Professional Resources
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Description: The mission of the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) is to eliminate housing discrimination, promote economic opportunity, and achieve diverse, inclusive communities by leading the nation in the enforcement, administration, development, and public understanding of federal fair housing policies and laws. The laws implemented and enforced by FHEO include: The Fair Housing Act Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Section 109 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974...
Description: The Executive Skills Questionnaire (ESQ) is designed to rank your executive skills. Executive function skills are mental processes that allow us to plan, focus our attention, recall instructions, juggle multiple tasks successfully, and self-regulate.
Description: Multisensory instruction can help kids improve reading and writing skills. It works by engaging more than one sense at a time. Lots of teachers use techniques like these. But you can try them at home, too. Downloads include: Color-Coded Word Building Tiles Read it Build it Write It Story Stick Questions
Description: There are many different kinds of graphic organizers. The five downloadable ones here are commonly used in grade school, but they can help kids through high school. Each one also comes with an example of what the graphic organizer looks like when it’s filled in. All you need to do to use these graphic organizers is print them out. (The designs are also simple enough that you can quickly draw them by hand.) These graphic organizers are also fillable. So if your child prefers to type, he can...
Description: BRCTH provides life-enhancing, equine assisted activities for individuals with disabling conditions, including those who are “at risk”, in the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and contingent counties in WV. We serve adults and children from age four. In order to provide these services to the community, we rely upon a dedicated team of volunteers. See our Volunteer page for more information. Contact BRCTH
Description: The Arc of Northern Virginia (The Arc of NoVA) is dedicated to ensuring that the human and civil rights of people with developmental disabilities are protected. They have known and worked with thousands of families, in their more than 50 year history, who have taught them so much. The Arc of Northern Virginia has seen an increase in calls and concerns from family about interactions of people with developmental disabilities (DD), including intellectual disabilities, and emergency services and the...
Description: This web-based guide to rental housing and housing resources is produced by the Virginia Housing and Supportive Services' Northern Virginia Regional Implementation Team. The Northern Virginia RIT educates individuals, families and service providers about integrated, independent housing and new housing resources available to people in the Settlement Agreement population. We also prepare individuals with developmental disabilities to qualify for housing resources and help them navigate...
Description: Conducting Appropriate FBAs - Part 1 The concepts discussed in this session are designed to augment the capabilities of personnel who do Function Based Assessments for children who display a wide variety of challenging behaviors. This training specifically focus on providing attendees: a) a theoretical background of applied behavior analysis, b) the knowledge to operationally define, record, and display behavior for appropriate data analyses, and c) the background knowledge of key concepts that...
Description: This guide provides human services leaders at the local, State, Tribal, and Territorial levels with information and resources on recent advances in our understanding of trauma, toxic stress, and executive functioning. It especially highlights what these advances mean for program design and service delivery. The guide helps professionals learn about trauma-informed care and helps those currently engaged in trauma-informed work to improve their practice.
Description: To aid in a seamless transition from school to post-school activities, this transition guide addresses the following topics: Transition planning: opportunities and programs; Transition services and requirements, as authorized by IDEA and the Rehabilitation Act; Education and employment options for students and youth with disabilities after leaving secondary school; and Supporting the decisions made by students and youth with disabilities. As students and youth with disabilities prepare to...
Description: The POWER (Parent Organizer With Educational Resources) web app provides parents and families with online resources to answer questions about child development, disabilities, community services, Special Education, diploma options in Virginia and transition to life after high school. The questions and potential resources are separated into age levels: Early Childhood, Elementary School, Middle School and High School. This project is a collaborative effort between the Parent Resource...
Description: Celebrate the uniqueness of each and every child! In the U.S., 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In fact, almost every school and university in the country has students with autism. While the diagnosis is common, public understanding of autism is not. The lack of understanding around the condition contributes to discrimination, verbal abuse, even physical violence. A recent study reveals that children with autism are five times more likely to be bullied than...
Description: The Applied Studies Diploma is a diploma option available to students identified as having a disability who complete the requirements of their individualized education programs (IEPs) and meet certain requirements prescribed by the Board of Education pursuant to regulations, but do not meet the requirements for any named diploma. This includes a Webinar Series on the Applied Studies Diploma: Applied Studies Diploma Overview Applied Studies Diploma Part 2: The Curriculum Map Applied Studies...
