ASA-ASO DIGEST: June 15, 2009

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASA-ASO:

Visit ASA-ASO's website www.autismohio.org for an "easy to read" version if this does not come through clean on your listserv. Or sign up to receive your own copy by "registering" on the "login" section of ASA-ASO's homepage.

News From ASA-ASO:

- ASA-ASO is Moving to Columbus!- Ohio State Budget Update

- Autism Insurance Coverage

- Use your Kroger Plus card and raise funds for ASA-ASO

- ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

- Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

- Federal Update/Alerts

Empowered at Home Act

Fairness Restoration Act

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- Help ASA-NWOhio: Volunteers needed for Give Autism the Boot!

- ASA, TRI COUNTY CHAPTER OF OHIO - MONTHLY MEETING NOTICE

- ASPIES Greater Akron meeting Wednesday- IEP Articles from 's Law- Book: Think Social: A Social Thinking Curriculum for School-Age Students

- Article: Autism care takes biological toll on mothers

- Raun K. Kaufman to Speak, Akron

- Ryuu - The Gameâ„¢: Using a Fantasy World of Dragons To Build Social Skills

- Book: Shilo and Kathie's World

- Article: POSTSECONDARY TRANSITION, Ohio

- Article: Ohio's New IEP - Some Better (but not new) Tricks for an Old Dog

- Sensory Assault Operations Opens Online Store

- Article: IEPs Inside Out

- “Demystifying Autism: An Inside-Out Perspective†with Stillman, Berea

- Article: Language assessment recommended for children with autism

- Article: Autism Study to Follow Pregnant Women

- Books: Sensory Gang Summer Reading Program

- Central Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association Conference

- Kidslink looking for Peers for Summer Camp, Akron

- Book: The Autism Transition Guide: Planning the Journey from School to Adult Life

- Fragile X-Perts Conference October 22, 2009, Akron

- CEC Celebrates the Release of a Blueprint for Overhauling NCLB

ASA-ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website. For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org, click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then click on "Studies/Surveys". CHECK OUT NEW LISTINGS AND OPPORTUNITIES!

Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information.

Sincerely,The Autism Society of America - Autism Society of Ohio Chapter701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311( 330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASA-ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASA-ASO, either explicit or implied.

News From ASA-ASO:

ASA-ASO is Moving to Columbus!

After being located in Akron and the NE Ohio area for our entire existence, ASA-ASO is moving to Columbus. Moving there puts ASA-ASO at the center of the state and no more than 2 1/2 hours from any part of the state. Additionally, since state government is based in Columbus, it is the logical place for ASA-ASO to be located. Our new location is in an office building on the southwest side of the city - just off of I670 and a quick drive to downtown. Our new address is: 1335 Dublin Road, Suite 205-C, Columbus, Ohio, 43215. Our new phone number has not yet been assigned, but it will be published here as soon as it is available.

Ohio State Budget Update

The Ohio Senate passed their version of the budget the first week in June by a vote of 20-11. The House vote not to concur on the changes the Senate made to the bill occurred Wed, June 10 and the Conference Committee has been convened to reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill. Updates will be provided - check in this space next week or on our website - www.autismohio.org.

Autism Insurance Coverage

Autism Insurance Coverage is closer than ever to becoming a reality! Now it the time to contact key legislators and ask them to support this issue! Time is of the essence!Autism Insurance Coverage language has been included in the House version of the Ohio Budget Bill, Sub. H.B. 1 "to prohibit health insurers from excluding coverage for specified services for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder." This language will require private healthcare policies to provide coverage of the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It will cover applied behavior analysis (ABA) and other medically necessary treatments prescribed by an insured's treating physician or psychologist.However, the autism insurance coverage language was deleted from the Senate version of the bill!Because the versions of HB 1 passed by the House and the Senate are different, the bill now goes to a Conference Committee made up of legislators from both chambers and both parties to resolve the differences between the two versions. Your help is needed NOW to let these legislators know how important it is to include autism insurance coverage in the final version of the budget!Please contact the leadership of the House, Speaker Armond Budish, and the Senate, President Bill and ask them to support the inclusion of the language addressing autism insurance coverage in the final version of the budget bill. Also, please contact any or all of the legislators listed at the end of this email who are part of the conference committee or in leadership - especially if you are a constituent:

Use the following points to support your position:- Autism impacts a significant number of legislators constituents, an estimated 1 in 150 born in Ohio will have autism- Autism is a medical condition and it is treatable- Without insurance coverage, many children forego services because Many families can’t afford therapy without insurance. - Individuals with autism who don’t receive services are often dependent upon publicly funded state services throughout their lifetime.- The cost of this legislation is very small - estimated at less than a 1% increase - and will generate significant savings. - The autism insurance coverage language included in the budget contains a cost cap for insurers, a yearly limit of $36,000 in covered services and oversight for providers.

