Last week, my wheelchair-using student shared her gratitude for remote education, as well as challenges she has faced completing her HSE (due to lack of accessibility). I will never forget her face-her eyes-the moment I said “I hear you. The only reason I have an accessible vehicle is due to the generosity of friends.” “Wait. You’re a wheelchair user too?!” Policy-makers talk about universal design, while disabled teachers live it. My student had NEVER conceived that her teacher could be disabled, and that made me sad and angry. The beauty of remote learning, besides the fact that it allows for more disabled students and teachers to even show up, is that we get to be known by our name and our face, rather than our mobility aids or assistive devices. Still, why is there such a lack of representation among disabled teachers? October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month NDEAM). I am so grateful to American Training, Inc. for constantly going above and beyond to create a safe and accessible work environment, where I, as a disabled teacher, can flourish and, in-turn, create a truly inclusive classroom. I am also grateful that the Public Adult Education of MA, in partnership with World Education, created the Basic Disability Screening for Adult Education (BDSAE). https://lnkd.in/eWQbySvM Providing evaluative tools and consistent accommodations for disabled adult learners (particularly those who did not obtain an IEP during their time in grade school) is a first for adult education programs in this country, despite ADA requirements. Thank you for setting this example! #nationaldisabilityemploymentawarenessmonth #accessforall #adulteducation #lifelonglearner #youbelonghere #universaldesign #disability #disabilityisnotadirtyword #education #ada #remotelearning #ibelonghere #ndeam https://lnkd.in/eZSvAvkK
Kristy Johnson’s Post
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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a cornerstone of special education, providing vital protections for students with learning and other disabilities. Key provisions include the right to a free and appropriate education, placement in the least restrictive environment, and active parent participation. Additionally, IDEA establishes crucial safeguards to ensure these rights are upheld, fostering an inclusive and equitable educational landscape. #IDEA #SpecialEducation #InclusiveEducation #EducationalEquity #BallouEducation
Your Child’s Rights: 6 Principles of IDEA - Smart Kids
http://www.smartkidswithld.org
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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that children with disabilities receive the special education services they need to access a quality education. Established as federal law in 1990, with roots tracing back to 1975’s Education for All Handicapped Children Act, IDEA guarantees the right to FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) for eligible students. This right is further protected by civil rights laws such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Understanding the history and principles of IDEA is crucial for advocating for students' rights. Learn more about this important legislation and its impact on education. #IDEA #SpecialEducationAdvocacy #SPED #ParentSupport #BallouEducation
IDEA: The Foundation of Special Education
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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that children with disabilities receive the special education services they need to access a quality education. Established as federal law in 1990, with roots tracing back to 1975’s Education for All Handicapped Children Act, IDEA guarantees the right to FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) for eligible students. This right is further protected by civil rights laws such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Understanding the history and principles of IDEA is crucial for advocating for students' rights. Learn more about this important legislation and its impact on education. #IDEA #SpecialEducationAdvocacy #SPED #ParentSupport #BallouEducation
IDEA: The Foundation of Special Education
https://wapave.org
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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a cornerstone of special education, providing vital protections for students with learning and other disabilities. Key provisions include the right to a free and appropriate education, placement in the least restrictive environment, and active parent participation. Additionally, IDEA establishes crucial safeguards to ensure these rights are upheld, fostering an inclusive and equitable educational landscape. #IDEA #SpecialEducation #InclusiveEducation #EducationalEquity #BallouEducation
Your Child’s Rights: 6 Principles of IDEA - Smart Kids
http://www.smartkidswithld.org
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Co-founder Billion Strong | Empowering Young Innovators with Disabilities | Curator, "Green Disability" | Exploring Conscious AI for Social Change | Advaita Vedanta | SDGs 10 & 17 |
What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look for in a College Not all campuses may meet your standards for physical accessibility, so it’s important to do your research. Carefully research colleges that provide services to accommodate your needs. #AXSChat #WeAreBillionStrong #DisabilityInclusion #a11y #SDGs #Equity #EducationForAll https://lnkd.in/gaFv-rfJ
What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look for in a College
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CEO, Ruh Global IMPACT | Founder,Billion Strong | Global Disability Inclusion & Accessibility Strategist | CoHost of AXSChat | Global Women of Influence | 3x Author | US State Speaker | AI4Good | Tech4Good | Collaborator
