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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.
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Thursday, December 5
 

9:00am CST

Person Centered Planning and Website Portfolios in Action
Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Foster 2
Feeling stuck? Need new tools to expand possibility for students/job seekers? This workshop offers hands-on practice using Person Centered Planning tools to develop website portfolios for students/job seekers. The goal is to get unstuck, here's how. We'll start with the best practice of Person Centered Planning. Attendees will practice using tools to expand on skills and contributions, integrating a strengths-based approach. We will dig deep to develop strategies for success in education and employment, and then think creatively about new possibilities. Next, we'll explore how to use the information effectively. The second half of the workshop dives into creating website portfolios, which are dynamic resumes and marketing tools showcasing skills, experiences, and achievements. Attendees will set up accounts on Wix Tomorrow, a free platform, and explore tools and editor functions, including generative AI, to develop a sample website. So kick off TASH with us and let the good times roll!
Moderators
KT
Presenters
avatar for Alison DeYoung

Alison DeYoung

Training & Technical Assistance Manager, Wise
Alison DeYoung has worked in the field of transition and employment since 2008 in various roles as a direct support provider, job developer and special education teacher. She worked as the Lead Instructor of Campus Life with Project FOCUS at the University of Arizona, a model demonstration... Read More →
Thursday December 5, 2024 9:00am - 12:00pm CST
Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Day One Intensives
 
Friday, December 6
 

10:00am CST

ABLE Accounts
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin A
President Barack Obama signed the ABLE Act on December 19, 2014, as part of the Tax Extenders package. This law allows eligible individuals with disabilities to have a tax-advantaged saving account; modeled after 529 college plan accounts. Account funds can be used for a range of qualified expenses related to the disability of the individual.
Moderators
avatar for Kelly Piacenti

Kelly Piacenti

MassMutual SpecialCare
SpecialCare is a program developed by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) since 2004 that provides access to information and resources to families with dependents who have a disability. Our mission is to help educate families and caregivers about the importance... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Building Educator Capacity: Coaching for Inclusion of ALL Learners
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 8
What are the first steps in the journey toward living our courageous commitment to inclusive education? Experience how TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804 partners with member districts to build capacity in educators to implement equitable inclusive practices for students with disabilities through professional learning and coaching. Coaches will share experiences from their work in several community districts. The presenters will celebrate the growth of students, educators, and systems at many different points in this journey. Participants will leave with collaborative structures, frameworks and processes that are applicable to teams and educational systems at the individual student, classroom, and building levels.
Moderators
MC

Mary-Kelsey Coletto

TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
Presenters
DR

Danielle Ritchey

TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
avatar for Amanda Barton

Amanda Barton

TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
CK

Claire Kelley

TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804
TJ
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 8 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Case Study: Creating A Culture of Radical Person Centeredness
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G
This presentation is a case study on an organization named SEEC that is implementing a best practice and research based framework to infuse the principles of person centeredness into the culture of the organization but to do so in a radical way. A shake up to the status quo. The framework has five main components: People, Collaboration, Values, Culture of Learning, and Continuous Quality Improvement to drive person centeredness into all aspects of the organization. This case study is part one of what we hope to be a two-part TASH presentation over the course of one year. In part one, we want to share with attendees how the framework was developed, discuss the various components of the framework, the assessment that was used to determine “current state” with self-advocates, families, and internal team members, and how we used that assessment to develop a project pl
Moderators
NB

Nicholas Burton

N. Burton Consulting
Presenters
avatar for Karen Lee

Karen Lee

CEO, SEEC
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Centering Student Impact Through Inclusionary Instructional Leadership
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Foster 1
The Inclusionary Practices Technical Assistance Network (IPTN) is a dynamic, systems-level effort to eliminate exclusionary practices for all students in Washington state, with a focus students experiencing the most exclusion. While many students with disabilities have benefited from Washington's increased investment in inclusionary practices, state data show that Black students and students with IDD are still disproportionately excluded from general education. The IPTN is committed to addressing these inequities by explicitly targeting systems and practices that limit choice and opportunity these students. By braiding federal IDEA and state special education funds, IPTN has co-constructed a collaborative of statewide professional organizations to support inclusionary outcomes focusing systems changes in service of students furthest from educational justice. IPTN is more than a network of providers; it's a transformative force shaping the future of inclusive instructional leadership.
Moderators
avatar for Cassie Martin

Cassie Martin

Executive Director of Special Education, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)
Dr. Cassie Martin is WA state’s Executive Director of Special Education at OSPI. For over 25 years, Cassie has dedicated her professional life and learning to equitable and inclusive education for students with disabilities in support of strong educational outcomes for all students... Read More →
Presenters
JK
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Community-Based Instruction: A Competency-Based Training
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C
This presentation delves into community-based instruction (CBI) training for direct support professionals engaged in home and community-based services (HCBS). It sheds light on developing and implementing a train-the-trainer (T/T) model designed to enhance the skills of HCBS providers, support compliance with the Settings Rule, and foster meaningful community involvement. Through a collaborative effort, project staff, HCBS providers, and family advocacy organizations have crafted a curriculum that addresses CBI's core needs and objectives. The presenters will discuss the systematic framework and the built-in fidelity measures of the T/T model, encompassing both trainer and learner competencies. Participants will leave with a comprehensive understanding of the projects foundation, its collaborative development process, and the impactful outcomes of the training initiative, thus paving the way for improved service delivery and community participation among HCBS providers.
Moderators
avatar for Aubrey Snyder

