Exceptional Education Newsletter
October 2022
IN THIS ISSUE
- Compliance Corner
- Disability History and Awareness Month
- National Physical Therapy Month
- Message from the Behavior Analysts
- Assistive Technology Tip of the Month
- Message from Transition Mentor Teachers
- SEAC
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Shout outs
- Previous Issues
COMPLIANCE CORNER
Continue to ensure that all students have a Case Manager assigned. If you have a student in the initial eligibility process, assign the ICC as the case manager until the process has been completed. Please ensure that your System Operators have updated all students in ASPEN that have graduated, transferred out of the district, or no longer qualify for services.
Continue to work on obtaining parents' signatures to finalize and ensure that the IEP process is compliant with VA IEP. No services in the current IEP can be provided until the parent has consented. Student services will be based on the last agreed upon IEP.
As we prepare for our Dec 1 Child Count, all students must have a current IEP and Eligibility to be counted. Work with your case managers to ensure all your SWDs can be counted.
Updates:
Elementary ICCs Meeting- October 6th, 2022, 1:00-2:30. This will be the 2nd part of our September meeting. This meeting will replace the October 18th date. (Virtual)
Secondary ICCs Meeting- October 20, 2022, 1:00-2:30 (Richmond Technical Center)
New ICCs Meeting- October 21, 2022 1:30-2:30 (Virtual)
ICC Advisory Committee Meeting- November 30, 2022, 2:30-3:30
Indicator and Reports Directions:
October updates to the December 1 Child Count, Indicators 9, 10, 11, and the Out of Compliance Spreadsheet are due on October 28th. The December 1 Child Count will be captured on the new form. I will add a Google Form for all the other Indicators in the folders. The Out of Compliance Spreadsheet will be sent in an email from me. The Exceptional Education Hub should be available for your November submissions.
If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me at twhite11@rvaschools.net or call (804)551-2003.
1. Instructional and Compliance Coordinators (ICCs) should indicate "none," followed by the month of submission, when there is no new information to report.
2. As schools hold IEP meetings for English Learners, Language Instruction Educational Program (LIEP) teachers should be invited to participate as team members.
Disability History and Awareness Month
Each October, Virginia recognizes October as Disability History and Awareness Month.
Below is information from the Virginia Department of Education.
Youth with disabilities initiated a campaign in 2009, to have the Virginia General Assembly pass a resolution designating October as Disability History and Awareness Month (DHAM). These same youth developed a vision statement for DHAM: Disability history education and awareness will promote positive attitudes in schools creating a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and equal opportunities for all. Youth with disabilities, their parents, teachers, and staff members from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities, the Virginia Commonwealth University Partnership for People with Disabilities, and the VDOE’s Training and Technical Assistance Centers (TTAC) continue to meet and develop a variety of resources that can be used to promote and highlight Disability History and Awareness Month in Virginia. These resources can be found at the following websites:
Center for Disability Leadership (under “Our History”)
Virginia Board for People with Disabilities;
A Life 4 Me; and
I’m Determined.
NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH, 30TH ANNIVERSARY
In RPS, our school-based physical therapists (PT) are part of a team of related service providers who support a student’s ability to access his/her educational environment. As specialists in movement, they assist a student’s physical participation in a variety of settings throughout the school day. The primary role of the school PT is to help students benefit from their educational program within the educational environment.
School-based physical therapy is different from medical based physical therapy and determining the need for each of these services is different. Medical based physical therapy is typically provided in an outpatient therapy clinic or hospital. These services address quality of movement as well as function. Its primary objective is to maximize the child’s skill level and quality of movement. Medically-based services are typically focused on a student’s physical impairments and clinical deficits.
Physical therapy is provided at schools when it is related to educational needs. Intervention and goals in the school setting address the child’s functional needs in accessing all areas of the school curriculum. Physical therapy interventions are designed to enable the student to travel throughout the school environment; participate in classroom activities; maintain and change positions in the classroom, and manage stairs, restrooms, and the cafeteria.
PT in a school setting can vary based on a student’s individual needs, and can include:
• Modifying the environment to maximize participation (i.e. adaptive seating).
• Altering expectations to maximize success and independence.
• Educating staff to enhance physical participation.
