Introduction to Special Ed Spring 2023 by LR Martin https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh en-us 2022-12-29 17:00:55 UTC 2023-05-23 15:27:52 UTC hello@padlet.com Flexibility is Key-Tenaea T https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2447640285 Kids need flexibility to move around, use tools to help write and calculate numbers. Kids whose brains are wired differently need this tools in order to success like other children. Teachers should teach other kids to accept the differences in learning style]]> 2023-01-18 00:31:34 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2447640285 Individualized Strategies,Resources, and Skills- Taylor Mace https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2450071731 After watching the videos showcasing the various challenges students were facing, I recognized the importance of making accommodations for these students specific and individualized. While students were categorized by the subjects they found challenging, each of their concerns were different then another, even those with those who struggled in the same subject area.  With that being said, the accommodations that they should receive need to be approached individually by taking into account their specific struggles. The list of accommodations in schools has drastically increased. These accommodations range from strategies, additional resources, and emphasis on skill areas. With many being readily available in schools today, it is important that educators are focusing on those that best match with the students challenges and their educational goals. ]]> 2023-01-19 16:45:49 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2450071731 Creativity-Rheanna V. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2451084628 Kids that have a hard time focusing can be seen as distracting, have behavioral issues, or less intelligent than their peers which in reality might not be true. When parents, teachers and staff come together creatively, we can help children with concentration issues succeed. Some ideas that worked for the child in the video were walks, fidget toys, and brain games to help her not get totally lost in "lala land." I think the big take away is being really creative and work as a team to help all children learn.]]> 2023-01-20 14:01:24 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2451084628 Academic Struggles - Maddie L. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2452106047 When students are struggling, they often feel as though they are the only person going through challenges. They may feel discouraged by seeing other students complete work more quickly than them or with less assistance. It is important to stress to the student that additional support does not equate to them being lesser than their peers. Additionally, giving students access to resources can be beneficial because then students know how to help themselves. Autonomy can be a confidence booster.]]> 2023-01-22 00:26:13 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2452106047 Giving Support - Hailey West https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2452522744 After watching the many videos, one of the biggest concepts I took away was how important it is to give children support. When a child is struggling, especially in school, they often feel as if they are totally alone in the struggle. They believe that no one can relate to them and can feel very isolated, and we need to be there to show them they are not alone. Additionally, the videos emphasized how even if it's the same topic, children can be struggling in different ways. Whether it's math, reading, writing, etc. working with each child individually is the only way to help them. One technique may be working for one child and when it's presented to another child it just makes things more confusing. Overall I think it's important to give a child the support they may need and work with them individually to lift them up as much as we can. ]]> 2023-01-22 19:38:28 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2452522744 Meet them where they are- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453322380 After watching the videos and considering the best way I can involve myself as a counselor, I recognized that we need to ensure that students are receiving their needs and feel accepted in the classroom. All children require their own unique set of needs and it's important that we meet the student where they are. To do this it is critical to collaborate with teachers, parents and the student. As the role of the school counselor, I believe it is my job to advocate for students and their needs while teaching everyone else part of the school to accept those peers who may need the extra assistance in the classroom. It is common for students who receive help to feel less than from their peers and this roots from social expected norms. Starting the conversation with students and normalizing it's okay we all learn differently and may need more help can hopefully bring students to a better understanding of one another. At the end of the day, it is extremely important that students know they have support and that there are ways we can make learning fit their needs and styles to make it an enjoyable experience. ]]> 2023-01-23 14:40:17 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453322380 Empathy for frustrations – Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453906414 Simply opening a book or reading out loud could be triggering for students to have outburst or refuses to do work which can impact a teacher’s response of sending the student out of the classroom which creates a bigger issue. As a future counselor this website reaffirmed the ideas that students and teachers need to come together as a team to have empathy for each other to work towards the common goal of the student’s success. The videos also brought up the idea that not all students have support at home for the extra assistance when the teacher is moving forward daily. This awareness could also improve the teacher-student relationship. Using other activities to relate to the classroom curriculum seems to be an effective plan. For example, as a counselor I could work with teachers when before I go into their classroom to continue building on what they have been working on in class to connect to an SEL lesson. I plan on sharing this website with my current school.]]> 2023-01-23 21:02:22 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453906414 Other issues that surface - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453957743 Regardless of the issue, it became obvious that when students struggle, they begin to believe that they are the problem. My heart ached as I heard so many student express that they felt "weird," or "not good enough," or "unable to make friends" because of their learning issue. The one student who struggled to read, was clearly intelligent, creative and WANTING to be able to read. She also seemed to turn on herself when she started to understand how far behind her classmates she was in her skills. I taught students with learning differences and it was amazing to see these students progress when they had the tools to learn in a different way. Teachers need to be equipped with these tools to help each student, but they also need to be aware of the social dynamic of comparison that all of these students talked about. For the students who struggled with organization skills, it was clearly a relief when they were given strategies to help them on a daily basis. This will take commitment from both teachers and school counselors to not only teach these strategies, but to also provide daily support to help these students practice their new skills. It is easy to forget this need and to get so busy that you forget to double check with students to make sure the strategies are working effectively for them.]]> 2023-01-23 22:01:40 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2453957743 Through your child's eyes- Cayla Marcinko https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454091641 Teachers have a lot on their plate while in the classroom. I can see how sometimes certain things may go unnoticed in the classroom-such as not having the correct supports for students who may be struggling in certain areas. As a school counselor, we can help our teachers with these supports. After watching the videos, I really found the concept of giving our students who may be struggling ownership of their own strategies that they can use for their own benefit. Using strategies that compliment each student's individual strengths makes a world of a difference. Our students who struggle with reading, math, writing, attention, organization, etc., may lack in self-confidence or feel as if they do not belong. Allowing them to take part in the strategies they use can help feed their sense of purpose.]]> 2023-01-24 02:02:15 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454091641 Being Present-Andrew Tiffey https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454093894 After watching the videos on the website I was intrigued by the different age levels that students are experiencing these disabilities with. I noticed how critical it is as a school counselor to be able to validate and understand the struggles and frustrations these students are going through. We must be present for them and make it known that a disability of theirs can lead to issues with making friends or socially developing. In order for a school counselor to walk in a student's shoes we must have full open minds to listen and learn in ways we can adapt to helping all students in all levels. These students don't always mean to not be paying attention, or read slowly behind the rest of the class. They are students that just need to receive greater attention and have more available resources around them. ]]> 2023-01-24 02:06:06 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454093894 Listening to our students - FeiTian Ma https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454209142 As school counselors, it is our job to advocate for students in the classroom, especially since it should not be a child’s responsibility to have to advocate for themself. Many of the students in the videos mentioned how they often thought they were the “only one” experiencing issues with reading, math, paying attention, etc. and would keep their experience to themselves due to embarrassment, shame, or to prevent further bullying. I believe school counselors and teachers should work together to provide equitable tools and accessible education to all students. The first thing that school counselors can do is provide awareness and/or training for teachers so that all staff can recognize the fact that in a classroom of 20 students, it is unfair to expect ALL 20 students to have the same exact learning style and the same exact abilities or strengths. I appreciated the videos emphasizing how focusing on the strengths of students is often the most effective and the most encouraging way to help kids. This framework is definitely important for all the adults in a student’s life to have so that the student does not blame themself for being different, and instead work with the adults in their life to find tools and methods that work better for them. As Noah’s video mentioned, the tools and exercises he learned for his attention challenges were so effective that he ended up being the first person to finish a written final in his class last semester. Having the tools that suit your learning style can be life changing, and it is imperative that we as school counselors are ready to listen, learn, and advocate. ]]> 2023-01-24 05:37:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454209142 Being Mindful of Others - Evy Gelvar https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454821741 Like mentioned in our previous class, we cannot judge a person based off what is happening behind a closed door. I also feel like educators can only ask for so much from them. For example, in Maya's video, Julie Washington explains that we ask 5 and 6 year olds to master such a complex language in just a short amount of time. As counselors, we are constantly telling ourselves to give one another grace - this goes for students as well. Especially students with academic challenges. As counselors we need to support our teachers by giving them the tools needed for that "academic grace". Allowing students to be confident in their learning moment and to not feel frustrated and embarrassed when it is time to complete a task in front of their peers.]]> 2023-01-24 15:15:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454821741 Skilled Reading - Paulina Kozorosky https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454925176 When students learn to read, they need to recognize that the sounds they make with their mouths correspond with the symbols (words) they see on the page. These skills are best taught directly and explicitly, followed by plenty of guided and independent practice by general education and/or special education teachers. This learning can take longer for students with disabilities than the typical child but is attainable. As a school counselor, it is important to be aware of the students with reading disabilities and be aware of how reading disabilities make students feel in a classroom setting. It is important to include them in counseling tasks that might require literacy skills. One counseling task that might require literacy skills of children could include a written response to a read aloud, which requires listening, synthesising, and encoding (writing). That's a lot to process for a child with a reading disability!

