Socal Media Snares: Sexting, Texting, Bullying, and other Risks

Social Media Webinar:
Jackie Strick, Jill Koenig, Jessica Martin, Terry Lybert, and Louann Stanton
attended a social media webinar last week entitled: Socal Media
Snares: Sexting, Texting, Bullying, and other Risks.  Here is a link
to the power point presentation and handouts:
http://www.dev-resources.com/webhandout/smswebinar.pdf

Special Education Advisory Council Agenda for Feb 6

Special Education Advisory Council

Date: February 6
Time: 4:00 to 5:30
Location: Medford Area Public School District Board Room

Agenda:
1. Welcome and introductions
2. Special Education Enrollment
3. Long Term Substitute Staffing Updates
4. Transition Night for Students with Disabilities
5. 2011-12 WTCS Key Contact Persons for Students with Disabilities
6. Summary of 1st Semester Special Education and Student Services
7. Family Night for Children and Families
8. Autism Resources and Support
9. Discussion of DSM - V Proposed New Regulations for Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, and PDD
10. Child Abuse Neglect and Reporting Training Requirements and Information
11. Response to Intervention - Learning Disabilities
12. Maintenance of Effort update
13. Other business

New DPI Child Abuse and Neglect Training Materials

From: Dibble, Nic DPI
Subject: Child Abuse & Neglect Training Materials Now Available

Attached you will find a notice sent out to district administrators announcing the availability of the new DPI child abuse and neglect training materials.

In addition to creating two new webcasts and making the PowerPoint presentations from both webcasts available for use in local in-services, the DPI publication The School’s Role in Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect has been updated.

The attached notice explains the two alternatives available to school districts to ensure their employees obtain Department of Public Instruction training.

All new and updated materials can be found at http://www.dpi.wi.gov/sspw/can.html.

Nic Dibble, LSSW, CISW
Education Consultant, School Social Work Services
Department of Public Instruction
PO Box 7841
Madison, WI  53707-7841
(608) 266-0963
(608) 266-3643  (fax)
nic.dibble@dpi.wi.gov
http://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/socialwork.html

Steve Fernan from DPI to speak at Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee

Steve Fernan from DPI will be the guest speaker at the Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee meeting on March 15. He will update us on Act 309.

In May 2010, Wisconsin passed Act 309 which mandates that schools take some action on separate and distinct school safety issues: 1. Anti-bullying efforts 2. School safety drills 3. School safety plans and 4. The sharing of information between schools, law enforcement etc. While certain requirements in the law took effect immediately, schools were given up to three years to respond to the other sections. Nearly two years into the law, with only a year or so remaining to complete the required tasks, many schools find themselves unprepared. Steve Fernan, who has followed this law from the start, will review the entire Act, and explain where schools should be in this process and how to finish on time.

Stepping Stones Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services

Stepping Stones provides comprehensive services to survivors and victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault as well as their family members and friends.

We have an adult support group which meets twice each month; individual peer counseling for victims as well as secondary victims.  We are fortunate to have the capability of staff experience and knowledge to assist secondary victims (parents of or friends of) that are also affected -  with support and information.  And, these folks have "been there" which brings a camaraderie not often available.

All of our services are at no cost to clients - and we are linked within Taylor County and other counties to share information, if necessary and a release of information is completed.

Please let the families that the school system works know  about our services and availability - it could make a large difference to everyone.

Kris

Kris Porter

Executive Director

Stepping Stones, Inc.

PO Box 224

Medford, WI 54451

715.748.3795

Proposed DSM V rationale for eliminating Asperger Syndrome

http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=97#

Please see the rationale section for Autistic Disorder (Autism Spectrum Disorder) for more details.

In making the recommendation to delete Asperger’s disorder, the following questions were considered:

Q.1. Have the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for Asperger Disorder worked?

The ‘Asperger’ label has proved popular, ‘acceptable’, and has widened recognition of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in combination with good language and intelligence. In addition, the introduction of this diagnostic entity has achieved the intended aim of prompting research into possible differences between this and other subgroups of PDD, with more than 500 published articles on Asperger syndrome.


1.1. Do the DSM-IV criteria work in clinical practice?

A number of published papers have argued that the DSM-IV Asperger disorder criteria do not work in the clinic (e.g., Mayes et al., 2001; Miller & Ozonoff, 2000; Leekam, Libby, Wing, Gould & Gillberg, 2000). Specifically, key problems exist in applying the current criteria:

·         Early language details are hard to establish in retrospect, especially for older children and adults; average age of first diagnosis is late (7 years according to Mandell et al. 2005;  11yrs, Howlin & Asgharian, 1999).

·          The trumping rule means most/all Asperger cases should strictly be diagnosed as having ‘Autistic disorder’ (Miller & Ozonoff, 2000; Bennett et al, 2008; Williams et al, 2008), although clinicians prefer to give the more specific term (Mahoney, et al.,1998)

o    Specifically, since language delay is not a necessary criterion for Autistic disorder, to meet criteria for Asperger disorder (without being trumped by Autistic disorder), a person would need to fail to meet Communication criteria for Autistic disorder. In practice, the Communication criterion (B.2.) of “marked impairment in the ability to initiate or sustain a conversation with others” is typically met by even very able individuals fitting the Asperger picture.

As a result, ‘Asperger syndrome’ is used loosely with little agreement: e.g. Williams et al (2008) survey of 466 professionals reporting on 348 relevant cases, showed 44% of children given Asperger, PDD-NOS, atypical autism, or ‘other ASD’ label actually fulfilled criteria for Autistic Disorder (overall agreement between clinician’s label and DSM-IV criteria; Kappa 0.31). 

 

1.2. Do the DSM-IV criteria delineate a meaningful subgroup for research or practice?

In part because of the difficulty in applying the criteria (as outlined in section 1.1.), different research groups often uses different criteria,  and quality of early language milestone information is variable (Eisenmajer et al., 1996; Klin et al., 2005; Woodbury-Smith, Klin, & Volkmar, 2005).  Different criteria lead to different samples being identified (see Klin et al, 2005 comparison of 3 diagnostic approaches; also Kopra et al., 2008; Woodbury-Smith et al., 2005).
 

Research suggests early language criteria do not demarcate a distinct subgroup with different:
Course/outcome: Children with autism who develop fluent language have very similar trajectories and later outcomes to children with Asperger disorder (Bennett et al., 2008; Howlin, 2003; Szatmari et al., 2000) and the two conditions are indistinguishable by school-age (Macintosh & Dissanayake, 2004), adolescence (Eisenmajer, Prior, Leekam, Wing, Ong, Gould & Welham 1998; Ozonoff, South and Miller 2000) and adulthood (Howlin, 2003).
Cause/aetiology: Autism and Asperger syndrome co-occur in the same families (Bolton et al., 1994; Chakrabarti & Fombonne, 2001; Lauritsen et al., 2005; Ghaziuddin, 2005; Volkmar et al., 1998). No clear evidence to date of distinct aetiology.
Neuro-Cognitive profile: mixed evidence, for example some authors have reported worse motor functioning in Asperger than HFA (Klin et al., 1995; Rinehart et al, 2006), while others have not found significant group differences (Jansiewicz et al., 2006; Manjiviona & Prior, 1995; Miller & Ozonoff, 2000; Thede & Coolidge, 2007). Evidence is similarly mixed for differentiation of Asperger group by lower performance than verbal IQ profile (for, Klin et al, 1995; against, Barnhill et al., 2000; Gilchrist et al., 2001; Ozonoff, South & Miller, 2000; Spek et al., 2008), better theory of mind (for, Ozonoff et al, 2000 ; against, Dahlgren & Trillingsgaard, 1996;            Spek et al, in press JADD; Barbaro & Dissanayake 2007) or executive function (for, Rinehart et al, 2006; reviewed by Klin, McPartland & Volkmar, 2005 ; against, Miller & Ozonoff, 2000; Thede & Coolidge, 2007; Verte et al., 2006) .  Note the risk of circularity for group differences relating to verbal ability, since early language development (grouping criterion) is generally predictive of later language abilities (Paul & Cohen, 1984; Rutter, Greenfield & Lockyer, 1967; Rutter, Mawhood & Howlin, 1992).
Treatment needs/response: no empirical studies demonstrating the need for different treatments or different responses to the same treatment, and in clinical practice the same interventions are typically offered. 
Q.2. Does the existing research literature allow us to suggest new criteria to diagnose Asperger Disorder, in contrast to Autistic Disorder/ASD?

The current clinical and research consensus appears to be that Asperger disorder is part of the autism spectrum, although with possible over-use of the term it is quite likely that other (non-ASD) types of individuals have received this label.

Research field currently reflects two views: 

That Asperger disorder is not substantially different from other forms of ‘high functioning’ autism (HFA); i.e. Asperger’s is the part of the autism spectrum with good formal language skills and good (at least Verbal) IQ. Note that ‘HFA’ is itself a vague term, with underspecification of the area of ‘high functioning’ (performance IQ, verbal IQ, adaptation, or symptom severity).
That Asperger disorder is distinct from other subgroups within the autism spectrum (see Matson & Wilkins, 2008, review): e.g. Klin, et al. (2005) suggest the lack of differentiating findings reflects the need for a more stringent approach, with a more nuanced view of onset patterns and early language (e.g. one-sided verbosity, unusual circumscribed interests).
2.1. What are the proposed differences? How strong is the evidence?

Several recent comprehensive reviews of the topic are available (Howlin, 2003; Macintosh & Dissanayake, 2004; Matson & Wilkins, 2008; Witwer & Lecavalier, 2008). Matson & Wilkins (2008) suggest current criteria could work if refined and supplemented. However, the research literature to date is not able to provide strong, replicated support for new or modified criteria likely to distinguish a meaningfully different group with Asperger disorder versus autism with good (current) language and IQ. Witwer and Lecavalier’s (2008) perhaps more comprehensive review concludes there is little evidence that Aspergers is distinct, and that current IQ is the main differentiating factor. Bennett et al’s (2008) follow-up study suggests that language impairment at 6-8years might have greater prognostic value than early language milestones, and Szatmari et al (2009) argue (on the basis of later developmental trajectory) for a distinction between ASD with (autism) versus without (Aspergers) structural language impairment at 6-8 years.

