December 27, 2017
Hello! As we close out 2017 I thought I would take some time to reflect on the collective accomplishments of DEC. But first, a thought, if each of you accomplished even one small improvement a week in your work with young children and their families, that would be. . .
2300 members x 1 improvement x 52 = 119,600 improvements!

Now consider the fact that I know each of you surpassed that minimum by far! We have much to celebrate! Let’s dedicate 2018 towards the idea of making an additional 1-2 small improvements each week. The power of our collective is inspiring! 

In the spirit of celebrating our collective achievements, I would like to direct you to the DEC Annual Report.
This report highlights the many accomplishments of our dedicated DEC volunteers. Please take the time to read the report if you have not yet done so. Be proud. Be inspired. Be ready to start the new year with the goal of making it our next best year ever at DEC! 
Spotlight on Financials
As we close out 2017, I would like to share information about DEC finances. The complete financial data for DEC can be found in the audited financial reports. https://divisionearlychildhood.egnyte.com/fl/7F4MZtaGkG#folder-link/
Click on the image to access a PDF version with readable text.
Resources Highlight
Preparing for next year’s classes or professional development opportunities? Be sure to check out the DEC Bookstore. http://bookstore.dec-sped.org/  The 3-part DEC Recommended Practices Monograph Series is a great place to start!

DEC Organizational Structure Chart. This chart outlines the initial clarification of the Roles/Responsibilities for DEC. In 2017-2018 DEC will continue to enhance organizational structure clarification with the goal of increased efficiency and a commitment to communication to DEC members. 
Click on the image to access the PDF version with readable text.
Click on the image to view a larger PDF version of the chart.
NEWS
Congratulations to the New DEC Executive Board Members!
Amanda Quesenberry – Vice President
LaShorage Shaffer – Secretary
Jessica Hardy – Treasurer
Cori Hill – Member at Large

Please consider serving as a reviewer for the 2018 Conference. Each reviewer will look at 10-15 submissions. Peer review is essential to maintaining quality sessions at DEC!

Call for Input: DEC Position Statement on Low Birth Weight (LBW), Prematurity, and Early Intervention. http://www.dec-sped.org/single-post/2017/12/18/Call-for-Input-DEC-Position-Statement-on-Low-Birth-Weight-LBW-Prematurity-and-Early-Intervention

Have you always wanted to contribute a Learning Deck webinar to DEC? Now is the time! Please consider answering the Call for Learning Deck Presenters http://www.dec-sped.org/single-post/2017/12/16/The-Call-for-Learning-Deck-Presenters-is-Open

Resources That Matter! A Survey. Help us assure the resources we offer at DEC matter to you! Provide your feedback here: https://form.jotform.com/73255307821151
DEC Conference 2018
Make plans now to attend the Division for Early Childhood’s 34 th Annual International Conference on Young Children with Special Needs and Their Families October 23-26, 2018 in Orlando Florida. This year’s theme is Transforming Imagination into Innovation: Impacting outcomes for Young Children, Families, and Professionals. Just a reminder, conference proposals are due Jan. 16! www.decconference.org
Policy & Advocacy Update
Take time to read the Q&A on Endrew F. Supreme Court Case Released by U.S. Department of Education. This Q & A document contains additional guidance in the following areas: 
- The meaning and application "de minimus" and its relationship to Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
- The meanings of “reasonably calculated” and "progress appropriate in light of the child’s circumstances”
- Actions for IEP teams for determining appropriately ambitious goals; implementing the Endrew F. standard for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities; actions to take for a child who is not progressing as expected; the use of positive behavioral interventions and supports; and placement decisions
 
The full document is available for download  here .
As you close out 2017 and begin anew for 2018, remember there is still a bit of time to finish something, end something, and start something new. Do all 3! 

Wishing you well! 
Peggy Kemp
Executive Director
Division for Early Childhood
DEC Recommended Practices Series Monograph No. 3 Family:
Knowing Families, Tailoring Practices, Building Capacity

The third edition of the DEC Recommended Practices Monograph Series offers professionals and families multiple ways to implement the family practices across the settings in which children grow and learn.

Order now!
Blended Practices for Teaching Young Children in Inclusive Settings, Second Edition

Ideal for early childhood educators working with children from ages 2 to 5, this comprehensive text provides explicit guidance on developing a successful curriculum framework, working effectively with families and other team members, tailoring instruction to each child's individual needs, and embedding learning opportunities that address all children's goals.
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