Please join us in celebrating our amazing Physical Therapists, Emily Faye, Chelsea Mannion and Jessica Ward! As you see them at your school this month, let them know how much we appreciate all that they do for the students and school teams of Richmond Public Schools.
MESSAGE FROM BEHAVIOR ANALYSTS
October 13, 2022: Data Collection Tools and Strategies or https://meet.google.com/ufy-zvka-xna?hs=122&authuser=0
November 2022: Interviewing as Part of the FBA Process (Date TBD)
December 2022: Data Analysis (Date TBD)
January 2023: Identifying Functions & Creating Hypotheses (Date TBD)
February 2023: Identifying and Teaching Replacement Behaviors (Date TBD)
March 2023: Identifying and Teaching Antecedent Strategies (Date TBD)
April 2023: Using Reinforcement Strategies (Date TBD)
May 2023: Identifying and Teaching Consequence Strategies (Date TBD)
June 2023: Ensuring Fidelity of Implementation (Date TBD)
Virtual Office Hours
Division BCBAs will host monthly Virtual Office Hours from 3:00 - 4:30 beginning on August 16 and continuing on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. (August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15, and December 20)
BCBA Virtual Office Hours joining info
https://meet.google.com/wrz-vbsk-yqb
The office hours are an opportunity for teachers, administrators, instructional assistants, and any other RPS staff to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, dive deeper into that month’s webinar, or just connect with the Behavior Analysts and other staff interested in supporting students with behavioral challenges. Individuals and/or school teams are encouraged to join.
October 2022: New FBA/BIP Form, Manual and Resources
The new Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) forms and manuals are now ready for district-wide use. They are available on the RPS MTSS Behavior Intervention Programs page. Resources include the updated FBA/BIP paper form, FBA/BIP Manuals, meeting checklists, classroom look-fors, preference assessments, and sample data sheets.
This is a large shift for schools and you may need additional support in learning and using the new forms. Beyond the comprehensive FBA/BIP manual, there are several ways for staff to access professional learning in this area:
Staff can ask individual support questions during the BCBA monthly Virtual Office Hours. The next meeting is scheduled from 3:00 - 4:30 PM on October 18.
Staff can request support for an FBA/BIP for an individual student through the BCBA Referral form.
Staff can attend monthly webinars on FBA/BIP topics. The next webinar is scheduled for October 13, 2022 from 4:00-5:00 PM where the Division BCBAs will be discussing Data Collection Tools and Strategies.
Staff can attend a 9-week virtual series that will break down each section of the new FBA/BIP process into 1-hour easy to digest sections. The series runs October 18, 2022 through December 20, 2022 every Tuesday from 3:30-4:30 PM. You can join the virtual sessions by clicking here.
Professional Learning Options for Administrators
ICCs and/or Administrators can request professional learning for their specific building, using the BCBA Referral Form.
ICCs and Administrators are invited to attend a full day FBA/BIP training on October 19, 2022 to learn the new process from start to finish. This professional development will help you to walk away feeling confident in supporting your school in the new process. ICCs who participated in the ICC summer academy would not need to attend. To register visit KickUp and select the FBA/BIP Training for Administrators.
ASSITIVE TECHNOLOGY TIP OF THE MONTH
MESSAGE FROM TRANSITION MENTOR TEACHERS
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month!
NDEAM’s theme this year is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.” The aim of the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is to educate the public about disability employment issues and to celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. NDEAM is led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy.
What’s Happening in Our Schools!
George Wythe
George Wythe hosted a financial workshop from Virginia Credit Union. Mr. Chris Woodbury shared information pertaining to post secondary financial responsibilities. It was a highly engaging and informative session for students and staff alike!
Kelsey Calder, a Travel Training Instructor from GRTC, provided a presentation to George Wythe students on how to plan bus rides and trips, how to use the GRTC google app, and valuable tips for using public transportation. The students were participatory, asked great questions, and were especially thrilled to learn they can ride GRTC for free!
John Marshall
A representative from The Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), a community based agency, visited John Marshall to share with case managers the support and services that are available to their students.
Armstrong High School
DARS counselor, Ms. Monica Powell, visited Armstrong in September and met individually with senior students to plan for graduation and transition to post secondary life.
AHS students began horticulture work experience this month by planting seeds and propagating succulents. Students learned to use the greenhouse and how to properly plant and care for seedlings.
