Special Education in Texas and the COVID-19 Outbreak with Justin Porter Ed.D., State Director of Special Education, Texas Education Agency

On April 22, 2020, Justin Porter Ed.D., State Director of Special Education, Texas Education Agency (TEA), discussed parent questions related to special education and the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

Past Webinars – Recordings and Resources

2020 Statewide and Collaborative Webinar Series

Special Guest Presenter: Brad Thompson, The HALI Project

What do you see for your child after high school is over?  Brad Thompson, The HALI Project, discusses the importance of dreaming big dreams for your child, setting tangible goals, and building a team to help your child reach their highest potential.

  • PowerPoint for Life After the Yellow Bus
  • Recording coming soon!

On Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Steven Aleman, Disability Rights Texas, discussed the special education rights of students with disabilities during the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak, special education law, and what is important for parents to know during this unsettling time.

Resources from this webinar:

Mónica Santiago BBA, MEd, y Angel Crawford, de Disability Rights Texas, en la que discutirá los derechos de los estudiantes con discapacidades durante la pandemia del Coronavirus (COVID-19), la ley de educación especial, y lo que es importante que los padres sepan durante este tiempo sin precedentes.

Guest Presenter: Nina Zuna, Ph.D., Associate Director, Texas Center for Disability Studies, The University of Texas at Austin

Nina Zuna Ph.D. provides (a) an overview of state and federal transition policies according to IDEA; (b) examples on developing post-secondary goals and IEP goals; (c) information/resources on career exploration activities for your child; and (d) a resource document for parents to learn even more about supporting their child through the transition planning process.

About Our Presenter
Dr. Zuna has over 20 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities and their families in a variety of roles including, professor, researcher, certified special education teacher, and in-home/in-school behavioral skills trainer. Her research and community service interests include family quality of life, individual and family supports across the lifespan, community inclusion, and transition from high school to postsecondary education and/or the workforce.

COVID-19 and the quarantine has added additional stress to the lives of individuals in the country. In an environment where the house has become a school and playground for children and an office for the adults, it is important for us to focus on ourselves and work on self-care. The presentation focused on processing the stress during quarantine and the importance of focusing on self-care.

Special Guest Presenter: Dr. Malvika Behl, West Texas A&M University

Resources from the webinar:

If you have questions about our statewide or collaborative webinar series, please contact Chelsea Rivas at crivasprn@gmail.com.

On April 22, 2020, Justin Porter Ed.D., State Director of Special Education, Texas Education Agency (TEA), discussed parent questions related to special education and the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

Watch the recording of Special Education in Texas and the COVID-19 Outbreak with Justin Porter Ed.D., State Director of Special Education, Texas Education Agency

Dr. Malvika Behl, West Texas A&M University, discusses managing negative emotions during social distancing.  Social distancing has been hard on everyone, specifically parents. Anxiety, depression, and compassion fatigue are a mental health issue that parents might go through. The presentation will review ways in which parents can help manage their anxiety, depression, and compassion fatigue and ways in which they can get past it. Have your pen and paper ready because there will be a hands-on activity that will help with long term ways to manage our negative emotions.

Resources for the webinar:

Nancy Disterlic, M.A.T., LDT, CALT, Regional Dyslexia Consultant, Region 10 ESC, discusses ways parents can support their child as they navigate the obstacles of dyslexia, supported by the research of David Sousa and his series “How the Brain Learns”, as well as Sally Shaywitz’s brain imaging research.

Nancy will discuss the brains’ functionality of processing information as it stores, utilizes and retrieves information while offering strategies for teaching metacognition and self-esteem that develop independence and confidence for students with dyslexia.

Partners Resource Network and Region 10 have collaborated on a series of Facebook Lives to share quick at-home learning tips to support parents as they help their children with disabilities transition to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. This Facebook Live series will focus not just on academic issues, but emotional, behavioral, and mental health concerns.

Resources for the session:

 

Screen time is a touchy subject even in the best situations and with these unprecedented times, everyone is having to spend more time in front of a screen.

With everything from school, to family interactions, to parties taking place online, access to screens has increased in many households, making it even harder to know how to put boundaries on your child’s screen time. There are really no right answers when it comes to managing screen time during COVID-19, but we will look at some tips that might help you set expectations, support your child, and maybe most important of all, give yourself some grace.

Special Guest Presenter: Layne Pethick, Ph.D., Behavior Consultant and Autism Specialist, Region 10 ESC

Resources from the webinar:

On June 10, 2020, Justin Porter Ed.D., State Director of Special Education, Texas Education Agency (TEA), discussed parent questions related to new TEA guidance: Considerations for Extended School Year and Compensatory Services for Students with Disabilities During and After Texas School Closures Due to COVID-19.

Resources from the webinar:

2019 Statewide and Collaborative Webinar Series

Special Guest Presenter: Steven Aleman, Disability Rights Texas

The 86th Legislative Session begins in January, 2019 and runs until May, 2019. This year state lawmakers will consider several topics that are important to students with disabilities. This presentation outlines the special education issues likely to be considered, how those interested can track topics, and which Texas lawmakers will be in key leadership roles concerning public education

Part of the collaborative webinar series with the Texas Education Agency

Special Guest Presenter: Brandi Timmons, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA

Too often expectations for children with special needs are not set high enough. When a high level of expectations is set, kids tend to strive to meet those expectations. Our kids want to be successful. It’s up to us to provide the environment for them to succeed.