A school counselor can help to ensure that all student accommodations are being given to students who receive them to ensure equity and help those students be successful. 

]]> 2023-01-24 16:14:31 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2454925176 Meeting the Child Where They're At - Chappell I. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455101652 Success for students in schools is a collaborative effort, especially if the student finds trouble with a particular subject and/or has a disability. The emotional component regarding facing these difficulties stood out to me. Older children spend years with their issue, being nudged and prodded by their teachers, other adults, and their own peers. The kids with difficulties stand out and their peers notice leading to social isolation and even being called names by other students. Over the years this can be exhausting and students can begin to internalize their difficulties as being some intrinsic to their being and not subject to change. Working with kids on the emotional level and helping to challenge their beliefs is definitely a key component to their success. Making sure children feel supported and finding opportunities to celebrate their successes is paramount. As counselors, we want to be inclusive and aiding kids in any way we can academically and socio-emotionally is a large part of our role as counselors.]]> 2023-01-24 17:57:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455101652 Walk in their shoes: Emily Wolff https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455182814 After watching these videos, it allowed me to gain a new understanding of a glimpse of some challenges students can face at school and how to overcome them. For example in terms of troubles reading, I have never thought about the implications of having kids taking turns reading out loud, as mentioned in Maya's video. I have come to learn various ways on how we can support them and set them up for success academically and socially. It is sad to hear that a lot of these kids have had negative responses from peers or negative views of themselves, because they see things differently and might need additional support. As a school counselor, it's important that we are a resource for both students and staff at the school, and to try to shift the mindset that the kids that need additional support are not lesser in comparison to kids who don't need it.]]> 2023-01-24 18:53:18 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455182814 Mindful of developmental appropriateness--Caitlin Wolfarth https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455414932 This video reminded me of my own work as a kindergarten teacher. In this day in age, students are asked to do a lot that is not always developmentally and age appropriate. It can be frustrating for teachers when they are feeling pressure to get their students to meet this high academic standard when their students are not ready for it. This can lead to students feeling as though they are failing, when really the work is too hard. Teacher's have a lot on their plate, and noticing and acknowledging these feelings can be put on the backburner for teachers. As school counselors we can combat these feelings by focusing on students' individual strengths and recognizing how they may be feeling in the classroom. ]]> 2023-01-24 22:19:37 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2455414932 Not doing what has always been done - Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2458301766 Legal Structures and Mandates have come a long way. The role of a school counselor has developed over time and has an important part of a student's lifelong success. One important part of the role is advocating. A school counselor can advocate for the student's least restrictive environment ensuring that connivence is not being considered over appropriateness and following the law. A student with disabilities should have access to a classroom with their peers and the services should come to them, instead of being taking out of class. School counselors play a role as the 504 coordinator and IEP team member. The school counselor can assist the team in coming up with creative ways to serve students instead of "doing what they have always done". For example, if our text book, the school counselor arranges for accommodations for a student to increase their success on an exam instead of just allowing the student to fail. Also, a school counselor must understand the difference between a 504 and IEP students to be effective in creating accurate resources and accommodations. No accommodations feels like discrimination which is against Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Violations of accommodations could result in a legal action. The student is the one who suffers when services needed are ignored. ]]> 2023-01-26 23:09:44 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2458301766 Advocacy- Hailey West https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463375417 There are many people and pieces that go into the school system handling SWD. Our role as school counselors through it all is to advocate for the student, and to be their voice. As mandated, all students have the right to being in a classroom and having access to the services that come with that. As a counselor, advocating for any SWD to be given those services is our job. We need to ensure that the student is getting the appropriate level of assistant in school, but making sure they are able to have the school experience. Additionally, we as counselors need to be aware of when an IEP or a 504 is needed and the difference between the two. It is out responsibility to work and find the best solutions to be the most beneficial to the student. ]]> 2023-01-31 17:16:45 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463375417 Collaboration- Taylor Mace https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463489216 As a school counselor, you're responsible for constantly collaborating with stakeholders within the school in order to ensure students success. In regard to special education, school counselors collaborate in each step of the evaluation process and implementation of services. For example, before the evaluation begins, school counselors support students families in the understanding of the RTI/MTSS process and support general education teachers in consultations. During evaluations school counselors continue to collaborate with general education teachers and begin advocating for both the student and their parents. After a decision has been made, school counselors collaborate by attending IEP meetings, continuing to support parents/families, and communicating with the schools special education team. After the evaluation has ended, school counselors continue to collaborate by participating in RTI/MTSS teams, communicating and promoting concepts of inclusion with staff, and continuing to support students and parents. ]]> 2023-01-31 18:26:51 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463489216 Integration and Accountability-Tenaea tenaeaariel https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463704988 The school counselor needs to be accountable to the student. The disabled student should get an education with no barriers. The counselor is accountable to the school system as well in terms of following federal laws that celebrate being inclusive. The counselor needs to be accountable to the students family as well. The family may have goals and dreams for their child and the counselor can help the family and the child achieve these dreams. ]]> 2023-01-31 21:21:55 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463704988 Advocacy and self-efficacy--Caitlin https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463814977 I think school counselors have a unique role in the legal structures and mandates that go along with special education. Often times, I think IEP and 504 meetings can get bogged down with discussion of what the child cannot do, or the deficits they face academically. As school counselors, we have the unique perspective of looking at the child through a non-academic lens. Our role in the school building goes beyond academics. Through one on one support, we can help the student gain confidence and learn self-efficacy. In these legal meetings, we can help teachers and other educational staff to better understand the child, rather than just the numbers and statistics they produce. ]]> 2023-02-01 00:03:28 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463814977 Advocacy and Accommodations - Maddie L. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463870790 School counselors have the responsibility to act as an advocate on behalf of disabled students, but also to provide them with the tools to advocate for themselves. Being familiar with students' IEP goals and 504 plans provides counselors with knowledge required to best serve their students. Collaborating as a team with other stakeholders (parents/guardians, IEP and special ed chair, gen ed teachers, administrators if necessary, psychologist, outside supports, and the student themselves) gives room for creative solutions to barriers to accessing education for the student. Ensuring that students are receiving accommodations is the number one way for counselors to support students. Going over accommodations with students and empowering them to ask for what they need is an important step as well, though this may take a bit longer than other goals due to the idea some students have that needing help is bad.]]> 2023-02-01 01:10:47 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463870790 Andrew Tiffey-Speaking Up https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463915788 For all school counselors, we want to make sure our SWD are having the same experiences as their peers who are without a disability. A strong way of showing our advocacy for a child is speaking up when we see something off in the child's learning environment in a class room or any other school setting. This is our fitting position of the counselor making sure all of the surrounding roles of staff members within a student case are making actions that benefit the student's inclusion and access to the education. We as a counselor fit in the gaps where a staff member by mistake may not see the full potential a SWDs may have. Its essential counselors are a part of the full IEP and 504 plans for students because as a counselor we are constantly working to understanding our students to the fullest capacity. ]]> 2023-02-01 02:05:20 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463915788 Where Do We Fit? - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463926504 I feel like a better question might be "Where do we NOT fit as school counselors?" I say that because it seems that school counselors should be involved in each step and process related to serving SWD. We need to be advocates and first and foremost make sure that students and parents know what the laws are and what resources are available. We help with the documentation, the observation, the parental support, the communication and the follow through. Through all of this, we walk along side the students to check in on how they are doing, make sure that mandates are being followed and make sure we are evaluating all that is being done for the students. ]]> 2023-02-01 02:19:04 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2463926504 Advocacy-Rheanna V. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2467578681 I think the role of a school counselor with SWD is advocacy. We are responsible for parent communication and support, social emotional well being, and 504/IEP support. I think we should work to support the special educators in the building, as well as the principal/vice principals in understanding SWD, the legal and admin mandates that are applicable. We should also make sure that SWD are thriving in school, just like their peers and that might mean working with the student support team in the building and creating a plan for each students' needs.]]> 2023-02-03 13:42:59 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2467578681 advocacy, consultation and collaboration- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2467989873 I believe as school counselors one of our most important roles is to advocate for our students needs and wants. A huge duty of ours is consulting with admin, staff, and parents and during these conversations it is critical time to be advocating for our student. Not only is advocating a huge role but also our support, we need to support everyone involved in these decisions, the special educators, the parents, the teachers, admin and most importantly, our student. Lastly, with all this being said collaboration is vital to the success of working with any student, but especially our students with disabilities, there are so many moving parts when it comes to documents and teachers communicating with one another. When we gel together and work as a team the likelihood of our student succeeding at whatever it is they need to excel at and need that assistance with is much greater if we were to assume one person will take on all the necessary jobs to help this student. ]]> 2023-02-03 18:55:43 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2467989873 Support - Paulina Kozorosky https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2469142308 School counselors play a big role in supporting students with disabilities, especially behind the scenes. SC can be the people who deliver student accommodations such as providing a small group testing environment, but they are not necessarily at the forefront of that role. Special educators, general educators, and other academic specialists are mostly going to be providing SWD with their accommodations. SC play a role in ensuring that these staff members are knowledgable about what accommodations students' receive. An additional role that SC also have is to provide social emotional well being support to SWD through direct and indirect counseling services. ]]> 2023-02-05 19:03:43 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2469142308 Support - Chappell Isom https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472319754 Largely, I believe the school counselors role in serving SWD is that of support. We're absolutely invested in the well-being of a SWD in the way that we're making sure their needs are being met. Specifically, this means that means that we have an understanding of their 504 and IEP and what services they are entitled to; we make sure the SWD is receiving those services. We are in contact with the service providers, be it the social worker, psychologist, OT, speech-pathologist, etc. We also are able to provide therapeutic interventions that target the child's social-emotional wellness as having a disability can come with a large amount of stress that other service providers may not recognize or have time to address. We're also involved with speaking to parents, teachers, and admin in helping them understand the RTI/MTSS. ]]> 2023-02-07 19:01:58 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472319754 Being there to support - Evy G. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472370781 As counselors our job is to help. However, we cannot fix. As helpers we are able to stand up for students advocate if they do not have a voice. Certain school systems do not require school counselors to be in 504/IEP Meetings. However, I think it is important for them to be there in order to support the student/parent and help provide interventions as a team. Many assume that a SWD automatically receives support from outside of the school system and that is not necessarily true. Therefore, as the counselor, we are able to give resources to the student in order to go in the correct direction. ]]> 2023-02-07 19:34:52 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472370781 Advocacy and Empowerment- Cayla. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472439716 As counselors, we should be involved (in my opinion) in almost all services given to SWD. Counselors need to be a part of the IEP/504 meetings, communication with parents and other stakeholders, observations, and especially be there to empower, advocate for, and support their students with disabilities. As counselors, we are experts in the social-emotional aspect of our students. Students with disabilities may need more support in their self-efficacy and confidence. As a counselor, it is important in our role to see our SWD as a whole person, and get to know their strengths and interests to build skills upon their social-emotional development. This will strengthen their sense of purpose and belonging. ]]> 2023-02-07 20:29:56 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2472439716 School Counselors and Interventions- Taylor Mace https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2484966514 School counselors can play an important role in the intervention of students with an FBA and BIP. One of these interventions is working to teach students replacement behaviors. While they can also aide the FBA and BIP process by providing observational data and helping to determine the functioning of behavior, the intervention piece allows counselors to take a more direct and active approach. Through things like individual counseling, group counseling, referring to outside resources, and collaborating with students and their families, school counselors can begin to teach replacement behaviors to their students. ]]> 2023-02-16 13:29:58 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2484966514 FBA & BIP- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487207638 School Counselors can be of great assistance when it comes to the FBA or BIP process. When challenging behaviors continuously occur in children there is a need for interventions. Counselors can assist in recognizing and creating positive interventions to help decrease these challenges behaviors. Working with all students takes a collaborative team. It is extremely effective to get all team members involved in cases where students need a little extra help and a counselor is certainly a critical member of this team. A counselor can be a place for a student to come to with a flash pass, implement individual and group counseling to the student. The counselor (essentially) being the liaison between parents and students can create a plan so there is consistent expectations at school and at home for a student to get routine and habits created with positive, desirable behaviors. ]]> 2023-02-18 18:02:39 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487207638 Disruptive Behaviors-Andrew Tiffey https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487309984 When working with students who are making voluntary or involuntary choices with their behaviors, school counselors have the FBA and BIPs to rely on. The questions that are needed to be solved in a FBA can help counselors solve a student's issues in a clear and effective manner. Basically, behavior assessments help staff members figure out the other needs students in school need help with, in which then the school counselor can directly intervene or help monitor how progress is being made for that student. It is also interesting how identifying the function of the behavior leads to the team of staff members to develop the correct intervention plan, and how to record data and observations in an effective way or not. This system of assessments and intervention plans are a critical part of the school counseling role. It helps counselors recognize if a student's problems are a reaction of something else or if the students needs help with other executive functioning skills, emotional regulation, or social skills. ]]> 2023-02-18 23:21:17 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487309984 Procedures and Advocacy- Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487824439 As a school counselor, when working with students I would follow the individual's preventive strategies. If a behavior occurs, would also follow the response strategies as outlined in the BIP. I would work with administration to create time for staff to learn about how to effectively implement the BIP. For example, teachers and support staff don't always know how to respond to a child's behavior in class and typically just send them to the front office. The FBA and BIP are lengthy documents and it may take time for staff to digest. As discussed in class, student services has increase since COVID-19 and we need to work together to best serve students.]]> 2023-02-19 23:57:30 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487824439 KKI Achievements Program - Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487832863 Kennedy Krieger in Baltimore has a program called the Achievements Program at their Center for Autism and Related Disorders. The program provides individualized treatment in small-group settings to children with autism spectrum disorder who want to work on their communication and social interaction skills. The groups can focus on a wide range of topics, such as language, learning readiness, and role playing social interactions. One of the approaches that I thought was interesting is how the program is also focused on building communities between families and helping the students form friendships. The program utilizes books, photos, toys, and much more to meet the child where they are at. There are two staff members placed with 3 to five children. The program is created to meet specific individual needs of the student. I chose this program as a resource because of it's key mission to build community and the accessibility of the program. For example, the program is open and flexible to families schedules and needs.]]> 2023-02-20 00:14:37 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2487832863 FBA & BIP-Rheanna Vaughn https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488517248 I think like everything else, we are advocates and consultants in this process. I think as counselors, we can understand different diagnosis' in a unique lens. I took Diagnosis with Dr France last semester and a big takeaway I had was that every person presents there diagnosis differently. Also, that people are not their diagnosis. This mentality can help in the consultant role when children with these diagnosis' have behavioral or cognitive issues and their teacher or parent is putting them in a box. We can help separate the child from the diagnosis and work as a team to come up with interventions and techniques that best suit that child.]]> 2023-02-20 13:54:06 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488517248 FBAs/BIPs - Maddie L. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488955408 FBAs and BIPs are valuable tools to assist both students and the adults working with them. FBAs provide useful information as to what activates a student's behavior, and can also allow us as counselors to investigate further into why such situations/interactions have such an impact on our students. Consulting and collaborating with our students' teachers is essential to their success. Teachers see the behaviors in their classrooms most frequently, so communicating with and checking up on the student in the classroom is effective. Collaboration with and for the student goes a long way.]]> 2023-02-20 23:32:23 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488955408 FBA and BIP through a school counselors lens--Caitlin W. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488958296 Just like in IEP meetings and consultations with teachers, school counselors have a unique perspective on students that is valuable when it comes to BIPs and FBA.  Part of a school counselor's job is getting to know the student on a different level than a teacher or administration member might. This insight is really helpful when writing a BIP or implementing a FBA. Also, it is important that the counselor collaborates with the teacher to make sure that the created BIP is something that is manageable for the student and the teacher. As a teacher, I know that sometimes teams creates BIPs with the best intentions, but they do not always translate well into the classroom. Being open to change and being able to modify when needed is an important part of being a school counselor. ]]> 2023-02-20 23:38:37 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488958296 FBA/BIP Teamwork Makes the Dreamwork-Tenaea https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488984313 A school counselor needs to consult with all school staff as well as the students family in order to make decisions that benefit the student. The FBA needs to be comprehensive and address all of the students needs. The BIP will reflect the findings of the FBA whether its ODD, CD and ADHD.]]> 2023-02-21 00:14:28 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2488984313 FBA & BIP- Hailey West https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2490187374 We all know that as a counselor it is our responsibility to be advocates for our students. It's not uncommon for children who have these various disorders to be misunderstood or wrote off as "bad students". As counselors we have the insight to step and be the advocates for these children. We can meet with these students and collect information that is needed for BIPs and FBAs. When BIPs and FBA are filled out and implemented correctly, they can be very effective fro the child. Ensuring the children get the opportunity to succeed in school means being their advocates when they need it. ]]> 2023-02-21 19:27:50 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2490187374 FBA/BIP- Cayla https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2490488822 Counselors have the ability to see students from a social-emotional viewpoint. This is oftentimes not the case for other staff in the school. As counselors, we get to see our students' unique minds and use this as a strength during the FBA and BIP creation and implementation process. Without the counselor, there would be missing pieces to the puzzle. The counselor can provide crucial information for students with ADHD, CD, and ODD, and shed a new light on behaviors that may be seen as "acting out". Counselors are the students' advocates.]]> 2023-02-22 01:47:05 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2490488822 FBA and BIP - Paulina Kozorosky https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2491890932 School counselors will work with a student support team to develop and implement a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and behavioral intervention plan (BIP). The school team, including the school counselor, is required to make a FBA and BIP for students with an IEP or 504 plan within 10 days of a behavior if the behavior severely impacts their success in school such as a suspension and removal to an alternative educational location. The school team can also make FBA and BIP for students who do not have an IEP or 504 plan. Data from the FBA and BIP plan are analyzed as a factor to determine if the student will be diagnosed with ODD, CD, or ADHD. School counselors can deliver direct counseling services to students as a part of the behavioral intervention plan. School counselors can ensure all aspects of the BIP are being implemented with fidelity.