The draft criteria for ASD proposed by the Neurodevelopmental disorders workgroup would include dimensions of severity that include current language functioning and intellectual level/disability.

 


Q.3.  If Asperger disorder does not appear in DSM-V as a separate diagnostic category, how will  continuity and clarity be maintained for those with the diagnosis?

The aim of the draft criteria is that every person who has significant impairment in social-communication and RRBI should meet appropriate diagnostic criteria.  Language impairment/delay is not a necessary criterion for diagnosis of ASD, and thus anyone who shows the Asperger type pattern of good language and IQ but significantly impaired social-communication and repetitive/restricted behavior and interests, who might previously have been given the Asperger disorder diagnosis, should now meet criteria for ASD, and be described dimensionally. The workgroup aims to provide detailed symptom examples suitable for all ages and language levels, so that ASD will not be missed by clinicians in adults of average or superior IQ who are experiencing clinical levels of difficulty.

There may be some individuals with subclinical features of Asperger/ASD who seek out a diagnosis of ‘Asperger Disorder’ in order to understand themselves better (perhaps following an autism diagnosis in a relative), rather than because of clinical-level impairment in everyday life. While such a use of the term may be close to Hans Asperger’s reference to a personality type, it is outside the scope of DSM, which explicitly concerns clinically-significant and impairing disorders.  ‘Asperger-type’, like ‘Kanner-type’, may continue to be a useful shorthand for clinicians describing a constellation of features, or area of the multi-dimensional space defined by social/communication impairments, repetitive/restricted behaviour and interests, and IQ and language abilities.

Proposed DSM V Criteria for Autism

http://www.dsm5.org/ProposedRevisions/Pages/proposedrevision.aspx?rid=94

  Revised January 26, 2011
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Must meet criteria A, B, C, and D:
 
A.    Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across contexts, not accounted for by general developmental delays, and manifest by all 3 of the following:
1.     Deficits in social-emotional reciprocity; ranging from abnormal social approach and failure of normal back and forth conversation through reduced sharing of interests, emotions, and affect and response to total lack of initiation of social interaction,
2.     Deficits in nonverbal communicative behaviors used for social interaction; ranging from poorly integrated- verbal and nonverbal communication, through abnormalities in eye contact and body-language, or deficits in understanding and use of nonverbal communication, to total lack of facial expression or gestures.
3.     Deficits in developing and maintaining relationships, appropriate to developmental level (beyond those with caregivers); ranging from difficulties adjusting behavior to suit different social contexts through difficulties in sharing imaginative play and  in making friends  to an apparent absence of interest in people
B.    Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities as manifested by at least two of  the following:
1.     Stereotyped or repetitive speech, motor movements, or use of objects; (such as simple motor stereotypies, echolalia, repetitive use of objects, or idiosyncratic phrases). 
2.     Excessive adherence to routines, ritualized patterns of verbal or nonverbal behavior, or excessive resistance to change; (such as motoric rituals, insistence on same route or food, repetitive questioning or extreme distress at small changes).
3.     Highly restricted, fixated interests that are abnormal in intensity or focus; (such as strong attachment to or preoccupation with unusual objects, excessively circumscribed or perseverative interests).
4.     Hyper-or hypo-reactivity to sensory input or unusual interest in sensory aspects of environment; (such as apparent indifference to pain/heat/cold, adverse response to specific sounds or textures, excessive smelling or touching of objects, fascination with lights or spinning objects).
C.    Symptoms must be present in early childhood (but may not become fully manifest until social demands exceed limited capacities)
D.         Symptoms together limit and impair everyday functioning.

First Responder Training on Autism

Harry Dolan is a local trainer for First Responders on Autism Spectrum Disorder.  He was recommended by the Autism Society of Central Wisconsin.  Harry's contact information is: flyguy@tznet.com

Special Education and Student Services Newsletter for January 24

Special Education and Student Services Newsletter for January 24:

This week I received an email from a special education teacher at 11:36 pm asking about an evaluation and reading program for a student.  We have school staff coming in on Saturdays and Sundays to do paperwork and prepare for upcoming week.  Staff work at night preparing their next day Wilson Reading lesson plans. Staff arrive at school at 7:00 am to prepare for upcoming day.  We regularly have staff staying until 6:00 or 7:00 pm to contact parents or work on materials in their classroom.  Multiple certified and support staff have taken on extra responsibilities whether it is Reading Class for Adults, Medford Adult Diploma Academy, CLC, CLC clubs, coaching, helping at sporting events, teaching Wilson Reading to adult students, RVA, and/or Animal Advocates. Staff give up lunches and breaks to work with their students.  Staff stay longer after school for student meetings. Work emails are checked and sent out at nights and weekends by many staff.

The reason I am mentioning this is our students are very fortunate to have all of you working here on behalf of our students with disabilities here in the Medford Area Public School District. You are all quality people and professionals and the work that you provide our students is so important. You teaching a child to read, function in society, learn appropriate behaviors, understand mathematics, or make good choices helps save their life in many ways.

Thank you for sharing your wonderful talents, knowledge, experiences, and advocacy on behalf of the students and in supporting each other.  You do make a difference.

Here are the many activities this past week or upcoming events from Special Education and Student Services:

1. Keynote Speaker
Congratulations to SES and MAES Associate Elementary Supervisor Don Everhard who will be the Keynote Speaker at the 44th Annual Wisconsin School Safety Coordinator Association Conference in February. Mr. Everhard's presentation will focus on "Developing Relationships and Accepting Change." http://www.wssca.org/

2. Appropriate Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint
Thank you to Don Everhard for his training of high school special education staff. We covered the current and new regulations as of September 1, 2012 along with safety techniques for staff. Here is link to the full bill: http://www.disabilityrightswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/SR-bill-2011.pdf

3. ELL Update:
Vanessa Brandner will be working a modified schedule now that she is attending school to obtain her Spanish Teaching License:

Monday
Always: 7:45 -12:00 p.m.
Every other week: all day

Wednesdays and Fridays:
All day

Maria Arisbe Alvarado will work on Tuesday and Thursday at MASH in her place starting this week. Mauricio Rios Thodakee will be working 2-3 days per week at MAMS to help support our ELL students per IEP team discussion.  He is also available for ELL support or substituting if needed at anytime in other buildings.

We are receiving an iPad through our Title III Consortium as part of CESA 10.  Dennis H and I are attending an informational distance learning presentation on Thursday at 3:00.

4. Winter Celebration for Special Education and Student Services Staff
Thursday February 9 starting at 4:00 pm at Florenas.  Appreciation for all your hard work this year on behalf of our students with disabilities.  Appetizers and pizza will be provided.  I hope you will join us.

5. iPad/Educational Technology
Tuesday January 31 at 4:00 pm at D.O. for anyone interested.

6. Autism Resource Team
Our next meeting is February 2. Extra time will be provided for collaborating, working on autism resources (visuals, PECS, social stories) for staff to provide help for our students.

7. Data Review at MAES
I will be available on Wednesday February 8 at MAES to review with staff about their student AIMS Web, NWEA testing results.  We can review data and look at ways which we can further help and support you and your students. I will reserve the conference room and MAES sped staff can stop at anytime. Let me know the times you would like.

8. Taylor County Early Childhood Sub-Committee
Friday February 3 at 1:30 at the D.O. 

9. Special Education Advisory Council
Monday February 6 at 4:00 pm at NTC.

10. Department of Vocational Rehabilitation
Gwen Steele from DVR will be available on February 7 in the MASH conference room from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm to meet with Seniors and second semester Juniors.

11. Brainpop:
We have renewed our subscription to brainpop. Here is the website: www.brainpop.com
Username: Medford
Password: sped

12. Long Term Sub Positions
We are looking for the following positions if you know anyone who is interested: Anticipated Long Term Substitute Special Education Paraprofessional position at MAES

13. iPad at MAMS
Kathie Shaw uses the iPad on the bus for our special education students.  If you have a need for an extra one to use during the course of the day, that one would be available.

14. Other Health Impairment
We recently received a physician's statement from Marshfield Clinic.  They completed the Homebound Instruction form so one of our students can receive that form of instruction. Attached also was a DPI Eligibility Checklist for Other Health Impairment completed by the doctor. This was given to the parents and the school district.  It is not for one person to determine if a child meets the eligibility criteria for an Other Health Impairment.  An IEP team needs to make that decision. The IEP team decides not only if a student meets eligibility criteria, but also whether a student has a need for special education including specially designed instruction.

Other Health Impairment is sometimes considered as a "fall back" category.  If they don't qualify for a learning disability impairment, let's put them under OHI.  I saw that comment recently in an email from a general education teacher.  OHI is a separate impairment category just like LD, Autism, TBI, EBD, etc.  They need to qualify under that impairment and the student must have a need for special education services.  On this link is the OHI eligibility guide: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/ohi.html.

15. Response to Intervention
We are very fortunate in our school district to have a number of staff implementing evidence based intervention curriculums and models through the RTI process.  We continue to look at whether these interventions can provide enough services for students without the need to place them in special education. 

Multiple special education staff with dual licensures have been allocated time to provide these interventions.  Marla Hemke and Richelle Woller are two of these examples at MAES. These help provide early intervening services for academic and behavioral supports across tiers without waiting for a child to be placed in special education to receive services. Multiple staff at MAMS are scheduled to provide services for general and special education students in math, Read 180, Reading Assistant, Wilson, etc.  We are starting to work towards that at MASH with Chuck Prohida teaching Just Words intervention for at risk students. HS sped staff have expressed interest in helping with the RTI model.  

Within the RTI model it is important to determine whether a student can receive enough intervention services to meet their needs OR they do have a suspected disability by a member of an IEP team.  If there is a suspicion of a disability, then the child must be referred for special education eligibility otherwise we are denying them their due process procedural rights.

The RTI model for identification of a Learning Disability needs to be in place in each school building by December 2013. A link to updated frequently asked questions on this model is located here: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/pdf/sld-faq-2011.pdf

As a district we need to start having more discussion at each building to review the legal guidelines, determine where we are with staffing and interventions, and then look at a plan to be in full compliance. DPI has recommended and requiring that staff job descriptions and funding sources be accurate to reflect when a special education staff member is delivering regular education interventions.

