Loading…
Welcome to the official website for the 2024 TASH Conference!

Each year, the TASH Conference brings together our constituents to share resources and success stories, learn about field-driven best practices, and network within a community engaged in shared values. The Conference is attended by passionate leaders, experts, and advocates from every corner of the disability community. Conference attendees are influential in their fields and communities, and play an important role in the provision of services and supports for individuals and organizations around the world; and include professors and researchers from leading institutions; those involved in local, state, and federal governments and public policy; special and general educators, and school administrators; self-advocates, adult service providers; students, family members, and many others. This year’s conference theme is Celebrate Together: Let the Good Times Roll!

Click on the "Registration and More" tab for additional information about our Conference location, registration, reserving a guest room, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, and more!  The full Conference schedule is now available for viewing.  Registered attendees will receive an invitation to log in and create a personalized schedule.

to bookmark your favorites and sync them to your phone or calendar.
arrow_back View All Dates
Saturday, December 7
 

8:45am CST

Addressing Health Self-Management for Learners with Extensive Support Needs
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A
This presentation will address health self-management skill domains and strategies to teach learners with extensive support needs (ESN) how to actively participate in their specialized health care at school. The development of health self-management skills promotes health wellness, independence, and positive self-image in students with ESN, as well as positive perceptions of social competency on behalf of peers and adults without disabilities. Research shows that individuals with ESN who acquire health self-management skills are also likelier to achieve positive adult outcomes in education, independent living, and employment. These promising adult outcomes also support inclusion in post-school life. Presentation participants will learn (a) the scope of health self-management skills for learners with ESN and specialized health care, (b) IEP teaming around health self-management, (c) developing IEP goals centered on safe and feasible participation, and (d) core instructional strategies.
Presenters
SB

Sarah Ballard

Illinois State University
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Advancing Technology Access and Use For Augmentative/Alternative Communication
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5C
It is widely understood that communication in the 21st century involves the use of technology for a wide range of communication tasks and interactions. The use of email, texting, and other forms of digital communication is essential for participation in society. This is true for everyone in society whether you communicate by speaking or by other forms of communication such as augmentative/alternative communication (AAC). Effective communication in these different environments requires a variety of technologies that in the case of people who use augmentative/alternative communication (AAC users) need to be individualized to their specific access needs. Gaining access to the right technology and support to use it is often not an easy process and requires ongoing advocacy to ensure success. This presentation will focus on the stories of several AAC users who have used technology successfully for communication.
Moderators
avatar for Pascal Cheng

Pascal Cheng

Education and Communication Specialist, PC Communication Supports
I currently work for the Howard Center in Burlington, Vermont as an educational and communication specialist, providing training and consultation in the areas of augmentative/alternative communication, assistive technology and literacy for children and adults with developmental disabilities... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Christopher Lenart

Christopher Lenart

Disability Awareness
I am Chris Lenart and am a blogger and a public speaker. I am currently in Partners in Policymaking in Illinois (2019-2020). I was a programmer analyst at HSBC (1994-2009). In 2008, I received my Master's degree in Software Engineering from DePaul University.
avatar for Ryan Duncanwood

Ryan Duncanwood

SABE, The Arc. TASH. SCDD
fun, loving, caring, California Democratic party,  tash board member
avatar for Amy Hanreddy

Amy Hanreddy

Associate Professor, Special Education, CSUN
Amy Hanreddy is an associate professor in the Department of Special Education at California State University, Northridge. She teaches about inclusive and collaborative practices, with an emphasis on strategies that provide students with disabilities access to meaningful instruction... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Building Meaningful Lives: Putting People on A Pathway for Success
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 4 Boardroom
What makes our lives meaningful is based on our interests, values, and life experiences. Leaving school can be an overwhelming time for students with disabilities and their families. Teachers play a critical role in helping students manage this transition and ensuring post-school success. Supporting young adults with disabilities in meaningful ways requires services that are built-to-order based on individual dreams and circumstances. Providing customized services and connecting people to their community requires a different approach outside of program planning by moving to service delivery. Building individualized schedules, juggling supports and managing field-based teams can be complicated. This presentation will focus on strategies to develop person-centered services in real world settings that support employment, meaningful community inclusion and positive post-school outcomes.
Presenters
LO
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 4 Boardroom Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Celebrating Our Autonomy As We Transition to Post-Secondary Education
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin B
Inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) is now a transitional opportunity for many students with intellectual/developmental disabilities. ThinkCollege, a national technical assistance, research, and evaluation center dedicated to developing, expanding, and improving higher education options for students with intellectual disability, now recognizes over 325 programs across the United States that provide these educational experiences. Transitioning to college from an IEP supported K-12 experience, students and families strive to engage in valued ways in higher education by finding the right fit of program for the interests and desires of the potential students and their families. Getting it "right" by preparing well during high school, growing in autonomous ways and developing a growth mindset are key. This session celebrates evidence of effectiveness for IPSE enfleshed with the experiences of a family and its members who qualify for IPSE sharing their preparation strategies.
Presenters
avatar for Ann Marie Licata

Ann Marie Licata

Assistant Professor, Millersville University
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Go the Distance: Doing the Work to Retain Direct Support Workers
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1
The direct support workforce continues to be in crisis, struggling with high retention rates and resulting in an unstable system of support for people with disabilities. Many employers and states nationwide are trying innovative techniques to keep their workers and stabilize the workforce. During this presentation, we will explore the vital role of a stable and well-trained direct support workforce in supporting the lives of individuals and give some techniques and tips for stabilizing your workforce. We will discuss the importance of a well-trained, retained workforce and the status of the workforce nationwide. You will learn of recruitment, selection, training, and retention techniques to build committed and well-trained direct support professionals and hear from an organization that has implemented these strategies with success. Join us to reflect on your current workforce and make a plan to continue to engage your workforce to result in highly skilled, highly retained workers.
Moderators
avatar for Megan Sanders

Megan Sanders

National Workforce Consultant, Institute on Community Integration
Presenters
avatar for Kelsey Johnson

Kelsey Johnson

Workforce Training and Curriculum Development Specialist, SEEC
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Looking at Quality Services - How Do We Know?
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 8
How do we know the services we are providing are what people really want? How do we know people are getting not just what they need but what they want? TLC has embarked on a quest to answer these questions. We have invited an independent team to come and spend a week with the people receiving services investigating these questions. Using a mixture of mediums (art, observation, story telling, group chats and 1:1 discussions), the team will "interview" people. TLC is interested in truly understanding how effective we are in supporting people to live the lives they need and want. This information, along with surveys of staff and families will be a part of our planning for the future of the agency. We are excited to share our process, how it went and what we learned. Representatives from TLC and the independent team will share their experiences.
Moderators
avatar for Jennifer Lengyel

Jennifer Lengyel

Executive Director, Total Living Concept
Presenters
NV

Nanette Vanderford

Total Living Concept
avatar for Sheldon Schwitek

Sheldon Schwitek

Co-Founder/ Consultant, In the Company of Others
Sheldon Schwitek has been supporting individuals with complex behavioural needs in the United Statesb and in Canada for over decades. He was introduced to the founding members of the Marsha Forest Center in 1990 and became a facilitator of the person-centered processes of MAPS, PATH... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 8 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Make Sure Your Life Is Worth Watching!
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G
One Day Your Life Will Flash Before Your Eyes. Make Sure It's Worth Watching! By envision your life as though you are the star of a show, this interactive session will take self-advocates on a journey of dramatic structure that parallels real life as you identify the roles you play and responsibilities you have; choose your co-stars and cast; pick your settings; develop soundtracks; and manifest your future through the commercials in your mind. The roller coaster of life is a never-ending series of important stories that you have the power to write, direct, and star in.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Stephens

Aaron Stephens

The Arc of Frederick County
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Students with ID As Business Owners: Strategies For Transition Educators
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A
Transition educators can be integral in supporting students with extensive support needs, including intellectual disability (ID) as they pursue meaningful post-school employment. One unique pathway to achieve employment involves creating a small business and pursuing self-employment. Self-employment occurs when an individual works for themself rather than working for an employer. Individuals with disabilities are more likely to pursue self-employment than individuals without disabilities, however, transition educators may be less familiar with self-employment and less prepared to support students with ID and their families achieve self-employment. In addition to describing five strategies that transition educators can use to increase awareness about self-employment while students are in high school, this structured discussion will also feature two parents and two self-advocates who started their businesses with the support of
Presenters
avatar for Emily Malouf

Emily Malouf

Research Scholar, Vanderbilt University
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Studying Customized Employment to Expand Competitive Integrated Employment
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12
This panel discussion delves into the multifaceted landscape of Customized Employment (CE), and efforts to catalog its use as a workable tool for provider transformation and expansion of Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE). The members of the panel were all participants in a Case Study through the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) investigating how Customized Employment is successfully implemented in the community, and each brings a unique perspective, shedding light on the collaborative efforts required to facilitate meaningful employment outcomes. Through shared experiences, practical strategies, and interactive dialogue, attendees will gain valuable insights into fostering a more inclusive and supportive employment environment for individuals with disabilities and learn about efforts through ODEP's CIE initiatives to better understand the successful utilization of Customized Employment implementation across the country.
Moderators
avatar for Jeffrey Carpenter
Presenters
avatar for Merry-Reid Sheffer

Merry-Reid Sheffer

Lead Employment Specialist, Edge Employment
Edge Employment is the 4-person employment team within Mattingly Edge based in Louisville, KY! Our Specialists hold or are working toward certifications in Discovery, Job Development, and Systematic Instruction to provide Customized Employment through Marc Gold and Associates. Social... Read More →
GM
DP
avatar for Rich Davis

Rich Davis

Policy Advisor, Office of Disability Employment Policy
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Sub-Minimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment: How Illinois Rolls!
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C
This presentation will provide an overview of the Illinois Sub-Minimum Wage to Competitive Integrated Employment (SWTCIE) Project. SWTCIE is a project administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Rehabilitation Services. The project will address the need to expand opportunities for Illinoisans with disabilities to obtain high-quality competitive integrated employment that leads to economic security, & assist & encourage employers to fully include individuals with disabilities into their workforce. SWTCIE aims to achieve systems change by establishing the efficacy of a replicable and scalable model that increases opportunities for individuals with disabilities to transition from subminimum wage employment to competitive integrated employment and redirect to competitive integrated employment those individuals contemplating subminimum wage employment. The project outcomes are to enhance quality of life & increase independence & inclusion among SWTCIE participants.
Moderators
JK

James Knauf

University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana
Presenters
SB

Sharon Bergfeld

University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana
CI

Christina Irland

SWTCIE Illinois
KM

Kyle Menke

University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Empowering School Leaders: Championing Inclusion and Belonging For Students
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A
 The number of students in special education has steadily risen, reaching 7.3 million in 2021-22 under IDEA. This growth emphasizes the need for skilled school administrators to address diverse learning needs. Special education leadership entails managing systems, ensuring compliance, promoting inclusivity, and improving outcomes. Effective leadership correlates with better academic and social results for students with disabilities. The presenters will discuss how through collaborative partnerships, advocacy, and the cultivation of inclusive school cultures, school leaders can enact systemic change, dismantle barriers and create environments where every student, irrespective of ability, feels a profound sense of belonging with a focus on practices tailored for students with severe disabilities and their families.  
Moderators
YM

Yvonne Moreno

College Assistant Professor, New Mexico State University
Yvonne Moreno, PhD is a College Assistant Professor at New Mexico State University. She believes that all individuals regardless of their exceptionalities must have a right to the self-actualization of their goals and aspirations. This belief has guided her education, career, and... Read More →
Presenters
KK

Kristin Kew

New Mexico State University
avatar for Sergio Madrid-Aranda

Sergio Madrid-Aranda

Assistant Professor, Augsburg University
Sergio Madrid-Aranda is an Assistant Professor at Augsburg University in Minneapolis, MN. He earned his PhD in Special Bilingual Education, focusing on autism spectrum disorders, from New Mexico State University. He collaborates with Murcia University in Spain as a research associate... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Expanding Employment Choices: An Innovative Approach to Sustainable Entrepreneurship for All
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D
This presentation addresses the unique barriers faced by entrepreneurs with disabilities, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), mental illness, and other significant disabilities. By tackling these challenges directly, attendees will explore an innovative entrepreneurial ecosystem that aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society where economic independence and success are accessible to everyone, regardless of disability. By highlighting success stories and best practices, we aim to inspire and equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.
Moderators
avatar for Aarti Sahgal

Aarti Sahgal

Founder & CEO, Synergies Work
I am the founder of Synergies Work - the largest startup hub providing comprehensive supports to entrepreneurs with disabilities. At Synergies Work our mission is to bridge the disability wealth gap through entrepreneurship.
Presenters
AS
AS
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Leveraging Gallup CliftonStrengths For Disabled Employees in Inclusive Workplaces
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2
Over 30 million people worldwide have taken the Gallup CliftonStrengths assessment and have learned the critical link between talent and strengths, as well as the wisdom in leveraging strengths instead of trying to “fix” weaknesses. In the disability community, starting with strengths and leveraging abilities is the foundation for Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) at school, and Individual Plans for Employment (IPEs) at work. This session will describe how to leverage the CliftonStrengths assessment and coaching approach in the workplace. CliftonStrengths provides a common language for disabled and nondisabled employees and their managers to work together and provide an optimal and inclusive environment for all employees.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Camota Luebke

Jennifer Camota Luebke

President & CEO, Relay Resources
Dr. Jennifer Camota Luebke is a visionary and strategic President and CEO of Relay Resources, a leading social enterprise in the Pacific Northwest that cultivates meaningful employment for people with disabilities. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the national United... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Overcoming Challenges and Resistance: Advancing Inclusion in Schools
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 11
This presentation explores the critical importance of overcoming challenges and resistance to systemic change in schools to advance inclusion. It delves into common barriers hindering progress towards inclusive education, such as lack of awareness, fear of change, and resource constraints. Through a combination of strategies, including education, collaboration, resource management, leadership, and advocacy, this presentation provides insights into how educators and administrators can effectively navigate these challenges. By examining case studies, engaging in interactive discussions, and outlining action plans, participants will leave with practical tools and knowledge to drive positive change and foster inclusive school environments.
Presenters
avatar for Kelli Petrone

Kelli Petrone

Program Director, All In For Inclusive Education
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 11 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Positive Behavior Supports in the Workplace
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 9
It is easy to read about behavioral crises and describe what staff should do. It isn’t quite as easy when you are the one being hit or yelled at. When confronted by challenging behavior, it is more effective to figure out the root cause of the behavior. Challenging behaviors are often means of communication – it sends the message of needs not being met such as, "I'm frustrated," "I'm bored," "I have no power," "I don't feel safe," "I don't feel valued," etc. Once we identify the root cause, we need to stop or replace the behavior. In order to stop the behavior, we need to stop the pattern, not just the current incidence. This presentation will provide strategies for identifying possible functions of challenging behaviors and identify ways to respond and prevent these behaviors in the workplace. Participants will also gain an understanding of how the environment, and other people, affect behavior. and will learn to correctly carry out behavioral support plans in an ethical manner.
Presenters
LO
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 9 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Securing The Future: Visions, Decisions, and Advocacy
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A
Developing a clear, positive vision for the future is a powerful tool for guiding young adults toward a full and meaningful life. In this session, we’ll explore how to use Supported Decision-Making, self-advocacy, and self-determination skills to navigate pathways to adulthood. We’ll discuss practical strategies for transition planning under IDEA and how to use these supports to foster independence and success. Emphasizing belonging, community participation, and valued roles, we’ll provide actionable tips to help young people build confidence and take an active role in shaping their own lives.


Moderators
avatar for Leslie Lipson

Leslie Lipson

Educational Equity Strategist and Attorney, Georgia Coalition for Equity in Education (GCEE)
Leslie Lipson is an attorney and a self-described inclusionista. She has been deeply involved in advocacy for and with people with disabilities for over 20 years and currently offers advocacy solutions using general educational and special education law, from a values-based foundation... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Dana Lloyd

Dana Lloyd

DD Program Director, Georgia Advocacy Office
Dana Lloyd has been engaged in advocacy with people experiencing injustice on both a personal and professional level for over two decades. Dana currently serves as director of the Developmental Disabilities program at the Georgia Advocacy Office and coordinates the GA Supported Decision... Read More →
avatar for Katie Chandler

Katie Chandler

Consultant, Georgia Advocacy Office
Katie Chandler, a Project Consultant with Sangha Unity Network, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field as a direct support professional, advocate, supervisor, and consultant. In each role, Katie worked to ensure... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Supporting Educators to Make Equitable Instructional Decisions For All Students
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B
The 2015 reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, known as ESSA, includes a 1% cap on state-level participation rates in the alternate assessment. Enforcement of this policy has required many states to revisit their alternate assessment participation criteria and implementation. Through engaging in processes to decrease alternate assessment participation, states have reported some push back from teachers as they navigate how to design effective school programming for students who have switched from the alternate to the general state assessment. State and district leaders need resources to support educators who are serving students who have shifted from the alternate assessment to general assessment. This presentation will showcase a series of newly-developed, research-based free resources that states, districts, and schools can use to ensure that all students with disabilities have equitable access to rigorous learning - no matter what assessment they take.
Moderators
avatar for Jessica Bowman

Jessica Bowman

Research Associate, TIES Center, University of Minnesota
inclusive education, systems change, mathematics education
Presenters
avatar for Gail Ghere

Gail Ghere

Research Associate, TIES Center/ NCEO, University of Minnesota
avatar for Jennifer Sommerness

Jennifer Sommerness

Researcher, TIES Center, UMN, Minneapolis, MN
Jennifer Sommerness is a distinguished educator and researcher at the TIES Center, at the University of Minnesota. She is known for her dedication to inclusive education and student success, with a profound commitment to educational equity. Jennifer has played a role in shaping the... Read More →
YW

Yi-Chen Wu

Research Associate, National Center on Educational Outcomes / University of Minnesota
Dr. Wu is an experienced psychometrician and the statistical expert for the National Center on Educational Outcomes. She has been working with large-scale assessment data since 2000. She has also had experience on analyzing state-wide assessment datasets and different types of da... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Trauma and Resilience For Advocates, Parents and Teachers
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H
The legal and mental health definitions of trauma are very broad. Conservatively, a third of us grow up with three or more powerful disruptive risk adverse childhood experiences during our development. We think about trauma as an individual problem. COVID reminded us that trauma can be worldwide in scope. Such collective trauma impacts each of us uniquely to varying degrees and with disproportionate impacts. This workshop’s focus is on those who are charged with fixing the problems trauma causes in the K-12 setting while exploring federal and state trauma-related legislation. We acknowledge that everyone who has experienced trauma does not automatically become a victim. Some have – with or without help – overcome the adversity of trauma. Some try to mask the impact of trauma; others acquire resilience in the face of trauma. While still, others suffer silently or violently from their experiences. Presenters will share their experiences and ask participants to share theirs also.
Presenters
avatar for Barbara Ransom

Barbara Ransom

A civil rights attorney who represents individuals, families and organizations seeking relief from discrimination on the basis of disability.
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Trauma Sensitive Schools and Special Education: An Oxymoron?
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10
There are a growing number of schools and districts throughout the country engaged in efforts to transform education to become more trauma sensitive.  Trauma sensitive schools are intended to help all students feel safe to learn.  This session will explore what it means to work toward and identify as a trauma sensitive school and how special education interventions align with these efforts.  Discussing issues related to special education interventions that may be trauma inducing will be central to this presentation. A schoolwide trauma sensitive assessment tool incorporating special education practices for teachers, students, parents, and school/district leaders will be provided.
Moderators
TW
Presenters
MS

Mary Schuh

UNH Department of Education
avatar for Deborah Genthner

Deborah Genthner

Program Coordinator, UNH
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Vamos DC: Supporting the Latino Disability Community Living in DC
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin F
This session provides an overview of Vamos DC, a collaborative initiative between District of Columbia government agencies, community-based organizations, and community members to connect more Latino residents with disabilities to services that support community inclusion and positive life outcomes. Vamos DC arose as a community-led solution to the challenge that, although Latinos make up 11% of DC's population, they represented only 2% of those served by the Department on Disability Services (DDS) in 2018. Within four years of Vamos DC's establishment, the number of Latino individuals served by DDS doubled. To achieve these positive results, trust had to be fostered between government agencies and Latino community members, necessitating a power-sharing approach. This session emphasizes the importance of learning from both successes and failures in efforts to share power with communities. Honest feedback, garnered through trust-building efforts, is crucial for effective collaboration.
Moderators
CS

Claire Simon

DC Developmental Disabilities Council
Presenters
CM
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin F Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Addressing Early Turnover: The Critical Role of Realistic Job Previews For Direct Support Professionals
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12
Our presentation will explore developing and using realistic job previews (RJPs) as a critical selection tool when hiring direct support professionals. Unclear job expectations are why most employees leave within the first six months, accounting for 41% of turnover and an average cost of $5,000 per employee. A well-designed RJP, illustrating both positive and negative aspects of the job, can reduce early turnover and enhance new employee commitment by enabling them to make an informed decision.
Presenters
avatar for Jerry Smith
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Creating Student-Designed Space For Non-Speaking/Minimally-Speaking Learners
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin E
Nonspeaking and minimally-speaking learners are among the most marginalized students in school settings. Historically, students without spoken communication have been segregated to self-contained learning environments that offer students little to no choice in their education. While families and advocates still routinely have to fight for access, inclusion, and equity in schools, communities like ours have come together to build learning environments that meet the expressed needs of our nonspeaking and minimally-speaking students. By listening to and learning from these individuals, Reach Every Voice has designed multiple learning environments that our students describe as “a space created with disability celebrated [that] feels like a friend’s hug folding me in its warmth.” This presentation explores how communities around the nation have successfully designed learning environments driven by the voiced desires of their nonspeaking and minimally-speaking students.
Moderators
avatar for Lisa Mihalich Quinn

Lisa Mihalich Quinn

Executive Director, Reach Every Voice
Lisa Mihalich Quinn, M.A / M.Ed. is a licensed special educator with more than 15 years of experience making academic content accessible for neurodiverse students and learners who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). She is a former Maryland Public Schools teacher... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Anne Butler

Anne Butler

Communication teacher, Reach Every Voice
Over the last few decades, Anne has had a diversity of opportunities as a special educator in elementary and secondary settings. She has also worked at the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE) to further inclusion for all students. For over a decade, Anne worked as a... Read More →
avatar for Ingrid Ventura Ellis, M.Ed.

Ingrid Ventura Ellis, M.Ed.

Program Director, Reach Every Voice
Ingrid has worked with students with a variety of abilities including autism spectrum disorders, expressive language needs, and motor and physical conditions for more than 20 years. She has worked with children and young adults in school, home, and work settings and has provided... Read More →
NB
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Embracing Intersectionality and Advocating for Asset-Based Pedagogies in Special Education
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A
Intersectionality is defined as the ways in which multiple systems of oppression interact to impact individuals who have been marginalized across their multiple identity markers (Crenshaw, 1989). DisCrit (Annamma et al., 2013) centers the intersection of race and dis/ability, but this has only been minimally explored relative to individuals with IDD (Kover et al., in press), as research often equates the experiences of all individuals with IDD (Goethals et al., 2015). Similarly, many clinicians and practitioners overemphasize intellectual ability and underestimate how intersectionality shapes an individual's experiences across health, educational, and social domains (Kover et al., in press). This structured discussion will explore how integrating frameworks of asset-based framings (López, 2017), community cultural wealth (Yosso, 2005), and presumptions of competence into educational settings can be used to disrupt barriers and reimagine opportunities for students with IDD.
Presenters
avatar for Alison Wilhelm

Alison Wilhelm

Doctoral Student, University of Washington
Hello! I am a current doctoral candidate at the University of Washington in Special Education. My interest areas include reading development, inclusive literacy instruction, and family literacy practices. I am currently working on my dissertation and I would love to talk to you about... Read More →
MM

Melissa McGraw

Illinois State University
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Empowering Independence Through Guardianship Public Policy Reform
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C
Guardianships, intended as protective measures, are often overused and overly restrictive, depriving individuals of autonomy and decision-making skills. This overreliance fails to recognize the potential of individuals with disabilities and overlooks less restrictive alternatives, such as supported decision-making. Guardianships can also allow entities like medical and service providers to avoid making reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. The Maine Protection and Advocacy Agency has spearheaded guardianship policy reform for over two decades, culminating in setting a national precedent by being the first to adopt the progressive 2017 Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Other Protective Arrangements Act. This presentation will explore Maine’s innovative strategies, offering insights and lessons. Attendees will understand the successes and challenges in advocating for less restrictive alternatives. Join us to contribute to the guardianship reform dialogue.
Presenters
LW

Lauren Wille

Legal Director, Disability Rights Maine
SC

Staci Converse

Disability Rights Maine
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Letting Their Voice Be Heard: Student Government and Campus Involvement For Students with IDD
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10
Self-advocacy and participation in student clubs and organizations for students with IDD in inclusive postsecondary education is vital to their experience, just as it is for college students without IDD. However, with the historically recent inclusion of students with IDD in postsecondary education, our knowledge of campus involvement, particularly in student government, is limited. The purpose of this session is to give voice to a student with and a student without IDD to share their experiences working together to create meaningful change and documented gains in access for students with IDD on a large Southern public four-year campus. This session hopes to empower participants with key skills and information to support students with IDD to get involved, engaged, and included on their campuses.
Moderators
JR

Jeremy Reid

CrossingPoints Program at UA
Presenters
AG

Aubrei Grisaffe

CrossingPoints Program at UA
AD

Alison Durie

CrossingPoints Program at UA
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Making Systems Change in Personnel Preparation to Improve Inclusive Education
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G
This presentation will focus on the systems change efforts in the College of Education at one University, related to personnel preparation for general education and special education teachers, as well as multiple other school-related disciplines. We will provide the systematic steps taken to improve collaboration between preservice multiple and single subject general education teachers and the preservice education specialists with a focus on inclusive education prior to exiting their credential programs; and the creation of a course that all credential candidates take together. We will also provide the next steps taken in which all disciplines who work with students with disabilities in schools are involved in a strengths-based IEP meeting (parents and teachers, Ed leadership, school psychology, counseling, speech therapy, social work, nursing, etc.); what it has taken to get to this place; and the outcomes we are seeing as a result.
Moderators
avatar for Jenna Porter

Jenna Porter

CSU Sacramento
Presenters
avatar for Kathy Gee

Kathy Gee

Professor, California State University, Sacramento
inclusive education, meaningful access to core curriculum; augmentative communication; PBIS; elementary and secondary education; resaerch
avatar for Cindy Collado

Cindy Collado

Associate Professor, Sacramento State University
avatar for Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Professor, Teaching Credentials-Special Education, California State University, Sacramento
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Voice is A Civil Right!!!!!
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1
We all agree that communication and the ability to communicate is an essential part of our lives. Everyone communicates somehow. Too often with people with disabilities we hear staff say "I understand what they mean" or "When he/she does this, I know it means that" However, all too often we as support/advocates stop there and do not encourage the person to increase their communication so that others can understand also. What we need to understand is when people do not have communication/a voice that is understood by many they are vulnerable and at risk for abuse, exploitation, segregation and institutionalization. As providers, advocate and supporters, it is our responsibility to support people to develop and grow their voice and use it to advocate for themselves. We as providers, supporters and advocates cannot remain the interpreters and voices for others. We are exploring ways to support people to develop their voices and be their own advocates.
Presenters
avatar for Ryan Duncanwood

Ryan Duncanwood

SABE, The Arc. TASH. SCDD
fun, loving, caring, California Democratic party,  tash board member
avatar for Jennifer Lengyel

Jennifer Lengyel

Executive Director, Total Living Concept
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

"Well, THAT Will Never Work!"
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A
Parents who barrier-busted obstacles to ensure full inclusion throughout their now adult daughter's lifespan, discuss John’s recent admission to Kathy about his lack of faith in their ability to break down those barriers. He never shared this before because he wanted to be supportive of her vision and efforts. This presentation shows how our own attitudinal barriers can be as impactful as the systemic barriers that face people who have disabilities. His thoughts eventually evolved into a paradigm shift as successes accumulated. Barrier-elimination became the norm. Alexa benefited by attending regular classes in schools, accessing needed technology, a wheelchair lift on the regular bus, skating in her chair at the ice rink, using a power beach chair, being a statistician of a girls' ice hockey team, attending college, becoming employed, owning a vehicle a home of her own, and more. Stories, steps taken, lessons learned, and how other families can do the same will be shared.
Presenters
avatar for Kathy Brill

Kathy Brill

Owner, Brill Consulting LLC
avatar for John Brill
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Breaking Barriers: Addressing Inequities in Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Care for People with Disabilities
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1
This presentation sheds light on the pervasive disparities faced specifically by womxn with disabilities in accessing sexual and reproductive health care services. Despite advancements in medical technology and healthcare policies, significant barriers persist, hindering their ability to receive essential screenings and treatments. Drawing from personal experiences and community insights, this presentation will examine the multifaceted challenges encountered by people with disabilities when seeking proactive health screenings, such as mammograms, ultrasounds, or pap smears. Key barriers include physical obstacles, such as inaccessible exam tables and weight scales, which prevent individuals from undergoing necessary screenings. Moreover, systemic ableism perpetuates discriminatory attitudes among healthcare providers, leading to the dismissal of preventive medicine as a viable option for people with disabilities.
Presenters
avatar for Leah Smith

Leah Smith

Associate Director, The National Center for Disability, Equity, and Intersectionality
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Dan Thompson Employment Rallies - Our History and Our Future
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D
Washington State upholds a tradition of promoting competitive integrated employment and community inclusion through gatherings and shared learning. In the early 2020s, traditional gatherings were disrupted, leading to the creation of The Dan Thompson Employment Rallies. These rallies reunited legacy leaders in supported employment with people with disabilities, new service providers, government and education partners. Six regional rallies and a statewide event supported full engagement, both in person and online, fostering a powerful dialogue on Employment First, led by those most impacted. Emphasizing inclusive employment, leadership and voices of people with disabilities, these events reenergized our community. Transition students played a crucial role in shaping the vision and narrative and the rallies addressed inequities, ensuring marginalized communities' needs and voices were included in statewide planning. Join us to discover the innovative rally format, themes, and next steps.
Moderators
avatar for Heather Evans

Heather Evans

Wise
Heather Evans is rooted in the intrinsic worth of all humans, and has had the joy and privilege of working for people with I/DD and their communities for over 20 years. She joins Wise with extensive experience in Supported Employment, from developing new SE Programs, Customized Employment... Read More →
Presenters
RR
LH
AC
avatar for Jim Corey

Jim Corey

Program Development Director, Wise
With nearly three decades in the disability employment sector, Jim Corey is a key leader in the Pacific Northwest and national Employment First movements for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As Development Director at WISE, Jim has pioneered programs... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Language... Does it Matter in Teacher Prep?
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G
The words we use and allow our students to use matter. As teacher educators, we are preparing the next generation of educators, and they will impact thousands of K-12 students every year. This presentation will explore the nuanced role of language in shaping perceptions of students with disabilities and strategies for integrating disability representation into teacher preparation curricula. The presentation will review what two colleagues, including a disabled professor, at one Texas university are doing to change language and the perception of students with disabilities in coursework and with colleagues. Participants will gain actionable insights, learn updated disability-centered language, and examples of ways to cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment where all students thrive.  
Presenters
avatar for Jessica McQueston

Jessica McQueston

Assistant Professor, Sam Houston State University
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

My Home, My Life, My Choice
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10
Home ownership is often overlooked as a viable option for people with intellectual disabilities. This personal story will reflect the realities of home ownership including the challenges faced but also the positive outcomes including stability (both geographically and financially), opportunities for community connection and relationships, and real self-determination.
Presenters
RT
avatar for LyAnn Grogan

LyAnn Grogan

CEO, KFI
After ten years of working in a segregated Mental Health setting as a Music Therapist at New Hampshire Hospital and serving as a member of the National Music Therapy Association’s Training Committee LyAnn found inspiration. She was inspired by KFI's mission to provide supports... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Neurodiversity Advisory: Grappling with Implications For Practice
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H
The TASH Neurodiversity Advisory has created a resource articulating the Elements of Neurodiversity Affirming Practice. In this session, participants will use the Elements resource to reflect on current issues in education, employment, communication access, human rights, and community living. We will explore what our practice looks like and doesn't look like when we embrace neurodiversity and advance neurodiversity-affirming practice.
Moderators
avatar for Michael McSheehan

Michael McSheehan

Owner/TA Provider, Evolve & Effect, LLC
Michael McSheehan’s life work has been at the intersection of disability and K-12 education. He is a systems-thinker, an implementation specialist, and a leader in the field of multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) and inclusive education. Whether it’s assisting with student-specific... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Deborah Taub

Deborah Taub

Owner/CEO, OTL Education Solutions, LLC
MF

Mary Fisher

Professor, Lewis University
avatar for Leah Kelley

Leah Kelley

I am Leah Kelley, EdD, (she/her) an education consultant, writer, activist, parent, and teacher educator, who identifies as Neurodivergent and otherwise disabled. My research interests include connecting disability studies in education (DSE) to educational practice, strength-based... Read More →
avatar for Amy Hanreddy

Amy Hanreddy

Associate Professor, Special Education, CSUN
Amy Hanreddy is an associate professor in the Department of Special Education at California State University, Northridge. She teaches about inclusive and collaborative practices, with an emphasis on strategies that provide students with disabilities access to meaningful instruction... Read More →
avatar for Robyn Reagan

Robyn Reagan

Vice President of Special Education Services, Villa Esperanza Services
Robyn has been improving systems and supports for children, youth and families for over 25 years. Her first role model was Annie Sullivan, teacher and friend to Helen Keller. She is a lifelong advocate for children who struggle to make their gifts and needs known.​Robyn’s experience... Read More →
avatar for Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Professor, Teaching Credentials-Special Education, California State University, Sacramento
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Putting it All Together: Self-Determination, Decision-Making, Communication
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A
How can people with disabilities have access to a life on an equal basis with others without access to autonomy, communication and an ability to control their environment? Civil rights policy, legislation, and regulations mean very little without access to these basic principles and tools. Join us to learn how our Supported Decision-Making Project (SDM) discovered that supporting young folks to develop skills in one of these areas was mutually reinforcing in all areas. Gaining decision-making skills brings employment opportunities, greater social connections and higher self-esteem. SDM is an important component of a self-directed and self-determined life. Hear from young people with disabilities how attaining the role of ‘decision-maker’ required and relied upon the growth and development of additional skills. In addition, we will show that improvements in access to communication and other assistive technology can positively impact decision making abilities.
Presenters
avatar for Dana Lloyd

Dana Lloyd

DD Program Director, Georgia Advocacy Office
Dana Lloyd has been engaged in advocacy with people experiencing injustice on both a personal and professional level for over two decades. Dana currently serves as director of the Developmental Disabilities program at the Georgia Advocacy Office and coordinates the GA Supported Decision... Read More →
avatar for Katie Chandler

Katie Chandler

Consultant, Georgia Advocacy Office
Katie Chandler, a Project Consultant with Sangha Unity Network, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has worked in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field as a direct support professional, advocate, supervisor, and consultant. In each role, Katie worked to ensure... Read More →
EN

Eric Naindouba

I DECIDE GA
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Rethinking Practices: Supporting Students with Significant Needs with Trauma
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12
This session aims to develop a deeper understanding of Big T (capital "T") and little t (lowercase "t") trauma in students with significant needs, focusing on the educational and psychological impacts. By distinguishing the nuanced effects of Big T and little t trauma, the session seeks to inform more tailored intervention strategies and support systems in educational settings. The importance of trauma-informed educational practices and the need for continuous professional development for educators to recognize and address the spectrum of trauma. Ultimately, this session underscores the critical role of a supportive, trauma-sensitive environment in fostering resilience and academic success among ALL students including those who demonstrate significant needs.
Presenters
KG

katrine Gosselin

University of Northern Colorado
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Rolling with Inclusion: IPSE Perspectives From Students with IDD
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 8
Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (or IDD) have most recently been welcomed into the halls of institutions of higher education (or IHEs) thanks in part to the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. As the research agenda begins to blossom, the most critical voices to include are those of the students entering the halls of IHEs – students with IDD. Two students enrolled in an IPSE at a major IHE in the southeastern United States will lead a discussion on their experience, what they have learned on their college campus, and how they apply their experiences in inclusive spaces daily. The conversation will cover academics, employment, independent living, community access, and recreation/leisure activities. Participants should be prepared for a fun, lively, and engaging conversation with students!
Moderators
JR