- Thirteen other states have passed autism insurance coverage including Colorado and Connecticut just this month.

- Share a personal story and why this legislation is important to you

Call or email as soon as possible! We have created an easy to use link as well: Click here to compose an email or cut and paste this link into your browser: https://secure2.convio.net/asa/site/Advocacy?pagename=homepage & page=UserAction & id=284 & JServSessionIdr011=h1movx8d41.app25a

The Autism Society of America-Ohio Chapter, the Ohio Alliance for Autism Insurance Reform and other groups are also working with these legislators to make autism insurance coverage a part of the budget bill. But our efforts will not be successful without your help.

Please contact these legislators today - especially if you are a constituent! Also, please share this with anyone you think might be willing to help with this effort. Help us make autism insurance coverage a reality in Ohio.

Use your Kroger Plus card and raise funds for ASA-ASO

Help raise funds for ASA-ASO just by using your Kroger Plus Card! You can now earn funds for ASA-ASO just by using your Kroger Plus Card and it will cost you absolutely nothing!

For 125 years, The Kroger Co. has made a strong commitment to support the communities where its associates live and work.

In the Columbus Division (comprising most of Ohio and parts of West Virginia), the Kroger Cares program has helped more than 2,200 organizations raise funds for their own needs since its inception in 1995.

Beginning May 1, 2009, Kroger's is launching the Kroger Community Rewards Program and dedicating $5,000,000 to it! This program will enable them even more organizations, of all sizes - including ASA-ASO!

Remember, all of the funds raised stay right here in Ohio to help individuals with autism and their families throughout Ohio. Visit the ASA-ASO website to see some of the programs and services that ASA-ASO offers.

Please share this information with any friends and family that may be Kroger shoppers!

TO USE THE KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS PROGRAM:

Register online at krogercommunityrewards.com Be sure to have your Kroger Plus card handy and register your card with ASA-ASO after you sign up. If you do not yet have a Kroger Plus card, they are available at the customer service desk at any Kroger. Click on Sign In/Register If you are a new online customers, you must click on SIGN UP TODAY in the ‘New Customer?’ box. Sign up for a Kroger Rewards Account by entering zip code, clicking on favorite store, entering your email address and creating a password, agreeing to the terms and conditions You will then get a message to check your email inbox and click on the link within the body of the email. Click on My Account and use your email address and password to proceed to the next step. Click on Edit Kroger Community Rewards information and input your Kroger Plus card number. Update or confirm your information. Enter ASA-ASO's organization number - 83893 or name of organization as ASA AUTISM SOCIETY OF OHIO CHAPTER, select organization from list and click on confirm. To verify you are enrolled correctly, you will see your organization’s name on the right side of your information page. REMEMBER, purchases will not count for ASA-ASO until after you register your Kroger Plus card. Do you use your phone number at the register? Call 877-576-7587 to get your Kroger Plus card number. You must swipe their registered Kroger Plus card or use the phone number that is related to your registered Kroger Plus card when shopping for each purchase to count.

ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

The Ohio Budget is currently under development and autism insurance parity legislation is ready to be re-introduced in the Ohio House. Additionally, issues regularly come before the state legislature that impact individuals with autism, their families and those who work them throughout Ohio. And because of this, the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio needs your help.

We are in the process of putting together an autism advocacy network that has constituents in each of the districts of the members of the Ohio General Assembly, both the House and Senate. We are looking for advocates all around the state to help us with this effort.

You can volunteer to participate in two ways:

· Team Leader: Each Ohio district will have an assigned team leader who is responsible for carrying the key ASA-ASO/autism messages when meeting with the legislator (Representatives and Senators), coordinating testimony or letter writing for hearings, and for organizing the team members of their district, etc.

· Team Member: Each Ohio district will have several team members that are available to share their own personal ASA-ASO/autism story, to write letters when needed, and to ask from help from their neighbors/families/friends. Team members may choose specialize on certain topics – ie. autism insurance parity topic, special education funding, etc.

ASA-ASO is also developing a Legislative Advocacy Manual and will provide local training to constituent volunteer advocates.

If you are interested in participating in this effort, please send your Name, address, city,zip+4, phone, email address, House District Number and Senate District number and whether you are interested in being a “Team Leader†or a “Team Member†to askASO@.... Please put AUTISM ADVOCACY NETWORK in the subject line. To find your district numbers, visit www.legislature.state.oh.us and follow the directions under "Locating Legislators".