16. Vision Therapy and LD
In a joint statement: the Council on Children with Disabilities, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO); American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) and American Association of Certified Orthoptists do NOT endorse vision training as it relates to SLD. "There is no scientific evidence to suggest that any ophthalmologic manipulation or therapy including vision training, muscle exercises, ocular pursuit, tracking exercises, orthoptic exercises, visual perceptual training, colored spectacle lenses, neurological organizational training (laterality training, crawling, balance board) will improve academic performance in children with learning disabilities." (Pediatrics Vol 124 No 2 Aug 2009 pp. 837-844). http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;124/2/837

NASP Member Exchange
Posted: January 21, 2012 8:10 AM
Joann Chiappetta Baumgardner, Ph.D.

17. Taylor County Literacy Council update
We held a meeting on Monday night. Advisory Council roles have been determined:
President: Joseph Greget
Vice President: Joyce Woletz
Secretary: Cindy Gibson
Treasurer: Laurie Prochnow

We will look at renting a classroom space starting in July in the current NTC building to begin our Literacy Center/Adult Basic Education to provide support for adults in the community including, but not limited to: reading class for adults, family literacy, ELL, financial literacy, health literacy, tutoring, education, and more. A Literacy Coordinator will be hired officially within the next month. 

18. PBIS Tier II Training
February 27 and February 28 in Eau Claire.  Dan Miller, Sue Eloranta, and Richelle Woller will be in attendance and were registered this week.

19. Social Media Webinar:
Jackie Strick, Jessica Martin, Terry Lybert, and Louann Stanton attended a social media webinar last week entitled: Socal Media Snares: Sexting, Texting, Bullying, and other Risks.  Here is a link to the power point presentation and handouts: http://www.dev-resources.com/webhandout/smswebinar.pdf

20. Read Write and Gold
We have the Read Write Gold system placed on Jill Chasteen's computers in her classroom.  We are working towards placing these on the computers in Sue Laher and Carol Wieman's classrooms.  Read Write Gold is an assistive technology similar to Kurzweil. Here is the link for more information: http://www.texthelp.com/North-America

There is a Read Write Gold app for mobile devices.  I am looking into this for download on our iPads for student use. Here is the link to all of the features which can be provided: http://www.texthelp.com/North-America/Our-products/Readwrite/features-pc/web-apps

Vision Training and Relation to Learning Disabilities

NASP Member Exchange
Posted:	January 21, 2012 8:10 AM
Subject:	RE:Processing and vision therapy

In a joint statement: the Council on Children with Disabilities, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO); American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS) and American Association of Certified Orthoptists do NOT endorse vision training as it relates to SLD. "There is no scientific evidence to suggest that any ophthalmologic manipulation or therapy including vision training, muscle exercises, ocular pursuit, tracking exercises, orthoptic exercises, visual perceptual training, colored spectacle lenses, neurological organizational training (laterality training, crawling, balance board) will improve academic performance in children with learning disabilities." (Pediatrics Vol 124 No 2 Aug 2009 pp. 837-844).

http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;124/2/837

------------------------------

------------- Joann Chiappetta Baumgardner, Ph.D. School Psychologist Richfield Public Schools Richfield, MN

Mrs. Heier's Blog: Word Wall

MAES First Grade Teacher Mrs Heier has created an excellent blog. Here is a link to her blog and specifically her Word Wall and activities for her students: http://www.mrsheier.blogspot.com/p/word-wall.html

Mrs. Heier's Blog: Word Wall

mrsheier.blogspot.com

Gifted and Talented Special Education Student!

 

One of our students created a catapult with his teacher Ms. Galli! The student has now created a garbage can, squirrel catcher, fly catcher, catapult, and gear maker all out of classroom materials. What will he create next? :)

Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Schools (New Legislative Bill)

Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Schools (New Legislative Bill)
The Wisconsin State Legislature has/will be passing a bill related to
the Appropriate Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Schools
effective September 1, 2012. Here is a link to the proposed bill:
http://www.disabilityrightswi.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/SR-bill-2011.pdf

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports for Students with Autism

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports for Students with Autism
http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/pdf/ldrcon11-autism-pbis-mazeika-parker.pdf

Contains excellent examples and resources for students at the universal, targeted, and intensive levels.

Ann Marie Foundation

The Ann Marie Foundation has been very supportive of our special education and school district services and programs. Our grant application for listening centers was recently approved by them. The listening centers are now part of Mrs. Brown's Kindergarten classroom at MAES. Here is a picture of the thank you card they made for the Ann Marie Foundation in appreciation:

· · Share · Wednesday at 4:43pm

Hockey!

One of my favorite photos - regular and special education students pictured together after playing a game of hockey. Thank you to Mr. Vaara for forwarding the photo.

· · Share ·

DVR at MASH on Feb 7

Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Gwen Steele will be at MASH on February 7 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. She is able to meet with second semester Juniors and Seniors about applying for DVR services. Please contact your child's special education teacher for more information.

Response to Intervention

Response to Intervention
We are very fortunate in our school district to have a number of staff implementing evidence based intervention programs.  We should continue to look at whether these interventions can provide enough services for students without the need to place them in special education. 

Multiple special education staff with dual licensures have been provided to help provide these interventions.  Marla Hemke and Richelle Woller are two of these examples at MAES.  Multiple staff at MAMS are scheduled to provide services for general and special education students in pullout groups.  These help provide early intervening services for academic and behavioral supports across tiers without waiting for a child to be placed in special education to receive services. 

Within the RTI model it is important to determine whether a student can receive enough intervention services to meet their needs OR they do have a suspected disability by a member of an IEP team.  If there is a suspicion of a disability, then the child must be referred for special education eligibility otherwise we are denying them their due process procedural rights.

The RTI model for identification of a Learning Disability needs to be in place in each school building by December 2013. A link to updated frequently asked questions on this model is located here: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/pdf/sld-faq-2011.pdf

As a district we need to start having more discussion at each building to review the legal guidelines, determine where we are with staffing and interventions, and then look at a plan to be in full compliance. DPI has recommended and requiring that staff job descriptions and funding sources be accurate to reflect when a special education staff member is delivering regular education interventions.

Other Health Impairment

Other Health Impairment
We recently received a physician's statement from Marshfield Clinic.  They completed the Homebound Instruction form so one of our students can receive that form of instruction. Attached also was a DPI Eligibility Checklist for Other Health Impairment completed by the doctor. This was given to the parents and the school district.  It is not for one person to determine if a child meets the eligibility criteria for an Other Health Impairment.  An IEP team needs to make that decision. The IEP team decides not only if a student meets eligibility criteria, but also whether a student has a need for special education including specially designed instruction.

Other Health Impairment is sometimes considered as a "fall back" category.  If they don't qualify for a learning disability impairment, let's put them under OHI.  I saw that comment recently in an email from a general education teacher.  OHI is a separate impairment category just like LD, Autism, TBI, EBD, etc.  They need to qualify under that impairment and the student must have a need for special education services.  On this link is the OHI eligibility guide: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/ohi.html.

Special Education and Student Services Newsletter for January 19, 2012

1. Prayers and Sympathy for Family and Friends of Sierra Buchkowski
MASH HS student Sierra Buchkowski passed away yesterday afternoon.  Our student services team was available to provide counseling for staff and students in need.  Prayers and sympathy for Sierra's family, friends, and teachers at this time.

2. Speech Language Pathologist - LTS
Eliza Decker will be starting her leave today.  Mark Arndt will be her long term substitute starting this afternoon and continuing until end of January.

Best wishes to Eliza and her baby on a safe delivery.

3. Student Services Team meeting
Our next Student Services Team meeting has been scheduled for Monday February 20 from 1:30 to 3:30 at the District Office. Agenda will include:

1. Child Abuse Reporting and Neglect Training in Compliance with Wisconsin Act 81
2. Section 504 legal update
3. New Safety Trainings in Schools requirements
4. Student Services Activities Google Calendar
5. Suicide Prevention Policy review
6. Medford Adult Diploma Academy update
7. Round Table of Community Providers update
8. School Nursing Resources from DPI
9. Round Table updates
10. Other business

Student Services Team members should plan on attending. If anyone else is interested in this information, please let me know.

4. Snoball Dance in Ladysmith
Snoball Dance in Ladysmith will be held on February 1.  This is for middle and high school students with moderate disabilities.  Thank you to Brenda Ann, Linda, Darlene, Bonnie, and Brenda helping support the students on the trip and at the dance.

5. Spring Fling Dance for Students in Grade 7-12 Special Education
Our annual Spring Fling Dance for students in Grade 7-12 Special Education has been scheduled for Friday April 13 from 12:30 to 2:30 at MASH.

6. Social Media and Safety For Teens
Student Services Team members are planning to attend a webinar today (Thursday) at 1:00 pm at MAMS in the conference room. MAMS Guidance Counselor Jackie Strick found this webinar.

Learning Objectives: Insights into dangerous digital situations and trends; How to help kids reduce the risk of becoming a victim of harassment, cyberbullying, digital exploitation or social-media assault; Tips for using a "Digital Risk Assessment" with students, staff and parents; Recommendations for discussing complex and ever-changing cyber-situations with students; and How to handle real-life cases involving digital dangers and dilemmas

7. Wisconsin Assistive Technology Resources
Here is the link to many updated Assistive Technology resources on the DPI site: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/at-wati-resources.html

8. List of Resources Related to Functional Behavioral Assessments
DPI link to FBA resources including those specifically for students with autism: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/sbfba.html. School Psychologists, EBD teachers and I also have FBA forms and examples that have been used in the past for anyone interested.

9. Attendant Care Services Billing
From CESA 10 for our special education staff:
I got your packet of School Based Services documentation yesterday.  Wow, you guys are busy in Medford.  A big thanks to you and if you could forward a “thanks so much” to the staff for keeping such good documentation.  Everything sent is always very neat and organized which makes it nice for entering documentation.  Please tell them how much I appreciate their efforts and efficiency!

