Hooray for Technology!

Technology is an incredible thing.  Why would you want to limit a student to merely using a "whiteboard and dry erase marker" when there are such phenomenal technologies available that can help open the world to a child with special needs?   We'll explore this topic more thoroughly in the next few weeks, but for today, here are a few things to keep you going.  

Apple (whom I adore but do not get any compensation from... apparently Oprah doesn't either as she had to beg to get iPads for her audience members) offers some of the most incredible technology on the market that affords individuals with special needs a door to the world that previously may have been locked tight.  

It is amazing to me as an advocate when I see how something as simple as a free application for the iPad can help a child -  who's diagnosis deems him "unteachable" - learn sight words.  Even more incredible is how an iPhone that is no longer being used by mom or dad can give a voice to a nonverbal child who experiences Autism, and completely change her life.  

I applaud Apple for their commitment to accessibility.  

And in the interest of Technology, here are a few other links you should check out!

The Parent Leadership Support Project is now on Facebook... Like the page and get the latest information on advocacy projects and learning opportunities in Georgia!   

Last but not least, The Right to Learn is now on Twitter.  Follow me! 

Find Me on Facebook!

Please "Like" the Right to Learn on Facebook!

Facebook - The Right to Learn

On Retention

'Tis the season for retention letters...

But before you agree to hold your child back, think about what that might mean.

If your child has an IEP, is he or she making progress on her goals?  If your child doesn't have an IEP but has been struggling, what is the school proposing they will do differently next year?  Has your child been evaluated?  Has the school indicated why they want to hold your child back?  What will retention mean for your child academically?  Socially? Emotionally?

Research indicates that retention is not the answer.  But don't just take my word for it.

http://www.wrightslaw.com/flyers/retain.promote.pdf

http://www.nasponline.org/about_nasp/pospaper_graderetent.aspx

If you or someone you know is being faced with a decision about retention, do some research, contact an advocate, and consider all of your options before you agree to retain your child.