The Connection
Programs for Exceptional Children, May 17, 2021, 18th ed.
The Busy Month of May!
We're so glad you're here and taking the time to check out these resources. In this busy end-of-the-school-year season, time is a precious commodity and we hope you'll find something helpful in this edition of The Connection.
The Family Connection of SC conference is May 24-27th. We have included registration information below. You can also find some exciting information about the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program for families that are struggling to afford staying digitally connected.
We hope you'll take some time to read through these resources, and don't forget that if you need a question answered or just aren't sure where to turn, you can contact our Parent Liaison, Erika Chapman, at 843-292-1008 or echapman@f1s.org. She would love to connect with you!
Bright Spot
Parent Resource
Family Connection SC offers Hopes and Dreams Conference!
Our annual Hopes and Dreams Conference offers professionals, family members, and self-advocates the opportunity to learn more about resources and support available to the special needs community.
This year we are hosting the four-day conference in an exciting, all-new virtual format. Each day, Family Connection will present four targeted trainings including Early Childhood, Child and Youth, Parenting, and presentations in Spanish. Choose one or more sessions on the days and times that work best for you!
Exhibitors from organizations across the state will host interactive sessions to present new information and answer questions and concerns.
Guest speakers will share reflections on a challenging year, important updates, and inspirational ideas as we look to the future.
Parent Training
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness ) Ending the Silence Presentation
DATE: Tuesday, May 18, 2021
LOCATION: Zoom Meeting
TIME: 10:00 – 11:30 am
REGISTRATION: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nami-ending-the-silence-for-families-tickets-152536965169
Things You Want To Know
Take Advantage of the FCC Broadband Benefit Program!
The Emergency Broadband Benefit to be offered soon through the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) will provide a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband service for eligible families and households who are struggling to stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible households can also receive a discount of up to $100 for the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.
Applications can be submitted beginning on May 12th. Households can apply in three ways:
· Contact your preferred participating broadband provider directly to learn about their application process.
· Go to GetEmergencyBroadband.org to apply online and to find participating providers near you
· Call 833-511-0311 for a mail-in application, and return it along with proof of eligibility to: Emergency Broadband Support Center, P.O. Box 7081, London, KY 40742
To learn more about the program and see if you qualify, visit FCC - Broadband Benefit.
Related Services Tip
Did You Know That May Is Better Speech And Hearing Month?
Speech language issues that interfere with the student's ability to learn or participate in the classroom are addressed on Individual Education Plans (IEPs) that have specific goals the speech language therapists/pathologists will work on to teach the student the skills needed to be successful in school. For students that have speech language delays that do not interfere with classroom learning, such as saying 'wed" for "red", interventions can be provided, instead of an IEP, that teach the skill in home programs and short, intensive weekly or monthly sessions.
If you have any questions about the speech language program in Florence One schools, contact Dr. Karen Long, Related Services Coordinator, at 843-413-4696 or klong@fsd1.org.
Transition Tip
Equip Summer Series for Young Adults!
The Equip Summer Series is a week-long self-advocacy, disability pride, and skill-building opportunity for young adults with disabilities ages 13-28. Summer Series will meet virtually to build skills that assist young adults with all disabilities to increase their independence.
When? This year's Summer Series will be from June 14 - 18, 2021!
Who Can Attend? Young adults with ANY type of disability, ages 13-28.
Why Attend?
• Empower Yourself
• Learn Self-Advocacy Skills
• Set Short/Long-Term Goals
• Learn Independent Living Skills
• Promote Activism in the Community
Where? From the comfort of your own home! This year’s Summer Series will be virtual!
The best part of all… it’s totally FREE!
Registration: Every young adult interested in participating will need to complete this registration form, regardless of previous participation.
REGISTER HERE: https://bit.ly/EquipSS21
Have a question?
You also can contact us at exceptionalchildren@f1s.org or at 843-673-1161.
Email: exceptionalchildren@f1s.org
Website: f1s.org
Phone: (843) 673-1161