Heidi Wold CPS/CAP
CESA 10
Special Education Department
Phone: 720-2058

10. Special Education Meeting and IEP recommendations:
Please contact Luanne with any questions about these recommendations:

1. Please have IEP  meeting invitation information to Luanne at least 5 days prior to the meeting date.

2. Send only 1 unstapled copy of the IEP.

3. If you use the Print ALL options under forms, please uncheck the invitation before printing if the meeting has been held.

4. Do not staple the Attendant Care sheets.  All of them have to be copied, which means the staple just has to be removed.

5. Be sure to update the Educational Environment Code in Skyward.  Selecting an option on the EE-1 form does not auto fill the EE box in Skyward.

6. Contact Luanne to delete programs that do not indicate services received.  For example, Skyward always provides a service for an entire year.  The 7th grade placement will need to be deleted for an eighth grader, the 8th grade information will have to be deleted for the 7th grade year.

11. School Psychologist - Long Term Substitute
We did have an email correspondence from a potential LTS for our MAMS/MASH School Psychologist position. This was forwarded to us from CESA 10.  I have not heard back from her in several days if she is still interested in the position.

12. Sharing Information with a Guardian Ad Litum
We have a special needs student who has been appointed by the Court with a Guardian Ad Litum.  There to be treated as a parent and have access to any information that a parent would.  For more information about Sharing Information Across Systems - here is the DPI guidance book: http://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/pdf/sharing.pdf

13. Autism Resources from the District
https://sites.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/specialed/home/autism

14. ELL Translator Update
Vanessa Brandner is our ELL translator for MAMS and MASH.  She will be going back to school starting second semester.  She will know more about her schedule this week.  This will allow us to determine how much time she can still work for the district.  We will look for a substitute on the days that she is not here.  If you know of anyone who might be interested, please let me know.

15. Wilson Reading Level II Certification Online Training
We will hold a Wilson Reading Level II Certification Online Training on Wednesday January 25 from 3:30 to 5:30 at MAES.

16. iPad for ELL
We will be receiving an iPad for use with our ELL students through CESA 10 Title III Consortium.  There will be a distance learning informational session on Thursday January 26 at 3:00 pm.

17. iPad/Educational Technology Training
We will meet on Tuesday January 31 from 4:00 to 5:00 pm. Anyone is able to attend if interested. Agenda will include:

1. Review of the following links:
The iPad in Echo Reading, 3R's and Literacy
http://appitic.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=...

A Collection of 1300 Apps for Educators
http://appitic.com/

Apps in Education
http://appsineducation.blogspot.com/

Super Book of Web 2.0 Tools for Educators
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45186316/Super-Book-of-Web-Tools-for-Educators

K-5 iPad Apps for Remembering:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/ipad-apps-elementary-blooms-taxomony-dia...

Facebook and Twitter Guides for Educators
http://smartboardgoodies.com/2011/11/16/facebook-twitter-guides-for-e...

iPads in Schools Live Binder
http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_or_edit?id=26195

2. Introduction and Practice with Apps Related to Phonics and Word
Games
3. Application Rubric
4. Round table of favorite apps that teachers are currently using
5. Newest applications in our iTunes account
6. Questions and Answers 

18. Special Education Budget
Budget information has been sent out to all the certified special education staff.  If you have any questions, please let me know.

19. Student Services Budget
Our Student Services budget will see a reduction of $7,000 from 11-12 to 12-13 due to budgetary restraints in the school district. This will mean reductions for some of the following areas: 50% Police Liaison salary and benefits, curriculum for at-risk students (Read 180, Wilson, Just Words, Vmath), newborn project, conference and registration fees, Advisory Councils (TAC, School Health, EC), School Health supplies (AED, CPR Training), LVEC, ELL Program curriculum, PBIS, Red Ribbon, Reality Fair, AODA, Laws of Life, AP Courses, Student Services Newsletter, HSED contract for incarcerated youth, Athletic Drug Tests, and/or Professional Memberships.

20. Families Being Involved Workshop
FBI - Movie on the Big Screen for our parents and children will be held this Friday January 20 at SES in the afternoon.

21. Child Development Day and Pre-Kindergarten Registration
These will be held on Thursday March 8 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.  Information will be placed in the local newspapers and on the radio starting the 1st week in February.

22. Memorial Health Center
We received the contract terms from Memorial Health Center if we need to contract with them for Speech Language, OT, PT, or COTA services.  Speech Language is available 2-3 hours per week in certain situations.  We have already started our COTA contracted services through them until our licensed COTA starts full time.

23. Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee
Our Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee meeting has been scheduled for Thursday March 15.  We will meet from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at the Medford Area Public School District Office.

The Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee is our annual meeting of Judge Ann Knox Bauer, District Attorney Karl Kelz, County Sheriff, Local Police, Rib Lake School District, Gilman School District, Medford Area Public School District administration and student services staff, Board of Education, District Medical Advisor, Human Services, Health Department, Prevention Council, Parent Resource Center, and other community stakeholders.

Agenda will include, but not be limited to:
1. Cyberbullying/social networking/bullying & girls and legal implications
2. Mandatory Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting training
3. Carrying Concealed Weapons Law in Schools
4. Appropriate Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Schools - New Bill effective 9-1-12
5. Wisconsin Act 309 update - Bullying, School Safety Plans, School Safety Drills, and Sharing Information Across Systems
6. Truancy
7. Round table updates

24. NWEA Testing
Most buildings are finishing up their NWEA Testing this week for our students with disabilities. Thank you to the staff for making these arrangements for their students to participate.

Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee on March 15

Our Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee meeting will be held on Thursday March 15.  We will meet from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at the Medford Area Public School District Office.

The Taylor County Interagency Communications Committee is our annual meeting of Judge Ann Knox Bauer, District Attorney Karl Kelz, County Sheriff, Local Police, Rib Lake School District, Gilman School District, Medford Area Public School District, Human Services, Health Department, Prevention Council, Parent Resource Center, and other community stakeholders.

Agenda will include, but not be limited to:

1. Cyberbullying/social networking/bullying & girls and legal implications

2. Mandatory Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting training

3. Carrying Concealed Weapons Law in Schools

4. Appropriate Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Schools - New Bill effective 9-1-12

5. Wisconsin Act 309 update - Bullying, School Safety Plans, School Safety Drills, and Sharing Information Across Systems

6. Truancy

7. Round table updates

Autism Resource Team meeting on Feb 2

Our next Autism Resource Team meeting will be held on Thursday February 2 from 4:00 to 5:30.  This meeting will be an opportunity for teachers to have extra work time on behalf of our students with autism.  You can work in collaboration with each other or individually depending on the needs. If you need to work with or help from a paraprofessional during this time, please have them place the extra time on their time sheet. Please complete a Stipend Pay Sheet with the date and time if you choose to work.  If this date and time does not work for you and you would like an additional 90 minutes another day or time in February, please let me know.

Here are some resources that might be beneficial based on some issues with students with autism in the school district:

1. Autism Society for Wisconsin: Resources for Educators
http://www.asw4autism.org/educate.htm

2. PBIS for Students with Autism
Contains excellent examples for students at the universal, targeted, and intensive levels.
http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/pdf/ldrcon11-autism-pbis-mazeika-parker.pdf

3. ADOS Autism Observation Scale
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule is a model that our MAES Special Education Teacher Amy Wagner has been officially trained in.  If you feel this would be beneficial in terms of observation and would like a copy of the kit, please let me know. Here is a link:
http://portal.wpspublish.com/portal/page?_pageid=53,70384&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL

4. Functional Behavioral Assessment for Students with Autism
Extensive link to resources related to Functional Behavioral Assessments including those specifically for students with autism: http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/sbfba.html

5. Statewide Autism Trainings
I have already had 1 staff member express interest. If either of these interest you, please let me know:

February 7-8, 2012 – Advanced Level, Addressing Instructional Strategies (Comfort Inn & Suites, De Forest)
In this NEW training, trainers will provide participants with many ideas and strategies to teach students with autism academics and activities of daily living. Using a combination of technology and low-tech ideas, participants will receive answers to questions such as “How do I teach him to ____?” Participants will learn about matching student strengths to strategies, discrete trial format, collaborating with the student, teaching a format and inclusive instruction. Technology to support instructional strategies will be demonstrated throughout.

March 6-7, 2012 – Basic Level (Holiday Inn Campus Area, Eau Claire)
This is a great training to invite general education teachers, new sped staff, paraprofessionals, and other staff working with students with autism. Trainers will provide a general overview of autism and autism-related teaching strategies and will respond to specific questions from participants about challenging behaviors and teaching strategies.

6. Autism Society of Wisconsin Annual Conference - May 3-5
http://www.asw4autism.org/Conference/2012%20Conference/Keynote%20Information.pdf

7. Budget for 12-13
If you have specific budget items related to autism that would be beneficial for your classroom - boardmaker, writing with symbols, edmark reading computer version, assistive technology, etc then please let me know.  This would be the time to submit a purchase order for planning for 12-13.

Services for Children with an Emotional Behavioral Disability - DPI

http://www.dpi.state.wi.us/sped/ed.html

Services for Children with an Emotional Behavioral Disability

Eligibility

The term "emotional disturbance" (ED) was changed to "emotional behavioral disability" (EBD) effective July 1, 2001. In order for a student to be identified as EBD there are 4 key concepts to be addressed: (1) the student exhibits social, emotional or behavioral functioning that so departs from generally accepted, age appropriate ethnic or cultural norms that it adversely affects a child's academic progress, social relationships, personal adjustment, classroom adjustment, self-care or vocational skills; (2) the behaviors are severe, chronic, and frequent, occur at school and at least 1 other setting, and the student exhibits at least 1 of 8 characteristics or patterns of behavior indicative of EBD; (3) the IEP team used a variety of sources of information including observations and has reviewed prior, documented interventions; and, (4) the IEP team did not identify or refuse to identify a student as EBD solely on the basis of another disability, social maladjustment, adjudicated delinquency, dropout, chemically dependency, cultural deprivation, familial instability, suspected child abuse, socio-economic circumstances, or medical or psychiatric diagnostic statements. The complete text of the eligibility criteria for EBD can be found in s. PI 11.36 (7).
EBD Criteria Evaluation Guide - (07/10).
eligibility criteria checklist - Word Fillable - Spanish Fillable

Programming

A continuum of educational placements is necessary to appropriately serve students who are EBD. Some students who are EBD are appropriately served in regular education classrooms with supplementary aids and services, while others may require self-contained or pullout programming for all or part of their school day. There is an increased emphasis on developing positive behavior intervention plans (BIPs) as part of the IEP when the student's behavior impacts his/her learning or that of others. This requirement clearly applies to all students who are EBD. The emphasis is on positive interventions and strategies to address the behaviors of concern, and the plan should be based on the most recent evaluation results including information from a functional behavioral assessment (FBA).