Aubrey Snyder

Program Coordinator, Utah State University
Hi! I'm Aubrey Snyder. First and foremost, I am a twin sibling to a brother who has Down syndrome and hearing impairments. As a sister, I am incredibly passionate about working within the disability community to improve the services and supports, systems, and society that we work... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Tim Reisen

Tim Reisen

Director of Research and Training, Utah State University
Tim is the Director of the Research and Training Division at the Institute for Disability Research, Policy & Practice with an appointment as research associate professor in the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation at Utah State University. Tim has 30 years of experience... Read More →
avatar for Katie Emmett

Katie Emmett

Utah State University Institute for Disability Research, Policy and Practice
NS
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Creating Inclusive School Communities in an Urban Turnaround District
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 5C
Attention all urban educators and administrators! Please join us as we present and discuss the systems change process underway in our district , with special emphasis on the challenges of creating inclusive school communities in a struggling urban school district with a large number of segregated special education classrooms. Our district has just completed Year 1 of our work on systems change for inclusive education. We would love to connect with other educators doing similar work to share ideas, strategies, and successes.
Presenters
PM
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 5C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

How AI & Technology Opens the Door for New Employment Opportunities
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 9
This presentation will explore the transformative potential of AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot in enhancing the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. We will demonstrate practical applications of these tools in the workplace, such as improving communication, streamlining tasks, and fostering independence. Additionally, we will discuss how AI can support personal life activities, from managing daily routines to accessing information and learning new skills. Attendees will gain insights into integrating AI technologies to promote autonomy, efficiency, and overall quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. Join us to discover innovative strategies for integrating AI to support and empower individuals with developmental disabilities.  
Presenters
avatar for Michael Rogers

Michael Rogers

Customer Service Relations, Washington State DSHS/DDA
I have been working at DDA for 28 years, and I am a life-long advocate for disability rights. In 2002, I was appointed by President Bush for the President's Committee on Developmental Disabilities where I advocated to change the name of the Committee to use respectful language and... Read More →
LL
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 9 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Peer to Peer Bridging The Gap through Self Advocacy Curriculum
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 10
Activating Change and Envision Illinois brings Peer to Peer Bridging the Gap through Self-Advocacy Curriculum is a curriculum it is a 26-week class for self-advocates to know how to help people who discloses domestic violence and/or sexual assault to them! The curriculum has four tracks: The Basic, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and the Criminal Justice System. This overview will explain those tracks, how to get involved in this curriculum, see the online portion, look at suggested learning activities. One of the goals of this curriculum is that the self-advocate knows that the victim make their own decisions about how to heal and to seek justice. The people who take this class are given the tools and knowledge to help victims. Another goal is that once the self-advocate goes through this curriculum, they can teach the same thing to other self-advocates.
Moderators
avatar for Mary Hettel
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Raise Inclusive Kids
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 5A
Everyone can be working on inclusive practices in their home or classroom. Whether you know someone with a disability or you don't. Disability is the only minority group that every single person can be a part of at some point in their life. This presentation will give steps for everyone to actively take in their community, resources to share with others, and a place to problem solve together what their specific barriers are. As a former special education teacher, now mom of 2, this has become a priority for me to raise inclusive kids. Educate children on how to support each other, celebrate our differences, and not focus on what is fair but how we can all be included.
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

10:00am CST

Talking to Doctors: Their Beliefs and Your Rights
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 12
Doctors present themselves as experts on the human body, and we live in a culture that venerates medical professionals for their specialized training. However, that training has limits, particularly as concerns those whose bodies differ from the norm at baseline. There, preconceived biases about capacity, intelligence, and quality of life can and frequently do dominate medical decision-making. Moreover, while the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) theoretically guarantees disabled Americans equal rights in a variety of settings, people may be unfamiliar with their rights in hospital and clinical environments. In this talk, a brief overview of medical education as it relates to disability and its limitations will be provided, followed by information on patient rights and recommendations on how to access and preserve those rights in interacting with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Presenters
AL

Algernon Lutwak

Northern Light Health
Friday December 6, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

A History, Growth, and Success of A Fully Inclusive, K-8, School Community
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celstin Ballroom: Celestin F
This presentation will illustrate the inception through current day practices of an inclusive, K-8 school community; including roadblocks, missteps, small and large successes. The presenters will introduce you to how each stakeholder (students, families, practitioners, community) contributed to the development and growth of a school where students of all ages and abilities can be immersed in meaningful and relevant learning in a safe and supportive environment inclusive of all learners.
Presenters
JK

John Kershaw

Director of Special Edication, Meeting Street
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celstin Ballroom: Celestin F Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Catalight's Compass Work Tool- Help PwD Find Meaningful Careers
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 10
Catalight Research Institute has developed Compass Work. This self-paced program offers participants a unique set of tools to help them find a position that fits their strengths and sets them up for lifelong career success. It is person-centered, strength-based, assessment-driven, and career-focused. It consists of over 30 training elements, including skills assessments, resume building, interviewing, accommodation requests, handling rejections, accepting job offers, and creating a 100-day plan for when they start a new job. It launched in February 2023 and is used by over 100 job seekers, advocates, career coaches, and employment service providers. We will present the program design and the successes candidates and advocates for these candidates have accomplished. We will share how they use the tool and the feedback generated along the way. We will share critical feedback from candidates and advocates. We also plan to give TASH attendees free access to the tool.
Presenters
avatar for Dan Middleton

