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ALABAMA STATE INTERAGENCY TRANSITION TEAM
The purpose and mission of this cross-discipline team is to review policies and practices so there
can be improved collaboration, cost-efficiency, and quality of transition services for Alabama‘s
youth and young adults with disabilities.
Alabama’s Youth and Young Adults in Transition
Student and Parent Representatives
Employers
Alabama Commission on Higher Education
Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities
Local Transition Planning Teams (Tuscaloosa City’s Team pictured)
Alabama Department of Postsecondary Education
Alabama Department of Youth Services
Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program
Alabama Work Incentive Network
Association on Higher Education and Disability
Community Rehabilitation Programs
Disability Rights and Resources
Governor’s Office on Disability
Alabama’s State Interagency Team
Local Education Agency Representatives
United Cerebral Palsy
For more information about Alabama’s SITT go to:
https://fp.auburn.edu/institute/SITT/
National State Transition Team Capacity Building Meetings
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Collaborative Approach
to
Training Transition Specialists (CATTS)
The Collaborative Approach to Training Transition Specialists (CATTS) program is designed to prepare
secondary special education teachers in research-based practices to improve the outcomes of high school
youth with disabilities, especially those from high need areas. CATTS scholars participate in a rigorous
master’s level training program associated with improved outcomes for high-need youths, ages 14-21, with
disabilities, who attend public secondary schools. There are curriculum options for students who hold an
undergraduate degree in (a) special education; (b) teacher
education, but not in special education; and (c) some area
other than education.
The philosophy of the CATTS program is that all secondary special education service delivery should be
approached through a transition perspective. The CATTS
program prepares scholars to become special education
teachers with an emphasis in transition and collaboration, while integrating up-to-date research on effective
practice. Through coursework and a variety of applied experiences, students are prepared to collaborate
with other professionals and transition stakeholders (such as students with disabilities, parents, and family
members), as well as to serve students with disabilities who are considered high-need. In addition to graduating with an MEd degree in Collaborative Teacher Special Education and meeting Alabama’s requirements
for highly qualified collaborative teacher education, CATTS scholars will be equipped with the knowledge
and skills to help students with disabilities achieve successful transitions into adult roles and responsibilities.
The CATTS program is co-directed by Dr. Caroline Dunn and Dr. Karen Rabren at Auburn University’s
College of Education, Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation and Counseling (SERC). Project
managers are Christina Adams and Tamikia Brown. The CATTS program, funded by a federal grant from
the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs, has a limited number of scholarships available for tuition and stipends.
For more information, visit: education.auburn.edu/catts
26
Volunteer Appreciation
Our Thanks
to
All the Volunteer Staff
Auburn University
Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, and Counseling
Graduate and Undergraduate Students
Faculty and Staff
You are the heart of Transition 2013!
!
l
l
A
u
o
Y
k
Than
27
Conference Presenters
•
A
AU Rhythm Dance Troupe...... 8
Austin, Patricia......................... 15
Anderson, Richard..................... 8
Armstrong, Marlayna.............. 18
B
Baker, Helen.............................. 15
Barnes, Lorraine....................... 13
Beck, Anna.................................. 4
Bell, Jr., Bedarius....................... 16
Berry, Wanda............................ 10
Bice, Thomas E....................20, 21
Bock, Tory................................. 18
Boswell, Cary......................20, 21
Booker, Tyler............................. 18
Brady, Wanda............................ 14
Braue, Janis................................ 13
Brecke, Tabitha......................... 18
Brennan, Cheri.......................... 11
Brumbeloe, Kelly...................... 18
Bryant, Kim............................... 17
Byrd, Shannon....................15, 18
C
Casper, Nina.............................. 12
Christopher, Clara.................... 13
Cleveland, Philip...................4, 17
Collier, Denise........................... 15
Connor, Cynthia....................... 17
Cook, Royrickers........................ 8
Cooper, Kay............................... 14
Creech, Amy.............................. 10
D
Darden Rehabilitation
Center......................................... 17
Day, Emily.................................. 12
Dotson, Courtney..................... 12
Dowdy, Linda............................ 11
28
Drinkard, Bobby Jon........4, 9, 11
DuBose, Valerie........................ 13
Dunn, Caroline......................... 12
Dyrendahl, Nate......................... 4
E
Eller, Beth................................... 17
Eller, Shaun................................ 15
Ellis, Edwin................................ 14
Evans, Rachel............................. 11
F
Feibelman, Sam......................... 12
Fleming, Christine................... 18
Forsyth, Rachel........................... 4
Fox, Sadi...............................13, 18
G
Goldthwaite, Susan.................. 15
H
Hall, George.............................. 13
Hames, Linda............................ 17
Harrison, Angela........................ 8
Hayes, Jackie................................ 4
Hensley, Victoria...................... 11
Hipps, Amber............................ 12
I
J
Johnson, Cinda.....................9, 10
Johnson, Katy............................ 17
Johnson, Linea......................9, 10
Johnson, Valerie........................ 17
Jones, Margaret......................... 16
Jordan, Lacy Day...................... 17
K
Kaschak, Kasey........................... 4
Kearly, Regina........................... 16
Kelley, Jackie.............................. 17
Kersjes, Mike.......................4,8,17
Koc, Nizam................................ 18
L
LaFreniere, Steve...................... 17
Lambert, Drew............................ 4
Lawley, Crystal.......................... 17
Layton, Carla............................. 11
Lee, Mark................................... 16
Lowery, Charles........................ 11
Lyman Ward Military
Academy Color Guard.............. 8
M
Mairtin, Michele....................... 18
Massey, Cynthia..................11, 18
McGahee, Dwannal...........14, 18
Merckerson, Clarence............. 18
Moore, Angie............................ 18
Moore, Christian...................... 13
Moore, Teanna......................4, 18
Myrick, Alicia........................4, 17
N
Norris, Lindsay........................... 4
O
Owens, Lynetta......................... 17
Oyer, Chris................................ 11
P
Parker, Pamela........................... 13
Parks, Laura.........................10, 15
Peebles, Eric.............................. 18
Pegues, Lameika....................... 15
Pinkert, Carl................................ 8
Project Search Interns,
Shelby County........................... 18
Q
R
Rabren, Karen.......................8, 21
Rachel, Yolandria...................... 18
Reddoch, Jim.......................20, 21
Reeves, Marna........................... 15
Richardson, Crystal................. 17
Riehle, J. Erin..........................9,15
Robinson, Cindy....................... 14
Roth, Mary................................. 13
S
Sanders, Jon............................... 13
Sanders, Tristan.......................... 8
Schiffer, Betty............................ 12
Scott, April................................. 18
Sims, Andy................................. 10
Sisson, Graham......................... 10
Smith, Laura.............................. 10
Solomon, Allison...................... 13
Spencer, Yolanda...................... 13
Sylvestor, Michelle................... 12
T
Taylor, Stephanie...................... 16
Thomley, Cherlyn..................... 11
Turchan, Joshua........................ 13
Turner, Gloria........................... 12
U
V
W
Waldrip, John............................ 21
Walker, Soli................................ 11
Walraven, Anna.......................... 4
Watson, Scott............................ 17
West, Jennifer............................ 11
Whetstone, Mabrey................. 16
Willis, Karen.............................. 17
Wilson-Bradley, Jacqueline.... 14
Woods-Groves, Suzanne........ 16
X
Y
Z
30

2013 Transition Conference Program

Transcription

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