Welcome to the TTAC Connect, VDOE's Region 5 quarterly newsletter aimed to communicate resources, news + events!
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Early Childhood Special Education
Empowering Inclusive Classrooms: A Curriculum Framework for Early Childhood Educators
Designed for early childhood educators and professionals, our self-paced Curriculum Framework course equips you to better support young children with Individualized Education Programs. Through six interactive modules covering topics such as assessment, scope and sequence, and curriculum modifications, you’ll learn to implement a curriculum framework that adapts to fit each child’s strengths, interests, and needs. This course encourages reflective practice and equips you with resources to differentiate instruction and create supportive environments. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or related service provider, this course offers tools to foster inclusive and impactful learning experiences for every child. Complete all the modules to earn your certificate of completion and make a difference in your teaching!
[EXPLORE] Inclusion Lab App
This app supports educators in delivering individualized instruction for young children with disabilities or developmental delays. It provides quick access to valuable resources like planning tools, data collection forms, and checklists.
[READ] Creating Adaptations for Routines and Activities
CARA’s Kit offers practical strategies to adapt environments, schedules, activities, materials, and expectations, promoting full participation for young children. Examples include rearranging furniture, modifying schedules, adding movement breaks, adjusting materials, and simplifying instructions to meet diverse learning needs.
[LISTEN] Jani Kozlowski | Early Childhood Inclusive Education
In this podcast, Jani Kozlowski discusses strategies, policies, and practices for fostering inclusive education in early childhood. Key insights include adapting instruction, promoting inclusivity, and building collaborative partnerships among educators, families, and communities to create supportive learning environments.
[WATCH] Understanding Curriculum Modifications
This presentation covers the fundamentals of curriculum modification, highlighting its importance in supporting individual children and enhancing classroom practices. Participants will learn about eight modification types, reflect on current practices, and explore ways to support diverse learners, including those needing extra help, dual language learners, and advanced students.
[Check out from the Lending Library] "Building Blocks for Teaching Preschoolers with Special Needs" by Susan Rebekah Sandall
Transition
Higher education institutions are adapting to meet the diverse needs of students with intellectual disabilities by offering tailored programs, support services, and resources that promote successful transitions. These environments encourage students to develop their interests and talents, paving the way for meaningful employment and fulfilling lives. Research shows that individuals with disabilities who engage in postsecondary education are more likely to secure better job opportunities and achieve higher income levels compared to those who do not pursue further education.
[EXPLORE] Think College
[EXPLORE] Center on Transition Innovations – Postsecondary Education and Training
[EXPLORE] Getting Ready for College – A self-paced for students and professionals
[READ] Promoting High Expectations for Post-School Success by Family Members: A “To Do” List for Professionals
[READ] How We Made It Happen: Interviews with Parent Leaders about their Kids Going to College
[LISTEN] Inclusive Higher Education for People with Intellectual Disabilities
[WATCH] Think Higher. Think College.
[WATCH] Opening Doors to College
[Check out from the Lending Library] "Transition services for students with significant disabilities in college and community settings" by Meg Grigal
Family Engagement
Family engagement and involvement in education are critical components for student success. When families actively participate in their children's learning, it fosters a supportive environment that enhances academic achievement and social development. Engaged families are more likely to communicate effectively with educators, attend school events, and advocate for their children's needs. This collaboration between families and schools creates a unified approach to education, benefiting students with diverse needs. By cultivating strong partnerships, educators can leverage family insights and resources, ultimately promoting a positive educational experience that empowers students to reach their full potential.