  • Recording of Create a Climate of High Expectations in Your Child’s Program
  • PowerPoint for Create a Climate of High Expectations in Your Child’s Program

Special Guest Presenter: Deanna Clemens, Ed.S., LSSP, BCBA, Technical Assistance Team Manager, Division of Special Education, Texas Education Agency 

Resources from the Student’s Rights Under the IDEA: Behavioral Incidents and Discipline collabroative webinar:

  • Recording of Student’s Rights Under the IDEA: Behavioral Incidents and Discipline webinar
  • PowerPoint for the Student’s Rights Under the IDEA: Behavioral Incidents and Discipline webinar
  • Q&A document coming soon

About the presenter: Deanna Clemens serves as a manager of the Technical Assistance Team within the division of special education at the Texas Education Agency. She is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, A Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Deanna received her Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA. She practiced for several years as K-12 School Psychologist in Pennsylvania. Since relocating to Texas in 2009, Deanna has held public school positions as Adaptive Behavior and Autism Program Specialist, Coordinator of Special Services, and Special Education Coordinator for Behavior Services. She joined TEA in August of 2017 and served as a program specialist for child find and evaluation and low incidence disabilities on the technical assistance team before becoming a team manager. 

Speak up and embrace a leadership role at your child’s next ARD meeting! Join us for our next statewide webinar as we discuss practical tips for effective communication, peaceful conflict resolution, and negotiation strategies that you can use to advocate for appropriate services for your child. We will also discuss options you can use to address disagreements and resolve conflict while protecting the parent-school relationship.

Part of our collaborative webinar series with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Presenters for the Progress Monitoring webinar:

  • Cherry C. Lee, M.Ed., LDT, CALT, Educational Diagnostician, Program Specialist, Texas Education Agency Division of Special Education
  • Daniela Licona, Program Specialist, Texas Education Agency Division of Special Education

Resources:

On April 16, Colleen Elbe of Disability Rights Texas discussed options for dispute resolution including the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Special education dispute resolution options include mediation, facilitated ARD/IEP meetings, special education complaints, and due process.

Resources from the webinar:

  • Recording of the What’s Next? Legal Options for Parents When an ARD Meeting Wasn’t Enough webinar
  • PowerPoint

On 4/22, Dr. Jannette Reyes and her daughter, Michelle Coronado, shared the powerful story of their journey with autism, from advocating for services in school to transitioning into postsecondary education and employment. 

Resources from this webinar:

During this webinar, Colleen Elbe, Disability Rights Texas, provided parents with information on Guardianship in Texas, Alternatives to Guardianship, as well as Supported Decision Making Agreements. Colleen discussed the purpose, process, benefits and drawbacks of each option. Resources were provided to direct parents to sample forms and additional information.

Resources from this webinar:

Collaborative webinar with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

ESY is an individualized instructional program for eligible students with disabilities that is provided beyond the regular school year. The need for ESY services must be determined on an individual basis by the admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) committee. The individualized education program (IEP) developed for ESY must include goals and objectives.

Presenter for the Extended School Year (ESY) webinar:  Dawne Vanderhule, Texas Education Agency (TEA) Child Find, Evaluation and ARD Support Coordinator

Resources from the Extended School Year (ESY) webinar:

About our presenter: Dawne Vanderhule is the TEA Child Find, Evaluation and ARD Support Coordinator.  She has 31+ years as an educator, and has previously worked as a Director of Special Education Services, Educational Diagnostician, Special education teacher, and TEA certified speech therapist.

Special Guest Presenter: Aracely Olmeda MS, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

Life after high school can have a many uncertainties on what option is best. On May 14, Aracely Olmeda shared her transition story, from becoming empowered to lead her own ARDs to making person-centered decisions. Aracely also discussed various options and resources available for youth with disabilities who are transitioning from high school into adult life, including postsecondary options in Texas.

Resources from the webinar:

Links shared during the webinar:

JAN – Job Accommodation Network
https://askjan.org/

Searching careers on https://www.onetonline.org/

Career Interest Inventory
https://www.mynextmove.org/

Research apprenticeships and job trends in your area
https://www.thecareerindex.com/

Skills worksheets from TWC 
https://lmci.state.tx.us/explore/TSC/k12.asp

WRP Workforce Recruitment Program
https://wrp.gov/AboutPre.do#Students

National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability 
http://www.ncwd-youth.info/

Think College
https://thinkcollege.net/

Post Secondary Access and Training in Human Services (PATHS)
http://paths.tamu.edu/

lifePATH® at LSC-Tomball
http://www.lonestar.edu/lifePATH.htm

Vast Academy Houston Community College
https://www.hccs.edu/continuing-education/departments/hcc-vast-academy/

Project Case Texas Tech 
https://www.depts.ttu.edu/burkhartcenter/case/

On July 17, Steven Aleman of Disability Rights Texas provided an update on the 86th Legislative Session. Watch the recording of the webinar to learn which special education issues were considered during the legislative session and how this may affect your child’s education.

