We will be having a new student enter our schools that has a severe peanut allergy. We will be reviewing policies and procedures to make our schools a safe place for them. Here is an email from DPI that will help guide us. We have also obtained sample school policies from WASB for review.
Hi Katy,
Sorry I didn't get to answering your email yesterday, but am kind of glad I didn't because I attended a session on anaphylaxis last night, presented by Dr. Bukstein, a very respected pediatric allergist with Dean Healthcare. He confirmed what I was going to respond to you and gave me some other pointers as well. So as far as banning any food substance from a school, we ask the school to consider the following first:
1. By "banning" a food item from a school, such as peanuts, the school may be placing itself under more liability by inferring that there is no chance of a child coming in contact with that food item. The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), does not support banning of food items in schools, but suggests that schools take measures to ensure a child's safety by making the school "peanut aware" or "allergen aware" and building policies around that concept.
2. Bans create a false sense of security. In banning a food product such as peanuts, be aware that this means much more than banning peanut butter and jelly sandwiches or peanut butter cookies. In schools where peanuts have been banned, accidental ingestion causing anaphylactic reactions have occurred from baked goods and candies purchased from the school store or given out as classroom treats or treats from the bus driver. Peanut butter or products with peanut butter in the ingredients have been used in classroom projects and art projects. Most people are not aware that some brands of jelly beans have peanut flour in them.
3. A ban can pit parent against parent. It is a divisive force when what we need is the cooperation of everyone in the school to form a safety net around the children at risk. A training program where everyone understands what foods cause allergies, what are the symptoms of an allergic reaction for that child, what action to take, and where medications are stored unites people to work together.
4. How do you decide which allergen(s) to ban (i.e., peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, shell fish, etc.)? By banning one known food allergen, you may be setting a precedence for the request of banning other food allergen that children in your schools have a reaction to. The majority of allergic reaction are caused by these eight foods listed here.
5. In order for a ban to work, one would have to have everyone in the school constantly reading ingredients labels and calling manufacturers to determine if products contain any of the offending food. While this is reasonable to ask of foodservice in accommodating a documented disability based on a severe food allergy, it isn't a realistic expectation of parents or other school staff when checking any and all sources of foods that children may be exposed to throughout the school day. For example, who would take the responsibility of going through each and every student's snacks or lunches brought from home to make sure there were not any items containing the allergen or processed in a factory or line where there was a potential for cross-contamination.
6. Creating a ban that stigmatizes those with the allergy may be offensive and discriminatory. The majority of children and adults with food allergies want to be treated as "normal" as possible. Creating a ban that stigmatizes them is not what they want. It also doesn't teach young children how to live with the allergy, which may be a life-long allergy. Creative thinkers can devise options to provide safety for peanut-allergic students without isolating them or restricting what the other children bring in.
I have also attached a handout from the presentation I attended last night, which has some very good information in it about what studies have shown in regard to food allergies in schools. I would also recommend that you and the school nurse watch the following webcasts on special dietary needs to help determine what steps the school may want to take: Looking at Special Needs Through Different Eyes and Working Together to Accommodate Special Dietary Needs (http://dpi.wi.gov/fns/sntwebcasts.html#sdn). You will also want to make sure that you communicate well with all stakeholders, including the family.linda.krueger@dpi.wi.gov
Hope this helps. Please let me know if you have further questions. Have a great weekend! Linda
Linda Krueger, SNS
Nutrition Program Consultant
School Nutrition Team
Department of Public Instruction
125 South Webster St, PO Box 7841
Madison, WI 53707-7841
608-267-9128 Office
608-267-0363 Fax
Friday, April 29, 2011
Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is May 1-7.
Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is May 1-7.
From DPI Homeless Consultant (Jennifer.Rubin@dpi.wi.gov)
One of the primary goals of Children's Mental Health Awareness week is to promote general awareness that infants, children, and teens can have mental health issues. Did you know that one in five children (20%) have a mental health disorder? Seventy-five to 80% of children and youth in need of mental health services do not receive them.
Source - Children's Mental Health: What Every Policymaker Should Know. National Center
The first step to supporting children's mental health is awareness. All of the children in our community need the support of adults around them and we all have a role in supporting children's mental health. Together we can all work to promote the mental health of infants, children, and teens across the state. You can find resources for community outreach and education at the following link, http://www.wiaimh.org/. (Click on the 1st bullet: Children's Mental Health Awareness week is May 1-7th.) The resources include a children's mental health awareness flyer and a children's mental health awareness information packet.