Jeremy Reid

CrossingPoints Program at UA
Presenters
AD

Alison Durie

CrossingPoints Program at UA
avatar for Graciela Copes

Graciela Copes

Tier 1 Clinical Instructor, CrossingPoints Program at the University of Alabama
Mrs. Copes is a dedicated educator with extensive experience in special education and transition services. From para-educator to lead teacher, she exemplifies resilience, going above and beyond to support students with severe disabilities. As an expert mentor for STAR scholars, she... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 8 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Self-Advocacy and Healthy Relationships
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C
So many things touch our lives as self-advocates. Members of Project ACTION!, DC’s self-advocacy coalition, have learned that we can accomplish so much more when we work with partners. We are stronger together. In this session, you will get to hear from several members who have participated in a collaboration to ensure people with disabilities can get the access they need to be in healthy, safe relationships. Hear about the trainings they created and shared with other self-advocates to decide how they would be in relationships they choose, not their coordinator or manager. In this interactive session, presenters will talk about their experiences, what they have learned about getting the "love" they want, with audience discussio
Moderators
TY

Tiffany Yuille

Project ACTION!
Presenters
avatar for Thomas Mangrum

Thomas Mangrum

Co-President, Project ACTION!
Thomas Mangrum, Jr., is a strong communicator and self-advocate who is passionate about helping others to be the best they can be. He loves learning new information and sharing it with other self-advocates, his friends and neighbors. He is an excellent presenter having trained locally... Read More →
KJ

Kara Jones

Executive Member, Project ACTION!
Kara Jones is a strong self-advocate and trained facilitator.  She has presented locally and nationally on a variety of disability topics.  She is a member of People on the Go and Project ACTION!  She is also a member of the Women's Knowledge Group, a group of #ProjectPeer.  #ProjectPeer... Read More →
LS

Leonard Stevens

Project ACTION!
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

You Don't Look Autistic: Racism, Sexism, and Autistic Communities
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2
Autism as originally defined by Dr. Sukhareva, and later, Dr. Asperger, was understood as a condition that could be found in any segment of the population, discriminating by neither sex nor ethnicity. However, when Leo Kanner redefined and codified autism diagnosis in the United States, his definition explicitly leaned on then-contemporary sexism, and implicitly on racism and classism, to define “real” autistics. This talk will explore this history and discuss its impact on autistics in the generations since, ranging from ongoing differential access to formal diagnosis, to disproportionate pathologization and violence against BIPOC autistics in institutional settings, to how ideas about "female autism,” race, and wealth pervade debates about self-diagnosis. We will then open into a discussion about intersectionality, implicit and explicit bias, and promoting autistic advocacy that centers the concerns of historically marginalized groups.
Presenters
AL

Algernon Lutwak

Northern Light Health
CP
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
2ND Floor - Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:15pm CST

Unleashing Neurodivergence in Education Work and Society
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B
Neurodiversity is a concept that acknowledges and celebrates the natural variations in human neurological functioning. Neurodivergence is the term for when someone's brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is considered "typical." Within this spectrum lies many conditions often misunderstood and stigmatized in society. This presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in how we perceive and approach neurodivergence, emphasizing the importance of embracing neurodiversity in education, work, and society at large. Attendees will leave this session with a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity; ability to assess and challenge the traditional view of neurodivergence as a deficit; demonstrate tailored support and accommodations for neurodiverse students; explain the benefits of leveraging Neurodiversity in the workplace; and empowerment to challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and advocate for policy changes that promote acceptance and inclusion.
Presenters
avatar for Dr. Jessica Hicksted

Dr. Jessica Hicksted

Software Developer/ Research Advocate / Volunteer Director, CACI / ND Outloud! / Invisible Disabilities Association
Dr. Jessica Hicksted, a speaker, researcher, and advocate, specializes in Industrial Organizational Psychology and Information Systems to advance neurodiversity and accessibility in the workplace. She developed the WIDE Insights (Workplace Invisible Disability Experience) to help... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:15pm CST

Using SETTT for Success to Plan Effective Professional Development
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D
The SETTT for Success project is an OSEP-funded grant to support trainers of teachers of students with extensive support needs (ESN) in planning academic-focused professional development (PD). Trainers plan PD using the SETTT for Success PD cycle, a series of phases trainers complete to use data to determine PD priorities, use backwards design to design and develop PD, and then evaluate the effectiveness of their PD. The PD is designed to target comprehensive academic instruction, defined by this project as building conceptual understandings across and within content areas to know when, why, and how to apply knowledge to solve problems and answer questions. Initial findings show the SETTT PD cycle is useful for trainers in planning academic-focused PD. In this presentation, we will describe the SETTT PD cycle, the resources available to implement the cycle, and invite participants to apply the PD cycle, using SETTT PD resources, to their own local context or a case study example.
Presenters
LR

Lindsay Ruhter

Doctoral Candidate, University of Kansas Center for Research
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:15pm CST

Work-Based Learning: Practical Strategies For Job Development and Establishing Community Worksites For Transition Aged Youth
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 11
Developing worksites for students with disabilities in the community is not an easy feat. You'll leave this workshop with strategies on how to develop job opportunities and explore potential worksites in your community. The session will address practical strategies for identifying job sites, connecting with businesses, evaluating the appropriateness of a potential worksite, and securing school-business partnerships.
Presenters
avatar for Melanie Phelan

Melanie Phelan

Training Specialist, Illinois Center for Transition and Work - UIUC
I am a training specialist for the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois. My background is mostly in transition to work for people with significant disabilities. I am passionate about finding paid employment for youth with disabilities where they can... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Sipovic

Jessica Sipovic

Training Specialist, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Jessica Sipovic is a training specialist for the Illinois Center for Transition and Work through the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). She has over 15 years of experience working with children and adults with diverse needs in school, home, and community settings. Most... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
4TH Floor - Imperial 11 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions
 
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date - 
Clear filter
Wednesday, December 4
Thursday, December 5
Friday, December 6
Saturday, December 7
2ND Floor - Foster 1
2ND Floor - Foster 2
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin A
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin B
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin C
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin D
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin D & E
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin E
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin F
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin G
3RD Floor - Ballroom: Celestin H
3RD Floor - Celestin Foyer
3RD Floor - Storyville Hall
4TH Floor - Imperial 10
4TH Floor - Imperial 11
4TH Floor - Imperial 12
4TH Floor - Imperial 3 Boardroom
4TH Floor - Imperial 4 Boardroom
4TH Floor - Imperial 5A
4TH Floor - Imperial 5B
4TH Floor - Imperial 5C
4TH Floor - Imperial 5D
4TH Floor - Imperial 6 Boardroom
4TH Floor - Imperial 8
4TH Floor - Imperial 9
4TH Floor - Reliance 2
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin D & E
Hyatt Regency
Hyatt Regency New Orleans
Storyville Hall
  • Awards
  • Breakout Sessions
  • Committee Meeting
  • Day 1 Intensive Workshops
  • Exhibitor Showcase
  • Film Festival
  • General Sessions
  • Information Center
  • Let's Connect Box Lunch
  • Meetings
  • Membership Center
  • Networking Event
  • Poster Presentations
  • Quiet / Wellness Room
  • Reception
  • Registration Center
  • Research Colloquium
  • Silent Auction
  • TASH Board
  • TASH Talks
  • TASHBash Dance
  • Primary Topic
  • Communication Access
  • Community Living
  • Diversity and Social Impact
  • Employment
  • Human Rights
  • Inclusive Education
  • PBIS
  • Recreation and Leisure
  • Self-Advocacy
  • Transition
  • Themes of Interest
  • Adapted PE
  • Agency Transformation
  • Aging Issues
  • Asset Development
  • Assistive Technology & Apps
  • Autonomy
  • Capacity Building for Inclusion
  • Common Core & Assessment
  • Competitive Integrated Employment
  • Creative
  • Direct Support
  • Disability Theory
  • Discrimination & Ableism
  • Early Childhood
  • Emergency Preparedness
  • Employment First
  • Expression
  • Family Support
  • Financial Planning
  • High Expectations
  • Housing
  • Inclusion
  • Inclusive PE
  • K-12 Education
  • Leading to Employment
  • Media & Disability
  • Mental Health
  • Other
  • Outcomes vs. Programs
  • PBIS & Trauma Informed Practices
  • Person Centered Practice
  • Physical Education
  • Post-Secondary Education
  • Public Policy
  • Relationships & Sexuality
  • Research to Practice
  • Self-Determination
  • Self-Employment
  • Supported Decision-Making
  • Supported Employment
  • Systems Change
  • Teacher Education
  • Teaching Inclusive Practices
  • Technology
  • Transition to Employment
  • Transition to Post-Secondary Education
  • Universal Design
  • Voting & Civic Engagement
  • Wrap Around Services
  • Key Words
  • & Community
  • 1% cap
  • AAC Research
  • ABLE
  • ABLE Accounts
  • Ableism
  • Academic Education for I/DD
  • Academic Instruction
  • Acceptance
  • Access
  • Access to the General Curriculum
  • Accessibility
  • Accessibility Competent Equity Inclusion Opportunity
  • Adapted Book
  • Adaptive Skills
  • Adult Learners
  • Adults
  • Adults with Cerebral Palsy Who Use AAC
  • Advance Care Planning
  • Advanced Directive
  • Advocacy
  • Advocate
  • Affirming
  • Aging
  • Aging In Place
  • All
  • Allyship
  • Alternate Assessment
  • Alternative Communication
  • Alternative Credentials
  • American with Disabilities Act
  • Anti-Ableism
  • Anti-Racism
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • ASD
  • Asset-Based Pedagogy
  • Assistive Technology
  • Augmentative
  • Augmentative & Alternative Communication
  • Augmentative and Alternative Communication
  • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
  • Autism
  • Autism/Developmental Disability
  • Autonomy
  • Barriers
  • Behavior
  • Behavior Supports
  • Behavioral Support
  • Belief Systems
  • Belonging
  • Belongingness
  • Best Practices
  • Blindness
  • Bridging
  • Broadcasting
  • Building Through Stories and Reflections
  • California for All (except us?)
  • Capacity Building
  • Capacity Building for Inclusion
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Career Coaching
  • Career Planning
  • Caregiver
  • Caregiver Support
  • Caregivers
  • CBPR
  • Cherishing
  • Children's Literature
  • Choice
  • Civic Engagement
  • Civil Right
  • Civil Rights
  • Classroom Observation
  • Classroom Placement
  • CliftonStrengths
  • Co-Teaching
  • Coaching
  • Collaboration
  • Collaboration Maps
  • Collaboration Theory
  • Collaborative Approach to Awareness
  • Communication
  • Communication Access
  • Community
  • Community Access
  • Community Buillding
  • Community Engagement
  • Community Living
  • Community Living and Participation
  • Community-Based
  • Community-Based Participatory Research
  • Community-Based Work Experiences
  • Community-Led
  • Competency
  • Competitive Employment
  • Competitive Integrated Employment
  • Competitive Integrated Employment.
  • Complex Communication Needs
  • Complex Support Needs
  • Conversations
  • Cotaught
  • Creativity
  • Cross-Disability
  • Cultural Humility
  • Cultural Responsiveness
  • Cultural-Competency
  • Culture
  • Curriculum
  • Curriculum Adaptations
  • Customized Employment
  • Dance
  • Data-Based Decision Making
  • Deafblindness
  • Decision-Making Skills
  • Definitional Issues
  • Deserve
  • Developmental Delays
  • Diagnostic Accessibility
  • Differentiation
  • Digital Citizenship
  • Dignity
  • Dignity of Risk
  • Direct Support Professional
  • Direct Support Professionals
  • Direct Support Workforce
  • DirectSsupport
  • Disabilities
  • Disability
  • Disability Ally
  • Disability Characterizations
  • Disability Connectedness
  • Disability Culture
  • Disability Data
  • Disability Education Reform
  • Disability Identity
  • Disability Inclusion
  • Disability Inclusive Employment
  • Disability Labeling
  • Disability Policy
  • Disability Providers
  • Disability Studies
  • Disability Trends
  • Disabled Womens Health
  • Disparities
  • Disruption of Norms
  • Dissonance
  • Diversity
  • Doctors
  • Dogs
  • Doing
  • DSP Wages vs. Fast Food Wages
  • Early Career Special Education Teachers
  • Early Childhood
  • Early Childhood Special Education
  • Early Literacy
  • Education
  • Education System
  • Educational Barriers IDD
  • Educational Decision-Making
  • Educational Outcomes
  • Educational Placement
  • Educational Strategies
  • Educational Values
  • Educator Perceptions
  • Empathy of Understanding
  • Employer Engagement
  • Employment
  • Employment First
  • Employment Readiness
  • Employment Supports
  • Empowerment
  • Engagement
  • Equity
  • Evaluation
  • Evidence
  • Evidence-Based Practice
  • Evidence-Based Practices
  • Expectations
  • Expenses
  • Experiential Learning
  • Extensive Support Needs
  • Fabrication
  • Factors
  • Faith Communities
  • Families
  • Family
  • Family Advocacy
  • Family Engagement
  • Family Involvement
  • Family Training
  • Family-Professional Collaboration
  • Family-School Partnership
  • Family/Caregivers
  • Fashion
  • Federal Legislation
  • Film
  • Financial
  • Financial Planning
  • Focus Groups
  • Future Planning.
  • General Curriculum Access
  • General Education
  • General Education Classroom
  • Generative Artificial Intelligence
  • Goal
  • Grassroots
  • Growth
  • Growth Mindset
  • Guardianship Reform
  • HCBS
  • Health
  • Health Equity
  • Health Self-Management
  • Healthcare
  • Healthcare Inequities
  • Hidden Disability
