Youth Engagement Now (YEN): Explore resources developed by youth with disabilities across the country to access tools to successfully engage and involve youth partners in projects to support impactful change. The site features tools focused on foundational principles, leadership development, and effective collaboration. Key areas include disability training, advocacy, community building, and event planning. It also offers a podcast, YEN Talks, for further insights. Start using the tools here.

Region A Drop-In Call: The next Drop-in call will take place on Tuesday, July 2, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, EST. Our featured technical assistance presenter will be NTACT:C TA Provider & Evaluator, Kyle Reardon.

Parent Center Showcase: On June 18 at 10:00 am EST, the Parent Center Showcase featured four Parent Centers (PEAL, FCSN, PNWNY, and LIAC) discussing their collaboration in a "Circle of Support'' focused on Native American Indigenous outreach. They shared their individual efforts and the collective benefits of their partnership. The showcase highlighted strategies for culturally responsive engagement, providing participants with examples, information, and resources. The recording is now available for those interested in joining the ongoing "Circle." Find it here with the slides. Please fill out the evaluation to provide us with your feedback.

The challenges for transition age youth with mental illness and their families – Part 2: On July 15 at 2:00 pm EST, join RAISE and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in the part 2 of an overview of the many issues that occur at the point in time when a youth reaches the legal age of consent and enters a period known as “Transition Age Youth” – frequently referred to as a “black hole” in terms of services. NAMI will walk participants through how to use a variety of tools that were shared with participants to help ease the transition of youth in their care. Additionally, new resources will be shared with participants that have been developed by NAMI’s Youth and Young Adults team to help provide additional support and information for families. Find the registration here.

Coming Together on Chronic Absenteeism: Schools’ Top Priority This Year: The AEI event "Coming Together on Chronic Absenteeism: Schools’ Top Priority This Year" will be held on July 17 from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM EDT. It will focus on the rise in chronic absenteeism, which increased from 15% in 2019 to 28% in 2022 due to the pandemic. This issue is particularly severe in high-poverty and low-achieving districts. Experts will discuss causes and solutions, including student engagement and targeted support. More information is available on the AEI event page.

Region A Parent Center Convening: Building Parent Center Capacity to Serve Military-Connected & Native American Families: Join us for an upcoming virtual 2-day training for Region A Parent Centers interested in enhancing outreach and services to Military-Connected and Native American families. This convening will help build our Community of Practice, providing support and encouraging innovative thinking through collaboration and information sharing. To ensure we select the best dates and times for the virtual event, we need your help. Please complete the Google form here to indicate your and your parent center staff’s availability. Additional web-based meetings and peer-to-peer TA will be available following this event to strengthen your center’s capacity to serve these special populations. Thank you for your cooperation!

OSEP 2024 Leadership & Project Directors’ Conference: The conference will be held August 6-8 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Va. The theme of the conference is Early Beginnings to Bright Futures. There will be a parent center meeting with OSEP leadership from 1:45 - 3:15 pm on August 6. Be on the lookout for more details as well as the complete conference schedule. Access the 2024 OSEP Conference site here.

CPIR Calendar: Don’t forget to check out the HUB Central Events calendar at the Center for Parent Information and Resources (CPIR) for more webinars and events. Also contact Myriam Alizo, malizo@spanadvocacy.org to add your Parent Center event to the CPIR calendar.

Five Skills You Need to Be a Good Supervisor: Check out this YouTube video summarizing the five skills needed to be an effective supervisor.

Culturally Responsive Parent Engagement: The National Center on Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (funded by the Administration for Children and Families to provide TA to Head Start programs), facilitated this excellent webinar. Listen here.

Involving Youth in Positive Youth Development: The webpage on Youth.gov delves into involving youth in positive youth development (PYD) initiatives. It highlights the significance of engaging young people in decision-making processes and providing opportunities for their personal and social development. The page: Involving Youth in Positive Youth Development | Youth.gov offers resources and strategies for organizations and communities to effectively involve youth in PYD programs, fostering their empowerment, leadership skills, and sense of belonging.

How to Have Better Communication Skills: Share this video with your team.

Coming Together on Chronic Absenteeism: Schools’ Top Priority This Year: See the AEI event "Coming Together on Chronic Absenteeism: Schools’ Top Priority This Year" above in the upcoming events section.