]]> 2023-02-23 01:07:48 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2491890932 School Counselors and FBA/BIP - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2494973939 It is really important to know the components of an FBA and a BIP and to help navigate the process with all involved. We need to start with the 3 questions, asking why the student is struggling with the behavior, what causes it, and are there any positive reinforcements that might help. It is important to follow the procedures that are set in place for the process, even if it is time consuming at times. The BIP checklist is a great way to make sure we are following the steps, but also crucial in helping the create an atmosphere of change for the student. We might think we know how to help a student and know how to guide them to better behavior, but both of these plans hold us accountable to making the specific changes that will really benefit teachers and students. ]]> 2023-02-25 21:08:23 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2494973939 Noting Racial Bias when Diagnosing Students with ODD versus ADHD -FeiTian https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2497530525 The FBA and BIP are critical in working with students who have ODD, CD, and/or ADHD, and they provide a basis for the team process and collaborative effort that must be done in order to develop and deliver the needed behavior intervention plans. During the data collection portion of the FBA, the school counselor can play a major role in advocating for a student who otherwise may be labeled as “too wild,” or “difficult” to manage. Similarly, school counselors can continue to add input when the student’s BIP is being made by the team. Without the FBA and BIP, students’ needs will not be met and this will affect not only the individual student, but their classmates, teachers, and families. One concern I do have however, is about racial bias among diagnosing students with ODD versus ADHD. Black and Latine students are more likely to be misdiagnosed with ODD instead of ADHD, and as the article by Amanda Morin suggests, many students who have ODD can also have ADHD. As a School Counselor, I would want to remind my team about this fact and provide school-wide data if needed. ]]> 2023-02-28 07:21:18 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2497530525 How School Counselors "fit" (reposting because I think mine got deleted...) -FeiTian https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2497534395 As School Counselors, it is our responsibility to advocate for all our students and ensure that students receive fair and equitable education and services without discrimination. Therefore, SCs will “fit” into the mandates and structures governing services for students with disabilities as a support team member and an advocate for any student with a disability. To be an effective advocate, we must know how to work well with any other members of a student’s support/IEP team, i.e. a special education teacher, psychologist, occupational therapist, S/L pathologist, principal, parental guardian, etc. We must also be up to date with the current, federal regulation codes when it comes to a student’s IEP/504, while simultaneously being up to date on disability terms so that we can speak up for a student with a disability if any misconceptions appear due to lack of awareness for a specific disability. In a way, we have a dual role of being familiar with mandates and structures while being familiar with disability language and awareness so that every student’s evaluation can best “fit” them!]]> 2023-02-28 07:25:45 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2497534395 Drivers Ed and ASD--Caitlin Wolfarth https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2516803024 The MSDE division of rehabilitation services offers drivers ed classes specifically for autistic people. WTC provides two to three additional class sessions compared to commercial driving schools. These additional sessions allow the instructor and students more time to present and understand the material and also to repeat quizzes and tests as necessary.
https://dors.maryland.gov/consumers/WTC/RTS/Pages/driving.aspx]]> 2023-03-14 22:31:19 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2516803024 Autism Society- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2517633558 I found Autism Society website which I found to be extremely helpful. This site has been around for 57 years and the site provides a lot of information and resources. It fully explains what ASD is, the possible causes or factors, the diagnosis and screenings and the DSM-5. You also can request to get support directly though the site and connect to their National Hotline. They also supply resources on ways to give, get involved and how to support the community. Lastly, I really appreciate how this website talks about ASD as an expeirnce, they say "the autism experience" and to me, it gives a more positive tone about it which I feel other foundations tend to fall short on sometimes. 