TT Update
Tyler T is a special education student at MASH who had a heart attack on the bus. Here is an email from Mrs. Lybert on his situation:
Great News! I just spoke with Tyler T's mom Tracey. Tyler Tyler
Maintenance of Effort for Special Education
From Rachel Zellmer at DPI – I plan to attend the May 11 webinar for more information:
***Options for Maintaining IDEA Maintenance of Effort***
With the release of the Governor’s 2011-2013 biennial budget proposal, numerous questions about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’s (IDEA) maintenance of effort (MOE) requirement have been raised, including questions about the impact of reductions in staff benefit costs and layoffs. IDEA does not allow savings from reduced staff salaries/benefits as exceptions. For some LEAs, this may mean putting savings from reduced staff salaries and benefits back into special education, even though the actual level of special education services is not reduced by the benefit reduction.
We have developed an Excel scenario calculator for an LEA to use to determine if these changes will cause an LEA to fail IDEA maintenance of effort in 2011-2012. This calculator can be downloaded from: http://lists.dpi.wi.gov/t/82298/96920/252/0/
In addition to the allowed IDEA exceptions to lowering maintenance of effort, the Special Education Team has determined several options an LEA may wish to consider when planning for maintenance of effort compliance in future fiscal years. These options include:
1) Moving existing special education costs from the IDEA grant to local Fund 27 costs and using the freed-up federal funds for Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS) or Title I schoolwide activities, both of which are general education activities.
2) Special education staff retiree costs currently coded to function 291 000, Fund 10 (if not in Fund 73) may be coded in Fund 27, Project 019.
3) Determining costs generated by non-special education staff in relation to IEP development. These documented costs can be coded to Fund 27, Project 019.
4) Providing general education instruction / interventions beyond the core curriculum to students with disabilities. These documented costs can be coded to Fund 27, Project 019.
Details on how to implement these options can be viewed at http://lists.dpi.wi.gov/t/82298/96920/253/0/
We are strongly encouraging all districts to have representation register and attend one of the scheduled “Planning for 2011-12 IDEA MOE” webinars that we have scheduled. The webinar will walk the attendee through using the scenario calculator, existing allowable exceptions, and then the additional budgeting options that are available to LEAs.
Wednesday, May 11, 10:00 - 11:15 am: http://lists.dpi.wi.gov/t/82298/96920/255/0/
Wednesday, May 25, 10:00 - 11:15 am: http://lists.dpi.wi.gov/t/82298/96920/256/0/
Afghanistan Update
There were recent attacks in Afghanistan that affected family members of residents in Medford Erin is our FACE teacher and close friend of our special education staff.
Special Education Positions
The school district has posted for three special education teaching positions – 2 at MASH and 1 at MAES; sign language interpreter position, and substitute speech language pathologist.
The two special education teaching positions at MASH allow us to continue offering our pullout classes and inclusion supports for students with disabilities that have been offered in the past.
The special education teaching position at MAES will allow us to provide a continuum of tiered service options for students with disabilities in pullout classes, inclusion support, tiered level of services and remedial instruction for students with academic, autism, behavioral, speech language, and communication needs. Alignment of special education staff will be tentatively laid out by May 6th. We have had special education staff spend more time working in regular education over past two years, decrease in paraprofessional support due to students transferring to other buildings, and multiple student transfers and new identification of students with disabilities in the past year. This certified special education staff member will allow us an opportunity to maintain existing paraprofessionals and their support at each grade level, allow IEP required and appropriate instructional time and services for students that receive special education, and continue to build towards RTI services which need to be in place by 2013 according to State Law.
The Sign Language Interpreter position will be full time in Kindergarten for the 11-12 school year.
The substitute speech language pathologist is for when our existing speech language pathologists are at a conference, sick, or on leave.
TEACCH Training
We are looking at a TEACCH training on August 4. This is evidence based practice for students with autism. CESA 7 Autism Consultant Mandy Reinke would provide the training for us. www.teacch.com
SMART Table Demonstration
We held a Smart Table demonstration on Wednesday. This is newer technology that would be resource which would allow students to do cooperative learning, problem solving, multi-sensory instruction, fine motor development, memory, critical thinking skills, and core academic learning. There are original and updated versions available. One will be available in the second week of May for further trial. One might be purchased for next year through Ann Marie Foundation Grant application or other grant funds. http://exchange.smarttech.com is a site you can see some of the activities that other teachers shared.
Read Write and Gold Demonstration
Has been cancelled for Tuesday May 3rd. I will be rescheduling for this summer to allow more staff to attend. They will send me free demo software for our review prior to the training.
Special Education Dance For Grades 7 to 12 on April 29
Friday April 29 from 12:30 to 2:30 at MASH. Students with disabilities and a friend of their choice are able to attend. This is our inaugural dance. Set up will begin at 11:00. Thanks to the MASH DART Club, Special Education Staff, and Medford Morning Rotary Club for helping put this dance together.
