Disclaimer My experience and expertise in no way exceeds that of my audience. Every day I reflect on my practice, I struggle to align my values with what.

DisclaimerMy experience and expertise in no way

exceeds that of my audience. Every day I reflect on my practice, I struggle

to align my values with what I do. I humbly admit that at times I have put my interests

before those of my students and at times have fallen into the trap of what seems quick and efficient when it comes to getting a plan

in place.

Workshop Objectives

Offer ways to help students and families recognize strengths and come to terms with the realities of their limitations

Share a tool for student-led IEP’s

So how do we apply this to the IEP process?

Self-determination as a personal attribute, characteristic, or disposition that refers to having control over one's life and destiny

(Michael L. Wehmeyer)

KIDS TOGETHER, Inc.The Parent Side        tm

Advise from a great strategist, Master Sun Tzu…

“If you know your opponent and you know yourself, you need not

fear the result of a hundred battles.”

“use the tool that works for each person”

1. Get a common language to discuss learning challenges and developmental delay

2. Get the story

3. Get families talking about the future

4. Get the right people to collaborate

5. Get a visual, student friendly template

1. Get a Common Language

How many parents relate openly and honestly about their kid’s disability and limitations?

“Reach for the stars”

“All things are possible!”

“You can be anything you want to be

if you just put your mind to it”

Parents and teachers walk the tightrope between protection and independence.

Take a Risk

Devise a lesson plan:

…SWBAT….

“have self awareness of

their disability”

or, “articulate what their disability is and tell a trusted friend”.

Use worksheet, journal, computer or a tape recorder

2. Get their story…

There is nothing “quick and efficient” about gaining the trust of parents and students. They need to trust you before they share their story.

3. Get families talking about the future…

A ranking of priorities for both parents and kids, helps both parties understand the

other and begins a conversation about the future.

Now, make priorities…Rank the priorities in your life? What areas are most important/least important?

Skills for community living ___ Schoolwork ___ Relationships with peers ___ Communication skills ___ Transitions ___ Self-determination ___ Health and wellness ___

Other ways… IEP Parent Planning Worksheet Transition Checklist (indicators of a self-

determined person) “Y” charts (compares/contrasts two

behaviors and their outcomes) Transition meeting

4. The Right People to Collaborate Person-centered

planning values collaboration

(but does not rely on the strength of all the professionals who attend)

Who (do you think) came to Laurie’s meeting?

5. A Visual student-led presentation template

Students respond confidently as they weave a story from the pictures and information

they have put together to share.

Most Important Questions Include:

Who are you? What do you want? What are your challenges and barriers? What supports do you need?

3 options: quit, complain or innovate

Are we using everything we have available?

Can the IEP help our kids “reach forward”

Is it a vehicle? Do we believe in the academic value

of the image? Can a power point IEP “live” outside

the classroom?

The language of the visual….

“Kids intuitively know the rules to visual communication.” (George Lucas)

A “visual” is a practical tool for kids. It levels the playing field.

Think about the power of a “mini film festival” or celebration.

I like to cook

I like to cook.

IEP templates to share