Civil Rights Principles for Multilingual Learner Education: The Civil Rights Principles for Multilingual Learner Education outlines how decision-makers at all levels can create an equitable education system. This system should provide meaningful equal opportunities and success for all children, including those whose first language is not English. Read more.

Student Reports of Bullying: Results From the 2022 School Crime Supplement to the National Crime Victimization Survey, Institute of Education Sciences (IES), February 2024: This 52 page report contains information on bullying, including where the bullying occurred, repetition and power imbalance in incidents of bullying, the type of bullying and more. Check it out.

Reunification From Foster Care: A Guide for Parents: The Child Welfare Information Gateway published a fact sheet focused on the steps that will help parents navigate the process of reunifying with their children from foster care. It introduces the team that will work with them throughout the process and discusses their rights as parents. It explains how they will collaborate with their caseworker to create a reunification plan and describes how partnering with their child's resource parent can help bring their family together again. 

‘No Accountability’: Vouchers Wreak Havoc on States: The NEA article discusses the negative impacts of school voucher programs on state budgets and public education. These programs, which often lack accountability and transparency, are primarily used by families already in private schools. This results in significant financial strain on state budgets, diverting funds from public schools and other essential services. The article highlights specific examples from Arizona and other states, detailing the widespread misuse of funds and the budgetary challenges posed by these programs. For more details, visit the full article here.

Cultural and Linguistic Competence Assessment for Respite Organizations (CLCARO): The Cultural and Linguistic Competence Assessment for Respite Organizations (CLCARO) by Georgetown University’s National Center for Cultural Competence helps respite care providers enhance their cultural and linguistic competence. It evaluates organizational attitudes, behaviors, policies, and practices to improve service quality and promote equity. The tool covers worldview, identity, actions, and operational methods and includes a guide for implementation. Learn more here.

Root Cause Analysis: Root cause analysis is a powerful method schools use to analyze data to solve problems; it aims to identify and correct the root causes of problems or events, rather than simply addressing their symptoms. In this interactive REL Mid-Atlantic webinar, Roni S. Silverstein, principal of Fallsmead Elementary School in Montgomery County, Maryland, and a skilled practitioner of root cause analysis, describes the use of the method and responds to questions from participants. Check out this webinar from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Educational Laboratory (REL).

Ohio”s Whole Child Framework and Initiatives - With Data Insights on Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) and Utilization of Restraint and Seclusion: The Ohio Department of Education provides data insights on the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and the use of restraint and seclusion in schools. The site details the impact of PBIS on reducing disciplinary incidents and improving school climate. It also includes statistics on the utilization of restraint and seclusion, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and support to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. For more information click here.

Quick Guide to Special Education Dispute Resolution Processes for Parents of Children & Youth (Ages 3-21): This guide offers a succinct summary of five dispute resolution options under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B. These include IEP facilitation, mediation resolution meetings, written state complaints, due process complaints/hearing requests, and expedited hearing requests & resolution meetings. Each process serves to address disagreements related to special education services, with distinct procedures and outcomes. The guide stresses the importance of understanding state regulations, preparing thoroughly, and engaging constructively to resolve disputes effectively. Find it here.

Guía rápida para la Educación Especial del Procesos de Resolución de Disputas para Padres de Niños y Jóvenes (edades 3-21): Después del lanzamiento de unas P & R de IDEA Parte B de la Resolución de las Disputas de OSEP de julio de 2013, se le pidió a CADRE que creara un conjunto de recursos complementarios para padres y familias. En respuesta, CADRE desarrolló cinco guías para padres. Además, CADRE creó un cuadro de comparación de fácil utilidad que ve a los procesos de resolución de conflictos desde una variedad de perspectivas.

Dropout Prevention: Helping Kids Stay in School: According to a 2021 report, 2 million students dropped out of school in the U.S. Despite recent improvements, educators stress the need for more prevention efforts. Leon Baxton from Communities In Schools (CIS) of Jacksonville highlights various factors affecting student retention, including post-COVID challenges, homelessness, and community violence. CIS works in partnership with schools to provide literacy programs, after-school activities, case management, and workforce development, aiming to support both students and their families. Parents are encouraged to engage with their children’s education and consider mentoring roles. For more information, click here.

About Start with a Book: This initiative aimed at promoting reading and literacy among children offers a wealth of resources, including booklists, reading tips, and themed activities to engage children in reading during the summer months. The program emphasizes the importance of connecting reading with real-world experiences and interests, providing parents, caregivers, and educators with tools to create meaningful reading experiences for children. Through its thematic approach, "Start with a Book" encourages children to explore a wide range of topics while fostering a love of reading and learning. 

Annual Report to the President and Secretary of Education 2023, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights: The report to the President and Secretary of Education for the year 2023, issued by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), provides a comprehensive overview of the OCR's efforts and achievements in promoting civil rights in education across the United States. It covers various aspects such as enforcing federal civil rights laws, handling complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance to ensure equal access to education for all students. The report highlights the OCR's commitment to addressing discrimination and promoting equity in educational settings, focusing on areas such as disability rights, Title IX, racial and ethnic disparities, and sexual harassment prevention. It also outlines the OCR's strategies for collaboration with stakeholders and its plans for future initiatives to advance civil rights in education. Find it here.

Summary of Proposed Updates for UDL Guidelines 3.0: The document provides a summary of proposed updates for Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines 3.0 by the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST). These updates aim to refine and enhance the existing UDL framework, which supports inclusive and flexible educational practices to meet the diverse needs of all learners. The summary outlines key revisions and additions to the guidelines, including new research-based insights, improved language and terminology, and updated examples and illustrations. These updates reflect CAST's ongoing commitment to advancing UDL principles and practices to create more accessible and effective learning environments for learners of all backgrounds and abilities. Read the guidelines here.

John H. Chafee Foster Care for Successful Transition to Adulthood Program Resource List: The resource provided outlines a Foster Care Transition to Adulthood Program, which aims to support youth aging out of foster care as they transition into adulthood. It offers a variety of resources and tools to help states develop and implement comprehensive programs that address the unique needs of transitioning youth. These programs typically cover areas such as housing, education, employment, health care, and life skills development. By providing targeted support and services, the program seeks to empower young adults leaving foster care to achieve independence and success in their adult lives. Read more here.

How to Grandparent a Child With Special Needs: AARP's article provides grandparents with practical advice on caring for special needs grandchildren. It covers legal, financial, and emotional aspects of caregiving, emphasizing communication, education, and accessing support services to navigate challenges effectively here.

Health Equity: This webinar from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, explains health equity and the interconnected factors that contribute to health inequities and health disparities.

Boston Public School Reports all-time high in student homelessness: The Boston Globe article discusses the issue of student homelessness in Boston Public Schools (BPS). It highlights the challenges faced by homeless students and the efforts made by BPS to support them. The article examines the impact of homelessness on student education and well-being, shedding light on the need for increased resources and support systems to address this issue effectively. Find it here.

U.S. Departments of Health & Human Services and Justice Issue Letter of Findings to State of Rhode Island Over Improper Over-Hospitalizations of Children with Disabilities: This article reports on findings from the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Justice regarding improper over-hospitalizations of children with disabilities in Rhode Island. It highlights concerns about the unnecessary institutionalization of these children and emphasizes the importance of providing community-based services and supports to ensure their well-being and inclusion. The departments are urging Rhode Island to address these issues and improve its policies and practices to better serve children with disabilities and their families. Read more here.

National Immigration Law Center (NILC) Statement on Biden’s Plan to Provide Relief for Some Undocumented Spouses of U.S Citizens: The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) issued a statement regarding President Biden's plan to offer relief to certain undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. The statement acknowledges the importance of providing support to immigrant families and highlights the potential positive impact of the proposed relief measures. It underscores the need for comprehensive immigration reform to address the broader challenges faced by undocumented individuals and their families in the United States. Find the statement here.

Inclusive Schools Network: Explore a variety of resources covering a range of topics related to inclusive practices, including classroom strategies, curriculum development, behavior support, and fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging. They offer practical tools, articles, webinars, and other materials to promote inclusive education and advocate for the rights of all students to access quality education, found here.

Baltimore Juvenile courts have one social worker. She rarely has time for her job: Casi O'Neill, the only forensic social worker in Baltimore's juvenile division, faces overwhelming demands. While her role includes assessing children's needs and connecting them with services, she primarily deals with severe cases, leaving less time for low- to moderate-level offenses. The shortage of social workers raises concerns about adequately supporting vulnerable youth. Efforts to address systemic deficiencies and provide comprehensive support are ongoing, read more here.