Resources from this webinar:

Presented by Thad Green, LSSP

Founded on the research and publications of Dr. Randy Sprick, Dr. Ross Greene, and Alfie Kohn, this webinar presents a toolbox of techniques which parents can use to effectively respond to the unhelpful behaviors they notice in both their children and themselves. The presentation covers the origins of behavioral challenges, as well as the reasons they are so very challenging; and opens a doorway into a pattern of response rooted in compassion, self-reflection, and relationship.

Resources from the Behavioral Responsiveness for Parents webinar:

Special Guest Presenter: Wes Dotson, Ph.D., BCBA, Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research at Texas Tech University

Dr. Wes Dotson, Director of the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research at Texas Tech University, shares strategies to help your child deal with anxiety and build his/her confidence in the classroom.

Resources from the webinar:

About our presenter: Wes Dotson, Ph.D., BCBA-D is the Director of the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research and an Associate Professor in the Special Education Program at Texas Tech University. He earned his Ph.D. in Behavioral Psychology in 2010 from the University of Kansas. He has spent over 18 years in special education, working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities of all ages. His primary areas of research are social skills, relationship development, and successful life outcomes for adolescents and young adults with autism, as well as the preparation of teachers and other professionals to work successfully with individuals on the spectrum. In his role as Director of the Burkhart Center Dr. Dotson oversees over a dozen clinical services, multiple funded grant projects, and several cross-disciplinary research groups exploring issues related to autism identification and treatment in the community. Burkhart Center team members work with over 100 university and community partners to provide an array of services and opportunities for those served by the center.  

On Tuesday, August 27, 2019, Dr. Charles Hallmark, Grace Psychological Services, discussed anxiety disorders in children, including the different types and identifiers that parents can look for, along with a focus on anxiety in children with dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities.  

Resources from the webinar:

Special Guest Presenter: Layne Pethick, Ph.D., Behavior Consultant and Autism Specialist

On  September 17, 2019, Layne Pethick, Ph.D., Behavior Consultant and Autism Specialist, discussed behavior intervention plans including appropriate goals and interventions, and what parents can do if the BIP isn’t working for their child.  This webinar was a collaboration of Partners Resource Network and Region 10 ESC.

Resources from this webinar:

About our presenter: Layne Pethick, Ph.D., is an Autism Spectrum Disorder and Behavior Consultant for Region 10 ESC. He has a PhD in Business/Organization Leadership and has a Master’s degree in Special Education with concentration in ASD and E/BD (Human Behavior), along with degrees in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, and Reading.  Layne has experience as a general and special education teacher, school administrator, district trainer, program director, and in higher education as a professor of special education, assessment, early childhood and teacher education. He has had several articles published and presents at local, state, national, and international conferences. He has and continues to work with various countries in the areas of education and special education to include Mexico (2009-2011), Hong Kong (2009), Canada (currently), Vietnam (currently), and across the United States (currently).

Special Guest Presenter: Colleen Elbe, Disability Rights Texas

Students with disabilities are at a greater risk of being bullied at school than their peers. This presentation provides parents with remedies after their student is bullied and  ideas for how to prevent bullying.

Resources from the Bullying Involving Students with Disabilities webinar:

About our presenter: Colleen Elbe is a Supervising Attorney and Regional Manager with Disability Rights Texas in Lubbock, Texas. Colleen graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of New Mexico and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University. Prior to law school, she worked for a state family preservation contractor providing therapy to families at risk of losing their children to the foster care system. Colleen is a graduate of Texas Tech School of Law where she was a Board of Barristers member and graduated with a Health Law Certificate. After graduation from law school, Colleen received a fellowship from Equal Justice Works to represent students with disabilities facing illegal suspension or expulsion.

Special Guest Presenter: Richard Capodagli, M.Ed., LPC-S

On October, 15, 2019, Rich Capodagli, M.Ed., LPC-S, discussed different types of bullying, and the psychological and emotional effects it can have on children and adolescents.  Rich introduced strategies and techniques parents can use to help their child cope with bullying.

Resources from the Helping Kids Cope with Bullying webinar:

About our presenter: Rich Capodagli is a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. Rich Capodagli began his career as a direct care staff member working with children in the foster care system. Rich Capodagli has continued his career working with children in care as a Case Manager, Therapist, Supervisor of a Residential Treatment Center, Clinical Director, and Treatment Director during his career. Rich Capodagli also spent time as a mobile crisis outreach team member while working with a local mental health authority. Rich Capodagli also currently maintains a private practice working with children and adults presenting with a variety of mental health related struggles.

The terms least restrictive environment, inclusion, and mainstreaming are often used interchangeably. They are not, however, synonymous concepts. This webinar will explore the placement continuum and identify considerations in the decision-making process regarding a student’s least restrictive environment (LRE).