Adult Literacy Class
Our initial Adult Literacy Class will be held starting on Monday and Wednesdays in May and June. Our first class is Monday May 2nd from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at NTC. Wilson Just Words will be the curriculum. There is no registration cost. Contact 715-748-1520 for more information and ask for Cindy or Beth.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
TEACCH Model for Autism Overview in Medford
We are looking at a TEACCH training on August 4. This is an evidence based practice for students with autism. CESA 7 Autism Consultant will provide the overview.
Introduction to TEACCH — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine
www.teacch.com
Introduction to TEACCH — TEACCH - UNC School of Medicine
www.teacch.com
Spring Fling Dance for Special Education Students
Reminder on our first annual Spring Fling Dance for special education students in Grades 7-12. This will be held at MASH on Friday from 12:30 to 2:30. Students can bring one friend. Thanks to the Medford Morning Rotary Club for sponsoring and MASH DART Club for helping organize this dance. We have students all ready for the YMCA!
Taylor County Interagency Communication Committee
We are looking at having another Taylor County Interagency Communications meeting. The purpose of this meeting will be to review:
Youth Risk behavior survey results
Law Enforcement Drug Statistics - Prevalence Data
District Attorney Resources and Role
Juvenile Court Process
Schools Role in Preventing Drug Abuse and Consequences
Human Services Role in Drug Counseling and Supervision of Youth
Youth Risk behavior survey results
Law Enforcement Drug Statistics - Prevalence Data
District Attorney Resources and Role
Juvenile Court Process
Schools Role in Preventing Drug Abuse and Consequences
Human Services Role in Drug Counseling and Supervision of Youth
Friday, April 22, 2011
Weekly Newsletter for Special Education and Student Services
Weekly Special Education and Student Services Newsletter
Appreciation
I would like to take a moment and thank you for all your hard work. Your talent, teaching skills, passion for making a difference, and commitment for our students with disabilities continues to be amazing. I appreciate all of your effort, time, and help for our students, parents, and district. There isn’t always a lot of frequent positive reinforcement in your positions. You make a difference every day for a child in their life. I thank you for making this your career and working here in Medford Schools.
Challenging Year
We have had a challenging year in special education: victim of suicide, several attempts, teenage pregnancy, losing a baby, expulsions, significant and frequent aggression, two families losing their home in a fire, student having a heart attack on a bus leaving him severely disabled, student on a Do Not Resuscitate Order, three students too medically fragile to attend school, severe autism students, multiple transfers in and identification of new students with disabilities, placements in foster care, staff leaving the profession, homeless, and increasing demands for academic performance.
It takes a special person to be able to be a school staff member to help students cope and cope yourselves with these many challenges. Thank you for all that you provide our students and families. Continue to support yourself and each other in a positive manner knowing that you all are making a difference.
Tyler and Shania
Tyler (Grade 2) and Shania (Grade 4) Dankmeyer lost their home in a fire on Monday. Provide them your prayers and support for them and their family at this time. Multiple generous adults and children have donated clothing and other items for the children and parents.
RVA for Special Education Students
Students with disabilities who have parents interested in RVA would set up an introductory meeting with RVA representatives. This will help inform them on RVA. If the family is still interested, then an IEP would have to address RVA services and the amount and type of special education services the child would receive. The changes to an IEP could be done at a formal IEP meeting or through I-10-A and I-10-B forms. Jan Farmer is the RVA case manager of students with disabilities. Depending on severity of student needs, they could receive some special education services at school. For more information on RVA go to www.ruralvirtual.org or consult with RVA Principal Charlie Heckel at MAMS.
MAES Special Education meeting on April 20
Our monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday April 20 in the MAES Computer Lab starting at 3:20.
Taylor County Adult Literacy Council on April 25
Taylor County Adult Literacy Council will be held on Monday April 25th at 7:00 pm at NTC.
Adult Literacy Class
Our initial Adult Literacy Class will be held starting on Monday and Wednesdays in May and June. Our first class is Monday May 2nd from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at NTC. Wilson Just Words will be the curriculum. There is no registration cost. Contact 715-748-1520 for more information and ask for Cindy or Beth.
Wilson Steps 7-12 Online Class on April 26
This will be held on Tuesday April 26 starting at 3:45 in the MAES Computer Lab. Any staff participating in the Level II Certification or would like to know more about teaching Steps 7-12 can attend.
SMART Table Demonstration on April 27
Tierrny Bros. will be here Wed Apr 27th with the SMART table in the late morning. They will set it up in the EC room at MAES for students and staff too try out. They will also do an after school demo for staff that want to see it starting at 3:30 in the MAES media room.