https://autismsociety.org]]> 2023-03-15 11:58:40 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2517633558 AANE-Asperger/Autism Network and my friend's book - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2518388200 In light of our discussion in class this week, I thought this part of the AANE website was interesting related to the use of Asperger's and the history of the word. https://www.aane.org/aanes-use-of-the-term-aspergers/

This site is a thoughtful, relevant site with helpful resources for those impacted by Asperger's. My friend, Cornelia Elwood, is on the board and has written an excellent book for parents called Take Charge of Treatment for Your Child with Asperger's. Cornelia's oldest son has Asperger's and when he was younger, she had no idea what was going on with her son and very little support within her community. She decided to learn as much as she could in order to support her son and eventually wanted to help other parents in similar situations. Her book offers parents detailed planning ideas that make sure schools and communities are equipped to support these families. It is an excellent resource and one that I highly recommend.
https://www.aane.org/take-charge-treatment-child-aspergers-asd-create-personalized-guide-success-home-school-community/

]]> 2023-03-15 21:12:58 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2518388200 Local, Peer Groups Available for Children with ASD - Paulina Kozorosky https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521051655 Children's National runs executive function and social skills groups for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at the Children's National Montgomery County, 15245 Shady Grove Road, Suite 350, Rockville, Md., 20850. Families can check back on the website to see when registration for these groups opens up.