For more information, visit our website at www.autismohio.org

Ohio BMV changes policy on Autism Awareness License Plate

Because of privacy concerns, the Ohio BMV will no longer be releasing the names and addresses of those who purchase the Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate to the ASA-Autism Society of Ohio. $25 from the purchase of each plate benefits the ASA-ASO and we have been sending thank you notes to all those who have purchased a plate. However, we will no longer be able to do so. The BMV is currently looking into options to add customer consent to the special license plate process so hopefully we will be able to go back to thanking folks formally in the future. But whether we are able to send a formal "thank you" or not, please know that the purchase of an autism awareness license plate makes a big difference and helps us help individuals with autism, their families and those who work with them throughout Ohio.

Federal Update

Empowered at Home Act

Representatives Palllone (D-NJ) and DeGette (D-CO) introduced the Empowered at Home Act, H.R 2688. This bill would remove barriers to providing home and community-based services (HCBS) under the Medicaid State plan amendment option for individuals in need by 1) increasing the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP); 2) revising the income eligibility to up to 300% of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit rate; and 3) giving states the option to provide HCBS waiver services to prevent, delay, or decrease the likelihood of institutionalized care. http://capwiz.com/thearc/issues/bills/?bill=13140416Fairness Restoration Act

Congressmen Van Hollen (D-MD) and Pete Sessions (R-TX) introduced H.R. 2740, the IDEA Fairness Restoration Act. This bill would overturn a 2006 Supreme Court decision that prohibits the payment of fees to expert witnesses representing parents in IDEA due process. The fees would only be paid by school systems which are found by the courts to have wrongfully denied an appropriate education to students with disabilities under IDEA. http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:h.r.02740:/

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc.:

Help ASA-NWOhio: Volunteers needed for Give Autism the Boot!

Date:Jun 19, 2009 and June 20, 20009Start Time:10 amEnd Time:7 pmLocation: Various Kroger stores and other locationsContact:Neil Weinberg, Volunteer Coordinator419-578-2766gatb2009@...Volunteers are needed to stand with law enforcement professionals andfirst responders to collect at Kroger stores and other locations inLucas and Wood counties for this two day fund-raiser for autism inNorthwest Ohio. All the money raised is granted back to agenciesand programs in the community that serve people with autism andtheir families. Last year, we raised over $95,000!This year, the Great Lakes Center for Autism (GLCA) is requiring eachorganization that applies for funds to provide volunteers for the twocollection dates. This will be taken into consideration when decidinghow to distribute funds. So sign up today! Get a cool shirt and attendthe volunteer thank you party afterwards. There is a place on the form where volunteers indicate whatorganization they are volunteering for. Please consider volunteeringfor ASNO. You can fill out a volunteer registration form andeither mail in or email by June 12. Go tohttp://www.greatlakesautism.org/giveautismtheboot/volunteers/ formore information and to downloaded the form.http://www.autism-society.org/site/www.greatlakesautism.org/giveautismtheboot/volunteers/http://www.greatlakesautism.org/giveautismtheboot/volunteers/

Other news from ASNO:

Reminder Parents of Adults Support Group This is a reminderthat our Parents of Adults support group will meet next Tuesday, June16 from 11:30 am to 1 pm here at the office, 4848 Dorr Street. We arein the house with the red door. Bring a lunch. Hope to see you there.Check out the new look to our website - www.asno.org Ourwebsite has a new look so be sure to check it out. We have pageslisting what's going on in the community, our events, informationpages (many are still under construction so check back often), picturesof our events, links to community resources (again, many are stillbeing added), fund-raisers and more. The newest addition is our SummerProgram Flyer. Keep checking back as more information is added. http://www.asno.orgBuy a FanClubCard and help support ASNOThis is a new fund-raiser for ASNO. When you purchase a membership tothe FanClubCard.com website a significant amount of the membership feecomes directly to support the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio! Anyonecan visit the site, but only members can access the great deals. On thesite you will find enormous discounts from over 150 local businesses onitems you use every day. The list gets bigger as new businesses areadded every week, making your card more valuable every day! You willeven receive email alerts when new businesses and great new offers areadded. The best part is you can use your FanClubCard over and over,there are never any limits! When you purchase and use your FanClubCard,you & rsquo;re helping the local economy and ASNO! You don & #39;t need tosell anything, we simply encourage you to purchase 1 or 2 membershipsfor your household then ask your friends, family, and co-workers tojoin so they can get the great deals, too. This will help us meet ourgoal of 500 memberships before July 31! That will raise an incredible$5,000 for our cause! On behalf of the people we serve, I personallyendorse this great program and truly feel FanClubCard.com is a greatfit for our organization. Please help us reach our goal! It & #39;s soEASY to do and remember you will get great savings on things you andyour family really need. http://www.autism-society.org/site/www.fanclubcard.com

