The Down Syndrome Guild is pleased to introduce a new quarterly education program in 2024. This half-day series will focus on Road to School Readiness: Early Childhood Series. This series is intended for those entering early childhood special education (ECSC), kindergarten, and similar stages.The session covers the special education process, evaluation, individualized education plans (IEPs), admission review and dismissal (ARD) meetings, and advocacy skills within the public school system.
Special Ed. Intake Process- Evaluation
Presented by Brooke Trickett, M.S. CCC-SLP - Richardson ISD
10 am - 11 am
Join us for an informative session on the Special Education intake process, led by Brooke Trickett, M.S. CCC-SLP from Richardson ISD. This presentation will cover:
How to request an initial evaluation
The evaluation process
What is included in the evaluation
What to expect during the evaluation
This session is ideal for parents, educators, and professionals who want to gain a clear understanding of the evaluation process to ensure the best outcomes for students.
Special Ed. Intake Process- IEP/ARD Meeting
Presented by Ali Ackles, M.Ed, Parent and Diagnostician - Richardson
11:15 pm - 12:15 pm
Join us for an insightful session on the Special Education intake process, focusing on IEP (Individualized Education Program) and ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meetings. Led by Ali Ackles, M.Ed, a dedicated parent and diagnostician from Richardson ISD, this presentation will cover:
What is the ARD/IEP Planning Conference?
What happens during the ARD/IEP Planning Conference?
What is the ARD/IEP Meeting?
This session is designed for parents, educators, and professionals who wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of the special education process and ensure the best outcomes for students.
Lunch
12:15 pm - 12:45 pm
Boxed Lunch Available for Pre- Purchase Only Additional lunches will NOT be available for purchase on the day of the event.
Insights from a Parent and Educator
Presented by Jennifer Wilder, Parent and Functional Academics Teacher
12:45 pm - 1:45 pm
Join Jennifer Wilder, a dedicated parent and Functional Academics Teacher from Frisco ISD, for a dynamic session offering unique insights from both parent and educator perspectives. This interactive forum-style session will include:
Practical tips and tricks for navigating the educational journey
Q&A opportunities to address specific concerns and inquiries
Personal examples from the classroom, including strategies for developing effective IEP goals.
Whether you're a parent seeking advocacy skills or an educator looking to enhance support strategies, this session aims to provide valuable perspectives and actionable advice.
Attendees may attend one or more sessions throughout the day, and boxed lunches will be available for pre-purchase at the time of registration. This series is intended for those entering early childhood special education (ECSC), kindergarten, and similar stages. Space is limited and registration is required by Wednesday, September 4 (or until the event is full). Questions? Please contact Hannah Fredette.
This series will be presented in-person only. Recording will not be available for any sessions offered in this series.
Please note that childcare is not provided at this event. Some topics and discussion may not be appropriate for self-advocates. While we understand that childcare challenges often occur, we ask that attendees be mindful that bringing children could be a disruption to our presenters and other attendees in this conference style format.