Amber and Sheryl will provide Dennis with an idea of what the student would/could be working with and he will have them install some activities that would match their curriculum. http://exchange.smarttech.com is a site you can see some of the activities that other teachers shared.
Early Release Day – ICDD Safety Training
Don Everhard will present information on his ICDD Safety Training for staff. We will also cover some appropriate use of seclusion and physical restraint. This training will be held in the media room at MAES.
April 28
2:15 to 3:30 = Paraprofessionals
4:00 to 5:15 = Certified staff, parents, community, and human services
Special Education Dance For Grades 7 to 12
Friday April 29 from 12:30 to 2:30 at MASH. Students with disabilities and a friend of their choice are able to attend. This is our inaugural dance. Set up will begin at 11:00. Thanks to the MASH DART Club, Special Education Staff, and Medford Morning Rotary Club for helping put this dance together.
TouchMoney Worksheets
Free TouchMoney worksheets at www.touchmath.com as part of Financial Literacy Month.
Special Education Advisory Council
Our next meeting will be held on Monday May 2nd from 4:00 to 5:30 at the District Office.
Read Write and Gold Demonstration
Tuesday May 3rd from 8:00 to 11:00. They will demonstrate their program which is a computer installed versions as compared to Kurzweil USB stick version. We have had a webinar, visited Rib Lake which has the program, and now they are coming here to further discuss.
Summative Evaluations
I have completed the summative evaluations of certified staff that were due in 10-11. I will be meeting with you soon to review these.
Response to Intervention Handbook
The Medford Response to Intervention Handbook is linked at: https://sites.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/intervention/home
You will find detailed listing of entrance and exit criteria for programs, interventions, staff responsibilities, assessments and more.
Summer School Booklet
If you are teaching a summer school class, reminder to review the summer school booklet that Jennifer Kuenne sent out to verify the course description, dates, and times. This should be done by April 21.
Youth Risk Behavior Survey
The Youth Risk Behavior Survey will be administered to students in Grades 7 to 12 in May. Health Department and School District has reviewed the questions to be administered to students. For more information contact Patty Krug at the Health Department.
Autism Resource Team
Providing support to school staff and families regarding autism spectrum disorders
Assisting school-based teams and families with consultation, programming, and resource materials
Assisting school-based teams with the assessment process
Providing on-site observation and consultation for individual students upon request
Attending Autism Resource Team meetings
Staying current with evidence and research-based methodology, assessment tools, interventions, and resources
Developing skills and knowledge in autism by attending workshops and conferences
Easter
I hope you and your family have a blessed Easter.
Appreciation
I would like to take a moment and thank you for all your hard work. Your talent, teaching skills, passion for making a difference, and commitment for our students with disabilities continues to be amazing. I appreciate all of your effort, time, and help for our students, parents, and district. There isn’t always a lot of frequent positive reinforcement in your positions. You make a difference every day for a child in their life. I thank you for making this your career and working here in Medford Schools.
Challenging Year
We have had a challenging year in special education: victim of suicide, several attempts, teenage pregnancy, losing a baby, expulsions, significant and frequent aggression, two families losing their home in a fire, student having a heart attack on a bus leaving him severely disabled, student on a Do Not Resuscitate Order, three students too medically fragile to attend school, severe autism students, multiple transfers in and identification of new students with disabilities, placements in foster care, staff leaving the profession, homeless, and increasing demands for academic performance.
It takes a special person to be able to be a school staff member to help students cope and cope yourselves with these many challenges. Thank you for all that you provide our students and families. Continue to support yourself and each other in a positive manner knowing that you all are making a difference.
Tyler and Shania
Tyler (Grade 2) and Shania (Grade 4) Dankmeyer lost their home in a fire on Monday. Provide them your prayers and support for them and their family at this time. Multiple generous adults and children have donated clothing and other items for the children and parents.
RVA for Special Education Students
Students with disabilities who have parents interested in RVA would set up an introductory meeting with RVA representatives. This will help inform them on RVA. If the family is still interested, then an IEP would have to address RVA services and the amount and type of special education services the child would receive. The changes to an IEP could be done at a formal IEP meeting or through I-10-A and I-10-B forms. Jan Farmer is the RVA case manager of students with disabilities. Depending on severity of student needs, they could receive some special education services at school. For more information on RVA go to www.ruralvirtual.org or consult with RVA Principal Charlie Heckel at MAMS.
MAES Special Education meeting on April 20
Our monthly meeting will be held on Wednesday April 20 in the MAES Computer Lab starting at 3:20.
Taylor County Adult Literacy Council on April 25
Taylor County Adult Literacy Council will be held on Monday April 25th at 7:00 pm at NTC.