Direct Online and Phone Support Services for LGBTQ+ Youth: The Human Rights Campaign provides a comprehensive list of direct online and phone support services specifically tailored for LGBTQ+ youth. Staffed by trained professionals, these services aim to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth and provide them with the necessary support to navigate their identities and experiences.

Youth Mental Health Data in the Context of Office of Management and Budget (OMB) SPD 15: In 2024, for the first time since 1997, the Office of Management and Budget published revised standards for federal data on race and ethnicity, but more is needed to better understand mental health disparities in the U.S. This brief is part of a series by the Data Equity Coalition calling for standardized data collection methods around race, ethnicity, language (REL), sexual orientation, gender identity (SOGI) and disability status. MHA's brief focuses on recommendations for the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to standardize federal data collection methods to improve mental health outcomes for youth in underserved communities. Learn more.

Half of the U.S. Military Bases are located in Healthcare Deserts: The NPR article sheds light on the shortage of healthcare services on military bases, affecting troops across the Army, Navy, and Marines. It underscores the urgent need for solutions to address the healthcare gaps experienced by service members and their families, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their well-being. NPR's analysis revealed that many military bases are located in counties designated as shortage areas for primary care, mental health care, and maternity care nationwide. Notably, half of the bases are situated within at least one healthcare desert area, with three out of four bases in primary care deserts also facing shortages in mental health care, maternal care, or both. This means that approximately one in three U.S. troops and their families reside in areas lacking adequate access to healthcare services as seen here.

Local and State Native American Resources in Region A, by State: This list serves as a valuable resource for Parent Centers in Region A, offering guidance for Native American outreach initiatives as you embark on your initial efforts and continue to reference in the future.

Core Components for Authentic Youth Engagement Identified: Chapin Hall examined literature, assessed programmatic materials, conducted small group interviews with youth and staff, and identified the following five core components for authentic youth engagement: (a) equitable compensation, (b) accommodations and supports, (c) respect for youth skills and leadership, (d) transparency, and (e) rapport building. Read more.

Supporting Youth and Young Parents in their Economic Mobility Journeys: EMPath has released a paper that provides an overview of the evidence surrounding the impacts of poverty on youth and young families, and the benefits of promoting family economic stability and mobility for these populations. It highlights the experiences and learnings from the cohort of youth-serving organizations to effectively engage and support their program participants with economic mobility coaching. Find out more.

New Senate Report Blasts Residential Treatment Facilities That “Treat Children as Payouts”: The provided article from Mother Jones investigates the practices of behavioral health residential treatment facilities operated by Universal Health Services (UHS) and Acadia Healthcare. It explores the findings of a Senate investigation led committee chair Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), which raises concerns about the quality of care provided in these facilities. The investigation reveals instances of alleged abuse, neglect, and mistreatment of patients, as well as fraudulent billing practices. Highlighting the need for increased oversight and regulation to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals receiving treatment in these facilities.

Research Finds Social and Emotional Learning Produces Significant Benefits for Students:

Recent research published in Child Development validates that social and emotional learning (SEL) significantly enhances student academic performance, well-being, and perceptions of school safety. This confirms the pivotal role of SEL in improving overall student outcomes and underscores its importance in educational settings. Read more here.

Technology and Disability Rights: Accessibility, Not Disability, Is the Problem: The webpage delves into the connection between technology and disability rights, examining how technological advancements affect individuals with disabilities. It explores how technology can enhance accessibility and inclusion, while also discussing the legal guidelines governing its use to ensure equitable rights and opportunities for people with disabilities. The article covers a range of topics related to technology and disability rights, including challenges, progress, and potential future directions in this area, found here.

Building Truly Accessible Workplaces: Global Accessibility Awareness Day emphasizes the need for digital access and inclusive workplaces for over a billion people with disabilities. Prioritizing accessibility isn't just about compliance; it's crucial for talent acquisition and organizational success. Integrating accessibility into all workplace processes unlocks innovation and diversity, learn more.

Understanding the Potential Impacts of Trauma on Young Children: Check out this video on how traumatic experiences can impact children’s behavior and why it’s so important to try to understand the meaning behind children’s behavior.