  • Special Guest Presenter: Keya Saleh, LSSP
  • In collaboration with Region 10 ESC

Resources from the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) webinar:

About our presenter: Keya Saleh is the Licensed Specialist in School Psychology Consultant in Region 10. He has worked his entire career in special education, as an LSSP, district coordinator, and evaluation supervisor. His areas of expertise include evaluation, behavior management, and mental health.

During this web training, participants will explore effective ways to navigate through conflict by learning the importance of framing a conflict event, identifying underlying interests, and other collaborative communication skills. Participants will have an opportunity to self-reflect on their conflict styles and biases as they learn skills and strategies for effectively managing conflict.

Special Guest Presenter: Melanie J. Reese, Ph. D., Director, Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE)

For nearly 20 years, the National Center for Dispute Resolution in Special Education, CADRE, has provided a wealth of materials and resources to help understand and work through conflicts that may arise between parents and their children’s schools. Applicable resources for parents will be shared with the attendees.

Resources from the Turning Conflict into Positive Outcomes webinar:

Resources from CADRE shared during the webinar:

About our presenter: Dr. Melanie Reese joined the National Center for Appropriate Dispute Resolution in Special Education (CADRE) as Director in October 2017 after having served as the Dispute Resolution Coordinator for the Idaho Department of Education’s Special Education Department since 2010. In that time, she helped grow Idaho’s facilitation program into a thriving and valuable option for Idaho’s districts and parents. Additionally, she oversaw the state’s mediation, state complaint and due process hearing processes where she worked closely with Idaho’s Parent Training and Information Center and Local Educational Agencies. As professor emeritus (Boise State University, 2009), Dr. Reese remains active in the academic community and is the co-author of two successful textbooks in conflict and mediation studies. Dr. Reese currently sits on Boise State University’s Dispute Resolution Graduate Advisory Board and is a member of their graduate teaching faculty. In addition to her career as a university professor, her past work includes serving on the Executive Board of the Idaho Mediation Association, practicing as a professional mediator since 1990, and serving as a college ombudsman. Melanie regularly provides training and coaching in conflict management, special education dispute resolution, and organizational communication.

Dra. Gracie Reyes-McDonald, de Grace Psychological Services

Special Guest Presenter: Dr. Malvika Behl, West Texas A&M University

On November 5 @ 12:15 p.m. CT, Dr. Malvika Behl, West Texas A&M University, discussed the emotional aspects of having a child with special needs which includes the stages of grief and the challenges of having a child with a learning disability.

Resources from the The Emotional Side for Parents Who Have Children with Learning Disabilities webinar:

  • PowerPoint
  • Recording of The Emotional Side for Parents Who Have Children with Learning Disabilities

About our presenter: Dr. Malvika Behl is an LPC-Intern (TX) and licensed School Counselor (OH). Dr. Behl is a professor at West Texas A&M University and has been working closely with the Center for Learning Disability. She has been working with parents of children with disability through individual and group counseling session. She has experience in counseling adults and children.

Special Guest Presenter: Lee Lentz-Edwards

The Legal Framework is a statewide leadership project partnering the Texas Education Agency and Region 18 Education Service Center. The project which includes contacts from each educational service center is a compilation of state and federal requirements for special education organized by topic in a user-friendly format. Additional resources available on the Legal Framework website include the Notice of Procedural Safeguards, Parent’s Guide to the ARD Process, and the Special Education Rules and Regulations document.

Resources from the webinar:

About our presenter: Lee Lentz-Edwards has served as a member of the Statewide Leadership Team for the Legal Framework for the Child-Centered Process in Texas since 2005. She works with the team to research, construct, and edit the Legal Framework and its website. She also provides training to school personnel and parents about the use of the Legal Framework. Lee is currently a consultant working with students and teachers in Region 18. Her background includes responsibility as an educator and administrator at the elementary and secondary levels.

On November 12, David Beinke discussed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and Pre-Employment Transition Services, which include job counseling, work-based learning experiences, and workplace readiness training to develop social skills and independent living, and instruction in self-advocacy.

Resources from the Transition Services webinar:

Special Guest Presenter: Robin Pokladnik, Educational Diagnostician, Region 10 ESC

This webinar provides an opportunity for you to learn about IDEA’s Child Find mandate, who is covered, what schools are required to do and how you can request an evaluation for your child should you have concerns regarding their progress. Identifying children with disabilities is an important first step toward getting them the help they need to succeed in school.

Resource from this webinar:

  • Coming soon!

About our presenter: Robin Pokladnik is currently the Child Find and Evaluation Consultant for Region 10 Education Service Center. She has worked the majority of her career in special education serving as an educational diagnostician, special education facilitator, coordinator and director of special education.

Special Guest Presenter: Keri Peko, Military Outreach Specialist, PEATC

Attendees will benefit from this presentation on serving in the military with special needs children and the resources available to this specialized population. The Interstate Compact, EFMP, Special Education, Tricare, and Retirement are some of the topics to be covered during this informative webinar. Keri Peko, Military Outreach Specialist and Navy spouse of 25 years, will help you figure out how to serve with a special needs child.