Dan Middleton

Senior Director, Clinical Excellence Planning and Development, Catalight
As the Clinical Excellence Planning and Development Leader at Catalight, I have led new strategies for employment services for neurodiverse adults since December 2021. With over 20 years of experience in process improvement, mentoring, and organizational support, I am passionate about... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Facilitating Transitions for Students with Severe Disabilities
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 12
This presentation will focus on facilitating successful transitions for students with severe disabilities from school to post-school environments. It highlights the importance of early, individualized transition planning, robust support systems, and community partnerships. Attendees will gain insights into evidence-based practices and implementing effective transition programs. The presenters will discuss transition challenges and barriers faced by adolescents with disabilities and their families. The presenters will focus on fostering collaborative relationships with families and community organizations and on multidisciplinary approaches for integrating educational, social, and community resources for holistic transition support.
Presenters
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 →
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Inclusive Policing: Implementing Law Enforcement Training for Autism Equity
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B
Although nearly all law enforcement officers (LEOs) report responding to calls with autistic individuals, as few as 9% of officers receive training specific to autism. To address this issue, in 2022, a multidisciplinary team (MDT) began designing Interaction with Neurodiverse Citizens: Training Effective Response And Communication (INTERAC), an autism-specific training, in collaboration with a local police lieutenant. Based on prior research on essential content for autism-specific training for LEOs and three rounds of feedback from the lieutenant, the team launched the training during shift debrief meetings for LEOs. INTERAC includes didactic presentation, body camera footage and scenarios, and resources, and was delivered by the MDT, which includes two Autistic adults. This presentation at TASH will share the process for the development and implementation of the training, the perspectives of all trainers, including the Autistic adults, and results and input from the LEOs.
Presenters
avatar for Elissa Green Kaustinen

Elissa Green Kaustinen

Director, Families, Agencies and Schools Together @ CHOC, Thompson Policy Institute / Thompson Autism Center @ CHOC
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Leveraging Universal Design for Learning to Improve Student Behavior
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 5B
This workshop is designed to empower educators with the principles and practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to foster a positive and inclusive learning environment. Participants will gain an understanding of the updated UDL Guidelines and their role in promoting desirable student behavior across diverse educational settings. By the end of this session, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and practical skills needed to create a more inclusive and behaviorally supportive learning environment for all students.
Presenters
avatar for Kelley Correio

Kelley Correio

Inclusionary Practices Coordinator, Educational Service District 123
I have spent the past 5 years as part of a staewide team committed to supporting educators and school leaders with developing and implementing sustainable systems, structures, and practices that support all students with meaningful access and engagement in inclusive learning envi... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Politics and Disability Policy: Oppression as a Bipartisan Issue
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 5D
The articulation of disability rights principles and models of disability developed by disabled communities is fairly recent. Today, ongoing ignorance of these concepts in broader society significantly limits the general public’s ability to conceptualize any disabled group as one with distinct goals and interests. This has led to a lack of clear, consistent policy from any major political party in regards to accessibility, eugenics, or representative research policy. As a result, disability rights advocates may find themselves with allies and enemies across the political spectrum, with supporters who become oppressors when the issue changes. This talk will discuss relevant policy history, give a brief overview of some of the major areas crucial to policy development in which political values often lead to inconsistency. It will open into a discussion of coalition-building, public awareness and framing of disability rights issues, and self-advocacy.
Presenters
AL

Algernon Lutwak

Northern Light Health
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

11:15am CST

Revisiting Equitable Opportunities to Learn
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Foster 2
This session highlights new research on the importance of context in providing equitable opportunities to learn (OTL). Our original work highlighted how the concept of OTL in general education literature was missing components to ensure accessibility for students with disabilities. We proposed the use of Universal Design for Learning and attention to individualized needs within the OTL framework to better define access to the general curriculum and to consider the specific aspects of equitable learning opportunities to improve access and outcomes for students with complex support needs. While our original work alluded to context and placement, we did not address it directly. The updated OTL extends our understanding of how to advocate for inclusive practices by bringing together UDL 3.0 and new research on the importance of context for equitable learning opportunities.
Presenters
MF

Megan Foster

Utica University
Friday December 6, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Celebrate Together: Empowering Transitions with Student-Led IEPs!
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B
In this presentation, we advocate for student-led Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for transition-age adults with intellectual disabilities (ages 18-21). Transitioning from school to adulthood is critical, and empowering these individuals to participate in their IEPs is essential. Research highlights the importance of self-determination, self-advocacy, and engagement for better outcomes in education, employment, and independent living. Our approach includes providing direct instruction for self-advocacy skills, fostering collaboration between students, families, educators, and community agencies, and enhancing communication to improve participation. The presentation includes a student from a post-secondary transition program who adopted a person-centered IEP approach.
Presenters
GC
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Celebrating that I AM at the center!
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 5D
Evan Barnwell is an 11 year old stroke survivor, autistic child who shares what is important TO him: his favorite activities, friends, dreams, and projects. His mom, Viviana, then explores the crucial impact of person centered thinking and language in the pursuit for inclusion and respect for people with disabilities. The difference between the terms "important to" and "important for", the evolution in the perception of disabilities, and how to create a one-page profile will help participants not only hear about the experiences of a self-advocate and a family member, but also, leave the presentation with concrete tools and materials to use for themselves, the people they care for, or those they work with.
Presenters
VB

Viviana Barnwell

Parent/CAC - ViceChair, SELPA IV
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Closing the Gap: Developing Systems that Work for Everyonel
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Foster 1
State developmental disability systems provide critical supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. But, many people with autism and medically fragile children may not qualify for services. Hear how North Dakota is partnering with self-advocates and families to redefine their approach to supports through the lens of the All.
Presenters
avatar for Erin Leveton