Adult Literacy Class
Our initial Adult Literacy Class will be held starting on Monday and Wednesdays in May and June. Our first class is Monday May 2nd from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at NTC. Wilson Just Words will be the curriculum. There is no registration cost. Contact 715-748-1520 for more information and ask for Cindy or Beth.
Wilson Steps 7-12 Online Class on April 26
This will be held on Tuesday April 26 starting at 3:45 in the MAES Computer Lab. Any staff participating in the Level II Certification or would like to know more about teaching Steps 7-12 can attend.
SMART Table Demonstration on April 27
Tierrny Bros. will be here Wed Apr 27th with the SMART table in the late morning. They will set it up in the EC room at MAES for students and staff too try out. They will also do an after school demo for staff that want to see it starting at 3:30 in the MAES media room.
Amber and Sheryl will provide Dennis with an idea of what the student would/could be working with and he will have them install some activities that would match their curriculum. http://exchange.smarttech.com is a site you can see some of the activities that other teachers shared.
Early Release Day – ICDD Safety Training
Don Everhard will present information on his ICDD Safety Training for staff. We will also cover some appropriate use of seclusion and physical restraint. This training will be held in the media room at MAES.
April 28
2:15 to 3:30 = Paraprofessionals
4:00 to 5:15 = Certified staff, parents, community, and human services
Special Education Dance For Grades 7 to 12
Friday April 29 from 12:30 to 2:30 at MASH. Students with disabilities and a friend of their choice are able to attend. This is our inaugural dance. Set up will begin at 11:00. Thanks to the MASH DART Club, Special Education Staff, and Medford Morning Rotary Club for helping put this dance together.
TouchMoney Worksheets
Free TouchMoney worksheets at www.touchmath.com as part of Financial Literacy Month.
Special Education Advisory Council
Our next meeting will be held on Monday May 2nd from 4:00 to 5:30 at the District Office.
Read Write and Gold Demonstration
Tuesday May 3rd from 8:00 to 11:00. They will demonstrate their program which is a computer installed versions as compared to Kurzweil USB stick version. We have had a webinar, visited Rib Lake which has the program, and now they are coming here to further discuss.
Summative Evaluations
I have completed the summative evaluations of certified staff that were due in 10-11. I will be meeting with you soon to review these.
Response to Intervention Handbook
The Medford Response to Intervention Handbook is linked at: https://sites.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/intervention/home
You will find detailed listing of entrance and exit criteria for programs, interventions, staff responsibilities, assessments and more.
Summer School Booklet
If you are teaching a summer school class, reminder to review the summer school booklet that Jennifer Kuenne sent out to verify the course description, dates, and times. This should be done by April 21.
Youth Risk Behavior Survey
The Youth Risk Behavior Survey will be administered to students in Grades 7 to 12 in May. Health Department and School District has reviewed the questions to be administered to students. For more information contact Patty Krug at the Health Department.
Autism Resource Team
Providing support to school staff and families regarding autism spectrum disorders
Assisting school-based teams and families with consultation, programming, and resource materials
Assisting school-based teams with the assessment process
Providing on-site observation and consultation for individual students upon request
Attending Autism Resource Team meetings
Staying current with evidence and research-based methodology, assessment tools, interventions, and resources
Developing skills and knowledge in autism by attending workshops and conferences
Easter
I hope you and your family have a blessed Easter.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
RVA for Special Education Students
Students with disabilities who have parents interested in RVA would set up an introductory meeting with RVA representatives. This will help inform them on RVA. If the family is still interested, then an IEP would have to address RVA services and the amount and type of special education services the child would receive. The changes to an IEP could be done at a formal IEP meeting or through I-10-A and I-10-B forms. Jan Farmer is the RVA case manager of students with disabilities. Depending on severity of student needs, they could receive some special education services at school. For more information on RVA go to www.ruralvirtual.org or consult with RVA Principal Charlie Heckel at MAMS.
Autism Resource Team
We will be starting an Autism Resource Team in Medford Schools. Our goals are:
Providing support to school staff and families regarding autism spectrum disorders
Assisting school-based teams and families with consultation, programming, and resource materials
Assisting school-based teams with the assessment process
Providing on-site observation and consultation for individual students upon request
Attending Autism Resource Team meetings
Staying current with evidence and research-based methodology, assessment tools, interventions, and resources
Developing skills and knowledge in autism by attending workshops and conference
Providing support to school staff and families regarding autism spectrum disorders
Assisting school-based teams and families with consultation, programming, and resource materials
Assisting school-based teams with the assessment process
Providing on-site observation and consultation for individual students upon request
Attending Autism Resource Team meetings
Staying current with evidence and research-based methodology, assessment tools, interventions, and resources
Developing skills and knowledge in autism by attending workshops and conference
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Assistive Technology Supports for Students with Autism
Assistive Technology Supports for Students with Autism manual
http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/doc/at-asd-manual-2009.doc
http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/doc/at-asd-manual-2009.doc
Monday, April 18, 2011
Challenging Year
It has been a challenging year in special education: victim of suicide, several attempts, two losing home in a fire, on a DNR order, too medically fragile to attend school, homeless, teenage pregnancy, losing the baby, placed in foster care, severe autism, multiple transfers in and new placements, severe aggression, staff leaving profession, and not enough staff to meet needs.