Based on the December 1, 2004, child count, there were 16,431 students (ages 3-21) identified as having a primary disability of EBD. This was a slight increase from the previous year. The prevalence rate (unduplicated count divided by total enrollment in public and private schools) of EBD in Wisconsin is 1.6%.

Resources

• Information Update Bulletin 07.01, Addressing the Behavioral Needs of Students with Disabilities
• Information Update Bulletin 06.02, Legal Requirements Relating to Disciplining Children with Disabilities
• Effective Programming for Students with Emotional Behavioral Disabilities
• Using Interviews to Collect Behavioral Data
• Collecting Observational Data
• Improving Standardized Test Scores for Students with EBD
• Summary of DPI Directives on the Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Special Education Programs
• Directives for the Use of Seclusion and Physical Restraint in Special Education Programs
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Problems Fact Sheets
• Linking Literature to Social Skill Development
• Blueprints for Success: Instructional Strategies to Promote Appropriate Student Behaviors
• Transition to Adulthood: Resources for teachers working with students with emotional behavioral disabilities (EBD)
• Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA)
• IEP Goals and Objectives to Address Behavior - (209 KB)
• Behavioral Intervention Plans to IEPs - Introduction. This powerpoint is (2,639 KB)
• Bulletin 03.06 - Transportation Questions and Answers

For questions about this information, contact Therese L. Dary (608) 266-1218

College Fair on Twitter - Jan 19

http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/news/136625328.html

If you haven't taken a math or science class for 10 or 20 years, but are thinking about a new career direction, you may want to hop on Twitter later this week.

The University of Wisconsin System's eCampus, a gateway to online degree programs across the system's 26 campuses, will host its first College Fair via Twitter from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19, featuring a panel of experts.

Panelists will answer questions about how to choose an online degree, what programs are available, and where to start the financial aid process. Online degree programs are designed for students to balance work and family, while achieving career goals.

Panelists are to include Colleen Howes of UW System eCampus, Cheryl Michie, program director for the UW online Health and Wellness Management degree, and Melissa Haberman, compliance officer at the UW Colleges Financial Aid Office.

To participate, follow @UWSystemeCampus on Twitter and hashtag #UWCollegeFair.

Krabbe Disease - Leukodystrophy Extensive Resources

Core blood transplant: http://www.huntershope.org/site/DocServer/Cord_Blood_Transplant.pdf?docID=1541 

Hunter's Hope Family Programs (son of NFL QB Jim Kelly whose son Hunter had Krabbe Disease. There is a family and medical conference in July, info on treatment at Duke University, family resources, general information, adaptive loan equipment, and more: 
http://hhf.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=familyprograms

Stem cell blood transplant can help infants with Krabbe disease at Duke University: http://www.wral.com/news/local/story/117234/

Extensive Website Directory for Leukodystrophy: http://www.booloon.com/index/Krabbe%20leukodystrophy/Krabbe%20leukodystrophy.htm

Krabbe Disease info from Wkipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krabbe_disease

NINDS Krabbe Disease Information: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/krabbe/krabbe.htm

Krabbe Leukodystrophy from National Institute of Health: http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD/Condition/6844/Krabbe_leukodystrophy.aspx

Krabbe Leukodystrophy: http://leukodystrophy.wordpress.com/#!/page/1

WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/brain/leukodystrophy-krabbes

The Myelin Project: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Myelin_Project

Chloe's story: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Myelin_Project

United Leukodytrophy Foundation: http://ulf.org/

New York Times Health: http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/krabbe-disease/overview.html

Stem Cell Transplant story of Jackson White: http://www.jacksonwhite.com/medical.htm

National Bone Marrow and Stem Blood Cell: http://marrow.org/Home.-

The Myelin Project: http://www.myelin.org/

Hematopoietic Stem Cell http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/991032-overview

Researchers report success with stem cell transplant: http://www.newmaterials.com/Customisation/News/Research_&_Development/University/Researchers_report_success_with_Krabbe_disease_patients.asp

Healing Anaya: My Hero Lisa's story: http://healinganaya.blogspot.com/2011/06/pic.html

Krabbe Disease National Bone Marrow page: http://marrow.org/Patient/Disease_and_Treatment/About_Your_Disease/Metabolic_Disorders/Krabbe_Disease.aspx






Sent from my iPad

Special Education and Student Services Newsletter for January 13

1. iPad
I received a very nice email from a Grade 2 General Education Teacher
this week.  She wanted to tell me how wonderful the iPad has been for
her student with a disability socially.  The other students in the
class love to watch what he is doing on it.  The student has been
trying to trick her with the gears game app.  They have become great
buddies over that app.  He has started to share it with the other
students and teaching them about the game.  He offers them hints and
asks them if it is too tricky for them.  She finished the email by
thanking me for bringing this tool into our district for our special
needs students.  She loves seeing the other students realize how
special and smart that particular student with a disability is.

Thank you to all of our staff for learning about this technology and
implementing it with your individual and groups of students.  Thank
you for giving the students time to play and learn with it. iPads are
being used across the district for social skills purposes, critical
thinking, writing, incentives, creativity, reading remediation, math
skills building, speech and language, communication, social media, and
more.

2. Winter Celebration and Appreciation for Special Education and
Student Services Staff and Friends
Thursday February 9 starting at 4:00 pm at Florenas. Appreciation for
our staff and guests in recognition for all of your hard work and
efforts on behalf of our students with disabilities, families, and
each other.  I hope that you will be able to join us.  Pizza and light
appetizers will be provided.

3. Medford Area Public School District Special Education and Student
Services Facebook Page
Reminder to follow our facebook page if you have not have already.  We
are up to 86 followers! Here is the link:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Medford-Area-Public-School-District-Special-Education-and-Student-Services/120488408019562

We feature updates, information, photos, and more of the great
happenings in our programs.

4. Program Highlights
If you have programs that are going on in your classroom or with your
students, please let me know.  The information or photos can be put in
our special education and student services newsletter, facebook page,
twitter, or blog for parents and other staff to see.

5. Students with Special Needs and Drivers License Handbook:
http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/drivers/education/needs.htm

6. MASH Building Special Education meeting
Don Everhard will present his Safety Training to help Staff and
Students as part of this I.C.D.D. model.  Don has conducted safety and
crisis plan trainings in almost every county in the State of
Wisconsin.  He has done annual safety and crisis trainings of staff
here in Medford Schools.  Don is a licensed principal, guidance
counselor, police officer, and social worker. He is founder and main
speaker for Elite Management LLC. http://www.doneverhard.com/ is his
website for more information.

The training will take place on Tuesday January 17 from 3:20 to 4:15.
Due to the number of people in attendance - we will meet in the READ
180 room instead of the MASH conference room.  The training focus will
be on high school students. Special education certified, support, and
student response team members are invited to attend.

We will also handout materials on the Appropriate Use of Seclusion and
Physical Restraint of students in special education.

Thank you for making arrangements to attend and to Don Everhard for
his presentation.

7. Families Being Involved Workshop
Friday January 20 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at SES - Movie on the Big
Screen

8. Pre-Kindergarten Planning Meeting
Friday January 13 starting at 9:00 am at MAES

9. Reading Class for Adults
Designed to improve the reading remedial skills for adults. Starting
Monday January 16 until Thursday March 22 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and
Thursdays. 5:30 to 7:00 pm at NTC campus in Medford. Instructors are
Chuck Prihoda and Beth van der Berg.  Register with Cindy Gibson at
715-748-1520.  Sponsored by the Taylor County Literacy Council and
Medford Adult Diploma Academy.

10. Weapons at School - Students with Disabilities
We recently had a special education student bring what is considered a
serious weapon to school. Thank you to Shari Gajewski and Jessica
Martin for their work on the Manifestation Determination, Functional
Behavioral Assessment, and Behavioral Intervention Plan in this
situation.  Here is the DPI guidance on LEA's authority if the
behavior involves weapons, illegal drugs, controlled substances or
serious bodily injury.

LEA personnel may order a change of placement to an appropriate
interim alternative educational setting without regard to whether the
behavior is determined to be a manifestation of the child's
disability, if the child carries a weapon to school or possesses a
weapon at school, knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs or sells
or solicits the sale of a controlled substance at school or has
inflicted serious bodily injury upon another person while at school.
"School" includes any school function under the jurisdiction of an LEA
or the Department of Public Instruction. The placement may be for the
same amount of time a child without a disability would be disciplined,
not to exceed 45 school days. The interim alternative educational
setting must be determined by an IEP team.

For the purpose of the discipline requirements of special education
law:

"Weapon" means a weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance,
animate or inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of,
causing death or serious bodily injury, except that such term does not
include a pocket knife with a blade of less than 2 ½ inches in length.

"Controlled substance" means a drug or other substance identified
under schedules I, II, III, IV, or V in section 202(c) of the
Controlled Substances Act [subsection (c) of section 812 of Title 21,
United States Code]. Revised schedules are published in the Code of
Federal Regulations, Part 1308 of Title 21, Food and Drugs.

"Illegal drug" means a controlled substance. The term "illegal drug"
does not include a substance that is legally possessed or used under
the supervision of a licensed health-care professional or that is
legally possessed or used under any other authority under the
Controlled Substances Act. Generally speaking, controlled substances
include what we commonly think of as illegal "street drugs" such as
marijuana, cocaine, LSD, etc., as well as prescription drugs. Drugs
purchased legally over-the-counter are not "controlled substances."
"Illegal drugs" are controlled substances unless possessed or used
lawfully, e.g., with a prescription. For example, Ritalin is a
"controlled substance," but is not an illegal drug if it is possessed
or used pursuant to a prescription. Ritalin is an illegal drug if
possessed or used without a prescription. For the purposes of the
discipline requirements of special education law, alcohol and tobacco
are not illegal drugs or controlled substances.