Resources from this webinar:

About our presenter: Keri Peko founded MASC, the first Tricare approved, not-for-profit applied behavior analysis and family support provider, in 2005 to serve the Hampton Roads area of southeast Virginia. She assisted the center’s clients by providing in-home parent training and advocacy during IEP meetings while managing the business. Her 18 year- old daughter with severe autism inspired Keri to address the needs of children with autism in her community. Keri has had the opportunity to meet with senior military leadership, members of Congress, and health care industry leaders to address autism and the impact it has on military readiness. The Peko family has lived all over the United States but has been in Chesapeake for 15 years. Keri’s husband currently serves our country in the U.S. Navy and has for 27 years.

Special Guest Presenter: Dr. Mikyung Shin, Assistant Professor of Special Education, West Texas A&M University

In this webinar, you’ll learn the risk factors and causes of dyscalculia, and discover the cognitive and mathematical characteristics of students with dyscalculia. Then, you’ll get examples of dyscalculia toolkits, screeners, and intensive mathematics interventions.

Resources from this webinar:

About our presenter: Dr. Shin joined the College of Education and Social Sciences at West Texas A&M University in 2019. She received a B.A. in Special Education and English Language and Literature from Ewha Woman’s University in 2006, an M.A. in Special Education from the University of Texas at Austin in 2009 and a Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Texas at Austin in 2013.

Dr. Shin teaches Special Education Teacher Preparation and Educational Diagnostician courses including Learning and Behavior Disorders, Theories of Learning Disabilities and Emotional/Behavioral Disorders, and Assistive Technology. She has made numerous presentations on teaching mathematics to students with learning disabilities and developing web-based mathematics apps as instructional tools in the classroom.

2018 Statewide Webinar Series

During this webinar, we discussed the importance of the annual ARD meeting,  documentation (the ARD notice, 5 day waiver, requesting draft IEP goals), parent tips for successful IEP meetings, ESY (the rules and requirements), and transition tips.

Resources shared during the Q&A session

Behavior Contracts to Promote Independence, presented by Allison Sheats and Ashley Richardson of Burkhart Center for Autism Education & Research, Texas Tech University.  Allison and Ashley discuss how to utilize behavior contracts to provide specific expectations and bring more positive reinforcement into your child’s life.

Steven Aleman discusses the recent federal investigation of special education in Texas and violations of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The Texas Education Agency is now responding and writing a new statewide plan for students with disabilities. You will get the latest updates on your chance to comment and speak at public forums. Also hear analysis of proposed corrective actions and how students, parents, and educators will be affected.

TEA Corrective Action Plan Webinar #1

TEA Corrective Action Plan Webinar #2

TEA Corrective Action Plan Webinar #3

TEA Corrective Action Plan Webinar #4

Other Resources Shared During the Webinars:

A special double webinar event in collaboration with the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (Ohio PTI). 

This webinar featured two guest presentations:

Negotiation Skills for Parents: How to Get the Special Education Services Your Child with Disabilities Needs  Kristin Hildebrant, Senior Attorney at Disability Rights Ohio, shares strategies to help you learn how to negotiate for appropriate services for your child with disabilities so that you can become a more successful and effective member of your child’s IEP team.

Back-to-School Without Tears! Does just thinking about sending your child back to school cause you anxiety? Brandi Timmons, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, of Social Motion Skills, will share with you strategies and tips for a smoother, low-stress transition–for both you and your child! 

Special guest presenters: Steven Aleman and Carrie Griffith, Disability Rights Texas.

Guest presenter Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S

Healthy Relationships is a training geared toward teens and their care givers to help them navigate the perils of dating and intimate relationships. Teens who have a history of trauma can often time struggle with many aspects of intimacy in the dating world. The goal of this training is to help care givers know what to say and how to say it in order to help their young adults manage the wide range of thoughts, emotions and challenges that are often encountered in the realm of dating. 

  • PowerPoint for Healthy Relationships for Transitioning Youth – Boundaries and Principles of Dating
  • Recording of Healthy Relationships for Transitioning Youth – Boundaries and Principles of Dating

Virtual symposium in collaboration with the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (Ohio PTI).  The full recording of the Bullying Basics: From Prevention to Promoting Mental Health virtual symposium is now available.

SPEAKER INFORMATION & RESOURCES

Bullying Involving Students with Disabilities presented by Colleen Elbe, Disability Rights Texas

Colleen Elbe is a Senior Attorney and Regional Manager with Disability Rights Texas in Lubbock, Texas. Colleen graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of New Mexico and a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friends University. Prior to law school, she worked for a state family preservation contractor providing therapy to families at risk of losing their children to the foster care system. Colleen is a graduate of Texas Tech School of Law where she was a Board of Barristers member and graduated with a Health Law Certificate. After graduation from law school, Colleen received a fellowship from Equal Justice Works to represent students with disabilities facing illegal suspension or expulsion.