Erin Leveton

Director, Alvarez & Marsal Public Sector Services, LLC
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

How to: Anti-Ableist, Respectful, and Student-Centered Evaluation
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 5B
We have created tools for students, families, and professionals that help leverage the IDEA evaluation process to not simply establish eligibility for Special Education, but as a guide to an IEP team, to a school, or even to a school district on how to support learners with extensive support needs in general education in a way that centers and respects the student and guarantees meaningful access, progress and engagement, is anti-ableist, and sets up the foundation for authentic relationships. There is a way to use the mandated documentation in anti-ableist, respectful, and strength-driven ways that center the student and their preferences, meaningful engagement, and authentic relationships, reframe the evaluation process as more humanistic, inclusive, empowering, and authentic, and that will help the evaluation team to reframe their ideas of Disability and Special Education.
Presenters
TK

Taina Karru-Olsen

Inclusion For ALL
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Learn To Earn-Leveraging Community Engagement to Increase Job Opportunities
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin H
In August 2022, federal policy makers collaborated on a joint policy concerning the utilization of Community Engagement services to assist individuals with significant support needs in securing and maintaining employment. Job seekers with limited community life experience often face disadvantages in their quest for employment as they struggle to articulate their passions and strengths. By leveraging Community Engagement alongside the four guideposts of Community Life Engagement developed by the University of Massachusetts Boston Institute on Community Inclusion, providers, job seekers, and their families can chart a part towards employment. This session aims to share anecdotes and strategies illustrating how CE is deployed to aid individuals supports needs who have been isolated or lack experience with community employment in their journey to work. Additionally, the presentation will delve into concepts of the utilization of Community Life Engagement as a wraparound service.
Presenters
avatar for Kelly Paparazzo

Kelly Paparazzo

Program Director, Community Engagement, SEEC
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Navigating Inclusive College-Successes and Challenges
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F
This presentation documents the experiences of students with intellectual disabilities who participated in an inclusive college program in a university in western United States. The students will share their experiences in various classes, both academic and social. They will discuss the support provided by peer mentors, faculty, and other staff and the challenges they faced during their college experience. Additionally, they will offer their input to improve the program.
Presenters
avatar for Sudha Krishnan

Sudha Krishnan

Assistant Professor, Department of Special Education, San Jose State University
Sudha’s research is focused on how literacy practices using pedagogies based on socio-cultural theory like multiliteracies provide challenging and empowering education for students with disabilities. She is interested in interrogating the deficit thinking surrounding students with... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

Preparing Teachers to Support Children Who Use AAC
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 11
Preparing teachers to effectively support students with extensive support needs and complex communication needs who require Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) necessitates collaboration with speech pathologists, Board Certified Behavior Analysts, parents, and families. Training should cover AAC methods, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, and practical experiences and should be taught through coursework and meaningful clinical experiences. Collaborative partnerships ensure educators gain insights into best practices and access resources, and ongoing professional development keeps teachers aware of current best practices. Cultivating a school culture that values diversity in communicative expression is crucial for creating inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive academically and socially.
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 11 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:15pm CST

WE ARE! Our Stories Inclusion Thru Oral Histories
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 9
Everyone has a story! Oral histories help to identify our uniqueness and our commonalities. Through introspection, we all, individuals with and without disabilities can find, form and share our story. In sharing oral histories, we facilitate inclusion as the line between different and disability is diminished, perspectives and experiences of our community are broaden and enriched. The mutual sharing of oral histories contributes to understanding, valuing and inclusion, our common-unity. Rationale, strategies, low cost technologies to collect, share and archive oral histories are provided to help advocates, families and practitioners elicit, collect, share and archive oral histories.
Friday December 6, 2024 2:15pm - 3:10pm CST
Imperial 9 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

2:30pm CST

Building A Health Education Website Together
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E
Indiana Complex Care Coordination Collaborative (IC4) at Indiana University School of Medicine is creating a patient-facing website for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (AIDD) to promote health and wellness and build confidence in interacting with the medical community. Components include webpages, videos and worksheets which address healthy habits, engaging in healthcare, and self-management of chronic illnesses. In collaboration with health messengers from Special Olympics Indiana (SOI), we are creating videos and social stories to help AIDD prepare for specific medical exams (belly, chest, ear-nose-throat, genitalia, etc.) and procedures (mammogram, dental, colonoscopy, EEG, radiology, sleep study, audiology, etc.) Initial scripts and ideas are created by IC4 medical professionals then vetted by SOI health messengers who are employed part-time to contribute to this work. All components are significantly redirected and modified based on feedback.
Presenters
KW
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  TASH Talks

2:30pm CST

For The Love Of Dog: Dogs And Suicide Prevention
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E
Dogs can play an important role in life of a person with a disability. This support revolves around the human-animal bond. Dogs creates a sense of connectedness, belonging, and unconditional love. Dogs provide their owners with a reason to socialize and exercise, and are described as social lubricants, helping their owner to connect to other humans. Interacting with dogs helps reduce stress alleviate conditions such as depression and anxiety while increasing empathy and self-esteem. Many of the impacts dogs provide are preventative factors for suicide. A correlation potentially exists between disability and suicide risk. Moses (2018) posits that disability is a fundamental cause of suicide behavior because disability can be a chronic source of pain or stress that can spread to all aspects of life that results in social isolation and a feeling of being a burden to others. Yet, dog ownership may be balancing force to prevent this suicide ideation.
Presenters
avatar for Anne Papalia

Anne Papalia

Shippensburg University
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  TASH Talks

2:30pm CST

How Self-Advocacy Helped Me Break Cultural Stigmas About Disability
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E
I will tell my story with lived experience with a seizure disorder, epilepsy and mental health illnesses. In my Mexican culture Disability is a taboo and I was denied my diagnosis because of it. Listeners will learn how I got diagnosed later in life and how difficult it has been to defeat my inner ableist. This greatly affected my quality of life and the way I viewed myself. I will talk about how Self Advocacy helped me accept myself and how important it is to break stigmas.
Presenters
JC
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  TASH Talks

2:30pm CST

Poetry And The Spectrum: Selected Readings By A Caregiver Parent
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E
I'm a mom of two children with level 3 autism and also a poet. We live in Santa Cruz, California with their dad, and I'm their paid family caregiver. Recently I completed a chapbook of poetry entitled Wabe-sabe. Through these poems, I explore our lives and the impact that autism--and the people around us who observe but do not understand our family--have on us. My poems are through the lens of a mother, a caregiver, a Turkish-American Muslim, a guide to this world we live in. They are intended to invite you in and give you a glimpse of our experiences. In this TASH Talk, I will read a couple of my poems and invite audience questions.
Presenters
FB
Friday December 6, 2024 2:30pm - 4:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom E Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  TASH Talks

3:25pm CST

Celebrating Families: The Power of Parent Engagement to Support Employment
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Foster 1
Join this session to learn about an innovative partnership between the LEAD Center and Parent 2 Parent USA (P2P USA), harnessing the input from parent advisors to craft resources to promote employment and career outcomes for their family members with disabilities. Families also identified resources through which they can access essential supports and services. Hear from family leaders and employment subject matter experts from LEAD Center about the pivotal role families play in envisioning and supporting the people with disabilities in their lives across their lifespan as they journey towards competitive integrated employment.
Presenters
YW

Yvonne Wright

LEAD Center National Disability Institute
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

Community Living in California- Is Equity Still Achievable?
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 5C
We began to provide personalized community living supports in the early 1990's, when people were able to rent, lease, and/or obtain housing vouchers to access a home of their own with the supports they needed. Over the past ten years, opportunities for housing vouchers have become relatively non-existent in CA, rent prices no longer allow people who rely on SSI/SSDI benefits alone to afford rent. The only people able to move into a home of their own now must have a "silver spoon"; (funding from family, sustainable employment, or other secure financing). This creates a huge divide between the "haves' and the "have nots". Adults continue to live with their aging parents. Alternative community living options options have become more restrictive, reverting back to congregate, segregated options, which goes against our philosophy of full inclusion at TASH. We will facilitate a discussion on the FUTURE of Community Living and how we can get the good times rolling again!
Presenters
avatar for Scott Shepard

Scott Shepard

Director, Avenues Supported Living Services
Scott Shepard is the Executive Director of Avenues Supported Living Services, a non-profit agency which provides community living and personalized day supports to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in North Los Angeles County. With Avenues SLS, we had the opportunity... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 5C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

Empowering My Voice: Self-Advocacy and Transition Triumphs
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 10
In this presentation, Gage Perryman talks about his life and how he learned to stand up for himself and make big decisions. Gage has disabilities, but that doesn’t stop him from going to college and getting involved in activities that help his community and other individuals with disabilities across the state of Minnesota and beyond. He has navigated the complexities of transitioning into adulthood, leveraging self-advocacy skills, participating in inclusive higher education and state-wide community advocacy initiatives, and presenting at national conferences. In this talk, he will dive into the strategies, challenges, and successes he has encountered along the way, sharing useful tips and inspirational stories so that listeners feel able to make their own communities better and more welcoming for everyone. It's a talk about finding your voice, overcoming challenges, and making a difference within your community.
Presenters
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. Known for her dedication to inclusive education and student success, and a profound commitment to educational equity, Jennifer has played a role in shaping the landscape... Read More →
GP

Gage Perryman

Gage Gives Back
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 10 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

From Experience to Empowerment
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin A
This session includes a collaborative presentation with a self-advocate and a teacher educator. The session will begin with a first-hand account of the educational experiences of a non-speaking and Autistic individual in both inclusive and self-contained settings, in both a specialized school and in public schools. These educational experiences have informed a list of suggested practices for general educators, special education teachers, and paraeducators on how to best include and challenge students with complex communication needs in the general education classroom. The session will conclude with information on how to leverage voices from the local disability community by inviting self-advocates to present in university courses that are aimed to prepare inclusive-minded educators.
Presenters
avatar for Katie McCabe

Katie McCabe

Assistant Professor, Buffalo State University
Katie McCabe is an Assistant Professor in the Exceptional Education Department at Buffalo State University, with a Ph.D. in Special Education and a minor in Qualitative Research Methods from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. A former special education teacher in rural Upstate New... Read More →
LC
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

Inclusive Education Partnerships: Collaborating to Create Curriculum Access
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C
This presentation will explore the development and implementation of a partnership between UNLV’s Office of General Curriculum Access (OGCA) and the Nevada Department of Education’s Office of Inclusive Education (OIE). The collaboration aims to promote inclusive education by providing access to the general curriculum and a continuum of needed supports and services for students with extensive support needs. The OIE works to raise expectations and improve educational and employment outcomes for all students with disabilities through collaborative efforts with state and local partners. Through a partnership with the OIE, the OGCA provides educators with grade-aligned and standards-based curriculum materials, academic and behavioral support resources, and effective professional development. This session will share the challenges, strategies, and successes of the partnership and will provide attendees with actionable insights into creating similar collaborations in their own contexts.
Presenters
JB

Joshua Baker

Professor/Researcher, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Department of Educational and Clinical Studies
JB
CB

Catherine Bacos

University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

Key Components of Successful Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 12
As agencies staffed by people with disabilities, Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are uniquely positioned to provide effective pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS). During this session presenters from Able South Carolina (Able SC) and the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC) will share how Centers for Independent Living (CILs) can collaborate with state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies and schools to deliver comprehensive pre-ETS, empowering youth and strengthening communities. We will review how the disability rights and independent living movements have shaped the cultural landscape and address five key components of effective transition services: collaboration, accessibility, individualization, disability pride, and problem-solving. Successful transitions benefit the entire community, including businesses, families, and individuals, by promoting a more inclusive workforce and society.
Presenters
MR

Megan Ryan

The Lewin Group/OptumServe Consulting
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 12 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

The Judith Campaign: Amplifying Voices, Honoring Truth
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 8
This session allows the attendees to have the opportunity to watch several Judith Campaign videos as they dive into the presenter's world perspective relating to justice, advocacy, equity, and pride for who they are. From there, the presenters will have the chance to discuss their thoughts on the campaign while being open to sharing their world perspective and its importance. The DC Developmental Disabilities Council’s mission is to create change that removes barriers to achieve full inclusion, diversity, and equity through our advocacy. The Judith Campaign's end goal is to celebrate the accomplishments of the individuals we support for their justice, the uncomfortable conversations they share, the direct support they do, finding ways to be included in their community despite their disability/sexual orientation or diverse group, their world perspective through their eyes, and finding solutions to make the world how we want.
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 8 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

The Road to Independence in Communication Is a Long and Winding One
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G
Independence is commonly seen as one of the primary goals for augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) users. It is also commonly defined as the ability of a person to use their AAC method without assistance. However, many AAC users see independence more broadly in terms of having freedom of expression and self-determination in their lives. They also see that support from skilled communication partners is a critical part of the process. This presentation will focus on the journey that one AAC user has taken towards having greater independence in his communication and in his life. He will share strategies for communication partners to use in supporting AAC users with greater independence in their communication.
Presenters
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 →
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:25pm CST

Youth Leadership and Families: Getting Youth in the Driver's Seat
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 5A
Federally funded parent centers across the country have been emphasizing youth leadership for students with disability labels for the past several years. This presentation describes one state parent center’s youth and young adult leadership initiative. MPACT (Missouri Parents Act) is Missouri’s federally funded parent training and information center and our leadership programming includes a youth and young adult leadership council, professional development for all staff on youth leadership, and youth leadership strategies infused throughout our transition training materials. Audience members will learn about the value of leadership programming, leadership strategies and resources from parent centers, and strategies for making organizations more supportive of youth leadership. Youth who take on leadership roles now will later be empowered citizens working towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
Presenters
ZM

Zach McCall

MPACT (Missouri Parents Act)
Friday December 6, 2024 3:25pm - 4:20pm CST
Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

12 Strategies for Facilitating Transportation to Work-Based Learning Sites!
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F
Work experience, whether paid or unpaid, enables students with disabilities to learn job skills in the real world and clarify their career path. Despite the benefits of work experiences, many educational programs struggle to provide work experiences in the community due to issues surrounding transportation. In this session we will share 12 creative strategies for transporting students with disabilities to community-based work sites and provide tips to consider when selecting strategies. Come join us to discuss this important topic and share your creative solutions for obtaining transportation!
Presenters
avatar for Stacy Dymond

Stacy Dymond

Professor, University of Illinois
Stacy Dymond is professor of special education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Her research focuses on curriculum issues related to educating secondary and transition-age students with severe intellectual disabilities in inclusive school and community settings... Read More →
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

Community Conversations: A Tool for Campus Collaboration, Inclusion and Action
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 11
One complexity of inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programming is fostering campus-wide collaboration to enhance inclusion. In response to this, the Office of Inclusive Postsecondary Education (OIPE) at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, has adapted and employed the World Cafe Model as a formidable tool to facilitate community conversations. The World Cafe Model brings together stakeholders to explore a current barrier, elicit solutions, and potential action steps. During this presentation, OIPE will describe how they facilitate these community conversations, ensure inclusive representation, and share outcomes of key community conversations around employment, academic engagement, and inclusive practices in Title IX and Conduct processes on campus.
Presenters
avatar for April Regester

April Regester

Department Chair, Associate Professor - Inclusive Education, University of Missouri, St. Louis
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 11 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

Effective Transition Planning for Employment and Independence
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 5D
This presentation offers evidence-based solutions to bridge the significant gap between current practices and best practices in transition planning for adult independence, job skills, self-advocacy, technology, and post-secondary education. By adopting a growth mindset with strengths-based approach to student-centered transition planning, schools can effectively implement the practical steps detailed in our Transition Matrix. Steps are designed to enhance potential for personal fulfillment, employment, financial stability, independence, and community integration. Participants will receive a comprehensive road map for transition planning. Will’s personal journey from school to employment is a powerful testament to the impact of supportive interventions. His experience underscores challenges students face in being recognized as productive members of society. With tools and supports from LSU PAYCheck program, Will successfully secured competitively integrated employment.
Presenters
TO

Tracy O'Donnell

Louisiana UCEDD
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 5D Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

How Does Self-Determination Help Me?
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 5B
This presentation will examine the HCBS Waiver Final Rule and the services and supports that people with disabilities can use to create a fully inclusive life. Concepts of Self-Determination will be discussed with an emphasis on how the theory translates into real life planning for full integration into the community.
Presenters
AG

Areta Guthrey

Disability Information Network
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 5B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

How to Communicate Disability Policy Accessibly with Your Faith Community
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 9
Through the principles of universal design and plain language communication, this presentation will share with participants strategies for communicating disability policy within one's faith community. Faith communities can be an essential support system for disabled people. Building disability policy knowledge in faith communities improves the quality of care faith-based direct service agencies provide. Faith communities can better support fellow members with disabilities in their community when they are informed on disability policy. Join Rev. Ben Bond who Co-Chairs the Interfaith Disability Advocacy Coalition in Washington DC. and Corey Himes, Policy Manager, who has been a long-time policy activist in the New Orleans community to learn how to effectively communicate disability policy in your faith community.
Presenters
BB
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Imperial 9 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

Neurodiversity Advisory: Advancing Affirming Practice within TASH
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B
Sparked at the 2022 TASH Conference, the Neurodiversity Advisory has been actively meeting and exploring neurodiversity and what it means for TASH. In this session, we will share resources like updated Terms and Definitions and Elements of Neurodiversity Affirming Practice. We will provide an update on what we're learning related to neurodiversity and ABA. Using the resources developed and insights gained through the work of the Advisory, participants will explore proposed recommendations for TASH to 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. During his twenty years at the University of New Hampshire, he worked on projects for assistive technology, inclusive education, alternate assessment, RTI & PBIS, and MTSS. Michael helped... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Deborah Taub

Deborah Taub

Owner/CEO, OTL Education Solutions, LLC
MF
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 Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Jean Gonsier-Gerdin

Professor, Teaching Credentials-Special Education, California State University, Sacramento
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

Strategies for Opening the Glass Door To Employment Through Employer Engagement
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Foster 2
Too often, qualified workers with disabilities struggle to find work because the organizations that support them focus primarily on “them.” We must focus equally on preparing employers to successfully source, onboard, and retain employees with disabilities. Join DETAC and Jonathan “Jon” Taylor, Executive Director of the Arkansas Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, to discuss employer engagement and outreach to advance competitive integrated employment (CIE) for people with disabilities. Jon Taylor was previously a retail field manager with a decade of successful experience in CIE. In this session, Jon will recount his experiences and offer practical tips for how DD Councils, job developers, self-advocates, and other stakeholders can engage with employers to advance CIE and economic outcomes for people with disabilities. The session will review the philosophy of Employment First, emphasize the importance of partnerships, and share DETAC resources.
Presenters
MR

Megan Ryan

The Lewin Group/OptumServe Consulting
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:35pm CST

Unleashing Potential: Is a Service Dog Right for You?
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin H
I'd love to bring my dog everywhere with me! We'd love another pet; let's get a service dog! Does my dog need special training to be a service dog? Can I train my own dog to be a service dog? There are many misconceptions about service dogs and how to obtain one. A service dog trainer and user discuss factors involved in determining if a service dog is right for you. These factors include eligibility and knowledge of ADA; physical factors involved in handling a dog; and financial aspects such as veterinary care, food, medication, and grooming. Housing issues such as space and relief areas, and family issues involving allergies or acquiring a dog exclusively for one family member must be considered as well. Perspective service dog users must also understand the dog training industry and how to select a qualified trainer or organization, and dog training principles if self training a service dog.
Presenters
avatar for Anne Papalia

Anne Papalia

Shippensburg University
Friday December 6, 2024 4:35pm - 5:30pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin H Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

5:45pm CST

Adapting ELA Texts for Students with Complex Support Needs
Friday December 6, 2024 5:45pm - 7:15pm CST
Storyville Hall
Adapted books can serve as a support for students with complex support needs in general education classes. However, creating adapted books can be difficult for a special education teacher with a demanding schedule. Therefore, this session presents a feasible and efficient process for creating adapted books extended from the guidelines originally developed by Apitz et al. (2017). This process begins with special educators becoming familiar with the story through summarizing and outlining the original text. Next, collaboration with the general education teacher is recommended to identify the essential themes and key vocabulary. Special educators are encouraged to follow the book's plot structure and use visual supports, such as images or videos, based on key events in the text. Also included in this session are suggestions on how teachers can more effectively and efficiently adapt books using modern technology tools, such as ChatGPT and DALL-E.
Presenters
avatar for Roxanne Loyless

Roxanne Loyless

Doctoral Student, The University of Kansas
Roxanne Loyless is a second-year Ph.D. student in Special Education at The University of Kansas. Her research interests center on inclusive education practices, strategies, and supports for students with significant support needs.
Friday December 6, 2024 5:45pm - 7:15pm CST
Storyville Hall Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Poster Presentations
 
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
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
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
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
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.
Presenters
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 →
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Imperial 5C 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
Celestin 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
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin B Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

8:45am CST

Competitive Employment: If Not Now, When? If Not Us, Who?
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Imperial 10
The purpose of this proposal is to discuss the current status on competitive integrated employment for individual with the highest support needs and review progress made but also why we continue to remain stuck in helping get significantly challenged people out of segregated setting and into real work for real pay, be it in community companies, self employment or even partially remote working conditions. We present the barrier and offer constructive suggestions to make changes now.
Presenters
avatar for Paul Wehman

Paul Wehman

Senior Research Scientist, Virginia Commonwealth University
Paul Wehman, Ph.D. has been a tenured faculty member with Virginia Commonwealth University since 1976. Originally with the VCU School of Education, he moved to a joint appointment with SOE and the School of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and has now returned to an exclusive... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Imperial 10 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
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.
Presenters
avatar for Megan Sanders

Megan Sanders

National Workforce Consultant, Institute on Community Integration
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
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
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.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Lengyel

Jennifer Lengyel

Executive Director, Total Living Concept
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
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
Celestin 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
Celestin 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
Celestin 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
Celestin 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
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.
Presenters
avatar for Rich Davis

Rich Davis

Policy Advisor, Office of Disability Employment Policy
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
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
Celestin 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.
Presenters
JK

James Knauf

University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana
Saturday December 7, 2024 8:45am - 9:45am CST
Celestin 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
Imperial 8
 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.  
Presenters
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 →
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Imperial 8 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
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.
Presenters
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.
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
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
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
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
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
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
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
Imperial 9 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
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.
Presenters
avatar for Jessica Bowman

Jessica Bowman

Research Associate, TIES Center, University of Minnesota
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
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
Celestin 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
Celestin 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
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.
Presenters
TW
MS
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
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
Celestin 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.
Presenters
CS
Saturday December 7, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CST
Celestin 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
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
Imperial 12 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
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C
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 student at the University of Washington in Special Education. I was previously a teacher in a variety of placements in Nashville, Tennessee. My interest areas include reading development, instruction, and family literacy practices. I am currently working... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C 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
Imperial 5A
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
SC

Staci Converse

Disability Rights Maine
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Imperial 5A 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
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G
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.
Presenters
JR
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin G 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
Imperial 10
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.
Presenters
avatar for Jenna Porter

Jenna Porter

Principal Investigator/Co- PI, CSU Sacramento
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

Assistant 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
Imperial 10 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
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 Jennifer Lengyel

Jennifer Lengyel

Executive Director, Total Living Concept
Saturday December 7, 2024 11:15am - 12:15pm CST
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
Celestin 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
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin 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
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
Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Creating Student-Designed Space for Nonspeaking/Minimally-Speaking Learners
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Foster 2
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.
Presenters
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 Public Schools teacher and the... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Foster 2 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
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.
Presenters
avatar for Heather Evans
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
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
Celestin 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
CG
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin 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
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
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
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
Imperial 5C
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. During his twenty years at the University of New Hampshire, he worked on projects for assistive technology, inclusive education, alternate assessment, RTI & PBIS, and MTSS. Michael helped... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Deborah Taub

Deborah Taub

Owner/CEO, OTL Education Solutions, LLC
MF
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 →
AH
RR

Robyn Reagan

Villa Esperanza Services
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
Imperial 5C 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
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 →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Imperial 5A Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Rethinking Practices: Supporting Students with Significant Needs with Traum
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
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
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
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
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!
Presenters
JR
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Imperial 8 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Self-Advocacy and Health Relationships
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin 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
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin C Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

3:00pm CST

Using Instructional Rounds to Build a Community of Inclusive Practitioners
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F
This presentation describes effective professional development in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to better support inclusive teaching practices for K-8 teachers. Specifically, the presentation will describe the successful design and implementation of a two-year instructional rounds model of professional development. Instructional rounds engage participants in a collaborative inquiry process that results in discussion and examination of instruction. I will detail how this evidence-based approach helped teachers in a K-8 school district build a common language and understanding of effective, inclusive teaching and learning; engage in critical reflection to improve inclusive practices; and increase individual and collective self-efficacy.
Presenters
avatar for Francesca Ciotoli

Francesca Ciotoli

Assistant Professor, St. Thomas Aquinas College
I have 20 years of experience inside New York City and New Jersey classrooms teaching diverse children and working with Pre-K -12 pre-service teachers, in-service teachers, and administrators. I specialize in the preparation and ongoing learning of teachers for inclusive classrooms... Read More →
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Celestin Ballroom: Celestin F 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
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.
Saturday December 7, 2024 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
Foster 2 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:15pm CST

Securing The Future: Visions, Decisions, and Advocacy
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
Imperial 8
An essential tool to bring about a full, meaningful, inclusive life is having a well-defined, articulated vision to focus, guide, and inspire action. Join us to explore the critical role of holding a positive vision for the future, understand how to use Supported Decision-Making, and how to increase self-advocacy and self-determination skills. We will discuss typical pathways toward adulthood, the necessary supports to stay on these paths; using vision, courage, and consciousness to help young adults achieve a full, meaningful, autonomous life. We will delve into the legal protections provided by IDEA in transition planning and how to maximize these to support successful outcomes. We will discuss tips and techniques to support people to increase decision-making skills to become competent, confident advocates directing their own lives. Additionally, we will emphasize the importance of belonging, community participation, and valued roles as strategies to to bring forth a good life.
Presenters
avatar for Katie Chandler

Katie Chandler

Consultant, Sangha Unity Network
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 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
Imperial 8 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
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
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
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
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
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
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 Establish
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
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
MP

Melanie Phalen

Training Specialist, Illinois Center for Transition and Work - UIUC
I am a training specialist with 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 earn a wage and be independent.
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:15pm CST
Imperial 11 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions

4:15pm CST

Building Meaningful Lives: Putting People on a Pathway for Success
Saturday December 7, 2024 4:15pm - 5:30pm CST
Foster 1
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 4:15pm - 5:30pm CST
Foster 1 Hyatt Regency, 601 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70113
  Breakout Sessions
 
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