"Serious bodily injury" means bodily injury that involves: A
substantial risk of death; extreme physical pain; protracted and
obvious disfigurement; or protracted loss or impairment of the
function of a bodily member, organ, or mental faculty.

11. Taylor County Transition Advisory Council Summary Minutes
I would like to thank everyone for coming to our Taylor County
Transition Advisory Council.  It was a great turnout of
representatives and great information learned today.

The anticipation is that we will do our first Transition Night for
Students with Special Needs here in Taylor County in Fall 2012. We
will plan to visit the Lincoln County and Bloomer Transition Nights
this Spring and Marshfield in the Fall.

Spring Reality Fair is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday April 4,
2012 from 8:00 to 12:00 pm.

Here are the Transition Services websites which were reviewed today:
http://www.posthighsurvey.org/
http://www.tr4y.org/index.php
http://www.cesa2.k12.wi.us/pss/tan/NewWayOfThinking-Sept2011.pdf (New
Way of Thinking Curriculum for High School Students)
http://www.autismspeaks.org/docs/family_services_docs/transition.pdf
(Transition for Autism Students from Autism Speaks)
http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/drivers/education/needs.htm
(Drivers Education for Students with Special Needs including audio
files of the manual)
http://www.wsti.org/wsti.php (Wisconsin Statewide Transition
Initiative)
http://www.newvisionwilderness.com (New Private School - Outdoor
Wildness Recreation Therapy in Perkinstown)

12. Welcome back for the whole Reading Team!
A welcome back officially for all of our Reading Team.  Glad to have
Joyce Woletz, Mary Fliehs, Judy Mader, Karen Dallas, and Kim Fechelm
all back together again starting on Monday.

13. Staff Assessments
Staff are busy with AIMS Web, NWEA Map, and ACCESS for ELL testing
during the month of January.  Thank you to students and staff for all
your extra hard work during this month.

14. Thank you to Oralee Dittrich
Thank you to Oralee Dittrich for her long term substituting for Beth
van der Berg and Joyce Woletz this year.  Much appreciated and always
glad to have her back.

15. Freshman Orientation Day
Thank you to our student services and special education staff for
their participation in the Freshman Orientation Day presentation as
part of the January Board of Education meeting.  Jina Lange, Louann
Stanton, Terry Lybert, Jill Koenig, Brenda Ann McNary, and Kris
Gingras all did the presentation with Jill Lybert and Laura Lundy.

16. Parent Resource Center Board of Directors
PRC Board of Directors meeting will be held on Wednesday January 18 at
noon.

17. iPad/Educational Technology meeting
Tuesday January 31 at 4:00 pm at the D.O.  All our invited to attend.
Gilman School District recently contacted us on best practices for
implementation.  They recently obtained iPads for their special
education staff.  Information was forwarded and they were very
grateful for this information.

18. Autism Resource Team meeting
Thursday February 2 at 4:00 pm at MAES in computer lab

19. Wilson Reading Level II Certification Online Training
Wednesday January 25 from 3:30 to 5:30 at MAES in the computer lab.

20. Taylor County Early Childhood Sub-Committee
Friday February 3 at 1:30 pm at the D.O.

21. PBIS update:
Administration representative will need to attend the AA696 Tier 2/3
administrative overview on Feb. 3rd in Pewaukee. We will then send a
team to attend official Tier 2 trainings in EauClaire on Feb. 27th-
S100 and Feb. 28th- S200.

21. Wilson Reading Level II Certification
Staff have been busy completing the video taping requirements as part
of the Step 7-12 individual student and Group of Students Practicums.
This includes a 200 point checklist for implementation fidelity. Level
II trainers review the video tape and use the checklist for the
grading and passing of that practicum requirements.

Thank you and recognition to Kris Brander, Misty Galli, Ann Jochimsen,
Kathy Schumacher, and Joyce Woletz for taking initiative to complete
their Level II Certification and being leaders in this area in our
school district. These staff will have the opportunity to apply for an
internship to become official Wilson Trainers upon completion of the
Level II Certification.

Other Wilson teachers in the district that are interested in seeing
the checklist to monitor their own fidelity of teaching the program
can contact me or one of those teachers for more information.

22. School Psychologist LTS update
We have a candidate that has asked for more information about our long
term substitute school psychologist position.  CESA 10 forwarded that
name to us.  I have contacted her by email and am waiting to speak
with her.

23. Speech Language Pathologist LTS update
I have not heard back from Memorial Health Center on their interest in
collaborating with the school district for contracting for speech
language pathologist time. I have posted our LTS position for February
on the Wisconsin SLP list serve.  Mark Arndt is scheduled to be the
January LTS for Eliza.  Best wishes and a healthy delivery for Eliza
and the baby coming soon.

24. CESA 10 Audiology Services
I have notified CESA 10 that we would like to contract with them for
audiology services in 12-13.  I have asked for Shelly Elkin to be our
audiologist like she has in the past.

25. Early Childhood Special Education Leadership Meeting
Amber Fettes and Sheryl Balciar will be attending the Early Childhood
Leadership meeting on February 10 in Stevens Point.

26. Classroom sound amplification systems can make a difference in
academic performance as well as the number of referrals to special
education programs.
http://thejournal.com/articles/2011/08/01/listen-up.aspx

iPad/Educational Technology Agenda for January 31 at 4:00 pm at District Office:

1. Review of the following links:
The iPad in Echo Reading, 3R's and Literacy
http://appitic.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=1&Itemid=302

A Collection of 1300 Apps for Educators
http://appitic.com/

Apps in Education
http://appsineducation.blogspot.com/

Super Book of Web 2.0 Tools for Educators
http://www.scribd.com/doc/45186316/Super-Book-of-Web-Tools-for-Educators

K-5 iPad Apps for Remembering:
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/ipad-apps-elementary-blooms-taxomony-dia...

Facebook and Twitter Guides for Educators
http://smartboardgoodies.com/2011/11/16/facebook-twitter-guides-for-educators/

iPads in Schools Live Binder
http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_or_edit?id=26195

2. Introduction and Practice with Apps Related to Phonics and Word
Games
3. Application Rubric
4. Round table of favorite apps that teachers are currently using
5. Newest applications in our iTunes account
6. Questions and Answers

Anyone who is interested is welcome to come.

Transition Advisory Council Summary Notes from 1-12-12

I would like to thank everyone for coming to our Taylor County  Transition Advisory Council.  It was a great turnout of  representatives and great information learned today. Thank you to Dave Naas the Wisconsin Statewide Transition Initiative Coordinator for coming today.


We will plan to visit the Lincoln County and Bloomer Transition Nights
this Spring.  The anticipation is that we would do one here in Taylor
County in Fall 2012.


Spring Reality Fair is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday April 4,
2012.


I hope that you all made it back to your homes or places of employment in a safe manner.


Here are the websites which were reviewed today:

http://www.posthighsurvey.org/

http://www.tr4y.org/index.php

http://www.cesa2.k12.wi.us/pss/tan/NewWayOfThinking-Sept2011.pdf

http://www.cesa2.k12.wi.us/programs/transition/tanresources.cfm

http://www.autismspeaks.org/docs/family_services_docs/transition.pdf

http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/drivers/education/needs.htm

http://www.wsti.org/wsti.php

http://www.newvisionwilderness.com


Let me know if you have any questions,

Joseph

Students with Special Needs and Drivers License Handbook

http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/drivers/drivers/education/needs.htm

DPI Autism Trainings

From DPI: Kirsten.Guell@dpi.wi.gov

Addressing Instructional Strategies, February 7-8, Comfort Inn & Suites, De Forest

In this NEW training (2012), participants will be provided with many ideas and strategies to teach students with autism academics and activities of daily living. Using a combination of technology and low tech ideas, participants will have a chance to get their questions asked about “How do I teach him to _______?” Trainers: Kate McGinnity and Mary Graczyk-McMullen

 

Basic Level, March 6-7, Holiday Inn Campus Area, Eau Claire

Who needs autism training for 2012-2013? This is a great training to invite general education teachers, new sped staff, paraprofessionals, and other staff working with students with autism to receive a general overview of autism and autism related teaching strategies. Trainers will also go in depth with specific questions that participants have in relation to addressing challenging behaviors and teaching strategies for children with autism. Trainers: Judy Endow, Kate McGinnity, and Mary Graczyk-McMullen

 

Go to http://www.dpi.wi.gov/sped/autism.html to register!

Department of Vocational Rehabilitation at MASH on January 25

Gwen Steele from the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation will be at MASH on January 25th from 9-3 p.m. Students with disabilities can be referred for DVR services during the second semester of their junior year. She would prefer to meet with students (and parents if under 18) individually. If you are interested in scheduling a time, please contact your child's special education teacher.

Valuable List of Resources Found on Twitter from July 2011 to January 2012

I have assembled some of my favorites found on Twitter that will help our students and school staff have the best 21st Century resources which I could find. These were collected between July 2011 to January 2012. Recognition to all of the professionals on twitter who provided links to these valuable resources.