ASA, TRI COUNTY CHAPTER OF OHIO - MONTHLY MEETING NOTICEMONTHLY MEETING WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY JUNE 17, 2009AT ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH 3300 CANFIELD RD.YOUNGSTOWN, OH (CORNERSBURG)BRIEF BUSINESS MEETING TO START AT 6:30 P.M. SUPPORT MEETING TO START AT CONCLUSION OF BUSINESS MEETING.OUR 12TH ANNUAL GOLF OUTING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY, JUNE 29 AT YANKEE RUN GOLF COURSE IN BROOKFIELD. COST IS 85.00/ GOLFER AND SPOTS ARE STILL AVALIABLE FOR TEAMS.WE ARE STILLING COLLECTING DONATIONS FOR THE CHINESE AUCTION AND GOLFERS PRIZES. HOLE SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVALIABLE FOR $100.00.PLEASE CALL SUE AT 330-856-7338, LYNN AT 330-533-8703, OR LARRY AT 330-534-2550 FOR REGISTRATION INFO OR ANY OTHER QUESTIONS. THANK YOU!

www.triautism.com

ASPIES Greater AkronSupport Group assisting parents of children withAsperger Syndrome, high functioning Autism, and PDD/NOS partnering with ASA-Greater Akron Chapter and in conjunction with Holly Reimann of Peak Potential Therapy - Therapy Treatments & Resources for Families with Children Affected by Autism & Related Disabilities in Cleveland / Akron Ohio will present another MEET & GREET “Bring your child to group night†Come enjoy the fun & fellowship. Considine Professional Building (across from Akron Children’s Hospital Main Entrance)Floor 2 - Rooms 5 & 6Tuesday, June 16th6:30 - 8:30 pm For further information, contactJoy Spencer 330-745-5115 Rreindeer@...

IEP Articles from 's Law

Mistakes People Make - School Districts

http://www=.fetaweb.com/02/mistakes.school.crabtree.htm

Mistakes People Make - Parents

http://www.fetaweb.com/02/mistakes.parents.crabtree.htm

Mistakes People Make - Independent Evaluators

http://www.fetaweb.com/02/mistakes.evaluators.crabtree.htm

Mistakes People Make - Advocates

http://www.fetaweb.com/02/mistakes.advocates.crabtree.htm

Book: Think Social: A Social Thinking Curriculum for School-Age Students

by Winner$84.00 For Teaching Social Thinking and Related Social Skills to Students with: High Functioning Autism PDD-NOS Asperger Syndrome Nonverbal Learning Disability ADHD And for all others in the murky gray area of social thinking The new curriculum publication documents for lessons are introduced at ’s Center for Social Thinking Clinic. It demonstrates how to develop a social thinking vocabulary with which to teach children, parents and teachers across the years. It starts with lessons on ‘Being Part of a Group†and continues into self-monitoring behavior, the development of language-specific skills, awareness of language meaning and the development of imagination and wonder towards play/conversation. It introduces ways to explore complex issues of problem solving, hidden curriculum, and social rules as they change during our lifetimes. Eight sections incorporate more than 100 detailed lessons that can span years of treatment.

http://www.asperger.net/bookstore_S119.htm

Article: Autism care takes biological toll on mothers

http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/44407/title/Autism_care_takes_biological_toll_on_mothers

Raun K. Kaufman to Speak, Akron Monday, August 24th - 6 p.m.Montrose Mustard Seed3885 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44333www.mustardseedmarket.com330-666-7333Toll-Free: 888-GROCERYEnymedica and the Autism Treatment Center of America come together to bring an understanding of autism and a message of hope to your community.The Autism Grass Roots Tour features Raun K. Kaufman who recovered from autism and went on to become the CEO of The Autism Treatment Center , an international speaker, writer, and teacher. Raun is co-speaking with Selby , the Director of Autism Education for Enzymedica. She is also the mother of Jaxson, a 6 year old boy with autism. Enzymedica products will be available at a discount the week of the lecture.Attend this FREE lecture and learn: * Where to begin after a diagnosis * What to add to existing treatments * Dietary intervention * Sensory Integration * Educational, enzyme and play therapies * Living toxin-free * How to stay inspired and more...The Autism Grass Roots Tour is and initiative of the Autism Hope Alliance, a non-profit foundation working to promote education about autism and provide immediate help for children challenged by autism and other neurological difficulties.