The flexibility and friendship group targets social skills and flexibility in young children, ages 4-5, with ASD through a play-based and story-based curriculum.

The unstuck and on target group targets elementary school students, ages 8-10, with ASD foundational executive function concepts and skills.

The on target for life group targets middle school students with ASD, ages 11-13 or in grades 6-8, focusing on how to improve executive function skills such as flexible problem-solving, planning and organization.

The flexible futures group targets diploma-track high school students on the autism spectrum, ages 15-18  working on executive function and self-determination skills such as flexible problem-solving, planning and organization.]]> 2023-03-17 15:19:03 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521051655 Autism Resources for Relational Skills and Cognitive Function-Tenaea https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521326532 https://autism.umd.edu/resources/for-md-families/

There is a hearing, speech and development clinic. ]]> 2023-03-17 20:08:53 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521326532 Animal assisted therapy-Rheanna Vaughn https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521764259 https://bpointwellness.com/equine-facilitated-therapy/

Research shows us that animal assisted therapy benefits children with wide ranging disabilities, especially children with autism. Balance Point offers animal assisted therapy with horses. They do accept several forms of insurance.]]> 2023-03-18 16:18:33 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2521764259 Special Olympics-Andrew Tiffey https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2524502933 https://www.specialolympics.org/?locale=en
Special Olympics is a national organization that embodies the power of sport to build community enrichment and inclusion for male and female athletes with physical or intellectual disabilities. This website includes many resources nation wide for SWD to search and find a team in their local state area. Special Olympics works closely with school systems as well and strives for athletes with disabilities in schools to play on the same teams as their classmates without disabilities. ]]> 2023-03-21 01:23:37 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2524502933 Autistic Women & Nonbinary (AWN) Network - FeiTian https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2524682999 AWN is a women & non-binary, autistic-led organization focusing on disability justice and transformative + restorative justice within communities. I have chosen to highlight this community as a resource because AWN prioritizes those at the margins within the autistic and disabled community. Most mainstream research/orgs/portrayals of the autistic community tend to be biased towards the male perspective, so it is helpful to have an organization such as AWN be a source of intersectional advocacy. On AWN's "Resources" page, they have a super helpful Resource Library where there are resources for parents of autistic children, as well as survival packets for autistic youth and adults, such as a packet that explains healthcare options for autistic adults. AWN seeks to empower disabled and autistic people, runs autistic-led publications, hosts meet-ups and community events, and is a very important resource to my community.]]> 2023-03-21 03:51:06 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2524682999 Be Like Buddy - Hailey West https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2525393862 Be like Buddy is a website that provides activities that are Autism/Sensory sensitive friendly. This website was created by a mom and dad who have children have developmental issues ranging from mild to extreme autism. The cool thing about this website is that it offers resources or different activities in every state. The mother does research and networks with hundreds of businesses to find places that are willing to meet families like their halfway.]]> 2023-03-21 13:34:23 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2525393862 Easterseals MORC Autism Services- Taylor Mace https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2525395848 Easterseals MORC is a leader in providing comprehensive, emerging and evidence-based treatment for individuals and their families. Their services include home-based interventions, social groups, parent education/coaching (individualized and multi-family), community based services, collaborative consultation with schools, childcare agencies and other providers, and evidenced-based group therapy for teens. One of the main reasons I decided on this organization was its use of evidence based frameworks for their interventions. These include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), the PLAY project, and Occupational Therapy. Knowing that they strive to provide quality services for both the student themselves and their families makes me confident in their ability to effectiveness assist them. ]]> 2023-03-21 13:35:35 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2525395848 ASD resource- Cayla https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2526096187 https://www.ppmd.org/about-us/
The parent’s place of Maryland is a website that provides resources, programs, and other information to diverse families with children who may have autism or other special needs. They believe in “families helping families”, and want to make sure that parents/guardians never feel alone and that they have all the information and resources they need for their child. PPMD also has one on one support and trainings for parents and/or professionals. ]]> 2023-03-21 21:24:40 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2526096187 HCPSS Family Support - Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2527380001 In researching outside providers, I found organizations such as Kennedy Krieger Institute, The Arc, and Special Olympics. I have personal experience with an organization similar to The Arc and Special Olympics but for adults. I was most interested in looking into local resources. I found a Family Support & Resource Center on the Howard County Public School website that helps families of children with disabilities, including IEP assistance, IFSP assistance, parent support groups, and service referrals. These services are open throughout the year and during summer break. Here is the email and phone contact for the center: fsrc@hcpss.org and (410)313-7161. This is a fantastic resource for families, especially families who don't have support in the state and have just moved here or have zero knowledge of the resources for their students. ]]> 2023-03-22 15:38:35 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2527380001 Transitions - Lana Williamson https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2528026675 https://www.understood.org/en/articles/iep-transition-planning-preparing-for-young-adulthood