  • PowerPoint for Bullying Involving Students with Disabilities presented by Colleen Elbe, Disability Rights Texas
  • Recording of the Bullying Involving Students with Disabilities presented by Colleen Elbe, Disability Rights Texas
  • Colleen Elbe’s Facebook Live recording on state and federal laws on bullying and harassment

Resources shared during presentation:

Mental Health 101 presented by Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S, Superior Health Plan

Rich Capodagli is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years’ experience working directly with families and children. Even prior to earning his Master’s Degree in Education (Counseling) at Texas Tech University, Rich cut his teeth working through the foster care system as a direct care staff in shelter, residential group care and residential treatment settings. Following becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, Rich worked in assessment and crisis stabilization within the community mental health system. He also has extensive administrative experience in the foster care system including as a supervisor over residential and group care programs as well as Clinical Director of an agency with a Residential Group Care Organization, Assessment Center, and CPA programs. Further, Rich has maintained a private practice working with adults, couples, families and children presenting with a variety of mental health, behavioral and relational concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues with anger, relationships, and behavioral concerns. Rich has most recently worked with Cenpatico as a Clinical Supervisor and currently as a Senior Foster Care Trainer. Rich has also trained/interfaced with numerous community entities including Independent School Districts, university systema, medical and legal Professionals, Children’s Protective Services, the Police and Sheriffs’ departments, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and other counselors and social workers with in the community.

  • PowerPoint for Mental Health 101 presented by Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S, Superior Health Plan
  • Recording of Mental Health 101 presented by Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S

Cyberbullying presented by Taiya Jones-Castillo, LBSW, CHWI, Texas Department of State Health Services

Trained and licensed as a Social Worker, Community Health Worker Instructor, Child Passenger Safety Technician, and Suicide Prevention Instructor. Ms. Jones-Castillo is passionate about helping families, improving community health, and educating families & individuals. Experience as a Case Manager and Outreach Liaison for a FQHC mobile health unit, has worked with families, children, migrant and seasonal farm workers, Mennonite families, rural schools, clinics, rural families and professional stakeholders. In her current position, Program Specialist, Texas Department of State Health Services, Maternal & Child Health Program, Region 1, she supports & participates with local community groups regarding injury prevention for vulnerable populations, provides resources for groups seeking assistance in promoting safer communities, creates & distributes health education materials, presentations, and assists in health professional development, including continuing education.

  • PowerPoint for Cyberbullying presented by Taiya Jones-Castillo, LBSW, CHWI, Texas Department of State Health Services

Presentation Handouts:

Resources shared during presentation:

Perpetrators of Bullying and Disability: Strategies for Parents presented by Charles Hallmark, PhD, Grace Psychological Services

Dr. Charles Hallmark is a bilingual (English/Spanish) Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). He received his Doctorate in Combined Counseling/School Psychology from the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. His research has focused on the measurement of parental responsiveness for parents of children with ADHD and disruptive behavioral disorders. Current areas of expertise include treating children and adolescents with disruptive behavior disorders, grief and loss, and depression. He also specializes in parent training programs and bilingual school psychology, including diversity and multiculturalism. Dr. Hallmark is currently on staff at Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, where he co-implements an evidence-based manualized parent training intervention for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and speech-language delays. At Grace Psychological Services, PLLC, Dr. Hallmark conducts psychoeducational and psychological evaluations and provides counseling. He utilizes primarily a cognitive-behavioral approach and incorporates family systems theory and solution-focused approaches in his therapy with children and adolescents. He also provides family and individual child-focused psychotherapy for children and adolescents with a history of trauma, mood disorders, and autism.

  • PowerPoint for Perpetrators of Bullying and Disability: Strategies for Parents presented by Charles Hallmark, PhD, Grace Psychological Services

Suicide Prevention presented by Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S, Superior Health Plan

Rich Capodagli is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years’ experience working directly with families and children. Even prior to earning his Master’s Degree in Education (Counseling) at Texas Tech University, Rich cut his teeth working through the foster care system as a direct care staff in shelter, residential group care and residential treatment settings. Following becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, Rich worked in assessment and crisis stabilization within the community mental health system. He also has extensive administrative experience in the foster care system including as a supervisor over residential and group care programs as well as Clinical Director of an agency with a Residential Group Care Organization, Assessment Center, and CPA programs. Further, Rich has maintained a private practice working with adults, couples, families and children presenting with a variety of mental health, behavioral and relational concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues with anger, relationships, and behavioral concerns. Rich has most recently worked with Cenpatico as a Clinical Supervisor and currently as a Senior Foster Care Trainer. Rich has also trained/interfaced with numerous community entities including Independent School Districts, university systema, medical and legal Professionals, Children’s Protective Services, the Police and Sheriffs’ departments, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and other counselors and social workers with in the community.