Websites:

Best of the web: 19 sites you shouldn't be without http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/web/best-of-the-web-19-sites-you-shouldnt-be-without-1051838?src=rss&attr=all

Top 10 websites schools would bookmark on students' home computers http://j.mp/vsvImu

The Best Social Studies Sites of 2011: http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2011/12/07/the-best-social-studies-sites-of-2011/

Updates to "Best Resources For Learning About Handwriting & Learning" http://bit.ly/fFam9b”

The Best Art & Music Sites Of 2011 http://zite.to/s0nlvg

New additions to "The Best Sites For Learning About Animals" http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2010/03/07/the-best-sites-for-learning-about-animals/

Top 100 websites of 2011: http://cyber-kap.blogspot.com/2011/11/top-100-sites-of-2011.html

Cybrary Man’s Educational Websites Live Binder: http://cybraryman.com/livebinders.html

Elementary: Math Websites http://zite.to/s6xtTS

Applications

App Advice Guides: http://appadvice.com/appguides

Speech to Text Apps on your iPad: http://appsineducation.blogspot.com/2012/01/speech-to-text-apps.html

Apps for science educators http://bit.ly/vo1veZ

65+ iPad Apps Perfect For Elementary School http://edudemic.com/2011/11/palm-beach-apps/

The 50 Best iPhone Apps | http://PCMag.com http://bit.ly/vzJjt0

Apps in Education: More Kindergarten iPad Resources http://appsineducation.blogspot.com/2011/12/more-kindergarten-ipad-resources.html

iPad Apps for Science Educators http://j.mp/tQOXOa

100 iPad #apps that are perfect for high #school http://vsb.li/tXWYPl

Emerging Technology in Education: iPad Apps We Have been exploring at West High:  http://ht.ly/1g1CQR

Spreadsheet of Apps for Autism: https://spreadsheets.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/pub?key=0AjbIta8OTS0KdHRMVWx0Q3pvOWRXRXBfd01jc3lqakE&hl=en&single=true&gid=0&output=html

OTs with Apps! http://otswithapps.wordpress.com/

Apps for Autism: 60 Minutes Special http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_8b7PgnNQQ&feature=youtu.be

Apps for Bloggers: http://appadvice.com/applists/show/apps-for-bloggers

Apps for Science Lovers: http://appadvice.com/applists/show/apps-for-science-lovers

iPad apps for elementary, middle, & high school http://palmbeachschooltalk.com/groups/ipadpilot/

Best Free iPhone apps: http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-iphone-apps.htm?t=1319892749

Apps for Education Page: http://cybraryman.com/apps.html

40 Amazing Apps for the Learning Disabled: http://www.matchacollege.com/blog/2011/40-amazing-ipad-apps-for-the-learning-disabled/

September 11 Memorial Application: http://www.ipadnewsdaily.com/671-sept-11-memorial-app-shows-past-and-present.html

iPad Apps Recommended for Administrators: http://www.diigo.com/annotated/1188da7221cf53316b8c7bd8b0ea22ac

Catalog of iPad apps for Teachers and Students: http://www.techlearning.com/Default.aspx?tabid=67&EntryId=3050

K-5 iPad Apps for Remembering:

http://www.edutopia.org/blog/ipad-apps-elementary-blooms-taxomony-diane-darrow

iPads

Blogging About The Web 2.0 Connected Classroom: Quick List Of iPad Resources For The Classroom http://bit.ly/tgQIYG

Evidence of Learning on the iPad in Kindergarten http://bit.ly/rUC2h2

5 Apps for Creating Interactive Books and ePubs on your iP*d http://bit.ly/n1FkZ0

Super Collection of iPad Resources: http://bit.ly/teUzen

Kindergarten kids: A pencil, eraser and an iPad http://www.scoop.it/t/apple-educational-technology/p/887011967/kindergarten-kids-a-pencil-eraser-and-an-ipad-zdnet

iPad in the Classroom Transforms the Learning Process http://zite.to/vWWdew

All kinds of great resources for iPads in Education at http://ipadacademy.com

Quick List of iPad Resources for the Classroom: http://www.teachhub.com/ipad-classroom-resources

iPads in Schools Live Binder: http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_or_edit?id=26195

Live Binder of iPod and iPad Touch Resources for PK-12 Educators: http://www.livebinders.com/play/play/36989

iPad Exploration: http://balancedtech.wikispaces.com/iPad+Exploration

Best Interactive Books for the iPad: http://appadvice.com/applists/show/best-interactive-books-ipad

iPods and iPads for Learning: http://www.sitehoover.com/ipodtouch4learning/

How a medical student uses an iPad for patient care: http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2011/10/medical-student-ipad-patient-care-education.html

Some Fun iPad Lesson Ideas:

http://appsineducation.blogspot.com/2011/10/some-fun-ipad-lesson-ideas.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Mobile Learning for Special Education: What’s the Bigger Picture: http://www.inov8-ed.com/2011/08/mobile-learning-for-special-education-whats-the-bigger-picture/

Best iPad Applications: http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/best-ipad-apps

Great Resources from Apple on iPads in Hands on Learning: http://education.apple.com/ipad-learning/

Integrating Technology into the Preschool Classroom: http://networkedblogs.com/kliFu

Twitter and Facebook

The Essential Twitter Dictionary: http://www.mediabistro.com/alltwitter/the-essential-twitter-dictionary_b1205

Twitter in the classroom http://bit.ly/sGhxjg

To Tweet Or Not To Tweet for Educator's http://bit.ly/tmo8sl World's best way to explain Twitter to not-yet-tweeters.

Suggestions for teachers using #Facebook for classroom instruction: http://on.mash.to/uI3qnB

The Ultimate Twitter Guidebook For Teachers -> http://edudemic.com/2010/06/the-ultimate-twitter-guidebook/

Twitter, Facebook, RSS feeds, Email, Google+ - why/when use each one. http://educationaltechnologyguy.blogspot.com/2011/12/twitter-facebook-rss-feeds-email.html

Escaping your Educator Island through Twitter: http://www.slideshare.net/curtrees/slate-2011-twitter-island

Facebook and Twitter Guides for Educators: http://smartboardgoodies.com/2011/11/16/facebook-twitter-guides-for-educators/

An Educators Guide to Twitter: http://www.livebinders.com/play/play_or_edit?id=34291

8 Videos to Help Teachers Get Started on Twitter: http://davidwees.com/content/eight-videos-help-teachers-get-started-using-twitter

Twitter Quick Guide for Teachers and Districts: http://www.teachhub.com/twitter-quick-guide-schools-districts

50 Essential Special Education Twitter Feeds: http://teachingall.blogspot.com/2011/08/special-education-advisors-50-essential.html

Getting Started with Twitter: https://docs.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/document/d/1g_KXRC-1ndy-PL4xpcpmhQrxOZG0fRC80a-MX1Ptxyw/edit?hl=en_US

Technology and Web 2.0 Tools

Nice list of tech resources: http://bit.ly/yOZifX Broken down by use

Top 12 Free Printable Lesson Plans of 2011 http://www.teachhub.com/top-12-free-printable-lesson-plans-2011

Super Book of Web Tools for Educators http://www.scribd.com/doc/45186316/Super-Book-of-Web-Tools-for-Educators

Watch 75 Full-Length National Geographic Films for Free http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2011/12/watch-75-full-length-national.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+freetech4teachers%2FcGEY+%28Free+Technology+for+Teachers%29

Huge Collection Of #edtech Resources-Educational Technology Clearinghouse: http://etc.usf.edu/

Engaging Student Learning through Web 2.0 http://educationtnt.wikispaces.com/Web+2.0+Tools+for+Teachers

84 EdTech Resources You May Have Missed Treasure–Chest December 4, 2011 http://zite.to/rHwy5w

The Best Web 2.0 Tools for Education in 2011: http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2011/11/14/the-best-web-2-0-applications-for-education-in-2011/

Periodic Table of QR Codes: http://www.scoop.it/t/the-best-of-qrcode/p/444797031/periodic-table-of-qr-codes

Google for Educators Resource: http://educationaltechnologyguy.blogspot.com/p/google-for-educators_22.html#.TqMuayFWIgk.twitter

25 Incredible Assistive Technologies: http://theinnovativeeducator.blogspot.com/2011/09/25-incredible-assistive-technologies.html

96 EdTech Resources You May Have Missed–Treasure Chest August 28, 2011 | Tech the Plunge http://jeffthomastech.com/blog/?p=11321

59 EdTech Resources You May Have Missed–Treasure Chest August 14, 2011 | Tech the Plunge http://j.mp/pNUIaM

Top 20 Social Networks for Education: http://cyber-kap.blogspot.com/2011/08/top-20-social-networks-for-education.html

78 EdTech Resources You May Have Missed–Treasure Chest July 31, 2011 | Tech the Plunge http://j.mp/pyCItb

Social Media Policy

Legal and Practical Issues with Teachers Using Social Media In and Out of the Classroom

http://slateinwi.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/2011-SLATE-Voelker-Legal-Teachers-Use-of-Social-Media.pdf

Nice Collection Of Resources For Social Media Policy From @ASCD: http://bit.ly/sueJTm

General Tips

27 Tips and Tricks for Principals: http://blog.simplek12.com/education/tips-tricks-for-principals/

Best resource for finding new apps for my teachers and students http://bit.ly/e3ZbmF

Resources from Jim Wright to use data and problem solving teams to improve your RTI process http://www.jimwrightonline.com/wested.php

More than 500 free Etextbooks: http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2011/12/bookboon-more-than-500-free-etextbooks.html

Calcoolate: The coolest scientific calculator on the web http://www.calcoolate.com/

How to Set Up Gmail for School iPads and iPods http://learninginhand.com/blog/how-to-set-up-gmail-for-school-ipads-and-ipods.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+learninginhand+%28Learning+in+Hand%29

QR Code Implementation Guide:http://coolcatteacher.blogspot.com/2011/05/qr-code-classroom-implementation-guide.html

10 Tools for Getting the Most from Dropbox http://zite.to/w2ZrHy

Complete Guide to Google Reader to include how to Send to your blog http://theedublogger.com/2011/11/07/the-complete-educators-guide-to-using-google-reader/#link

100 Different Uses for Evernote: http://www.andrewcmaxwell.com/2009/11/100-different-evernote-uses/

APPitic-NEW POST: "Easily Build App Libraries" http://appitic.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=1&Itemid=302

Free Technology for Teachers: Send Email Attachments to Your Dropbox http://bit.ly/qKnhIa

General Education

15 Schools Using Flipped Classrooms Right Now http://vsb.li/qGpaQL

How A Flipped Classroom Actually Works [Interview] http://edudemic.com/2011/12/real-flipped-classroom/

Grading Practices and Resources: https://docs.google.com/a/medford.k12.wi.us/document/d/1r4xrDAKkChmGsHAp2eK3pj1tQC55LG8CB1Vau-lRO1A/edit

Check out these great idea for using smartpens for reading instruction from @EngagingTech http://www.engaging-technologies.com/support-files/reading_instruction_using_the_livescribe_smartpen.pdf

Oxford Owl is Great for Reading and Math http://larryferlazzo.edublogs.org/2011/12/10/oxford-owl-is-great-for-reading-math/

National Center for Literacy Education: http://www.ncte.org/ncle

21st Century Leaders Use 21st Century Tools to Communicate with Parents: http://the21stcenturyprincipal.blogspot.com/2011/10/21st-century-leaders-use-21st-century.html

Packers 2011 Media Guide: http://www.packers.com/news-and-events/media-guide.html

So you want to make project-based-learning work in your district or school? Here are 10 things to keep in mind! http://www.edutopia.org/stw-replicating-pbl-tips-get-started

Beyond CliffsNotes: 100 Free & Useful Tools for When Time’s Running Out http://bit.ly/d9GNO1

Shift Happens in Iowa: http://www.iowafuture.org/2011/08/04/iowa-did-you-know/

Do classroom sound systems reduce special-education referrals? http://sbne.ws/r/8yOn Seems like a low-risk, low-cost strategy, so why not?