I found a website that assists families and students in transitioning from IEP to Career/ Post-secondary planning. In highlighting ADHD, the website gives resources for students to be successful in the workplace and college. For example, the website highlights a step program that assists students in understanding their options and campus resources. Such as, colleges have available tutors and writing fellows that are paid through the work-study to take notes and send them to the professor, who sends them to students with accommodations. ]]> 2023-03-23 01:18:35 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2528026675 Resources for Autism - Chappell https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2528161288 A non-profit organization created by parents who have children with autism. Established for 20 years, the website offers resources, programs, and connection in order to serve families in Maryland. ]]> 2023-03-23 03:05:56 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2528161288 Autism Speaks: Emily Wolff https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2530548974 Autism Speaks U is a type of program that supports students and faculty in their awareness and fundraising for Autism Speaks. There are several events that take place to spread awareness through making connections with local communities in order to create connections. It is a great way to get involved in the community and to support a great cause!]]> 2023-03-24 14:52:24 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2530548974 Autistic Self Advocacy Network - Maddie L. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2544206564 https://autisticadvocacy.org/about-asan/what-we-believe/

The Autistic Self Advocacy Network goes by the statement "nothing about us without us," and puts autistic individuals at the forefront of disability rights and advocacy.]]> 2023-04-04 22:26:30 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2544206564 Dysgraphia Support - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550484611 A student with dysgraphia will need a psychological evaluation which includes technology assessments to determine what resources are needed. Most often, a student with dysgraphia will need occupational therapy.

https://www.baltimoretherapyspot.com/ is a highly recommended center if a student needs occupational therapy as an outside resource. Qualified therapists work in a sensory gym which allows them to provide students with exceptional sensory treatment.  There is a handwriting group option as well where Handwriting Without Tears is used, a curriculum highly recommended by area schools. An additional plus is that speech and physical therapy are also offered if a student has additional needs.]]> 2023-04-11 17:15:13 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550484611 The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AG Bell)- Taylor Mace https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550716863 The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AG Bell) is an international nonprofit membership organization, support network, and resource center on pediatric hearing loss and spoken language approaches and related issues. Through this organization there are a number of resources provided including those geared towards for families and even professionals. They provide information regarding various interventions and where those can be found/implemented. Their website even provides a list of local events, scholarship opportunities, and blogs that help to connect those who have/ know someone with a hearing impairment. 

Website: https://www.agbell.org ]]> 2023-04-11 21:14:53 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550716863 Keystone Pet Therapy- Cayla M https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550752920 Keystone pet enhanced therapy services help promote the well-being of children and families through human and animal interaction. With over 400 volunteers, Keystone pets provides services to numerous communities and individuals in physical, occupational, speech, cognitive therapy sessions, students who have experienced trauma, individuals with autism, selective mutism, and many other disabilities (just to name a few). Keystone pets is free to individuals. As a counselor, I can refer students and families to keystone pets, or keystone pets can come to our location. I believe pets have an incredible ability to help children with disabilities/disorders within their daily lives and promote positive well-being.]]> 2023-04-11 22:20:30 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2550752920 Non Speaking Sources- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2553258591 This source is able to connect families of non-speaking/verbal students to therapists that would best be able to support them and their needs. They offer opportunities to seek in-person services, virtual services, and you can even travel to seek services. This resources also provides events and other opportunities to connect to a community. Growing Kids "believes that communication and motor control leads to autonomy, independence, and inclusion." They also provide kits and guides to understanding non-speaking/non-verabl students and children with autism. Lastly, they have a story where you can purchase items to assist with communication through stencils and other boards and ways to speak to others without verbal communication. ]]> 2023-04-13 14:15:49 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2553258591 MD state resources https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2556948536 https://dors.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx

The MD state resource page for has information for people with ASD, hearing and sight impairments and other disabilities get work. You can find employers looking to hire people with disabilities. You can also find the DORS offices for assistance. ]]> 2023-04-17 13:13:24 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2556948536 Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council- Hailey West https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557012917 In doing some research I came across the the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council, which I think is a great resources to give to parents. This website gives a list of National and States organizations that connect them to outside providers. Not only does it give access to information about their rights, it gives them links to agencies they can contact. One of my favorite things this website offers is access to providers/organizations which focus on advocacy. Their goal to be advocates for children with disabilities and encourage them to advocate for themselves. ]]> 2023-04-17 13:52:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557012917 Occupational Therapy - Paulina Kozorosky https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557041000 Occupational therapists provide support in the areas of, social skill, math, reading and writing (i.e., literacy), behavior management, recess, participation in sport, self-help skill, prevocational/vocational participation, transportation, and more to students in schools under IEPs and/or 504s. Here is a site I came across in my research that offers support, literature, and education to families who have students with disabilities. https://www.undivided.io/ ]]> 2023-04-17 14:08:59 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557041000 Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital - Evy Gelvar https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557080977 After looking over resources, I chose MWPH as a possible outside resource. As a child, I attended MWPH for outside counseling and really enjoyed the atmosphere there until I turned 18. Not only does MWPH provide in-patient care for children, they also offer a plethora of outside services, including group counseling, psychological testing (this is what I used), and many other accommodations for students with a metal or physical disability. MWPH psychologists will also work alongside your students school in order to gage where the student is at, and how they can best accommodate the student in/out of the classroom. ]]> 2023-04-17 14:31:53 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557080977 Parent Counseling and Training--Caitlin https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557631061 Parent counseling and training is a related service that involves assisting parents in understanding their child's disability. This related service reminded me of the class discussion we had when we read "Welcome to Holland." By providing this service to parents, it can help them navigate their new normal by giving them the education they need. This will indirectly help the child to succeed. This service also helps parents work through their own grief of the loss of the life they were envisioning for them and their child.