I commend our incredible students, parents, and staff who have met this challenging year doing all they can. You display strength, perseverance, and passion to helping each student be successful in school and in life. I continually find our students with disabilities, their parents, and Medford School District staff to all be amazing.
I commend our incredible students, parents, and staff who have met this challenging year doing all they can. You display strength, perseverance, and passion to helping each student be successful in school and in life. I continually find our students with disabilities, their parents, and Medford School District staff to all be amazing.
Wilson Reading Level II Practicum Students and Placement
- Ann Jochimsen and Joyce Woletz will be working with a student at Steps 7-12 at MASH for 11-12
- Misty Galli, Kathy Schumacher, Kris Brandner, and Oralee Dittrich will be working with a MAMS student at Steps 7-12 for 11-12
- Misty Galli, Kathy Schumacher, and Oralee Dittrich will need to teach a Wilson Group in 11-12.
This is a 30 month practicum that consists of teaching a student in Wilson Steps 7-12, teaching group of 3-4 students, online classes, video taping of lessons, and prior completion of Level I Certification.
Wilson Reading Level II Online Class for Steps 7-12
Will be held on Tuesday April 26 at 3:45 pm at MAES computer lab. Any Wilson
Special Education Advisory Council on May 2
Our next Special Education Advisory Council will be held on Monday May 2 from 4:00 to 5:30 at the District Office. If you have any specific agenda items, please let me know. I will send out a formal agenda next week. Some items will include:
1. Enrollment
2. Special Education Staff Resignations
3. Special Education Budget for 11-12
4. Maintenance of Effort Requirements
5. Special Education Open Enrollment Tuition
6. Increase of transfer, open enrollment, and newly eligible students at MAES and staffing issues
7. Outpatient Services in the Schools
8. Summer School Special Education Programs
9. Autism Trainings on May 17
10. Special Education Dance
11. Special Education Newsletter Reviews
12. Other
MAES Special Education Staffing for 11-12
I will be recommending to our Special Education Advisory Council, Administrative Team, and Board of Education that consideration for additional certified staff be hired for MAES for 11-12. This is based on my following concerns:
Kindergarten EBD Student = Supported by Alternative High School
Early Childhood Students (no asst) = Supported by Alternative High School Student
First Grade EBD Student = Supported by Alternative High School
Second Grade Autism Students = Supported by Long Term Substitute
Kindergarten LD/CDB Students = Taught by ½ time High School CDS teacher not available in 11-12
RTI Students = Taught 75 percent of time by LD teacher reducing time for sped students in 11-12
PBIS = Taught 50 percent of time by sped teacher reducing time for identified sped students
Newly Eligible Students = high number of identified Kindergarten students with disabilities moving to First Grade in 11-12
Transfer/Open Enrollment Students = Significant EBD students in Grade 3 and 4 in 11-12
Transfer of 2 new students with autism in 11-12
Transfer of Down Syndrome Student to EC from B-3
Transfer of Amish student with severe needs to EC from B-3
Autism Student in Grade 2 = Significant aggressive behaviors require 2:1 ratio for safety at times.
Early Childhood Special Ed = Only 1 ECSE teacher limits availability of service for RTI in PK and sped services at Kindergarten.
CDS Assistant = HS assistant for 1 hour and 45 minutes at MAES not available in 11-12
Speech Language RTI = We continue to look at RTI for speech language to help with providing earlier intervening services and reduce number of students that receive speech language services later on
Kindergarten in 11-12 = Hard of Hearing and Down Syndrome student require significant support
RTI for LD Law We need staff in place to deliver RTI for LD interventions and services per law.
SMART Table Demonstration on April 27
We will have a SMART Table in our early education department on Wednesday April 27 in late morning. This will be set up in our Early Childhood classroom for staff and students to use. There will be a SMART table official demonstration at 3:30 at MAES in the media room.
Lessons plans for SMART table and board can be found at: http://exchange.smarttech.com/
Type I Diabetes Training
We held a Type I Diabetes Training on Thursday at MAMS. All middle school students learned about Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, Service Dogs, Braille, and Blindness. Thanks to Mr. Leonard, Chelsea from MASH, Colton and Lauren from MAMS, Mrs. Chasteen, Mr. Geissler, Jill Koenig, Grandma Linda McClain and service dog Disney, Grandma Shirley Lemke, Lions Club, Jessica from MAMS, and Mrs. Kakes for helping with this training. Pictures are on the Medford Middle School Facebook Page.