[EXPLORE] Family Engagement: Collaborating with Families of Students with Disabilities
[READ] Better Together: Using MTSS as a Structure for Building School-Family Partnerships
[LISTEN] Redefining the parent-teacher relationship
[WATCH] Family Engagement with Schools: Strategies to Build Strong Partnerships
[Check out from Lending Library] "Powerful Partnerships: A Teacher's Guide to Engaging Families for Student Success" by Karen L. Mapp
Self-Determination
One question staff at I’m Determined always get asked is, “what does self-determination look like in action?” This is not an easy question to answer but it does surface the need for examples of everyday opportunities where students are practicing self-determination. I’m Determined has created a 9-part video series, Elemental, which is devoted to putting examples of our I’m Determined Elements onto a screen. While not explicitly named, watching Elemental is a fantastic tool to start having discussions about the 9 Elements of I’m Determined and the actions, choices, and mindsets that are needed to be self-determined.
[EXPLORE] I'm Determined Elements
[READ] Student-Led Individualized Education Programs: A Gateway to Self-Determination
[LISTEN] Why We Need More Than Inclusion
[WATCH] "8 Bit Avatar" - Steph: Episode 1
If you would like access to the other 8 episodes, please reach out to us at info@imdetermined.org.
[Check out from Lending Library] "Humble Inquiry: The Gentle Art of Asking Instead of Telling" by Edgar H. Schein
BUSTED! The Real Story Behind Assistive Technology
“Myths and Facts Surrounding Assistive Technology Devices" from the IDEA website addresses common misconceptions about assistive technology (AT) for individuals with disabilities. It clarifies that AT devices are not only for students with severe disabilities but can benefit anyone with an educational need. It emphasizes that AT can be used across various settings, including home, school, and work. The document also highlights that AT devices should be considered in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and that funding is available through various means, including Medicaid and private insurance.
[EXPLORE] VDOE AT Network on Social Media
Ideas and Information shared in bits and pieces @VDOEATnetwork
[READ] Assistive Technology Devices and Services for Children With Disabilities Under the IDEA
You can find the Myths and Facts here in English and Spanish.
[LISTEN] Think Inclusive: Inclusion in Early Childhood Education with OSEP Director Valerie Williams
[WATCH] Introducing OSEP's Assistive Technology Guidance and the 2024 National Educational Technology Plan
2:46 minute video overview with Sharon Jones
[Check out from the Lending Library] "Here’s My Book" - A book full of myths and written using AT from a student with disabilities
🌟 Love this book? Email Lorna at frizzelm@jmu.edu for even more fantastic book recommendations! These gems are not just great for inclusive practices but also for fostering empathy in your teaching! Happy reading! 📚✨
UPCOMING EVENTS
February 28 | Educators Conference: Early Career & Pre-Service
June 10-12 | I'm Determined Youth & Family Summit
More event information and applications can be found here 🚀
June 10-12 | I'm Determined Educator Camp
More information coming in early 2025!
Ongoing Events & Series
[Spring 2025] Region 5 Transition Community of Practice
Looking to connect, learn, and grow with Region 5 transition coordinators and educators? Email Jill Shifflett to join the Transition Community of Practice. Virtual and in-person events will be held throughout the 2024-2025 school year. Mark your calendars and join us this spring:
[Through Spring 2025] Region 5 Early Childhood LEADS Series
[Through Spring 2025] Virtual Student Pre-ETS Activities
Happy Holidays from TTAC!
A note from Director Dr. John McNaught + the JMU TTAC Team:
As we approach the holiday season, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to special educators for their tireless dedication and unwavering commitment. Your work transforms lives, empowering students with unique challenges to grow, learn, and thrive. The compassion and creativity you bring to each day inspire communities and create inclusive environments where every child feels valued. We are deeply grateful for the many ways you advocate for and support your students. Wishing you moments of joy, rest, and appreciation this holiday season.
JMU will be closed from December 20th - January 1st for Winter Break. We will return in January excited to support + assist you in the New Year!
STAY CONNECTED WITH US!
We're here to support you! To submit a Request for Service, click below.
If you would like to reach out to us with any questions, concerns or additional resources, please visit us online at www.ttacjmu.org, email us at region_5_ttac@jmu.edu or give us a call at 540-568-6746.
This newsletter has been brought to you by the TTAC at JMU Team. Thank you for reading!