Parents’ Place of Maryland, Inc. – PTI

802 Cromwell Park Drive, Suite Q
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Toll-Free: (800) 394-5694

Phone: (410) 768-9100

E-mail: info@ppmd.org
Website: https://www.ppmd.org/
]]> 2023-04-17 22:39:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557631061 Helping Students with Cerebral Palsy-Andrew Tiffey https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557750078 https://www.mycerebralpalsychild.org/resources/
Upon my research, I thought that the population of students with cerebral palsy is a niche population that still needs large amount of support for school systems families. The website here "My Cerebral Palsy Child" has great resources for families including support groups and networking that families can search with through the website. This can help with the parents of children with cerebral palsy to not feel alone and learn other methods or hear different stories from families with similar cases. This site educates families on medical advice for their children and the right steps to take with their child's mobility issues and what professionals to look for in their specific state. ]]> 2023-04-18 00:58:21 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2557750078 The Therapist Neurodiversity Collective: OTs, SLPs, PTs - FeiTian Ma https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559001558 The Therapist Neurodiversity Collective is an international and neurodiversity-affirming organization for people with brain-based disabilities (i.e. autism, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, or mental health disabilities) and provides affirming therapy, education, and advocacy. TTNC provides free public access to trauma-informed, non-compliance based, neurodiversity paradigm-aligned therapist through their directory listings. This resource stands out to me because they do NOT recommend ABA practices and are "unapologetically ABA-free," and focus more on protecting and honoring an individual's welfare and rights, self-determination and self-esteem, personal agency, body autonomy, sensory system needs, and an autistic/neurodivergent person's right to say "No," rather than focusing on compliance-based practices that have been linked to poor mental health outcomes and increased suicidality in autistic adults, such as ABA therapy. I feel that this is a great outside resource I can refer to neurodivergent/autistic youth, as well as their families if their families are interested in seeking neurodiversity affirming therapy and Autistic-led organizations. TTNC is an Autistic-led organization and you can see how important it is to provide high-quality and accessible research/education and therapist listings to their audience! ]]> 2023-04-18 17:57:27 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559001558 Grief Counseling - Maddie L. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559204820 If a student has lost a loved one, especially due to extreme circumstances (murder, suicide, etc...), that grief can be exceptionally hard to process and overcome. This can lead to depression. The Maryland Crime Victims Resource Center offers free support services in the form of group counseling for those impacted by such a loss.

https://www.mdcrimevictims.org/victim-services/support-groups/]]> 2023-04-18 21:23:25 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559204820 American Printing House for the Blind - Emily Wolff https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559209414 From what I have learned from this resource, the APH is a nonprofit that has a range of resources ranging from children to adults, covering different ends of the spectrum in terms of visual impairments as well. The great thing about the APH is that they offer support and resources in a wide range of settings as well; including in schools, work, or just things and places that are in everyday life as well. This resource encourages independence among individuals with visual impairments with different tabs in the website. The taps include different things such as resources, accessibility solutions, educational resources, catalogs, as well as life with vision loss. Linked in those, are other helpful resources with direct links such as family connect, APH career connect, as well as vision aware! One thing that stood out to me right away too is that they have a specific section for recent diagnosis as well which offers support right away.

]]> 2023-04-18 21:30:05 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559209414 FBA/BIP - Chappell https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559249140 The FBA & BIP are important tools to support a student's academic, social-emotional wellness, and career preparation. These tools utilized effectively provide data for interventionists that are a part of the SST. The data can help keep everyone the same page in regards to assessing the student.  Recognizing strengths/challenges of the student helps increase collaborative efforts with the student. For ODD, CD, and ADHD, these disabilities can have a large impact on how the student's day flows as behavior isn't necessarily predictable; the behaviors are unique to the student. More personalized services can be provided to the student with the data provided. ]]> 2023-04-18 22:42:48 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559249140 Outside Provide - Chappell I. https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559256604 https://www.thearcbaltimore.org/resources/disability/

A website that compiles resources for students with disabilities in the Baltimore area. The website provides the ability for families to submit applications for services. Services range from day services, family services, and other programs. Assistive technology resources are also provided. The organization is also very active in policy change and advocacy. ]]> 2023-04-18 22:56:30 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559256604 Parents Place of Maryland-Tenaea Thomas tenaeaariel https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559602113 https://www.ppmd.org/resources/

This website can assist parents of children with all kinds of disabilities in terms of laws, procedures and support. ]]> 2023-04-19 04:09:15 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2559602113 Support Programs- Shannon Roarty https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2560204326 This website offers information on colleges across the county that offer programs to students with autism. They offer programs for schools for 2 or 4 year programs. The supports the program offers can be small group based or individualized, offering training and certifications. Not every state offers a school with a specific program, however there are a huge list of schools that do offer transitional programs on this site. The nice thing also is that this site is open to receiving more information about other universities and colleges that have programs for those on the spectrum. For example, in Maryland, Towson University offers The College Autism Peer Support (CAPS) program. This program helps students who are looking to achieve success have individualized support and connect with mentorships. https://www.towson.edu/iwb/centers/hussman/programs/documents/caps-information.pdf ]]> 2023-04-19 13:39:59 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2560204326 Department of Education Q&A-Rheanna Vaughn https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2563481957 https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/transitionguide.html

This resources has frequently asked questions about students with disabilities transitioning to post secondary education. This resource would be helpful for students, parents, and counselors as a one stop shop for reliable information.]]> 2023-04-21 17:12:11 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2563481957 Andrew Tiffey- Maryland Transitions https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2564852204 This website, marylandtransitions.com is an excellent source for parents and families from the Maryland Department of Disabilities. The site entails how the child's IEP becomes directly involved with their transitions from high school to college. It has help on the parent's roles in helping the child and the necessary skills the student must build to self-advocate and disclose their disability. 

https://mdtransitions.org/resources/parents-and-families/

]]> 2023-04-23 22:34:02 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2564852204 Transition Planning - Lori Song https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2565975587 http://www.iceschoolnyc.org/transition-supports-for-students-with-disabilities

While this website does have some links that focus on services in the New York, it is an extensive list of so many resources for students looking for transition support. 
I found the site to be an "one stop shop" kind of site because it offers so many resources related to college, to job transitions, colleges that offer transition programs, and resources related to support for students with autism. It is a site I will book mark for future use.

In addition, there is a link created by admissions counselors which explains how to navigate the college admissions process with a disability. 
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1f9dfJZenOBH0Ao4JXalwhXbx003_RYK2Cx1s747GGFM/present?slide=id.gd8507b40a3_1_75

]]> 2023-04-24 16:25:23 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2565975587 Cayla-ASD transition planning https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2567586868 This resource from autism speaks can be used as a student’s own personal roadmap to reach their secondary goals. This roadmap includes an 18 slide document that includes a glossary of terms the students may need to know, a list of other resources to help guide them through their next steps, and action steps created for specific age groups. This document also promotes self-advocacy in students with ASD and gives examples of what this may look like in an IEP or 504 meeting so that students know that they can use their voice to let the people supporting them know what their aspirations are and what they need. As the school counselor, I can help students walk through this personalized roadmap and help them voice what they need during the process and become advocates for themselves. ]]> 2023-04-25 17:22:36 UTC https://padlet.com/luciarq_martin/hr5ivj66gljffauh/wish/2567586868