AHS students are excited to begin hands-on work experience in October, at the local Food Lion. They will be taught specific job skills at school, and transfer those skills to the work site. The students are very excited to start their work-based experiences!
Huguenot High School
HHS hosted the Mobile DMV Unit in September, and it was very successful! 18 students and 4 staff members were able to utilize the services. Students even obtained their Real IDs. Due to popular demand, another DMV visit will be scheduled in the spring!
Students enrolled in Huguenot’s EFE (Education for Employment) class successfully completed their first Mock Interviews. They were able to put the soft skills they have been learning to work!
As part of our Guest Speaker series at Huguenot, we welcomed WRIC StormTracker 8’s meteorologist Mr. Matt DiNardo who came to speak with HHS about careers in meteorology. The students prepared interesting questions and participated in a group discussion. We made sure Mr. DiNardo left with some Huguenot SWAGGER.
Thomas Jefferson High School
The Vikings at Thomas Jefferson are looking forward to hosting the DMV mobile unit. Twenty-five students have already signed up!
The DARS counselor is making plans this month to meet with the senior students at Thomas Jefferson to help with their transition planning and post-secondary goals.
Mark your calendars! The following partners will be in your schools this year! Please reach out to your transition mentor teacher for further information.
DMV:
Thomas Jefferson: October 12th
John Marshall: October 18th
Armstrong High School: November 10th
GRTC:
Huguenot: October 17th
Armstrong High School; October 20th
Virginia Credit Union:
George Wythe: October 11th
Huguenot: October 26th
Armstrong: November 9th
John Marshall: November 15th
Darlene Slade: Huguenot High, Thomas Jefferson High, River City Middle
Selina Wilson: John Marshall High, Henderson Middle, Richmond Alternative School & THRIVE
Karen Young: George Wythe High, Lucille Brown Middle, Boushall Middle
Rebecca Parks: Armstrong High School, Martin Luther King Middle School, Albert Hill Middle School, Binford Middle School
Huguenot High School
HHS hosted the Mobile DMV Unit in September, and it was very successful! 18 students and 4 staff members were able to utilize the services. Students even obtained their Real IDs. Due to popular demand, another DMV visit will be scheduled in the spring!
Huguenot High School
As part of our Guest Speaker series at Huguenot, we welcomed WRIC StormTracker 8’s meteorologist Mr. Matt DiNardo who came to speak with HHS about careers in meteorology. The students prepared interesting questions and participated in a group discussion. We made sure Mr. DiNardo left with some Huguenot SWAGGER.SEAC
SEAC will be meeting every other month this year. Below is the link to our RVA webpage that meeting dates, times, links, and other important information for parents of students with disabilities. https://www.rvaschools.net/academics/exceptional-education
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNTIES
Building on an understanding of foundational assessment principles, this one-day, interactive workshop for teachers in grades 5-12 will explore the ins and outs of assessment that is classroom-situated and therefore teacher-directed. Participants will dive into the roles of assessment, evaluation, and grading and clarify their purpose, uses, users, and consequences. Find out more information from the William & Mary School of Education or register today.
Licensure Courses for Provisionally Licensed Teachers
Longwood University offers many of the courses provisionally licensed teachers need for licensure. The courses may also be used for professional development and to earn recertification points. They are offered 100% online, at a discounted tuition rate, and over eight week terms. Learn more and/or register for a three credit Classroom and Behavior Management course starting Oct. 15!
Mathematics Specialist Leader K-8 MeD Program
The College of Education and Human Development at George Mason University invites you to join them virtually to learn more about our complete online Mathematics Specialist Leader K-8 MEd program. This 30-credit program includes all required coursework for state endorsement as a K-8 mathematics specialist. Full-time educators may qualify for an additional VA Educator Tuition Discount. Join GMU on October 6.
Graduate Program Information Sessions
George Mason University is hosting virtual information sessions. Join them on October 19 to learn more about:
PhD in Education program from 4:30-6 p.m.
Education Policy program from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Online M.Ed program in Administration & Supervision
The University of Virginia M.Ed program in Administration & Supervision synchronous online program uses evidence-based leadership practices to assist leaders and help orchestrate school reform. Learn more and register for a virtual information session. Deadline for spring admission is November 8th.
Special Education Add-On Endorsement
Join Longwood for their online professional development graduate courses and acquire the expertise necessary to support students with diverse learning needs. The courses can be used to add a special education endorsement to a license, for recertification points, or for professional enrichment. The endorsement is 15 credits and can be completed in three semesters. It offers the courses required by the VDOE for the elementary, middle, or secondary special education-general curriculum add on endorsement for licensed K-12 teachers looking for a pathway into special education. Learn more today!
SHOUT OUTS
Juanzel Cardoza-Felder, Secondary Instructional Specialist, has returned to RPS! We are so thrilled to have her back! Mrs. Cardoza-Felder is a joy to work with, and has an exceptionally strong work ethic. She is immensely knowledgeable and is a great support for our school teams. Mrs. Cardoza-Felderis a tremendous asset to the Exceptional Education department and to RPS as a whole. Welcome back, Mrs. Cardoza-Felder!
Urenthia Cotton, ICC at Henderson Middle School! Mrs. Cotton is a true asset to her school and to the exceptional education department. She works through all challenges with dignity and grace. Mrs. Cotton's insights and expertise in the field are exemplary, and we are blessed to have her on our team!
Ms. Cardwell from Boushall Middle School is the most professional and supportive colleague. She provides guidance with love and levity. She is a true collaborator and is ALWAYS student-focused.
Amey Blount from Fisher Elementary is a phenomenal person. She takes the time to assist me whenever necessary and I am forever thankful for all her help. Her smile brightens up my day and her hugs mean a lot. So thankful to be able to work with her here at J.B. Fisher.
Ms. Darlene Slade from Huguenot Highschool is always there for advice. Way before Chromebooks were a thing in Rps she made sure she used her resources to make sure her students had laptops. She never hesitates to help a colleague with donors choose or a better way to tackle a dilemma.
Ms. Reeves from JB Cary Elementary School: I have had the pleasure of watching Ms. Reeves grow and develop as a professional. She is passionate about the work she does with our scholars who need her the most. Ms. Reeves is dedicated to her professional learning and is always eager to receive feedback. Kudos, Alesha, for demonstrating your commitment to “heartwork”.
Kathleen from Blackwell Preschool has such a compassion for her students. She prepares her students for the next step in their education. Her students learn to communicate in a way that is best for them. She also supports her colleagues with room arrangement, visuals, and resources.
Ms. Drye from Obama Elementary School Ms. Drye is the epitome of a true professional. She approaches each task with knowledge and compassion. Over the years, she has become a strong leader and guidance for the faculty and staff. She is a valuable resource for teachers, students, and parents. Ms. Drye provides a listening ear to all stakeholders. She steps in wherever needed. We could not ask for a better educational partner.
Ms. Dixon from Obama Elementary School: Ms. Dixon is an extraordinary teacher who provides her students guidance with patience and love. She gives 100% of herself to her students each and every day. She also provides support to her colleagues and administration. Ms. Dixon is the kind of teacher all students deserve.
Shaila Thomas from Amelia Street: She always shines a positive spotlight in the front office. She greets everyone with a smile and warm welcome. She is truly a positive influence in our school!
Ryan Bennett from JB Cary: Words alone cannot express the many hats Mr Bennett wears at Cary. One thing is for sure, he is the BEST ICC that I have had the pleasure of working with. Mr Bennett goes out of his way to make sure the exceptional education team and all the staff and faculty at John B Cary are kept informed of everything exceptional education related. From the latest news and updates, readily available resources for families, extremely detail orientated handbooks for each exceptional education teacher, to meaningful trainings/PDs and holding 1:1 coaching sessions are but a few of the ways he shines. Mr Bennett is in meetings nearly every day, but I have yet to see him turn down requests for assistance from others. He is always seen on the move and ready to tackle many a daily situations that may arise throughout the school day. Mr Bennett is well respected not only by staff but he is equally loved by the students and families. As a first year exceptional educator Mr Bennett ensured that I had the tools to be successful, and gave me that boost of confidence that I needed. He is a true leader and a valuable asset not only to the exceptional education department at John B Cary but to the entire school and staff as a whole. Kudos to you Mr Bennett and thank you for your continued support! You are the epitome of leading with love! Keep doing all the wonderful things you do!
G.H. Reid Staff: G. H. Reid Exceptional Education Team!! They have been diligent with making connections with our students and families, providing superior services to our students, and making sure Reid remains in compliance. We appreciate all of their efforts!!!!
April Brown from Thomas Jefferson High School: April goes above and beyond in the classroom collaborating in Algebra I & Geometry… but more than that she’s the best department chair around - joining an already amazing cast of characters, she brings humor, dedication and compassion to the leadership team in our building!
Genesis Castillo from Broad Rock Elementary School: Ms. Castillo is an amazing exceptional education teacher. She is always willing to support other teachers. The students respond really well to her calm demeanor. Not only does she support other teachers, on a stretched schedule, but she also makes time to support other students who are not even on her case load. She has a great personality and gets along with everyone.
Arika Goode from Westover Hills Elementary: Ms. Goode is an OUTSTANDING Teacher. She creates and implements the absolute best lessons for her students. She keeps them engaged and wanting to learn more. She spends many countless hours trying to find ways in order to incorporate real life lessons in her plans. When she first began using Unique, it was like a foreign language however, watching her work now, you would have never known. HATS OFF TO MS. GOODE !!!!!!!!!!!
Wendie Dixon from Obama Elementary: Wendie Dixon is a self-contained teacher at Barack Obama Elementary School. As such, she is used to supporting and educating students with various levels of need. This year has proven to be a year of challenge this far, but Ms. Dixon never fails to display kindness, fairness and understanding towards her students. In a recent meeting, a parent made the comment, "I know he's a handful." Ms. Dixon's reply was, "We got him and he's going to be ok." This single comment brought immediate reassurance to a parent who was clearly overwhelmed and mentally exhausted. Ms. Dixon offered this parent encouragement and reiterated that we are all on the same team. Ms. Dixon has the biggest heart for her students AND their parents. I have incredible respect for her and the work she does every day.
Alexandra Phipps from Maymont Preschool:She meets every child at their individual level! She is always on top of new and innovative practices as well as being a model teacher for novice teachers.
David Hayes from J.L. Francis: Mr. Hayes goes the extra mile by assisting his colleagues with helping them learn how the IEP system operates while also teaching and caring for his students.
Stephanie Fisher from Bellevue: Ms. Fisher has been a great mentor during my transfer to RPS. She is always positive and ready to answer any questions I may have. I am so thankful for her willingness to help me by providing resources and tips I can use with my students!
Ms. Shipley and Ms. White from Miles Jones work diligently to support their students. They seem to be asked to take on a lot each year and always meet the challenge.
Ms. Kim Wright from Southampton has been a bright light during some very changing and uncertain times in our department. She constantly checks in with her colleagues to ask how she may support instructional practices. She is compassionate, thoughtful, and a willing learner in all capacities. She's never afraid to ask questions and seek help from the resources around her. Ms. Wright does not hesitate to pull out all the stops to make her students smile and engage in learning. We are grateful to have her on the team!
Deborah Koslovic from Richmond Technical Center: Ms. Koslovic was asked to assist the students with IEPs in our Welding and Carpentry classes at the Technical Center; despite being originally hired to co-teach English she jumped right in and has been doing a fantastic job! Thank you Ms. K!
Ms. Ragin from Huguenot High School is knowledgeable, caring and does everything with a spirit of excellence!
Nicole Glover from Huguenot High School: She’s never satisfied with just getting the job done but always strives for better.
Michelle Thompson, Lead Occupational Therapist: Michelle is always willing to stop what she is doing to support another therapist. She is always willing to give insight over the phone or email and will even come to schools to support other therapists. Michelle is a team player and is always searching for ways to share her knowledge.
Robin Best from Henry Marsh: Mrs. Best goes above and beyond everyday to support the students, the families, and the staff. Mrs. Best has been acting in the role of ICC the entire school year to ensure that we remain in compliance and that specially designed instruction is happening in the classrooms. She is an amazing leader, coach, and role model for us all.
Mr. Peters at Broad Rock Elementary was caught in the act...of providing awesome instruction! He seamlessly connected prior learning to new concepts in math. He showed real world examples. He discussed examples and non-examples and explained the difference. His feedback was timely and strategic. Outstanding work, Mr. Peters!! We are so fortunate to have you as part of our team!!!