Description: This online Applied Studies Curriculum Progress Report generator enables teachers to document progress on the domains and competencies contained in the Applied Studies Curriculum Map. Domains: Employment English History and Social Science Independent Living Mathematics Science Competencies: Employment Career Awareness Employability Job-Seeking Skills Problem Solving Self-Advocacy Social/Communication English Community Literacy Composition Comprehension Documents and Forms Self-Selected...
Description: BULLYING BASICS in Early Childhood: Bullying can emerge in early childhood. If you don’t know that bullying happens among young children, you won’t see it or stop it. If you don’t stop bullying, it will grow and spread. When early childhood educators are prepared, they can nip bullying in the bud. Find out how to stop bullying before it starts.
Description: David Camarillo: Why helmets don't prevent concussions -- and what might - What is a concussion? Probably not what you think it is. In this talk from the cutting edge of research, bioengineer (and former football player) David Camarillo shows what really happens during a concussion — and why standard sports helmets don't prevent it. Here's what the future of concussion prevention looks like. Dr. David Camarillo, Ph.D., is Assistant Professor of Bioengineering and (by courtesy) Mechanical...
Description: The TBI InfoComics were created to educate survivors of Traumatic Brain Injury, their families/caregivers, and healthcare providers about common symptoms of TBI and how to manage them. Our InfoComics are written to be accessible to people who may have memory issues or trouble reading large blocks of text. They present the most vital and up-to-date information about physical, cognitive and emotional issues people with TBI may be dealing with. The content we present in our comics represents...
Description: The mission of AAHD is to advance health promotion and wellness initiatives for children and adults with disabilities. AAHD works to reduce health disparities between people with disabilities and the general population, and supports full community inclusion and accessibility. AAHD accomplishes its mission through advocacy, education, public awareness, and research efforts at the federal, state, and community levels.
Description: Inclusion is defined as: being a part of a group or a part of something learning to live together treasuring diversity sharing gifts and abilities There have been numerous demands from individuals with disabilities living in the community who are tired of being denied or ignored by a society that does not honor their right to participate in all aspects of community living. The materials found in this guide were prepared by youth leaders with disabilities as part of a three year grant from...
Description: Transition Assessment and Goal Generator (TAGG) - Both TAGG-High School (previously TAGG) and TAGG-Alternate are available for use. All assessment items are derived from research identified student behaviors associated with post high school success, focused on employment and further education. The TAGG provides a norm-based graphic profile, present level of performance statement, lists of strengths and needs, and suggested IEP annual transition goals.
Description: Abstract This policy statement focuses on children and adolescents 5 through 18 abstract years of age. Research suggests both benefi ts and risks of media use for the health of children and teenagers. Benefits include exposure to new ideas and knowledge acquisition, increased opportunities for social contact and support, and new opportunities to access health-promotion messages and information. Risks include negative health effects on weight and sleep; exposure to inaccurate, inappropriate, or...
Description: Military Outreach (PEATC) - Military families sacrifice alongside the military member and face unique challenges such as deployment, frequent moves, and the additional demands of high Optempo. For those families who have children with disabilities receiving special education and related services, moving every 2-3 years is likely to negatively impact educational outcomes for their student. PEATC’s Military Outreach Specialists assist active duty, reservists,...
Description: As outlined in the W!SE Financial Literacy Certification Test Proctoring Guidelines, students may have three attempts per semester to pass the W!SE test. Also, students with disabilities must receive the testing accommodations specified in their IEP or Section 504 Accommodation Plans, following the specific instructions given in the Proctoring Guidelines document.
Description: Virginia’s Medicaid Waiver System: Could you or your child benefit from services such as respite care, personal care, assistive technology, employment services, residential services, nursing care, and/or behavior supports? If so, you may want to check into Virginia’s Medicaid Waiver program. In Virginia, Medicaid Waivers pay for a variety of services and supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities. They provide these supports so that the person can live...