  • PowerPoint for Suicide Prevention presented by Richard Capodagli M.Ed., LPC-S, Superior Health Plan

  • Recording for the Endrew F. – What Parents Need to Know webinar is available here >>
  •  1. Supreme Court Decision March 22. 2017 https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/16pdf/15-827_0pm1.pdf
    These 16 pages are loaded with powerful words that when used can change the lives of children. In my opinion it takes the discussion and programming for a student with disabilities to a next level. It returns individual/child focused back to its rightful position in every IEP meeting. Read it, and Read It Again, and Finally Read It with a highlighter in hand
  • The United States Supreme Court ruled on the Endrew F. matter in March 2017 and remanded the case to the 10th Circuit. https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/16pdf/15-827_0pm1.pdf
  • 2.  Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law http://www.bazelon.org/endrew-f-v-douglas-county-school-district/
  • Endrew F., “Decision Creates Important New Opportunities for Students with Disabilities” (6-page paper) http://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.copaa.org/resource/resmgr/docs/accessible_2017/Endrew_paper_LH__9-8-17-1.pdf
  • 3. United States Department of Education Endrew F. Guidance Q and A December 7, 2017 https://www2.ed.gov/policy/speced/guid/idea/memosdcltrs/qa-endrewcase-12-07-2017.pdf
  • OSEP Letter on FAPE 11-17-15 https://www2.ed.gov/policy/speced/guid/idea/memosdcltrs/guidance-on-fape-11-17-2015.pdf
  • High Expectations and Appropriate Supports The Importance of IEP’s IDEA the Works Webinar on April 9, 2018 (you can access the transcript, recording and powerpoint) https://osepideasthatwork.org/osep-meeting/high-expectations-and-appropriate-supports-importance-ieps
  • 4. Colorado Decision February 2018 http://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.copaa.org/resource/resmgr/docs/2018_Documents/Endrew2018.02.12.Opinion_and.pdf
  • Colorado District Rules in Endrew F. Case On February 12, 2018, the Honorable Lewis T. Babcock, U.S.D.J. issued a decision in the matter of Endrew F., v. Douglas County. Sch. Dist. RE 1. The 10th Circuit remanded the cases to the United District Court for the District of Colorado for further proceedings, and Judge Babcock issued a decision in favor of the Petitioners. Judge Babcock’s decision can be found here: https://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.copaa.org/resource/resmgr/docs/2018_Documents/Endrew2018.02.12.Opinion_and.pdf Judge Babcock ruled as follows: The minimal progress revealed in Petitioner’s educational plan is insufficient, however, to show that the April 2010 IEP proffered by the District created an educational plan that was reasonably calculated to enable him to make progress. While Petitioner’s educational program must be appropriately ambitious in light of his circumstances, the Supreme Court was clear that every child, including Petitioner, should have the chance to meet challenging objectives. In this case, Petitioner’s past educational and functional progress – as evidenced by the changes to his yearly IEPs after second grade – was minimal at best. Those changes consisted of only updates and minor or slight increases in the objectives or carrying over the same goals from year to year, or abandonment if they could not be meet. The April 2010 IEP was clearly just a continuation of the District’s educational plan that had previously only resulted in minimal academic and functional progress. Judge Babcock awarded tuition reimbursement 20 U.S.C. §1412(a)(10)(C)(ii) and 34 C.F.R. §300.148(c), as well as reasonable attorneys’ fees and litigation costs pursuant to 20 U.S.C. § 1415(i)(3)(B) Appeal filed by School System- March/April 2018 School district appeals reimbursement order in Endrew F. case The Douglas County (Colo.) School District has filed a notice of appeal to a District Court judge’s order that it pay damages to the family of the student at the center of the pivotal case Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District RE 1, 71 IDELR 144 (D. Colo. 2018). The attorney representing the student and his family has filed a motion to dismiss that appeal. Both filings were made March 15th, according to the 10th Circuit Clerk of Courts Betsy Shumaker.
  • 5. Understood https://www.understood.org/
  • Endrew F. Advocacy Toolkit https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/your-childs-rights/basics-about-childs-rights/download-endrew-f-advocacy-toolkit
  • Endrew F Talking points (4 pages) https://www.understood.org/~/media/b2f709aa0310480cb3b2014d056ed4eb.pdf
  • Endrew F. Worksheet (4 pages) https://www.understood.org/~/media/5412f1b3935247deaf6212e13a8944a4.pdf
  • 6. Perry Zirkel (View from around the IEP Table) https://perryzirkel.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/zirkel-legal-alert-january-2018.pdf
  • 7. In Your States – Letters, Memos, Trainings on Endrew F Massachusetts Advisory on Endrew F, v. Douglas County School District RE-1, 2017 U.S. Supreme Court Decision of Special Education (June 16, 2017) http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/advisory/2017-0616ieps.html
  • 8. Articles of Interest: Atlantic Magazine How a New Supreme Court Ruling Could Affect Special Education https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2017/03/how-a-new-supreme- court-ruling-could-affect-special-education/520662/
  • Exceptional Parent Magazine article March 2018 Education Next Summer 2017 Education Week
  • 9. Check Professional Organizations National Association of School Psychologist http://www.nasponline.org/publications/periodicals/communique/issues/volume-46-issue-5/did-endrew-f-change-the-a-in-fape-questions-and-implications-for-school-psychologists