Ryuu - The Gameâ„¢: Using a Fantasy World of Dragons To Build Social Skills

Ryuu - The Gameâ„¢ is a non-competitive and therapeutic way of teaching social skills that utilizes an interest in fantasy, card collecting, acting and humor to make learning fun and more meaningful. The style of this product is also very "cool" and trendy and can easily be shared with friends. Extra decks of cards can be used for collecting and trading. You can browse through beautifully designed pages of The Books of Ryuu CD and learn all about the Ryuu characters. And if you really get into Ryuu, you can get posters, stickers and even rub-on tattoos!

http://www.ryuuworld.com/

Book: Shilo and Kathie's World

Hi, I’m , a friend and reader of Kathie Harrington, M.A., CCC-SLP.Kathie’s most recent publication is a sweet, Christian romance short storybetween two people with AUTISM.WOW, this is big and it makes me want to cheer. You can get Shilo right on line at http://www.whiterosepublishing.comKathie is the mother of a grown son with autism. She’s “been there ~ done that.†Kathie’s a speech/language pathologist, a writer, and a speaker.Kathie also has her own websitewhere she is bloggingDid You Know This About Autism?The blog line is a series about significant areas of autism.You won’t want to miss it and you’ll want to be a part of it.Kathie’s a writer and teaches through her short stories.Go to the Story Shelf on her wonderfulwebsite and you’ll see what I mean.http://www.kathiesworld.comE mail my friend, Kathie Harrington at kathieh2@...

Article: POSTSECONDARY TRANSITION, Ohio

by Sue Beck, Coordinator, Southwest Quadrant Ohio Secondary Transition Improvement Grant, Miami Valley Regional Center

The Operating Standards for Ohio Educational Agencies Serving Children with Disabilities defines Transition as:

“…a coordinated set of activities for a child with a disability designed with a results-oriented process, that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of the child with a disability to facilitate the child’s movement from school to post-school activities………based on the child’s needs, taking into account the child’s strengths, preferences, and interests;(abridged from 3301-51-01 (63))

In Ohio, families and school personnel have the opportunity each and every year to plan for the child’s eventual transition to adult life within the Future Planning step of the IEP. Even when your son or daughter is very young, it is not too early to begin thinking about what his or her adult life will be like. Talk with the IEP team about his or her interests and strengths. Share your hopes for your child’s future and work with the team to begin planning for a realizable path the future.

Begin by thinking about what your child’s future life might be like: What will he do to support himself? What education/training beyond high school might she need? Where will she live? What will he need to know and be able to do to achieve these things? At first, this plan will likely be broad based and general, but as your child nears age 14 it should become more career focused and specific.

By age 14 your son or daughter must be invited to meetings (IEP or a separate meeting) where transition will be discussed. At this time, transition plans will first be formally documented. These plans will be more meaningful when planning for the future has been discussed and documented each year in the Future Planning step.

Basically, transition planning for age 14 is planning for your son or daughter’s high school experience. Depending on what he or she intends to do immediately after high school, certain courses might be required. Or he or she may be interested in attending a Career Technical Education school (JVS or Career Center) as a junior and senior. There may be courses necessary to prepare for entrance into a career-tech program.

Postsecondary goals are to be based on age-appropriate transition assessment. Transition assessment is an ongoing process that makes use of formal and informal assessment and information, from a variety of sources as the basis for determining a good fit for the student with his or her future plans and the kinds of transition services and supports necessary. For example, if a student intends to go to college after high school, he or she will need the academic skills (e.g. reading and math levels) to mange grade level and higher material. In this case, age appropriate transition assessment will include the information the IEP team already has (present levels of performance). Or a student may be interested in attending a welding program as a junior at the career center. Then age appropriate transition assessment will likely include a formal Career Assessment.

By age 16, the transition component of the IEP must include measurable post-secondary goals for employment, education/training and, when appropriate, independent living. “Measurable†as applied to post-secondary goals is in a different sense than when applied to annual IEP goals. “Measurable†in the context of annual IEP goals means the amount of progress made over the course of a year. For post-secondary goals, “measurable†means that the goal is stated in a way that can be counted as occurring or not occurring. Postsecondary goals differ in another important way – they describe outcomes that will take place after the student has completed K – 12 education.