We understand the significance of finding a college that not only meets but exceeds standards for physical accessibility for students with disabilities. The journey to higher education should be an empowering one, where all students are allowed to thrive, not just survive. When looking for a college, students with physical #disabilities should prioritize institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to accessibility. This includes not only physical access to buildings, classrooms, and dormitories but also access to adaptive technology, inclusive recreational activities, and comprehensive health services that accommodate specific needs. Research is key. Start with the college's official website, looking for their disability services page, which should outline the support and accommodations available. However, don't stop there. Reach out to current students or alumni with disabilities through social media or forums to get firsthand accounts of their experiences. These insights can be invaluable in understanding how well a college truly supports its students. Campus visits are crucial. If possible, visit the colleges on your list to assess their accessibility firsthand. Pay attention to details such as the availability of accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and automatic doors, as well as the condition and navigability of pathways and facilities. Don't overlook the importance of an inclusive academic environment. Colleges should offer flexible learning options, including accessible course materials, assistive technology, and alternative assessment methods, to ensure all students can participate fully in their education. Finally, consider the college's culture and community. An inclusive, welcoming community is essential for fostering a sense of belonging. Look for colleges with active disability advocacy groups and events focused on promoting awareness and inclusivity. Choosing a college is a significant decision, and for students with physical disabilities, it involves considering a range of factors that go beyond academic offerings. By focusing on accessibility, support services, and community, you can find a college that not only accommodates your needs but also champions your success. At Billion Strong, we believe in empowering individuals to make informed choices about their education, advocating for a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilityconfident #AXSChat #WeAreBillionStrong #educationforall #collegesanduniversities
Co-founder Billion Strong | Empowering Young Innovators with Disabilities | Curator, "Green Disability" | Exploring Conscious AI for Social Change | Advaita Vedanta | SDGs 10 & 17 |
What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look for in a College Not all campuses may meet your standards for physical accessibility, so it’s important to do your research. Carefully research colleges that provide services to accommodate your needs. #AXSChat #WeAreBillionStrong #DisabilityInclusion #a11y #SDGs #Equity #EducationForAll https://lnkd.in/gaFv-rfJ
What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look for in a College
usnews.com
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The U.S. Department of Education is investing in helping young people with disabilities move from K-12 schools to post-secondary programs and the workforce. Here's how that's expected to roll out. #EWTopReadsoftheWeek
These Grants Could Help Students With Disabilities Access Jobs, Training
edweek.org
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Founder and Director, Accessible College~Former University Administrator~Fulrbight Fellow~Returned Peace Corps Volunteer
✊🏼 Students with disabilities are pushing for change on their campuses! "....However, freshman Mason Hoey, an SGA senator dedicated to increasing disability diversity, proposed a resolution to update the disability maps after spotting about 50 inaccuracies within the map." 👊🏼 Students with disabilities know that disability is an aspect of diversity on campus and like many other minority groups, their needs are often overlooked. "...While it has to be considered that updating older buildings can have legal issues, the university should look for other solutions to accommodate this minority group. Overall, disability services at JMU need attention. ODS does its best with the funds it receives. However, as a minority group, it seems they are overlooked." 👉🏼 This opinion piece from James Madison University's student paper, talks about what students with disabilities on campus are facing, and how they hope to make improvements: https://lnkd.in/dkEfvaqH #College #Disability #Accessibility #Access #DEI #Inclusion #HigherED
Opinion | JMU lacks accessibility implementation; students struggle to receive accommodations
breezejmu.org
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Understanding Due Process in Your Child's Special Education The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates due process procedures for children enrolled in special education programs. This ensures fair and informed decision-making regarding your child's educational needs. What is Due Process? Due process outlines a formal set of policies and procedures that schools and districts must follow. These procedures are typically detailed in your district's procedural safeguards statement, sometimes referred to as "parent rights." Why is Due Process Important? Due process empowers you to participate in your child's educational journey. By understanding these procedures, you can ensure: Your child receives a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) as mandated by IDEA. Decisions regarding your child's special education program are made fairly and with your input. You have resources and avenues to address any concerns you may have. Taking Action: Locate your school district's procedural safeguards statement and familiarize yourself with the due process procedures. If you have questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Ballou Education. #SpecialEducationLaw #IDEA #DueProcess #BallouEducation
Due Process Aims to Give Special Needs Youth Appropriate Education
verywellfamily.com
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As the new school year approaches, students with disabilities may be facing the dilemma of whether or not to disclose their disability. Check out this insightful post from Beyond the Classroom that explores the challenges and considerations involved in this decision. #InclusiveEducation #DisabilityAwareness #BackToSchool #HigherEducation
Five Things to Help You Understand Disability Disclosure for College Students
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Kristy- thank you for the resources, but more importantly, thank you for sharing your story! We need more acknowledgement of the lived experiences educators bring to their classrooms, and how that can connect with the students we teach.