  • 10. From the Courts: 2017 Cases after Endrew F Decision Case name: Fourth Circuit: ML by Lieman v Montgomery County Board of Education 117 LRP 33077 (4th Cir 8/14/17) The Fourth Circuit ruled that a school district did not deny FAPE where a student’s IEP did not include instruction in the customs and practices of Orthodox Judaism. The Fourth Circuit notes that the FAPE standard that it had been applying prior to Endrew F was quite similar to the “merely more than de minimis” standard applied by the Tenth Circuit and rejected by the Supreme Court. The Fourth Circuit did not reach the question of the FAPE standard, however, because the court found that IDEA does not provide the relief sought by the parents under any standard. The Court ruled that IDEA does not require schools to provide religious instruction and citing the language from Endrew F concerning “progress appropriate in light of the child’s circumstances,” the court found that the circumstances that are relevant involve the student’s disability and not his faith or culture. Because IDEA does not guarantee any particular outcome, the Fourth Circuit held that FAPE had been offered and affirmed the denial of reimbursement. Case name: Eighth Circuit: IZM v Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schs, Independent School District No 1 70 IDELR 86 (8th Cir 7/14/17) Eighth Circuit ruled that a state statute regarding Braille instruction did not raise the bar for FAPE. The Court noted that IDEA does not guarantee that a child makes any progress. The court acknowledged the “progress appropriate in light of the child’s circumstances,” language from Endrew F, and noted that the new standard by the Supreme Court was consistent with its ruling that the school district had provided FAPE even though not all the student’s instructional materials were provided in Braille despite reasonable efforts to do so. District Court must reconsider whether teen’s IEP goals addressed all areas of need Case name: M.C. v. Antelope Valley Union High Sch. Dist., 69 IDELR 203 (9th Cir. 2017). Ruling: The parent of a blind high school student will get a second chance to show that a California district denied her son FAPE by failing to develop measurable annual goals addressing life skills, residential travel, and business travel. Noting that an IEP must be reasonably calculated to allow a student to make progress appropriate in light of his circumstances, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed the District Court’s ruling in the district’s favor and remanded the case for a determination of whether the IEP satisfied the standard of FAPE set forth in Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District RE-1, 69 IDELR 174 (U.S. 2017). IEP doesn’t need to include separate goal relating to attentional difficulties Case name: K.M. v. Tehachapi Unified Sch. Dist., 117 LRP 13249 (E.D. Cal. 04/05/17). 9th Circuit Ruling: Although the IEP goals developed for an elementary school student with autism did not specifically target her attentional difficulties, they sufficiently addressed the child’s need for assistance with staying on task. The U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California held that the IEP goals complied with Endrew F. Kindergartner’s progress in reading, math satisfies Endrew F. standard Case name: E.D. v. Colonial Sch. Dist., 117 LRP 12348 (E.D. Pa. 03/31/17). 3rd Circuit Ruling: The fact that a 5-year-old girl with a speech and language impairment had not met grade-level curriculum standards by the end of her kindergarten year did not prove that a Pennsylvania district denied the child FAPE. The District Court upheld an IHO’s decision at 109 LRP 56323 that the child’s progress was appropriate in light of her age and the district’s ongoing assessment of her disability-related needs. Student’s advancement shows IEPs allowed for ‘appropriate progress’ Case name: A.G. and J.G. v. Board of Educ. of the Arlington Cent. Sch. Dist., 69 IDELR 210 (S.D.N.Y. 2017). 2nd Circuit Ruling: Despite arguing that the resource room and integrated co-teaching classes at their son’s school were physical placements rather than IDEA services, the parents of an elementary school student with dyslexia and ADHD could not show that a district denied the student FAPE. The U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York held that the student’s progress in decoding and encoding skills showed that he received an educational benefit as contemplated by Endrew F. IHO’s review of child’s progress, circumstances shows IEP was appropriate Case name: Brandywine Heights Area Sch. Dist. v. B.M., 69 IDELR 212 (E.D. Pa. 2017). 3rd Circuit Ruling: Because an IHO considered whether a child with autism had made progress “that was meaningful in view of [his] profound combination of cognitive disabilities,” the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania upheld his decision at 12 ECLPR 77 that an IEP developed in February of the child’s kindergarten year was appropriate. However, the court ruled that the child was entitled to compensatory education for a previous denial of FAPE. Endrew F. ruling requires IHO to revisit appropriateness of student’s IEP Case name: C.D. v. Natick Pub. Sch. Dist., 69 IDELR 213 (D. Mass. 2017). 1st Circuit Ruling: An IHO’s application of the “some educational benefit” standard in determining that a Massachusetts district offered FAPE to a student with a disability complicated the District Court’s review of the case. Observing that it was unclear whether the IHO’s July 2015 decision comported with the U.S. Supreme Court’s more recent ruling in Endrew F., the District Court remanded the case for further proceedings.

Special guest presenter: Jeff Miller, Disability Rights Texas

During the 84th Texas Legislative Session in 2015, legislators passed new laws that make Texas the first state to have laws recognizing supported decision-making agreements as an alternative to guardianship. Supported decision-making allows individuals to make their own decisions and stay in charge of their lives, while receiving the help and assistance they need to do so. 

2017 Statewide Webinar Series

Additional Resources:

Statewide Team

Kristina Henning
Director of Statewide Services

Rana Anderson
Curriculum Specialist

Marggiana Antunez
Translation Specialist

Brandye Brooks
Resource Specialist

Chuck Noe
Education Specialist

Stephanie McLoughlin
Training & Evaluation Specialist

Chelsea Rivas
Support Specialist

Zachary Hidalgo
Technology Specialist