Early Release Day April 28 – ICDD Safety Training
April 28 is our next Early Release Day. Our featured presenter will be Donald Everhard who will conduct a safety training as part of his I.C.D.D. Workplace Safety. http://www.doneverhard.com/
2:15 to 3:30 for Paraprofessionals
4:00 to 5:30 for Teachers, Social Workers, Parents, and Community Members
This training will be held at Medford Area Elementary School
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Autism Awareness Month Appreciation
April is Autism Awareness Month. I wanted to take a moment to thank all the staff who help teach our students with autism spectrum disorder. Each of these students provide a unique opportunity that can be a great reward and challenge at the same time. They are so fortunate to have each and everyone of you. Thank you for providing them with your skills, passion, and knowledge to help them be successful in school and in life. The students, parents, and yourselves are incredible individuals who can not be thanked or appreciated enough.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Week of Young Child Beach Party!
Check out our Medford Area Public School District Special Education and Student Services Facebook page for all the photos from our Week of Young Child Beach Party Potluck Dinner and Dance! We had 116 children and parents in attendance!
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Parentally Placed Private School Children with Disabilities
Parentally Placed Private School Children with Disabilities
Here is the DPI Bulletin on Parentally Placed Private School Children with Disabilities. http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/bul06-03.html
Summer School Programs for Special Education or At Risk Students
Summer School Programs for Special Education or At Risk Students
MASH Special Education
Cathy Venzke Instructor
June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
8:30 to 10:30 (academic)
10:30 to 1:00 (community outings and lunch)
Monday to Thursday
MASH CDS Classrooms
MAMS CDS/Autism
Sam Henrichs Instructor
June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
8:30 to 2:30
Monday to Friday
Carol Wieman Classroom
MAMS Grade 7 to 8 Special Education
Jill Chasteen Instructor
TechKnowledgy Class
June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
9:00 to 12:00
Monday to Friday
Jill Chasteen Classroom
MAMS Grade 5 to 6 Special Education
Rebecca Gauthier Instructor
June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
9:00 to 12:00
Monday to Friday
Rebecca Gauthier Classroom
MAES CDS/Autism
Kathy Schumacher Instructor
June 13 to July 1
9:00 to 12:00 (CDS/Autism)
10:00 to 11:00 (Gardening Class - any student)
Monday to Friday
Kathy Schumacher Classroom
MAES EBD Social Skills
Misty Galli Instructor
June 13 to July 1
12:30 to 2:30
Monday to Friday
Misty Galli Classroom
MAES Special Education and At Risk
Misty Galli Instructor
August 8 to August 19
8:30 to 10:30 Grade 2 Jump Start
10:30 to 12:30 Grade 3 Jump Start
12:30 to 2:30 Grade 4 Jump Start
Monday to Friday
Misty Galli Classroom
MAES Speech Language
Classes will run June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
Monday to Thursday
9:00 to 11:00 for 3 year olds
11:30 to 1:30 for 4 year olds
Early Childhood Classrooom
Students must be receiving speech and language services through an existing student IEP or be referred for speech and language support at Child Development Day. For more information please contact Sheryl Balciar at 715-748-2316.
MAES Summer Seedling for Students Going Into Kindergarten or First Grade
Instructors to Be Determined - 3 sections likely
9:00 to 12:00
June 13 to July 1 and August 8 to August 19
Monday to Friday
Kindergarten Classrooms
Maintenance of Effort for Special Education
Maintenance of Effort for Special Education
From DPI:
Lowering LEA special education expenditures due to cost savings is not an exception to MOE
With publication of the Budget Bill, we have received numerous questions about IDEA's MOE requirement (§ 34 CFR 300.204) to maintain its local special education fiscal effort. While there are exceptions to this regulation (see §§ 300.204 and 300.205), there is no exception for a reduction in costs for staff benefits. This was addressed in 2006 by the U.S. Department of Education in its comments:
"Nothing in the Act permits an exception for negotiated reductions in staff salaries or benefits...." (71 Fed. Reg. 46624, August 14, 2006)
Because we understand the potential impact of this interpretation on a significant number of LEAs, we are pursuing further clarification with the Department of Education on this issue. We will share information as it becomes available. In the meantime, LEAs should continue to operate under current IDEA regulations that do not permit an MOE exception in this circumstance.
MASH Special Education Programs for 11-12
MASH Special Education Programs for 11-12
I will remain committed to offering Wilson Reading, Read 180, and Expert 21 at MASH for the 11-12 school year. With the retirement and resignation of Karen and Oralee respectively, we will need to train staff to teach these specialized programs so they remain in place for 11-12 and beyond for our students. We will also be offering one station of Reading Assistant Program for our students.