  • High Expectations
  • High-Quality Employment
  • Higher Education
  • History
  • Home Ownership
  • Hospitals
  • Housing
  • Human Animal Bond
  • Human Rights
  • IDEA
  • Identification with Disability
  • IEP
  • IEP Development
  • Implementation
  • Implementation Science
  • Inclusion
  • inclusion in general education classrooms and curriculum
  • Inclusion Starts Now
  • Inclusion; Collective Vision; Definition; Intellectual Disability; Foundational Priorities of Inclusion
  • Inclusionary
  • Inclusive
  • Inclusive College; Post Secondary Programs; Designing Support for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
  • Inclusive Economic Growth
  • Inclusive Education
  • Inclusive Education I/DD
  • Inclusive Educators
  • Inclusive Health Care Education
  • Inclusive Higher Education
  • Inclusive IEPs
  • Inclusive Instruction
  • Inclusive Post-Secondary Education
  • Inclusive Postsecondary Education
  • Inclusive Practices
  • Inclusive Research
  • Inclusivity
  • Independence
  • Individualized Education Program
  • Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals
  • Individualized Education Programs
  • Innovation
  • Instruction
  • Instructional Leadership
  • Integration Independence
  • Integrity
  • Intellectual Disabilities
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Interagency Collaboration
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration
  • Intersectionality
  • Intervention Development
  • Interventions
  • Interviews with People with Disabilities
  • Job Coach
  • Job Coaches
  • Journey
  • K-12 Curriculum
  • K-12 Education
  • Kindergarten Transition
  • Knowledge and Skills
  • Language
  • Language-Access
  • Latina
  • Law Enforcement
  • Leadership
  • Legislative Advocacy
  • Lesson Planning
  • Leveraging Strengths
  • LGBTQ
  • Licensure
  • Linguistically and Culturally Diverse
  • Listening Service Provision
  • Literacy
  • Lived Experience
  • Logic Model
  • Long-term Services And Supports
  • Math
  • Meaningful Lives
  • Medical Education
  • Medical Self-Advocate Partnership
  • Medicine
  • Mentoring
  • Meta-Synthesis PLAAFPs LRE
  • Microcredentials
  • Mindfulness
  • Mixed Methods
  • Mixed Methods Research
  • Moral Conviction
  • Mother
  • Multi-tiered System of Support
  • Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
  • Multidisciplinary Approach
  • Multiple Case Study
  • Narrative Imagination
  • Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions
  • Neurodivergence
  • Neurodiversity
  • Neuroinclusion Systemic Changes
  • Non-Verbal
  • Nonspeaking
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Opportunity
  • Oral History
  • OTL
  • Paraprofessional
  • Paraprofessionals
  • Parent Centers
  • Parent Participation
  • Parent Perspectives
  • Parenting
  • Parents
  • Parents and Caregivers
  • Parents/Guardians
  • Participatory
  • Participatory Action Research
  • Participatory Research
  • Partnership
  • Partnerships
  • Pathways
  • Peer Relationships
  • Peer Support
  • Peer-Mediated Intervention
  • Peer-Mmediated intervention
  • Peers
  • People
  • People-First
  • Perceptions
  • Person Centered
  • Person Centeredness
  • Person-Centered
  • Person-Centered Planning
  • Person-Centered Practice
  • Personel Prep
  • Personnel Preparation
  • Physical Education
  • Placement Predictors
  • Plain Language
  • Planning
  • Podcasts
  • Policy
  • Politics
  • Positionality
  • Post Secondary Employment Training
  • Post-School Outcomes
  • Post-Secondary Education
  • Post-Secondary Inclusive Programs
  • Post-Secondary Outcomes
  • Power of Attorney
  • Power-Sharing
  • Pre-Employment
  • Pre-Service Education
  • Preschool
  • Preservice General Education Teachers
  • Presuming Competence
  • Preventative Care
  • Primary Care
  • Problem-Solving
  • Professional Development
  • Professional Learning
  • Program Evaluation
  • Public Policy
  • Public Policy Systems Change
  • Qualitative
  • Qualitative Research
  • Quality Assurance
  • Quality Improvements
  • Quality of life
  • Racial Disparities
  • Racism
  • Radio
  • Raise Inclusive Kids
  • Re-Evaluation
  • Reading
  • Reflections
  • Related Services
  • Relationship
  • Relationships
  • Research
  • Research to Practice
  • Resource Network
  • Respect
  • Restorative Practice
  • Restraint
  • Retention
  • Rights
  • Rural Education
  • School
  • School Community
  • School-Aged
  • School-Aged Children
  • Schools
  • Seclusion
  • Section 504
  • Segregated
  • Selection
  • Self Acceptance
  • Self Advocacy
  • Self Determination
  • Self-Advocacy
  • Self-Advocacy; Self-Determination; Empowerment; Creativity
  • Self-Advocate
  • Self-Advocates
  • Self-Determination
  • Self-Direction
  • Self-Efficacy
  • Self-Employment
  • Self-Expression
  • Service Delivery Model
  • Service Dogs
  • Services
  • Sex Education
  • Sexism
  • Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare
  • Sexuality
  • Shifting Mindset
  • Siblings
  • Significant Cognitive Disabilities
  • Significant Needs
  • Significant Support Needs
  • Skill-Building
  • Social Advocacy
  • Social Change
  • Social Communication
  • Social Connection
  • Social Emotional Skills
  • Social Interactions
  • Special Education
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Special Education Vouchers
  • Special Needs Trust
  • Specialized Health Care
  • Specifically Designed Instruction
  • Staff Stability
  • Stakeholder Perspectives
  • State-adopted general education standards
  • Stop Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault to People with Disabilites
  • Strategies
  • Strength Based
  • Strengths-Based Approach
  • Strengths-Based IEPs
  • Student Government
  • Student-Centered
  • Student-Directed Learning
  • Students
  • Students with Complex Support Needs
  • Students with ESN
  • Students with Extensive Support Needs
  • Success
  • Successes and Barriers
  • Suicide Prevention
  • Support
  • Support-Brokerage
  • Supported Decision-Making
  • Supporting-Families
  • Supports
  • Supports Disability
  • Survey
  • Sustainable
  • Sustiainable Entrepreneurship
  • System Change
  • Systematic Review
  • Systemic Change
  • Systemic Change; Coaching
  • Systems Change
  • Systems-Change
  • Tale
  • Teacher Beliefs
  • Teacher Education
  • Teacher Peparation
  • Teacher Preparation
  • Teacher Professional Development
  • Teacher Training
  • Teachers
  • Teachin
  • Teaching
  • teaching strategies for individuals with extensive support needs
  • Technical Assistance
  • Technology
  • Technology in Employment
  • Television
  • Theories of Disability
  • Togetherness
  • Training
  • Transformation
  • Transition
  • Transition Across the Lifespan
  • Transition Aged Students
  • Transition Educators
  • Transition From High School
  • Transition from Sheltered Work
  • Transition Planning
  • Transition Services
  • Transition to Adulthood
  • Transition to Employment
  • Transition to Work
  • Transition-Aged Youth
  • Transportation
  • Trauma
  • Trauma-Informed
  • Trauma-Informed Education
  • Turnover
  • Typing to Communicate
  • UDL
  • Undiscovered
  • Universal Design
  • Universal Design for Learning
  • Universally Designed Systems
  • Urban Education
  • User-Centered Design
  • Values
  • Video Modeling
  • Video Prompting
  • Vision
  • Visual Impairment
  • Vocational Rehabilitation
  • Waiver
  • Work
  • Work Experiences
  • Work-Based Learning Experiences
  • Workforce
  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
  • Workforce Strategies
  • Wraparound
  • Writing
  • Youth and Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
  • Youth Leadership
  • Youth Participatory Action Research
  • Presentation Type
  • General
  • Research
  • Popular