Blogs

If you know an Art teacher be sure to share this resource blog with them: http://www.artprojectsforkids.org/

40 Incredible Blogs that are Changing Education: http://edudemic.com/2011/12/group-blogs/

30+ Open Wikis Every Educator Should Know About | Edudemic http://edudemic.com/2011/12/open-wikis/

20 Education Administrator Blogs You Should Start Following Right Now http://zite.to/uDxQWR

Blogs for Art Teachers: http://www.freetech4teachers.com/2009/05/blogs-for-art-teachers.html

David Kapuler's Top 10 Sites for Educational Apps

http://www.techlearning.com/Default.aspx?tabid=67&EntryId=3617

 The wave of the future is here, especially for education.  Terms like 21st Century Computing, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device), and Cloud Computing are mainstream.  The introduction of mobile devices, iPods, netbooks, and more specifically, the iPad, has brought technology to more students than ever before.  A one-to-one computing environment is not only a possibility, but also a reality in more school districts than people realize.  With all that being said, below are my 10 favorite sites for finding educational apps.

1. APPitic - Great site with over 1300 reviews done by Apple Distinguished Educators.  These apps have been tested in different grade levels with different instructional strategies.
2. Mind Leap -  Excellent site with reviews built on a five-star scale.  Reviews are done on a wide range of subjects and offers a nice breakdown of statistics such as educational quality, engagement factor, and shelf life.
3. Best Kids Apps -  Site with great reviews on iPhone, iPad, and Android apps.  These reviews have a basic age rating and a nice image to go along too.
4. Mac App Store - Probably the most comprehensive list of apps around.  This application from Apple is the ideal place to find and purchase apps.  Works on Snow Leopard OS and above.
5. Fun Educational Apps -  Ideal place to find reviews of apps for the iPod, iPhone, and iPad.  This is one of my favorite sites to find in-depth reviews with lots of pictures of the app.
6. Smart Apps for Kids - Designed by a dad on a journey to find the best iPhone & iPad apps.  These apps are reviewed on a four-star scale and offer a nice "bottom line" for those who don't want to read the whole review.
7. Best Apps for Kids - Wonderful site that does a great breakdown of an educational app, with reviews done on a scale of  one through five.  Offers readers advice on whether they should purchase the app or not.
8. Teachers with Apps -  Great site with reviews of apps that include videos and images.  Ideal for teachers looking to find that perfect app for the classroom.
9. Apps in Education - Nice collection of iPad apps that are reviewed by subject.  These reviews are brief and to the point.
10. I Education Apps Review - Designed as a community effort of reviews posted by a variety of users.  There are even student reviews to give a unique perspective on the use of an app.

Bonus - Teach with your iPad -  Wonderful wiki that lists a ton of apps by subject, type, and grade level.  A must see!

Mobile Learning

Top Mobile Learning Applications

http://www.themobilenative.blogspot.com/p/top-mobile-learning-sites.html

More Great Mobile Learning Applications

http://its.leesummit.k12.mo.us/mobile_learning.htm

General Applications

40 Amazing 40 Amazing iPad Apps for the Learning Disabled

A Creature Feature You Tube channel with educational videos good for iPad or iPod Touch

dot ePUB Convert any web page to ePUB format; works on iPad, iPod Touch, or Kindle.

Free Kid's Music Fun music for any mobile device

Harry Kindergarten You Tube channel with educational videos good for iPad or iPod Touch Learning In Hand Resources for iPod, iPod Touch, iPad, Podcasting, and Netbooks

How to find E-Books How to find a thousand free e-books online

How to check our E-Books from the KC public library Directions for checking out E-Books from the KC Public Library

Lee's Summit R-7 iPod/iPad User Agreement Agreement contract to be completed if issued a district purchased iPod or iPad

Mobile Learning 4 Special Needs Mobile learning resources for special needs students

Mobile Learning: Using Tools At Hand Article advocating mobile learning along with resources Making The Most of Your iPad Wiki of resources for classroom use

Mom's with App's Moms With Apps is a catalog of great children's and family-friendly apps. Search by educational categories and age groups to discover new apps and developers.  Don't miss App free Friday. iPad, iPod Touch, free

Special Ed Apps Store Link to iTunes Spec Ed App Store

Tarheel Reader A collection of free, easy-to-read, and accessible books on a wide range of topics. The books may be downloaded as slide shows in PowerPoint, Impress, or Flash format. Each book can be speech enabled and accessed using multiple interfaces, including touch screens many languages (K-12)

Wonderopolis Wonder a day, works great on the iPad (K-12)

Educational Apps

APPitic Search for educational Apps

5 iPad Reading Apps Compare/Contrast 5 iPad Reading Apps, iBooks, Amazon Kindle, Barnes and Noble, Stanza, Zinio

50 Educational Apps for iPod Touch List of educational apps categorized by subject

10 iPad Apps for Autism Helpful Apps for Autism

Adobe Ideas 1.0 For iPad Digital sketchbook app for iPad that supports layers and save as PDF Apps4Kids The best iPod Touch, iPhone, and iPad apps for kids  (K-2)

Apps in Education Directory of apps for students, teachers, and special education  (K-12)

Apps for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder Many Apps for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Best Kid Apps Best kids Apps for the iPad, iPod Touch (K-7)

Digital Storytelling With The iPad Apps, tutorials, and resources to use the iPad for digital storytelling

Educational Apps For iPod Touch Apps categorized by subject area

iEAR Directory of educational apps with reviews

Fun Educational Apps List of recommended Apps for learning, Apps free Friday

ICDLW International Children's Digital Library App

iPad Apps and Accessories for Special Needs List of apps for special needs

Mobile ADE Hottest Apps used by Apple's Distinguished Educators

Moms with Apps Every Friday the website features a free App for the day

Poddy Training Using iPod Touches in the kindergarten classroom

iPod Apps by Grade Level and Subject Google spreadsheet of educational apps with cost, grade level, subject, and iTunes link.

Teach With A Touch Google presentation of educational apps

WorldCat Mobile Locate books and periodicals in libraries all over the world

We are Teachers Educational iPad and iPhone Apps

iPad/iPod Touch 

10 Useful iPad Tips And Tricks From Mashable

Cybraryman iPad, tips, information

Dos and Don'ts For iPad and iPod Touch; things to keep in mind to ensure they work smoothly in the classroom from Tony Vincent

iPad Academy Get schooled & skilled on the iPad - Training, tips, and tutorials

iPad Accessibility iPad comes standard with accessibility features that help people with disabilities experience all that it has to offer

iPad Configure Accessibility Configuring accessibility features

iPads for Learning Apps, classroom ideas, and technical tips

iPad Guided Tour Videos from Apple

iPad How-To's How-to's on multiple topics

iPad User Guide From Apple (PDF)

iPod Touch User Guide From Apple (PDF; model with camera)

iPod Touch in Class Tricks to using the iPod Touch in Class

iPod Touch User Guide From Apple (PDF; model without camera)

iPad Transfer files Transfer iPad files using iTunes

iTips & Tricks Tips and tricks for iOS devices

Sign in and Out of Store Directions for signing in and out of the Apps store as a different user Troubleshooting iPad Tips for troubleshooting iPad

iPod

Beyond the Basics Beyond the Basics: Backup, Restore, and Transfer

IPods in Education "A Classroom in your Pocket"  Slide Share, ways to use iPods in the Classroom

iPod Sync Music Sync Music to iPod Classic or Nano

Troubleshooting Troubleshooting your iPod

Playing iPod Music Tutorial for playing music on the iPod

iTunes Tutorial Basic tutorials for working with iTunes

iPod Manuals Classic, Nano, Touch

iTunes

Create an iTunes Account w/o a Credit Card Instructions on setting up an iTunes account without a credit card

Podcasting

100 Ways to use the iPod 100 ways to use your iPod to learn and study better

Books Should be Free Download Podcast or MP3 to iTunes and use on Mobile Device

How to Create a Vodcast How to create a video podcast

Tips for Podcast Fans Finding Podcasts

ITS Recommended Podcasts

60 Second Science Podcasts Quick reports and commentaries on the world of Science Children's Fun Storytime Features dramatically intoned readings of favorite kids’ stories like The Little Engine That Could and Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland.

Dragonfly PBS Kids Podcasts

Lion King Audio podcasts from the movie Lion King

Podbean Create a free podcast

Poem of the Day Audio recordings of poems by many of the heavy-hitters—Emily Dickinson, Ezra Pound, Langston Hughes—so it’s easy to find a poem appropriate for your class.

Radio Willowweb The students at Willowdale Elementary in Omaha, Nebraska, produce regular 10-minute audio podcasts containing segments like “Did You Know?” and “Vocabulary Theater” packed with grade-perfect learning. Your students will get a kick out of hearing Revolutionary War history from fellow third graders!

Sesame Street Podcasts for

Science Show for Kids Five-minute audio podcast hosted by psychology professor David Brodbeck, who invites children to send in their burning questions. How do bees make honey? The Story Home Original and classic children's audio stories. Every other week, The Story Home will offer a brand new story read to you by a very special storyteller named Alan (2-6) Story Nory Stories for the iPod