PAC Newsletter
October, 2020

Volume 1, Issue 1
Nichole Moore, Ed.S.
Director of Special Services
nicholemoore@wlcsd.org
The 2020-2021 school year is underway! We are excited about the new learning that is occurring! Despite our obstacles, I know that we WILL have a successful school year because of the very talented and passionate staff in the Special Services Department....AND because of the extraordinary students and families in the communities in which we serve.

Administrators in the Special Services Department are here to support students and families as we work through our "new normal." Each month, we will collaborate with the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Executive Board to provide you with department updates, resources and upcoming activities. Check out this month's PAC Newsletter highlights below!

In the midst of everything going on around us, our perspective is KEY to achieving our goals this year. The right perspective, makes the impossible, possible!

As a community, together we are stronger! We are more powerful when we empower one another, and the synergy of our actions are more powerful. We will prevail! Please know that we are here to support you. We got this!
As parents of children with IEPs we feel it is vitally important to share information, resources and opportunities related to Special Education services. Navigating special education is no easy task and our hope is that this monthly newsletter will keep you updated.

PAC Executive Committee
Cory Hensley - knackcor@yahoo.com
Aimee Page - aimee.page2@gmail.com
Denise Dunn - denisedunn@wlcsd.org
Emma Tryson - emma_tryson@yahoo.com
PAC MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to increase awareness and current best practices in special education while working towards a larger voice, meaningful communication and more inclusive practices and parental involvement.

Have You Seen Our Page?
What are CLPs?

A Contingency Learning Plan is a temporary plan that explains how the IEP will be implemented during a public health emergency, such as COVID-19.

This document does not replace the IEP but rather is a separate document and should be referenced in the IEP under Supplementary Aids and Services. Further, CLPs may be developed, reviewed, and revised at anytime outside of the IEP with parental input.

Contact your caseload teacher if you have not yet developed your child's CLP or have specific questions.
Mask Waiver Form due Friday, October 23, 2020

If you have a medical rationale for your child, please complete the Medical Waiver Form. Documentation from a medical professional can be uploaded in the waiver form, emailed to your child's principal using their Gmail account (lastnamefirstname@teachers.wlcsd.org) or arranged to be brought to the school by Friday, October 23rd.
Click on the links below to access the
newsletters of these organizations!
For over 29 years Oakland Mediation Center (OMC) has provided conflict resolution and education services that are quite affordable and quickly empower community members, families, businesses, courts and schools to resolve conflict. OMC is an apolitical, non-profit, volunteer-based Community Dispute Resolution Program (CDRP) center whose volunteers represent and serve the community.
Michigan Alliance for Families provides information, support, and education for families who have children and young adults (birth to 26 years of age) who receive (or may be eligible to receive) special education services. This website can help you with finding information on special education issues, disability specific information and FREE webinars.


October 23, 2020
Behavior is Communication, Part 2
Hosted by Michigan Alliance for Families

A child’s problematic or inappropriate behavior is a sign that something is not right. The child needs support, not punishment.
This workshop will help you determine what the child is saying with their behavior and how to substitute a more acceptable way to communicate that message.
Rethinking Guardianship Facilitating Lifelong
Self-Determination with Dan Hoyle of the Arc of Michigan

October 29, 2020

Hosted by Michigan Alliance for Families and the Arc of Michigan

Topics covered:
  • What are alternatives to guardianship?
  • What is power of attorney?
  • How can medical and financial decisions be handled?
  • What is self-determination?
  • What is supported decision making?
  • How can we best support students as they transition to adulthood?

*This presentation will be offered again on November 12, February 4th, & March 9th.
Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) -
Strategies for Supporting Your Childs Learning at Home

November 9, 2020

Hosted by Michigan Alliance for Families

Learn about:
  • Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) and strategies for home
  • How schools and families are implementing PBIS strategies
  • Easing the transition back to school and different learning environments
  • Resources to support your child while learning at home and school

Walled Lake has developed a Social Emotional Learning page where families can access resources and tools to help support the social and emotional growth of your child. Resources are organized by grade level and are constantly updated so be sure to check back often.
If you need additional resources please contact your child's classroom teacher, school counselor or administrator.

School Board Elections

The Michigan Education Justice Coalition is committed to working together to provide quality public education for all Michigan students. Learn more about the Walled Lake school board members running for election this November.

Best Buddies is a non-profit international organization promoting social inclusion online for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Best Buddies builds relationships with peers, develops friendships, find employment and more. This program is available for children starting at the age of 10.

E-buddies is an email pen pal program matching persons with an intellectual or developmental disability with peer volunteers who do not have an intellectual or developmental disability.
Does your child need a little help with wearing a mask? Watch this cute video of Julia from Sesame Street as she learns of ways to make wearing a mask a little easier.

Stay informed about our upcoming events! Click on the image to
access the Parent Advisory
Committee (PAC) website.