Inclusion Spotlight, May 2022

Inclusion Spotlight

May, 2022

Community Inclusion Teams Report

Implementing, Sustaining and Scaling-Up High-Quality Inclusion

Illinois is one of two states selected to take part in the Implementing, Sustaining, and Scaling-Up High Quality Inclusion initiative, which began in 2020. The initiative is co-led by the Early Childhood Technical Assistance (ECTA) Center and the National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI) and includes partners from across the early care and education system. The ISBE and Early CHOICES lead the work in Illinois.

This initiative focuses on the National Early Childhood Inclusion Indicators with Illinois as a field-test site receiving technical assistance from the ECTA Center and NCPMI. This work builds on the Illinois Inclusion Vision Statement and the Inclusion in Illinois Birth to 5 Across Systems Strategic Plan.

Community Inclusion Teams are a unique strategy to support this effort. Early CHOICES has been supporting three communities across the state in an effort to create more access to high-quality early childhood inclusive classrooms as a part of this initiative. A Community Inclusion Teams Report summarizes the efforts and results of the work through December 2021. The short infographics highlight key components.

For questions or more information, please reach out to [email protected] or [email protected].

Check it out!

Early Childhood Outcome

(ECO) Progress Ratings

Last month, we shared information about the Early Childhood Outcomes Modules.

We are excited to announce that they are now available for credit!

As you are planning for professional learning during preservice or inservice days in the 22-23 school year, consider incorporating these modules as a refresher or an on-boarding activity.

Continue reading for more information regarding Early Childhood Outcomes...

Local Education Agencies are required to complete early childhood outcome progress ratings on each student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP), including speech-only IEPs, annually between February 1 and July 31. Ratings must be completed in three areas: positive social-emotional skills, acquisition and use of knowledge and skills, and use of appropriate behaviors to meet needs. A progress rating also needs to be completed within six months of exiting the student.

The ISBE has adopted criteria for determining allowable primary assessment tools that can be used to compile early childhood outcome progress ratings. The following assessments can no longer be used as a primary assessment tool for progress ratings, effective in fiscal year 2023: the Carolina Curriculum for Infants and Toddlers/Preschoolers with Special Needs and the Hawaii Early Learning Profile (HELP). Resources for completing the early childhood outcome measurements, including instrument crosswalks, can be found on the Early Childhood Outcomes page. An updated progress rating form, which reflects the assessment tool changes, will be found at the same location beginning in fiscal year 2023. This change affects primary assessment tools for progress ratings only. There are no assessment tool requirements for determining initial eligibility.

For more information or questions regarding early childhood outcomes, please contact Kristy Doan at [email protected] or Adrienne Piatkowski at [email protected].

Did you know Early CHOICES has two playlists for families: one in English and one in Spanish? The videos explore topics such as everyday learning opportunities, advocating for your child, and more! Please help us spread the word by sharing videos in your social media and family communication platforms.

Birth to 5 Regional Family Councils Need You!

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Birth to Five Illinois is re-imagining a more equitable Early Childhood Education and Care system that ensures family and community voice is centered and prioritized at every level of decision-making.

Birth to Five Illinois is looking for a diverse group of parents/family members caring for a child under the age of 8 who are passionate about creating more opportunities for young children and families in your region. They are looking for a wide range of voices on the Family Councils, including:

Families that live across the region, especially areas that have been under-resourced
Families that represent the racial diversity of the region
Families with at least one child age eight and under, including those who have used early childhood services and those who have not

Membership will give you the chance to make a difference for children and families in your community. You will be expected to attend approximately 2 meetings per month and will be compensated for your time.

Family Council members will:

Share about needs of families and ideas to improve services
Give feedback to the Action Council in the region
Advocate for family needs with local and state officials

Why join?

Stipends Training Leadership opportunities
Flexible meeting times
Acquire new skills
Make a difference in your region
Work with a diverse team
Expand your parent network

Learn More Here

To apply to be on your regional family council you can complete this Interest Form

If you would like any assistance in completing you can contact us at Early CHOICES or Birth to Five Illinois

Upcoming Professional Development

Getting Ready for Students with Down Syndrome

May 20 9:00-3:00

IN PERSON

at Heartland Community College, Normal, Illinois

Are you welcoming students with Down syndrome into your kindergarten classroom this year or are you a parent preparing for the leap from PreK to K? Come and learn about characteristics and myths (e.g., They can be so stubborn!) about Down syndrome as well as helpful classroom and transition strategies. This workshop focuses on inclusive education and highlights ideas for supporting communication, behavior, and learning. It also features the voices and perspectives of individuals with Down syndrome and their families including Bridget Brown, a self-advocate and dynamic inclusion advocate and Nancy Brown, Bridget's mom and a tireless educator and champion of schools for all.

Upcoming Conferences- Registration Open

Integrating Research and Practice in Early Childhood Intervention:

A Joint Conference of ISEI & DEC

September 27-30, 2022

Chicago Illinois

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Family Waivers & Scholarships Are Now Available

Illinois AEYC

Growing Futures Conference October 13-15, 2022

IN PERSON at the

Crowne Plaza Hotel and Conference Center,

Springfield, IL

Keynote Session

Dan Gartrel:

Beyond Discipline to Guidance

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Looking for more Professional Development?

The Illinois State Board of Education hosts a Professional Development Calendar

Early CHOICES, Illinois STAR NET and Early Childhood Professional Learning all post their events on this calendar. The calendar allows users to sort by topic. Just chose Early Childhood to see all the wonderful opportunities for professional learning for early childhood professionals in Illinois.

Not finding what you are looking for?

Check out these sites for on demand learning opportunities

STAR NET (look for On Demand list upper right hand corner)

Early Intervention Training Program at the University of Illinois

Early CHOICES (look for Early Childhood Outcomes, Educational Environments, Inclusion Policy Modules and Understanding Inclusion)

[email protected]