Week of Young Child Beach Party Potluck Dinner and Dance
Week of Young Child Beach
Thursday April 14 at 5:00 pm for Dinner and 6:00 pm for Dance by Woller Productions. Any early education children and families are invited.
NWEA and AIMS Web Testing Windows
NWEA – Spring Testing Window
The NWEA testing window opens again April 25
AIMS Web – Spring Testing Window
The NWEA testing window is open May 1 to June 1
Monday, April 11, 2011
Outpatient Services in the Schools
Medford Schools will soon be starting Outpatient Services in the Schools through Northwest Passage. We have students with Mental Health needs across the school district. This is optional for students and of no cost for eligible families. Packets with more information will be available later in the week. Contact School Psychologists, EBD teachers, Principal, or Director of Special Education for more information. Northwest Passage has a website at www.nwcgc.com
Adult Literacy Classes
Adult Literacy Classes
Do you need help with reading?
Monday- Wednesday 4PM-6PM
May 2- June 8
NTC, Room 110
Pre- register by April 29 in room 121 or 115
Sponsored by
Taylor County Literacy Council
in partnership with NTC, Medford Area Public Schools, and the Community Learning Center
Do you need help with reading?
Monday- Wednesday 4PM-6PM
May 2- June 8
NTC, Room 110
Pre- register by April 29 in room 121 or 115
Sponsored by
Taylor County Literacy Council
in partnership with NTC, Medford Area Public Schools, and the Community Learning Center
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Social Media for Special Education and Student Services Programs in Medford
Our new Social Media for Special Education and Student Services Programs continues to help inform and educate many people. We have 52 following our Facebook, 13 following our Blog, 229 following on Twitter, regular readers of our weekly newsletter, and many visits to our website.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Week of the Young Child Activities April 10-16
Week of the Young Child Activities!
Sunday April 10
Gnomeo and Juliet Movie
Broadway Theatre
11:00 am
Ticket, soda, and popcorn all for $6.00
Monday April 11
Hairy and Company (www.hairyandcompany.net)
MAES Gym
9:30 to 10:30
Tuesday April 12
Hairy and Company (www.hairyandcompany.net)
MAES Gym
9:30 to 10:30
Thursday April 14
Beach Party Potluck Dinner and Dance
5:00 to 6:00 for Dinner (bring dish to pass and bring along a beach blanket to sit on!)
6:00 to 7:00 for Dance for children and parents by Woller Productions!
Friday April 15
Story Time!
Frances Simek Library in Medford
10:30
Dress Up
Monday = Inside Out Day!
Tuesday = Sports Day!
Wednesday = Pajamas Day!
Thursday = Beach Wear Day!
Friday = Colors Day!
Child Care Resource Placements in Restaurants in Taylor County
Artwork displays in Downtown Business by Sand Box Child CareWeek of the Young Child Activities!
Sunday April 10
Gnomeo and Juliet Movie
Broadway Theatre
11:00 am
Ticket, soda, and popcorn all for $6.00
Monday April 11
Hairy and Company (www.hairyandcompany.net)
MAES Gym
9:30 to 10:30
Tuesday April 12
Hairy and Company (www.hairyandcompany.net)
MAES Gym
9:30 to 10:30
Thursday April 14
Beach Party Potluck Dinner and Dance
5:00 to 6:00 for Dinner (bring dish to pass and bring along a beach blanket to sit on!)
6:00 to 7:00 for Dance for children and parents by Woller Productions!
Friday April 15
Story Time!
Frances Simek Library in Medford
10:30
Dress Up
Monday = Inside Out Day!
Tuesday = Sports Day!
Wednesday = Pajamas Day!
Thursday = Beach Wear Day!
Friday = Colors Day!
Child Care Resource Placements in Restaurants in Taylor County
Artwork displays in Downtown Business by Sand Box Child CareWeek of the Young Child Activities!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Special Education Staff in Regular Education Settings
There is a new link on the SLD website at http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/ld.html. There have been numerous questions regarding Special Educators' working within general educational environments. The document entitled, "Guidance for Special Education and Related Services, Personnel Assisting Students within General Education Setting" can be helpful as LEAs and schools develop systems of Response to Intervention.
Autism Resources
https://sites.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/specialed/home/autism - This is the link to our Medford School District Special Education and Student Services website that contains a great deal of resources and information on Autism.
Autism Awareness Month
April is Autism Awareness Month. Recognition and thanks to all the families, educators, and community who provide support, education, and love for those affected by Autism. You can not be appreciated or respected enough for all you give to our children and adults with Autism.
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