Description: Please scroll down on the website link to see Part 1 and Part 2 webinar. These recorded webinars are viewed through Blackboard Collaborate and a link is provided to use Blackboard Collaborate Launcher. Powerpoints and handouts are available. Transition services assist a toddler with a disability and his or her family to experience a smooth and effective transition from the early intervention program under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to early childhood...
Description: We believe that individuals who are deaf-blind are valued members of society and are entitled to the same opportunities and choices as other members of their community. NFADB is the largest national nonprofit organization serving the deaf-blind community. What We Do Train and support families as they advocate for the needs of their child and family. Connect families to other families with similar interests and needs. Collaborate with other organizations to make sure...
Description: The mission of HKNC is to give people who are deaf-blind the tools to live, work and thrive in the communities of their choice. Authorized by an Act of Congress in 1967, HKNC is the only organization of its kind—providing training and resources exclusively to people age 16 and over who have combined vision and hearing loss. Students travel from across the country to our headquarters in Sands Point, New York, for on-campus training in assistive technology, vocational services, orientation...
Description: Side by Side is dedicated to creating supportive communities where Virginia’s LGBTQ+ youth can define themselves, belong, and flourish.
Description: The Clerc Center, a federally funded national deaf education center, ensures that the diverse population of deaf and hard of hearing students (birth through age 21) in the nation are educated and empowered and have the linguistic competence to maximize their potential as productive and contributing members of society. This is accomplished through early access to and acquisition of language, excellence in teaching, family involvement, research, identification and implementation of best practices,...
Description: One Voice is the Official Blog of National PTA. A powerful voice for all children, PTA launched this blog as another platform for our leadership, ambassadors, staff and members to share the work they do on behalf of all children. You’ll read about dynamic programs happening at the local level, commentary on news and issues impacting the everyday realities of children, as well as live action from our conventions and events. More importantly, we welcome your comments. Actually we need your...
Description: These online training modules, created by Barbara Didona, MEd. (funded by the Allen C. Crocker Family Fellowship at the Institute for Community Inclusion at UMass Boston, and by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center at the University of Massachusetts Medical School) were created specifically for paraprofessionals. The free, research-based modules are full of practical tips and strategies. The modules can also be shared by parent centers with the professionals and paraprofessionals for whom they...
Description: Age of majority is the age when children legally become adults. At this time, they gain the rights of adults, which include the right to vote, marry, apply for a credit card, make medical and financial decisions for themselves, sign contracts, live independently, and much more. In most states the age of majority is age 18. We invite you to read this tip sheet for parents to learn more about: Who decides the age of majority The age of majority in your state What the transfer of parental...
Description: Age of Majority Overview (PEATC) - It’s hard to think about your child becoming an adult. The age of majority in Virginia, when your child turns 18, means that the rights, and responsibilities of being an adult pass from the parent to the adult child. However, there are ways for parents of students with disabilities to stay involved and to help ensure that good decisions are made. First, we will talk about educational decision-making for those students with disabilities who...
Description: The Toolbox for Self-Determination is a resource for parents to learn more about self-determination. It walks parents through the ways they can help their child become self-determined, and shows examples of the One-Pager, Good Day Plan and Goal Plan templates that can be used to aid in self-determination.
Description: The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities works with schools, businesses, and communities to achieve success by addressing prejudices, in all forms, in order to improve academic achievement, increase workplace productivity, and enhance local trust. Through workshops, retreats, and customized programs that raise knowledge, motivation, and skills, VCIC develops leaders who work together to achieve success throughout the Commonwealth. VCIC has compiled resources by topic for use by schools:...
Description: What can adult life include? Young people with disabilities look forward to adult lives in the community that include: Friends and family Relaxation and fun A home of their own Work or volunteering Lifelong learning Making choices Travel or move around your community Faith-based participation This is a good picture of the future. It can happen when young people have a team planning with them.
Description: The Center for Disability Leadership provides people with disabilities access to information and training, so that they may lead the lives they want. The Center offers training and information on: Healthy Relationships (LEAP) Health Advocacy Training (CHAT) The Inclusion Project How to Find a Job Other Resources
Description: The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) is the only non-regulatory federal agency that promotes policies and coordinates with employers and all levels of government to increase workplace success for people with disabilities. To develop and influence disability employment-related policies and practices, ODEP sponsors the following three policy development and technical assistance resources: Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN) Job Accommodation Network...
