UPCOMING PARENT TRAININGS- VIRTUAL OR IN-PERSON RAPID CITY

SD Parent Connection, with support from the SD Statewide Family Engagement Center, will be be offering a parent/professional training series in-person or live online. Join in-person at the Rapid City SDPC Office at 2310 North Maple Ave or live online using the link sent after you've registered. 5-6 PM MT/ 6-7 PM CT
Thursday, April 21st
Understanding 504 Plans & Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)

In this session, participants will understand the difference between services and supports under IDEA through an Individual Education Plan or under Section 504 through a 504 Plan.

Thursday, April 28th
Understanding Accommodations & Modifications

Participants will learn about accommodations and modifications in education and the impact these have on students and their families.



Thursday, May 5th
Transition

In this session, participants will review requirements for transition planning on the IEP, changes in graduation requirements they need to be aware of, and resources that may be beneficial as their student transitions from school to adult life.

SAFETY-CARE TRAINING FOR FAMILIES- ABERDEEN

Tuesday, April 19th from 3-6:30 PM at the Aberdeen Police Department Community Room (114 2nd Ave SE)

Safety-Care® Behavioral Safety Training program provides the skills and competencies necessary to effectively prevent, minimize, and manage behavioral challenges with dignity, safety, and the possibility of change. Safety- Care training can help you:
  • Understand how and why crisis events happen and how we may inadvertently contribute to them
  • Prevent crises using a variety of supportive interaction strategies
  • Apply simple, evidence-based de-escalation strategies
  • Respond appropriately and safely to dangerous behavior

Who should attend the training and is there a fee?
  • Family members and others who may provide in-home support for individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability.

There is no cost to attend, however space is limited, and registration is required. Contact Carrie Geppert at Carrie.Geppert@state.sd.us or 605-362-4857.
MAY LUNCH AND LEARN SESSION
Tuesday, May 10th at 12pm Central / 11am Mountain

Oceans of Possibilities...for Summer Learning
Join our discussion with librarians from across the state to learn about programs to keep children and youth learning when school is not in session. Guest presenters will include local librarians (details coming soon!) and Laura Kelly, Children and Youth Services Coordinator with the South Dakota State Library. Register Here

SD ADVISORY PANEL FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES IS SEEKING PANEL MEMBERS

Special Education Programs is currently seeking applicants to fill openings for individuals with disabilities and/or parents of children with disabilities, ages birth through 26.
 
What is the role of a panel member?
  • Advise the State Educational Agency (SEA) of unmet needs within the State in the education of children with disabilities
  • Comment publicly on any rules of regulations proposed by the state regarding the education of children with disabilities
  • Advise the SEA in developing evaluations and reporting on data
  • Advise the SEA in developing corrective action plans to address findings identified in federal monitoring reports
  • Advise the SEA in developing and implementing policies relating to the coordination of services for children with disabilities
  • Review and comment on final due process hearing findings and decisions
  • Advise on eligible students with disabilities in adult prisons. The SDAPCD shall also advise on the education of eligible students with disabilities who have been convicted as adults and incarcerated in adult prisons (optional)
 
How do I become a member?
Please submit the attached application to Special Education Programs at SD Department of Education, Special Education Programs, ATTN: Melissa Bothun, 800 Governors Dr., Pierre, SD 57501. Applications and question may also be emailed to: Melissa.Bothun@state.sd.us
AUTISM FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP

Parents, caregivers, family and friends of loved ones with autism are welcome to join this monthly ASD support group! For one evening each month, get together to share ideas in a welcoming environment where guests are invited to discuss experiences, ask questions, learn about resources within the community, and build a network of care and support. Parents, caregivers and family members of individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum are welcome!
*Childcare will be provided, please sign up for childcare one week prior to the meeting date. There are a limited number of childcare spots due to the availability of childcare volunteers.

Upcoming Dates: April 27 & May 25 / Time: 6:30 - 8 p.m. CST
CALL FOR GOVERNOR'S AWARDS NOMINATIONS
Governor's Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and employers for their significant contributions to the employment of people with disabilities. The South Dakota Board of Vocational Rehabilitation, Board of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the Statewide Independent Living Council sponsor the annual Governor's Awards. Nomination Categories: Distinguished Service, Outstanding Individual with a Disability, Outstanding Employee with a Disability, Outstanding Employer of the the Year (3 Categories), Outstanding Transition Services.
Nomination Categories:

Distinguished Service
Outstanding Individual with a Disability
Outstanding Employee with a Disability
Outstanding Employer of the the Year
(3 Categories: small, large & public entities)
Outstanding Transition Services
Nominations are due May 2.
This e-publication was developed under grants from the U.S. Department of Education Project Grant H328M2000666 and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Grant H328M140021, Family to Family Health Information Center, $96,750; and approximately 5% financed with non-governmental resources. The contents should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by US Department of Education, HRSA, HHS or the Federal Government.