For example:

Possible postsecondary education/training goals:

After graduating from high school, Tom will attend a 4 year college

Jolene will obtain an apprenticeship in welding after completing the welding program at Buckeye’s Best Career Center

will attend Commodore Community College after completing her high school program to earn a certificate in Business/Marketing.

Possible postsecondary employment goals:

will work full time in the community after graduation.

Marty will attend a day habilitation program at Goodwill after completing high school.

After graduation from high school and college, Elijah will be employed as a high school social studies teacher.

Possible Independent Living* goals:

Liam will live in an apartment with friends after graduation

After finishing high school, o will live at home with his family.

Celeste will live in a group home as an adult.

*special note about Independent Living – Independent Living is an area that can include skills across a wide spectrum of needs and abilities. Students with less complex disabilities may be independent in self care and daily living skills but need support for skills such as budgeting and money management, decision making, social skills, self-advocacy, etc.

For more information about secondary transition, contact Magee at the Ohio Department of Education, Office for Exceptional Children, (614) 728-1115 or contact the Secondary Transition Specialist at your regional State Support Team.

Article: Ohio's New IEP - Some Better (but not new) Tricks for an Old Dog

Adapted from New Forms Training, Ohio Department of Education, Office for Exceptional Children

In case you haven't heard, there are new IEP forms out there. The Ohio Department of Education, Office for Exceptional Children (ODE/OEC) has revised the individualized education program (IEP) form to align with the revised federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and state law.

The new revised IEP is a mandatory form and must be used by all school districts in the state of Ohio beginning with the 2009-2010 school year. Schools had the option to use the new form this spring, so some of you may have already seen it. If your school district used the old form, it will still be valid for next year unless you need to revise an IEP that has been written on the old form during the coming school year.The new IEP form can be filled out by hand or electronically, using a computer. It is what is called a dynamic file when used on the computer. This simply means that it has the ability to change its format based on the information that is entered. It is NOT to be confused with, or compared to a program that automatically enters goals that have already been written. All the information entered is individual for that child.One example of this would be in the parent/guardian section. The computer form has the option to add another parent name and information, which is useful when divorced parents share custody. Another example of what this electronic file does is that as each section of the IEP is completed, the form will automatically place a check mark in the IEP form status section. This feature allows supervisors, administrators and parents the ability to easily see and identify the additional issues that need to be completed to have a finished IEP.

Future planning is on the second page. This is an opportunity for the parent and the child to provide a statement about what they would like to see happen in the coming school year and (when applicable) plans for the child's life after graduation. For younger children, the emphasis will be on the education component. For older children, the emphasis will be on postsecondary education goals and outcomes.The transition component of the IEP isn't new, but the placement and emphasis have changed. There is a place to enter a statement of transition service needs for children 14 years of age (or younger if appropriate) that focuses on the child's courses of study. If a vocational school or tech center is part of a child's future plans, then the course of study would reflect this.

The section for children 16 years of age is optional for those children who are younger than 16, but is required if a child will turn 16 before the next IEP review. This whole transition section is easier to see and understand in the new form. The great part about it is that these goals will be fresh in your mind as you continue on to write measurable annual goals.

The entire set-up of the measurable goals page is much easier to read and understand. Present levels, annual goals, methods for measuring progress, benchmarks and the method for reporting to parents are all clearly identified. The annual goal page can display objectives or benchmarks. · "Benchmark" means a specific statement of what the child should know and be able to do in a specified segment of the year. Benchmarks describe how far the child is expected to progress toward the annual goal and by when. Benchmarks establish expected performance levels that allow for regular checks of progress that coincide with the reporting periods for informing parents of the child's progress toward achieving the annual goals (3301-51-01((5)· "Objective" means a smaller, more manageable learning task that a child must master as a step toward achieving an annual goal. Objectives break the skills described in the annual goal into discrete components that, when mastered, allow the child to successfully obtain the goal (3301-51-01((39)The IEP team must determine whether the annual goal will be measured with benchmarks or objectives, and this will be clearly listed.

There is also a page that lists the descriptions of specially designed services such as specially designed instruction, related services, assistive technology, accommodations, modifications, support for school personnel and services to support medical needs. Once again, this dynamic form has the ability to add as many related services, accommodations, etc. as are necessary. The goal addressed, the name of the provider, the location of services, as well as the beginning and ending dates, the amount of time and the frequency are all in one place in an easy to understand format.

Transportation as a related service is also a more visible section in this new form. There is a box to check that says the bus driver will be notified of the child's behavioral and/or medical concerns, as well as several other choices. Typically, bus drivers have often been left out of the loop, and many may not know that some of their passengers have special needs.