Description: DMV has taken numerous measures to ensure our customer service centers (CSC) comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and that our customers with disabilities have access to the programs and services they need. Assistance for Customers with Disabilities Customers with disabilities can easily request special assistance or accommodations by making their needs known when they arrive at the information counter in any CSC. A customer service representative will assist the customer with...
Description: All students in tested grade levels and courses are expected to participate in Virginia’s assessment program, unless specifically exempted by state or federal law or by Board of Education regulations. Virginia’s assessment system includes students with disabilities and limited English proficient (LEP) students. Students with disabilities and LEP students may take Standards of Learning tests with or without accommodations or they may be assessed through alternate or alternative...
Description: On Other Diplomas & Certificates, you will find: General Achievement Adult High School Diploma (GAAHSD) Program General Educational Development Certificates (GED) Certificate of Program Completion
Description: You can play an important role in helping your children and teenagers recover from traumatic events. We have designed these pages for birth parents, adoptive parents, resource/foster parents, grandparents, caregivers, and all others who care for children and teens. We are using the words "child" or "children" to include adolescents. Although teens may not think of themselves as children, parents and caregivers most often refer those of any age (toddler, school-age, teen, youth, adult) in our...
Description: Research suggests that approximately 25% of American children will experience at least one traumatic event by the age of 16. A child's reactions to trauma can interfere considerably with learning and/or behavior at school. Schools serve as a critical system of support for children who have experienced trauma. Administrators, teachers, and staff can help reduce the effects of trauma on children by recognizing trauma responses, accommodating and responding to traumatized students within the...
Description: Child Trauma Toolkit for Educators - Information for Educators: Trauma Facts for Educators Suggestions for Educators Psychological and Behavioral Impact of Trauma: Preschool Children Psychological and Behavioral Impact of Trauma: Elementary School Students Psychological and Behavioral Impact of Trauma: Middle School Students Psychological and Behavioral Impact of Trauma: High School Students Brief Information on Childhood Traumatic Grief for School Personnel Self Care for Educators Information...
Description: Every child is unique and learns in different ways. If your child has been identified as needing special education services to support his or her learning at school, you can play a major role in shaping the services your child receives. This section will help you understand the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the importance of your participation in developing your child’s IEP Plan. You are a required member of your child’s IEP team, and your ideas must always be considered...
Description: It is the intent of the Commonwealth of Virginia to include all students with disabilities in the assessment component of Virginia's accountability system. IDEA 2004 regulations require that all students with disabilities participate in the state's accountability system. Students with disabilities may participate in the Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments and Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP). When determining participation in Virginia's Accountability System, all students with...
Description: The Art of Impact: A Handbook for Self-Determined Living - This e-book is your guide to self-advocacy and healthy living in your community. It will help introduce you to self-advocacy. Those of you who already know about self-advocacy can learn more about it. You can learn how to practice and improve your self-advocacy skills. You can also learn tips from veteran leaders. In the first chapter of this e-book, you will read about what self-advocacy is. You will learn about how people from diverse...
Description: All kids feel anxious from time to time. But kids who learn and think differently are more likely to struggle with anxiety. How can you tell whether your child’s level of anxiety is typical and appropriate, or something more? A chart is provided that can help you understand the difference between typical anxiety and an anxiety problem, and how to support your child in both situations.
Description: Virginia’s Definition of School Readiness describes the capabilities of children, families, schools and communities that promote student success in kindergarten and beyond. Each component – children, families, schools and communities – plays an essential role in developing school readiness. Ready Children are prepared socially, personally, physically and intellectually to meet literacy, mathematics, science, history/social science and developmental standards for...
Description: Download: IEP Tracker - Your child’s IEP includes annual goals. And while her school will keep you updated on progress, you may want to keep track on your own, too. This IEP goal tracker can help you stay on top of your child’s IEP goals, her present level of performance and the progress she’s making. It can also help you keep track of questions or observations you might want to raise with the IEP team. A goal chart doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a quick...