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Description: As part of Virginia’s Excellence in Co-Teaching Initiative, demonstration sites across the Commonwealth provide opportunities for co-teaching teams and school/district administrators to observe high-quality co-taught instruction in inclusive settings. Visitors have the opportunity to observe model lessons, followed by scheduled time to engage in discussion with the site’s co-teaching team and school administrator regarding implementation practices, instructional planning, and...
Description: Presented by: Geoffrey Weber Learn about ways to make coding instruction differentiated and accessible to students by selecting or adapting materials that can work with screen readers or AAC supports, incorporate visual block based coding, robots, or gamification, and utilize multi-sensory learning with tactile / manipulative activities so that coding instruction is inclusive!
Description: The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) sponsored a 3-Part Turn-Around Training Series on Specially Designed Instruction by Anne Beninghof. We encourage Virginia school divisions to utilize TTAC Online professional learning as a part of their division-wide professional learning plans. In the event that you are interested in large-scale usage (over 500 users) of a particular module for your school and/or division, please contact ttaconli@gmu.edu in advance, so that we may accommodate...
Description: Presented by: Geoffrey Weber and Matthew Newton The authors explore ways in which AI can be leveraged to empower students with disabilities and foster inclusive learning environments. You will gain insights into cutting-edge AI applications, best practices, and examples that demonstrate the impact of AI on student success. The authors also consider the ethics and responsibilities of educators using AI regarding fairness, transparency, privacy and data security.
Description: Presented by: Lorna Bell Frizzelle, Meghan Hyatt, Hunter Matusevich & Lauren Whitlock Hey Kids! Did you know that Dragons Love Tacos? In this recorded webinar, we explore assistive technology via thematic units. You will have the opportunity to learn how to develop lessons that include hands-on learning for our youngest and most complex learners across all content areas. To conclude the session, you will be guided through making their very own adapted book, Dragons...
Description: New Video: Introducing the Office of Special Education Program's Assistive Technology Guidance and the 2024 National Educational Technology Plan (2:46 mins.) IDEA: Assistive Technology Devices and Services for Children With Disabilities Under the IDEA (Jan. 22, 2024) - The Office of Educational Technology and the Office of Special Education Programs are pleased to share the guidance in support of children with disabilities who need assistive technology (AT) devices and services for meaningful...
Description: Each self-paced professional learning session is offered at no cost to Virginia public school educators and provides 3-5 hours of professional learning. These sessions guide educators in learning about specific HLPs through videos that model exemplar teacher behaviors. Educators may enroll in any of the following professional learning sessions described below: Enroll in School Leaders, Administrators, and Instructional Coaches: Strategies for Teacher Retention & Support...
Description: VDOE's Assistive Technology Network has a newly updated Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) section of their website. What is AAC? When to consider? Assessment Information Gathering Current Communication Skills Access Direct Selection Indirect Selection Decision Making Trials Develop a Plan Prompting Data Collection Tool Selection and Funding Implementation Planning and Support Training Device Set-up Customization Vocabulary Selection And more!
Description: Based on the work of the CEEDAR Center and Council for Exceptional Children, the GMU TTAC Team has created High Leverage Practice Crosswalks in the areas of Prosocial Behavior, Math, Literacy and Transition to support stakeholders in developing personalized professional learning and targeted support, with the goal of bridging research into “practical” classroom practice to improve performance outcomes. The HLP Crosswalks are dynamic documents that will be periodically updated with...
Date(s):
6/15/2022 - 6/30/2029
Description: Registration for Effective & High-Leverage Practices for Paraeducators - In collaboration with the Paraprofessional Resource & Research Center and the CEEDAR Center, the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is excited to provide paraeducators with a learning program focused on your unique role as a paraeducator and how that aligns with specific HLPs. In this FREE on-demand, eLearning program designed for paraeducators, you will be introduced to four areas...
Description: VDOE's Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) webpage - With the passage of the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) in the 2022 General Assembly, Virginia is taking the lead nationwide to improve early literacy outcomes for Virginia’s young learners. Through the VLA, the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) will support school divisions through a multi-year effort with tools, resources, technical assistance and funding.
Description: Collaboration HLP Pillars: Rubric - HLP 1 Collaborate with Professionals to Increase Student Success, Rubric - HLP 3 Collaborate with Families to Support Student Learning and Secure Needed Services Embedded HLPs Rubric - HLP 2 Lead Effective Meetings with Professionals & Families DATA-Driven Planning HLP Pillar: Rubric - HLP 6 Use Assessment Data, Analyze Instructional Practices and Make Necessary, Adjustments that Improve Student Outcomes Embedded HLPs: Rubric - HLP 4: Use Multiple Sources...
Description: Collaboration HLP Pillars: HLP Highlight Tool - HLP 1: Collaborate with Professionals to Increase Student Success, HLP Highlight Tool - HLP 3: Collaborate with Families to Support Student Learning and Secure Needed Services Embedded HLPs HLP Highlight Tool - HLP 2: Organize and Facilitate Effective Meetings with Professionals and Families Data-Driven Planning HLP Pillar: HLP Highlight Tool - HLP 6: Use Student Assessment Data, Analyze Instructional Practices, and Make Necessary Adjustments that...
Description: The mission of NCIL is to increase access to, and use of, evidence-based approaches to screen, identify, and teach students with literacy-related disabilities, including dyslexia. This website includes resources for Parents & Families, Schools & Districts and State Agencies.
Description: Check out the AAC Training Planning Tree & AAC Training FAQs Did you know? IEP Teams must consider the need for Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services with the development of each IEP. AT services include any support provided to help a child with a disability to choose, obtain, or use an assistive technology device effectively. These services incorporate training or technical assistance for professionals (e.g., educators, related service providers, rehabilitation...
Description: Check out PEATC's new Resource Document: Understanding Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA) -When behavior gets in the way of learning, it’s not about blame, it’s about understanding. PEATC’s new FBA Resource Document explains how a Functional Behavioral Assessment can help uncover the “why” behind your child’s behavior and lead to more effective, compassionate support at school. This easy-to-read resource walks families through when an FBA is needed, what...
Date(s):
10/7/2025 6:00 PM ET - 10/7/2025 7:00 PM ET
Description: Register for Cracking the Code: 504s and IEPS - Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | 6:00 pm - 7:00 pmNot sure what makes a 504 Plan different from an IEP? Join us for a free webinar that breaks it all down in clear, parent-friendly language. Learn how eligibility, services, and protections differ — and how to advocate for the right support for your child.This webinar will be presented on Zoom. It will not be recorded.Presented by PEATC in partnership with The Arc of Greater...
Date(s):
10/9/2025 4:00 PM ET - 10/9/2025 5:00 PM ET
Description: Register for Ins and Outs of IEPs - When everyone works together, the IEP process can be a powerful tool for student success. Join us for a practical session about how to prepare, participate, and follow up on your child’s IEP meeting with confidence and collaboration.*IN-PERSON WORKSHOP*Location:Salem City High School400 Spartan DriveSalem, VA 24153Presented by PEATC in collaboration with Salem City Public Schools
Date(s):
10/16/2025 6:00 PM ET - 10/16/2025 7:30 PM ET
Description: Register for Planning for the Future - Planning for the future is important for all parents, but for parents of children with disabilities it is vital. This workshop will provide information on options and tools for making these important decisions.Topics that will be covered: Age of Majority, Guardianship, Power of Attorney, Supported Decision-Making, Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, and Letters of Intent *IN-PERSON WORKSHOP*Location:Botetourt County Public Schools - Board...
Date(s):
11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for Building Strong Parent Advocates: November 3rd-November 23rd - PEATC, in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education, invites families to join us for our online training course, Building Strong Parent Advocates. Families of children receiving special education services find themselves in a world filled with complicated policies, confusing acronyms and terms, and piles of paperwork. Often families find themselves looking for information and background knowledge...
Date(s):
11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for IEP University (IEPU), November 3rd-November 23rd -The IEP process can be difficult and stressful. Everyone comes to the IEP table with thoughts of their personal responsibilities, perspectives, and individual concerns. IEP meetings can be places of high anxiety and there are occasions when conflict may erupt as a result of managing emotions while simultaneously following policy and procedures. PEATC, in collaboration with VDOE, has developed IEP University (IEPU) to help...
Date(s):
10/9/2025, 10/23/2025, 11/6/2025, 11/20/2025
Description: Registration Looking to create a communication-rich environment that allows each and every child in your classroom to actively engage and participate in meaningful interactions? Join our Early Childhood Virtual Learning Community in Autism to learn how to support learners with diverse communication abilities.This 7-week series will target topics including: Effective teaming and collaboration Creation and implementation of class-wide communication supports Practical tools and...
Description: Check out PEATC's Understanding the Parts of the IEP Fact Sheet - The IEP is one of the most important tools in your child’s special education journey — but it can also be one of the most confusing. Our new fact sheet, “Understanding the Parts of the Individualized Education Program (IEP),” breaks it all down in plain language just for families. From present levels and goals to services, accommodations, and transition planning, this guide helps you understand...
Date(s):
10/6/2025 - 12/8/2025
Description: Registration for Fall 2025- Transition University - Life is full of transitions. For families of children with disabilities thinking about the future can bring mixed emotions. Some families are just trying to make it through day-to-day challenges and might not feel they have the energy to think about what happens after high school. Others may want to plan for that transition but are confused by unfamiliar language, complex steps, and the many agencies that may be involved in adult services. Join...
Description: Check out the Resource Menu: Supporting Early Childhood Educators in Inclusive Environments - A body of research demonstrates that high-quality inclusion benefits children, families, and professionals. Research also shows that many early childhood educators do not feel adequately prepared to adapt their teaching to meet the needs of children with IEPs in their care. In an effort to support teachers like you who serve young children with and without disabilities, this document offers...
Date(s):
11/10/2025 9:00 AM ET - 11/10/2025 3:30 PM ET
Description: VESOL Alliance 2025 Returns! The VESOL Alliance returns for an in-person professional learning event on November 10, 2025. Networking with others that teach VESOL standards! Practical Strategies and adaptive materials that you can use! Save the Date and Register Now for the GMU VESOL Alliance! Check out the VESOL Alliance 2025 Returns Flyer for more information!
Description: When Parents and Schools Disagree: We’ve Got You Covered - Checkout the Dispute Resolution GuideDisagreements about special education services can be confusing and emotional—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. PEATC’s NEW Dispute Resolution Guide is here to help Virginia families understand your options when things aren’t going as they should. Whether you’re curious about Facilitated IEPs, Mediation, Written State...
Date(s):
9/20/2025, 9/22/2025, 9/25/2025 5:30 PM ET - 9/25/2025 7:30 PM ET, 9/27/2025 10:00 AM ET - 9/27/2025 1:00 PM ET, 10/4/2025 10:00 AM ET - 10/4/2025 1:00 PM ET, 10/4/2025 10:00 AM ET - 10/4/2025 2:00 PM ET, 10/4/2025 10:30 AM ET - 10/4/2025 3:30 PM ET
Description: Our team is always on-the-go & ready to connect with you! Find us at these upcoming community events with free resources and answers to your questions: Saturday, September 20 (11 am - 4 pm): disAbility Resource Center’s Fall Family FestivalFredericksburg Fairgrounds - 2400 Airport Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22407Monday, September 22: Waynesboro – see workshop in next sectionThursday, September 25 (5 pm - 7 pm): Hopewell Farmers MarketLibrary...
Date(s):
9/20/2025 8:00 AM ET - 9/20/2025 11:30 AM ET, 11/3/2025 - 11/23/2025
Description: Register for Self-Paced Online VA SEAC Training: November 3rd-November 23rd, 2025 PEATC in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education is pleased to offer SEAC trainings aimed at helping SEAC members understand the role of the local Special Education Advisory Committee in Virginia and to build a more efficient and effective advisory committee. This training will include information on: SEAC in Virginia SPED Regulations SEAC Roles and Responsibilities Building Your Local SEAC...
Description: Check out the CEC's HLP #7 video - This video provides a definition, background, and rationale for high-leverage practice (HLP) 7 and demonstrates three key components of this HLP through video exemplars from general and special education teachers. The three key components highlighted in this video are the importance of defining and teaching classroom expectations and rules, using a continuum of strategies to acknowledge appropriate behavior with high frequency, and optimizing instructional...
Description: Check out the Beginning of the Year Survey for Families - Early childhood best practices are also trauma-informed practices. As an early childhood educator you are well positioned to provide the responsive, caring, and predictable environments and relationships that research has proven can mitigate stress and trauma. By administering a “Beginning of Questionnaire for Families'' you are centering family, community, and socialemotional wellness at the start of school. Incorporating what you...
Description: Visit Best Messaging Apps and Websites for Students, Teachers, and Parents - These apps and websites for texting, messaging, and communication make it easier for teachers to send out assignments, reminders, and progress reports and communicate with parents and students about conferences, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. This list will help you find a tool to keep your communication consistent, reach parents on platforms they're already using, and, in some cases, give students the...
Description: Visit the PBIS resource: Creating Effective Classroom Environments Plan Template -Educators can download this template and create their own plan to implement PBIS in their classroom. The template includes opportunity to develop a classroom matrix, create lesson plans to teach expected behavior, script prompts or reminders for desired behavior, and plan praise and corrections.
Description: Checkout Effective Classroom Systems by VTSS - Effective Classroom Systems is designed for division and school leadership to develop a plan for the data collection, professional learning and coaching needed at the division and school level in order to promote a sustained focus on the use of effective classroom practices. Classroom practices are the strategies essential to effective instruction and include: arranging the physical environment, active supervision, classroom expectations,...
Description: Check out Lesson Plan: Co-creating Classroom Expecations with Students (PBIS) - The purpose of this lesson is to partner with elementary students to create a classroom matrix together, based on existing schoolwide expectations.
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource, Tips for Transition to Middle School for Students with Disabilities - that offers practical steps Virginia families can take now to prepare their child for success. From reviewing IEPs to building self-advocacy skills and connecting with staff, this fact sheet walks you through what matters most during this key transition. Let’s help our kids move forward with confidence!
Date(s):
10/16/2025 11:00 AM ET, 11/20/2025 11:00 AM ET, 1/15/2026 11:00 AM ET, 2/19/2026 11:00 AM ET, 4/16/2026 11:00 AM ET
Description: New this Year! The VDOE will host ECSE Office Hours for ECSE administrators, special education directors or those who would like to increase knowledge and ask questions on content related to ECSE. Office Hours will be held the third Thursday of the month from 11:00-12:00. Each month, a specific topic will be discussed. There will be a short introduction of the topic followed by the opportunity for you to ask questions. Registration is not required. Simply use the Join the meeting link to...
Description: Download the Importance of Reviewing Your Childs School Records Factsheet - Did you know that regularly reviewing your child’s school records is one of the most powerful steps you can take as a parent? These records—like evaluations, IEPs, progress updates, and behavior reports—tell the story of your child’s education. They help you stay informed, advocate effectively, and make sure your child is getting the services and support they’re entitled to. Mistakes happen,...
Date(s):
9/3/2025 6:30 PM ET, 9/17/2025 6:30 PM ET, 10/1/2025 6:30 PM ET, 10/15/2025 6:30 PM ET
Description: Register for the Special Education Workshop Series: FALL into Knowledge 2025 - Are you looking to better understand the special education process and how to support your child’s success in school? Don't miss this five-session webinar series designed for Virginia families who want practical, easy-to-understand guidance on navigating special education services!Turn over a new leaf in understanding special education. Whether you’re brand new to special education or need a...
Description: Want to feel confident teaching and including students with autism in your classroom? The Autism Center for Education offers FREE short-term coaching, equipping educational teams with practical strategies and techniques to better support autistic learners in any classroom environment. Schedule now to get ready for the 2025-2026 school year at: vcuautismcenter.org/requests Testimonials: “The real time hands on coaching and skills I could immediately implement were the most useful and the...
Description: Let’s Hear from the Expert—Your Child!Students with disabilities have unique strengths, preferences, and goals, and they deserve a voice in their IEPs. When students share what they’re good at, what they need help with, and what they want for their future, their IEPs become more meaningful and focused. Download PEATC’s easy-to-use Student IEP Input Form and help your child become an active part of their IEP team today!"Let’s build...
Description: Help Improve Special Education in Virginia—Your Voice Matters! The Virginia Department of Education’s Special Education Parent Involvement Survey for the 2024–2025 school year is now open. If you’re the parent or guardian of a school-aged child with a disability receiving special education services in Virginia, this is your chance to share your experience and help shape improvements across the state.The survey is open through December 12, 2025, and you...
Description: Check out PEATC's new resource to learn more: PEATC’s Special Factors in the IEP Guide - When your child’s IEP is being created or updated, the IEP team must think about certain important areas that could affect your child’s learning and school experience. These are called Special Factors, and they help make sure your child gets the right support to succeed in school. The team must consider behavior that makes it hard for your child or others to learn, your...
Description: Check out GMU TTAC's Mobile Apps! Helen A. Kellar Institute faculty and staff embrace new technologies as they emerge and make every effort to make content accessible across a range of different formats and devices. Our app development team is in the process of launching several new apps for people with disabilities, service providers and professionals working in the field of special education. The links contain a list of our apps that are currently available on Apple AppStore and...
Description: Enroll in the VATTS Virtual Virginia Course - The AT Network has developed a short professional learning course on Virtual Virginia that provides an overview of the new Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS): Consideration Guide and Resources. IEP team members can access this course at any time and complete the modules at their own pace. A certificate of completion can be earned by those that finish the course requirements.
Description: Check out PEATC's SAT Accommodations for Students with Disabilities Factsheet - If your child has a documented disability and plans to take the SAT, they may qualify for testing accommodations like extra time, breaks, or assistive technology. These supports help ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to college admissions tests. The process can take up to 7 weeks, so it’s important to start early.PEATC’s new fact sheet breaks down who qualifies, how...
Description: Virginia’s new guidance on the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA) now includes students in grades 4–8. If your child scores basic or below basic on the reading SOL, they will be screened using a new tool called the VALLSS screener and may receive a Student Reading Plan (SRP) to guide reading interventions. But here’s what’s important for families of children with IEPs: this screening data can inform your child’s current IEP, guide literacy goals, and be used as evidence...
Description: The Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS) Resources will guide the IEP team through the consideration and documentation process. These resources replace the previous versions of the AT Consideration and Resource Guide. VATTS: Consideration and Assessment Guidance Document (PDF) - Guidance for school divisions in the consideration and assessment of AT, including planning and implementing those services for students with disabilities. VATTS: Consideration...
Description: Assistive Technology and Your Child’s IEP Check out the PEATC Assistive Technology and Your Child's IEP Factsheet - this factsheet helps families learn what AT is, when it should be discussed, and what schools are required to provide. From pencil grips to communication devices and apps, AT can make a big difference in your child’s success. Read more in our factsheet so you can discuss it at your next IEP meeting!
Description: The CTI at VCU and TTAC at GMU collaborated to develop a Transition Taxonomy 2.0 + High Leverage Practice (HLP) resource that shares professional learning opportunities, evidence-based resources, and teacher and family ready materials in one place! Based on NTACT-C (2016) Transition Taxonomy’s five areas of student focused planning, student development, interagency collaboration, family collaboration, and program development, transition professionals and teachers can easily locate relevant...