Nonacademic and extra curricular activities are also addressed prominently in this new form.There is much more to be said for this new form. On the whole, it is a more understandable document. As the title of this article suggests, we haven't taught it new tricks; we've just improved on the old ones. You can download the new IEP form from a link on the following page of the ODE/OEC website: http://education.ohio.gov/GD/Templates/Pages/ODE/ODEDetail.aspx?Page=3 & TopicRelationID=842 & ContentID=6338 & Content=64772 Copy and paste in your browser if it doesn't work by clicking on it.

Sensory Assault Operations Opens Online Storory Assault Operations has gone live on the World Wide Web with"Gear for Kids on a Sensory Mission." Parents with kids who have sensory needs alone, or in addition to autism, ADD or ADHD, will findproducts created by a fellow parent. Featured are their two new products: the Sensory Assault Pack and the Propaganda Pad. Read more: http://www.autism-society.org/site/R?i=FvKyMw5Mnj0tAgoLEMyJEw..

Article: IEPs Inside OutThe head of one of the nation's largest special education programs, Donnalyn Jaque-Antón, gives you the skinny on what the IEP process is like for those on the other side of the table. And she offers insider advice on what you can do to ensure the best results for the student you care about. Be sure to watch "The IEP and You" video provided within the article. Simplifies info for parents new to the process. http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2009/06/09/ieps-inside-out/3584/

Generation Rescue Announces Rescue Family Grant Program We are proud to announce our Rescue Family Grant program! Generation Rescue is offering a grant program for first time biomedical autism treatments that may not otherwise be covered privately or by other third-party funding sources such as school districts, county programs, insurance, and/or other grant making entities. We are now accepting our first round of 250 applications for our Rescue Family program; applications must be received by July 15, 2009. Applicants who meet the grant program criteria and complete the grant application will be considered for a Rescue Family grant. Rescue Family grants are based on economic need within the applicants specific geographic area. Generation Rescue's Rescue Family grants are designed to provide support to individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. Each grant recipient will receive two doctor visits with a specially trained physician who treats individualized medical conditions associated with autism. Grants also include a 90 day supply of vitamins, minerals and supplements, a Generation Rescue-Rescue Mentor and information on dietary interventions.. We are currently in the process of negotiating some laboratory testing as well and hope to have some additional announcements in the next few weeks.Applicants must complete and mail the grant application by July 15th in order to be considered for the Rescue Family program. The application and complete application guidelines are on our website at www.generationrescue.org.

“Demystifying Autism: An Inside-Out Perspective†with Stillman DATE: Saturday, July 18th, 2009 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.) LOCATION: St. Adalbert’s Academy56 Adalbert Street. Berea 44017Keller Hall Target audienceAnyone and everyone involved with individuals experiencing the autism spectrum—persons on the spectrum, parents, grandparents, special education teachers, regular education teachers, therapists, paraprofessional support staff, administrators, guidance counselors, psychologists, etc. About the workshopJoin speaker Stillman for an insightful, inspiring “inside-out†workshop. As a person with Asperger’s syndrome, Bill provides a non-clinical, humanistic overview of the autism spectrum from the perspective of those who experience it: What is autism? What is it like to have autism? What is considered best practice in supporting others’ communication, sensory sensitivities, mental health and movement differences? He shares the many differences among people labeled with autism, including perspectives from his friends on the spectrum as well as his own experiences. More importantly perhaps, Bill shows us how we are all more alike than different, and participants will leave the day having experienced their own “autisms.†About the presenter Stillman is a nationally-known autism spectrum speaker and author, and has worked in the human services field since 1987. His books include Demystifying the Autistic Experience, The Everything Parent’s Guide to Children with Asperger’s Syndrome, The Everything Parent’s Guide to Children with Bipolar Disorder, and Autism and the God Connection. He also writes for and hosts a column in the national publication, The Autism Perspective magazine. His website is www.williamstillman.com. Fee.This presentation is free to STEPS families and staff, $25 fee for all others **Mr. Stillman has also made himself available, this day only, for on-site book signing.NOTE: Morning refreshments will be provided. *Lunch will be on your own

For more information and to register without payment due please call Zevnik at (440)377-0029

or email at leslie_zevnik@...

**Seating is limited!! Registration deadline July 5, 2009

To register, send name and address and fee to:

STEPS Center for Excellence in Autism.c/o Zevnik1433 W. Bagley Rd. Suite 400Berea, Ohio 44017

Article: Language assessment recommended for=children with autismAn expert panel is recommending the use of a parent questionnaire in evaluating the language needs of children with autism and other language disorders - http://jslhr.asha.org/cgi/content/abstract/52/3/643. The Language Use Inventory allows speech-language pathologists, special educators and parents to compare a child's language development with others' of the same age -- much like pediatricians do with height and weight charts. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090610124833.htm

Article: Autism Study to Follow Pregnant Women

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124451053681996489.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

Books: Sensory Gang Summer Reading ProgramAutism Asperger Publishing Companyhttp://www.asperger.net/

Central Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association Conference

October 16, 2009

http://cobida.mysite4now.net/dnn501/RegisterOnline/Conference/tabid/58/Default.aspx

Kidslink looking for Peers for Summer Camp

Can you put the word out that Kidslink is looking for peers (kiddos 4-8YO w/o disabilities) to help us with camp in July for kiddos with disabilities (many have Autism)? I appreciate your help with this ahead of time. In particular, we are looking for boys. No cost for peers to partake in camp. Please have interested parties contact Sue Corp at Kidslink 330-963-8600 for more details.

Book: The Autism Transition Guide: Planning the Journey from School to Adult Life Carolyn T. Bruey Release Date: July 3, 2009 http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/189062781X/ref=pe_5050_12261270_snp_dp

Two Articles on Kindergartener Voted out of Classroom

Teacher reinstated after letting classroom vote out kindergartnerA Florida teacher who allowed her kindergarten students to vote out of class a child with Asperger's syndrome symptoms will be reinstated with tenure, her school board voted unanimously. Parents of former students and colleagues testified on Portillo's behalf, saying the isolated incident was not representative of her 12-year career.http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2009/jun/10/st-lucie-county-school-board-allows-portillo-keep-/Sign A petition supporting Students with Disabilities

A year has passed since a Florida teacher had her kindergarten class vote a boy with Asperger's out, and instead of taking steps to make sure such abuse never happens again, the district and the community are scapegoating 's family and celebrating the wonderfulness of a teacher who made bullying part of the curriculum. Sign a petition at Change.org to show your support for the right of students with disabilities to be treated with respect. http://specialchildren.about.com/b/2009/06/12/site-of-the-day-petition-to-tell-the-st-lucie-county-school-district-to-respect-the-rights-of-students-with-disabilities.htm?nl=1

Fragile X-Perts Conference October 22, 2009Akron Children's and Fragile X Alliance of Ohio Keynote Speakers: Berry-Kravis, MD, PhDMedical Director, Fragile X ProgramRush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL

Stackhouse, MA, OTR and Scharfenaker, MA, CCC-SLPCo-founders and directors of the Developmental & Fragile X resource Centre, Denver, COAdditional topics presented include transitions issues, future planning, medical and behavioral issues, special education law, parent advocacy.Costs are $30.00 parents and $75 for professionalsBrochures will be coming

Please forward if you think someone might be interested. Contact for more information King Voice Mail # 330-543-6015 or cking@...

CEC Celebrates the Release of a Blueprint for Overhauling NCLBAs a leading voice in the Forum on Education Accountability (FEA) coalition, Council for Exceptional Children joined with 84 other coalition partners in releasing Empowering Schools and Improving Learning Report. This report is a blueprint for overhauling the controversial federal "No Child Left Behind" (NCLB) law by funding programs proven to raise educational quality. "It is not enough to just replace the name NCLB, as some suggest. The FEA plan will lead to better performance from all students while closing the achievement gap. It strengthens teaching and turns assessments from weapons that narrow curriculum into tools to advance learning. It provides schools with resources needed to do the job right and makes accountability a way to improve rather than punish schools," according to FEA Chair Dr. Monty Neill.CEC played an important role in advocating for the inclusion of students with disabilities and gifts and talents. As a result, this report calls for "programs to provide all students with a coherent and intellectually challenging curriculum that includes 21st century critical thinking, problem solving, and high-level communication skills, and that ensures deep understanding of content." It addresses 14 key areas in which the federal government must play a positive role in improving school quality and student achievement. Among them are:-Expand high-quality professional development for teachers-Build new local and state assessment systems that use multiple measures from tests to projects and portfolios, support learning, and provide information about student progress across all important subject areas as well as grade promotion and graduation rates-Require states to report on students' opportunity to learn, using data from both school and community; then design approaches to overcome inadequacies and inequities-Live up to federal promises by fully funding key education laws and making them mandatory items in future budgets.Empowering Schools and Improving Learning builds on the Joint Organizational Statement on NCLB, issued in October 2004 and now signed by 151 national organizations. View the new report and the previous statement here http://www.edaccountability.org/ An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps!