LDA Newsbriefs | May/June 2013 | Learning Disabilities ...

NEWSBRIEFSAN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE LEARNING DISABILITIES ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

LDA NEWSBRIEFS MAY/JUNE 20131

Volume 48, No. 3 May/June 2013

“C is for cookie, t h a t ’ s g o o d enough for me,” s i n g s C o o k i e M o n s t e r o n Sesame Street. If the same concept i s a p p l i e d t o children, cookie i s n o t g o o d enough for me. Chi ldren, l ike cookies, develop f r o m v a r i o u s ingredients. The basic ingredients for cookie dough

are flour, sugar, butter, while the basic ingredients for good education of children are rigor, relevancy, and relationships—and should be of the finest quality in order to build the basic foundations. However, as cookie ingredients may vary cookie to cookie, such as chocolate chips or c innamon, each s tudent requires varying methods, strategies, and opportunities for instruction, on the appropriate level, using his or her own strengths and abilities in order to supply the ingredients to achieve academic growth and success. As John F. Kennedy once said, “Not every child has an equal talent or an equal ability or equal motivation, but, children have the equal right to develop their talent, their ability, and their motivation.” A glimpse of my childhood is necessary in order to really understand my deeply rooted philosophy about teaching. I spent my early years, until age of 18, either in and out of various homeless shelters, bus stations, or foster homes. In one large foster care facility when I was 12 years old, I met a young girl, around 8 years old, on a playground. She spoke with a stutter and it was nearly impossible to understand her; as a matter of fact, no one tried to do

so. I remember vividly standing under a tree on the playground on a warm sunny day, listening to her speak; after all, it was the polite thing to do, regardless of her speech impediment. After our short, but laborious, conversation, she began to cry and explained the reasons for her tears. “No one ever bothered to listen to me before,” she cried. The simplicity of the act—simply listening and encouraging—left such an impact on the recipient, and consequently, on the listener. I learned, in that moment, the impact of encouragement and active listening, something that has carried over into teaching children many years later. As a nomadic homeless or foster child, my classroom at school became the steady and the constant in my life. School was my oasis, my shelter, my haven. My classroom teacher became my mother, my guide, my mentor. When I began teaching, I vowed that I would strive to have a classroom built on that same mutual trust, respect, and safety. My classroom would be a place of security; somewhere to try new things, take risks, learn to fly, but with a net in place to catch you when you fall. One opportunity I was given to show encouragement and good instruction was to a fifth grade student from Dynard Elementary School who jumped three years growth in reading under my instruction over the course of one year. My student jumped from a second grade reading level to a fifth grade level on an end-of-the-year informal reading inventory. She was immensely proud when she found out her progress; subsequently I called home and left a message on the answering machine. My student’s mother told me later that the family kept my message on the machine for a full year and would frequently play it. I also believe that teachers and parents need nurturing as well as the

students, which is why I have been the social committee chairperson or on the social committee for nearly all my years of service. Attitudes are contagious. At the schools that I have worked, under my leadership, we have had secret pals among the staff, leaving small notes and gifts to each other to encourage or boost each other; provided dinners or flowers to those who are ill; celebrated staff birthdays, etc. Parents, on the other hand, need to know, not just that their child’s teacher care and love them, but also are adequately trained to respond to their various needs. Recent involvement and discussions during meetings of the Citizens’ Advisory Committee for Special Education has made a powerful impact on my thinking towards this. Encouragement for parents as well as students makes a great impact on the students’ lives and ability to learn. In conclusion, all children CAN and WILL learn, albeit not at the same rate or at the same time. Children are not gingerbread men, cut out of the same cookie cutter with the same cookie dough recipe. My students come from a variety of backgrounds and homes, each with their own individual cookie dough recipe and uniquely shaped cookie cutter. It is my vocation, my calling, to discover this unique cookie cutter shape and dough recipe, design an educational plan (using only the best ingredients), and encourage, teach, love and “bake” until done. And then… give those sweet smelling freshly baked cookies away.

Cookie and Children

Elizabeth B. (Lisa) PowellLDA of America Sam Kirk Educator of the Year 2013St. Mary’s County Public Schools, Maryland

One test of the correctness of educational

procedure is the happiness of the child.

Maria Montessori


Newsbriefs Published five times a year in January, March, May, September, and November by LDA, Learning Disabilities Association of America, ISSN 0739-909X. Subscription: $15.00 per year. Single copies of Newsbriefs may be obtained for $8.00 per copy. Change of address, new subscription orders, advertising, articles, and inquiries should be sent to: LDA, 4156 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234. Please include mailing label with all change of address notifications. LDA replaces ACLD and ACLD, Inc., and Learning Disabilities Association replaces Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities. Articles, written in non-technical language, should be submitted to Newsbriefs by E-mail to [email protected]. Please insert the word Newsbriefs in the subject line along with the article title. Articles should not be longer than 750 words. All material received for Newsbriefs must contain complete contact information, including phone number. Material published in Newsbriefs may be reproduced without permission provided credit is given to Newsbriefs and LDA, 4156 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234. It is the policy of LDA to use the phrase children (adults, persons, etc.) with learning disabilities rather than learning disabled children, etc. LDA reserves the right to edit copy to comply with our policy. Newsbriefs advertising is carried as a service to the reader. LDA does not endorse any product, system, or service advertised in its newsletter. The viewpoints expressed by contributors and advertisers are their own. Newsbriefs reserves the right to reject any material or advertising. Shirley Hilts-Adams,

Editor

Table of ContentsCookie and Children .................................................1

Cuando el Aprendizaje es un Problema (When Learning is a Problem) ..............................................2

Emergency Preparedness ........................................ 2

President’s Message ..................................................3

Fiscal Issues Dominate DC Debates .........................4

How to Donate to Support LDA’s Mission ...............5

Across the States .......................................................6

Information for Independence: A Wealth of Resources Are Just a Click Away ..............................8

Affiliate Support/Membership ..................................9

2014 Call for Proposals .............................................9

Nominating Committee Seeks Candidates ..............10

Benefits of Membership ..........................................11

Looking for Information? .......................................12

AASA and Parents’ Rights under IDEA .................12

Healthy Children Project .........................................13

Summer Camp Information ....................................14

Changes to GED Test ..............................................14

Webinars of Interest Housed on LDA's Website .....15

Cuando el Aprendizaje es un

Problema

LDA is pleased to announce we have re-cently had our informative brochure When Learning is a Problem translated into

Spanish. We would like to thank Maria Valdez, In-clusion kindergarten teacher from Field Elementa-ry School in Pasadena, Calif., and Christina Mat-thew, Spanish teacher from Wooster High School in Wooster, Ohio, for their hours of time dedicated to this translation project. We would also like to thank Pat Lillie, Immediate Past President of LDA, Mike Helman, President of LDA of New York, and Judy McKinley, President of LDA of Los Angeles, for their efforts on this project. Both the English and Spanish versions of this brochure can be found on LDA’s website, www.ldaamerica.org/.

Emergency Preparedness

The last six months have been a time of devastating rainstorms, tor-nados, hurricanes, floods, fires, and now, springtime blizzards. Most of us think, “That can’t or won’t happen where we live.

We’re safe here.” Thousands of others have thought the same thing and, as a result, have been woefully unprepared for emergencies. One of the key measures in the recovery process is to have copies of all identification for each family member, driver’s license or ID card; Social Security card; credit and bank cards, as well as recent bank records; insurance policies; military discharge papers; house deeds; latest tax re-turn; Wills; and any other important papers that might assist you in emer-gency situations. The Red Cross recommends that these important papers be stored in waterproof and fireproof containers. For additional tips, visit the website for the American Red Cross, www.RedCross.org.

Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and

techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.

Sidney Hook


LDA celebrated its 50th anniver-sary at its Con-

ference in San Antonio in February, 2013. The Conference was a great success, with a wide range of excellent ses-sions. The level of ded-ication of LDA’s vol-unteers is impressive, from our Conference

and Program Committees that planned and implemented the successful 2013 Confer-ence to our Board of Directors and Profes-sional Advisory Board. LDA addresses many issues facing in-dividuals with learning disabilities at any given time, but, currently, I would like to focus on an emerging student privacy issue on which LDA has initiated a response at national, state, and local levels. A number of states are participating in submitting individual student public school records, including name, address, social security number, and disability informa-tion for inclusion in a national database (inBloom), a project initially funded by the Gates Foundation. The states are: Colora-do, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, and North Carolina. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has taken the position that parental consent is not needed, under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FER-PA), for the transfer of this information. DOE issued Final Regulations January 3, 2012, amending FERPA, including defi-nitions of "authorized representative" and "directory information" to be broad and al-low dissemination of a greater amount of student information without parental con-sent. Previously, in 2008, the definition of "school official" had been broadened to in-clude, for example, contractors. The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) in Washington, DC, has filed suit against DOE. EPIC takes the po-

sition that the Final Regulations constitute an amendment of FERPA definitions with-out needed Congressional approval and are a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. The relief sought essentially is for the Court to hold unlawful and set aside the regulations. LDA will continue to monitor the legal action and provide information updates. In the meantime, parents have con-cerns. If the intention is to collect data to improve educational approaches, there would not appear to be a need for the per-sonal information. There is the potential for use beyond the immediately planned use. Further, under FERPA, a student, upon completing school, has the option to request removal of data in his/her file, ex-cept for the basics - such as transcript. That could be meaningless if all of the data has been sent on to a national database. What can parents do now to protect the privacy of their children's records? Parents might send e-mails and letters to their State legislators to express their views on the importance of privacy of the personal in-formation of their children. Your state leg-islators’ addresses can be determined and accessed through website thomas.loc.gov/home/thomas.php, under More Legisla-tive Information, click on State Legislature Websites.

Below are two model letters.

Model letter 1 - For use in states that par-ticipate in disseminating private student in-formation to the national database (Colora-do, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, and North Carolina.) Dear _____ As the parent of a child in the pub-lic school system, I care very much that personal information about my child con-tained in education records not be released to any other parties, including contractors operating databases.

I understand that the State of ____ is participating in disseminating personal in-formation about students within the State to a national database, without the consent of the parents of these students. Such private information includes: student name, ad-dress, social security number, testing data, disability information, and other similar private information. I oppose participation by the State of ____ in this dissemination of personal stu-dent information and urge that, at the very least, all parents be offered the right, on be-half of their children, to opt out of partici-pation in dissemination of personal student information and to thereby maintain the privacy of all of the personal information in the educational records of their children. Please note that this dissemination of student personal information without pa-rental consent is being challenged in court. The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) in Washington, DC has filed suit against the U. S. Department of Education (DOE). EPIC takes the position that DOE has improperly issued regulations to broad-en certain definitions in the Federal Edu-cational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) in order to allow greater personal student information to be transferred to contrac-tors, such as the national database. EPIC is requesting the Court to hold unlawful and set aside these DOE regulations. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, _______________________Print Name: Address: Model letter 2 - for use in states that cur-rently do not participate in disseminating private student information to the national database (states other than those listed un-der Model Letter 1 above)

Pat LathamLDA President

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGEcontinued on page 5


Myrna Mandlawitz, Esq.LDA Policy Director

School district budgeting happens in March and April for the following school year. Beginning last year and

carrying over to this year, school districts have had to develop budgets that take into account sequestration cuts, five percent across-the-board cuts to all discretionary "programs, projects, and activities" funded by the federal government. This includes education, health, social services, and job training and all other federally funded programs. These cuts were enacted by Congress as part of the Budget Control Act of 2011 to address the large federal deficit. Implementation of sequestration, originally scheduled to go into effective on January 1, 2013, was delayed until March 1. Now after close to two months, the impact of these cuts is beginning to be felt.

Impact on Services Education programs are mostly forward funded. This means that federal education dollars are sent to school districts in July rather than in January. Therefore, most school districts will feel the direct hit of sequestration in the summer leading up to the opening of the 2013-14 school year. However, a few education programs are funded on a calendar year. The Impact Aid program in particular has already felt the brunt of the across the board cuts. Impact Aid provides reimbursement to school districts in place of tax revenues for services districts provide to children living on tribal lands, in federal low-income housing, and whose parents are in the military or are civilians working on federal property. These districts have already been impacted since Impact Aid checks were sent out in January. Another program already seriously impacted is Head Start. This is of major concern to the Learning Disabilities Association since a large number of young children with disabilities are served in Early Head Start and Head Start programs. No less than 10 percent of children served in each Head Start program must be children with disabilities. A representative of Head Start must participate on the Part C (IDEA program for Infants and Toddlers) State Interagency Coordinating Council, and Head Start must have formal linkages and coordinate with State agencies administering Part C and the IDEA Preschool program.

It is estimated that under sequestration approximately 70,000 children will lose access to Head Start services. According to a memo dated March 1, 2013, from the Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, "The first priority for all programs is to maintain a high quality of service provided to children and families and to ensure their health and safety." Providers are directed to "minimize disruptions to currently enrolled children for this program year," even as they look ahead to enrollment and workforce reductions for the coming year. In addition to cuts in direct services, money also will be cut for training and technical assistance.

Cuts to IDEA School districts will feel the hit on IDEA funding when checks arrive from the U.S. Department of Education in July. It is estimated that $600 million will be cut from the State Grant Part B program for children in grades K-12. These cuts could translate to a loss of around 7,200 jobs, which in turn will mean strains on provision of services. Since the IDEA mandates services for students as directed by IEP teams, fewer federal dollars might mean fewer services included on IEPs, fewer hours of needed therapies, or states – with already tight budgets – having to find more resources to make up the loss in federal funds.

What Can You Do? LDA works in a large coalition, NDD United, representing programs across the spectrum of activities funded by the federal government. NDD United supports a balanced approach to deficit reduction involving some strategic cuts but also raising additional revenues. LDA encourages members to let their senators and representatives know about the impact of these cuts on their families – for birth-12 and higher education, other postsecondary education and job training, vocational rehabilitation, or any other federally funded services to individuals with learning disabilities. Information from constituents is critical to ensuring members of Congress understand these across the board cuts are not the best way to reduce the deficit and, in fact, hinder the ability of individuals with learning disabilities and their families to receive services that allow them to enjoy healthy and productive lives.

Fiscal Issues Dominate DC Debates

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Dear _____ As the parent of a child in the pub-lic school system, I care very much that personal information about my child con-tained in education records not be released to any other parties, including contractors operating databases. I understand that some States are par-ticipating in disseminating personal infor-mation about students within those States to a national database, without the consent of the parents of these students. Such per-sonal information includes: student name,

address, social security number, testing data, disability information, and other sim-ilar private information.

Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, _______________________Print Name: Address:

If you have questions concerning the privacy issue, you may contact your state LDA officers or e-mail LDA’s National of-fice at [email protected].

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGEcontinued from page 3

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How to Donate to Support LDA’s MissionPat LathamLDA President

Any and all donations to LDA are most appreciated and help support our important advocacy and

educational mission. You may donate on LDA’s website: www.ldaamerica.org or by mailing a check to LDA’s national office, 4156 Library Road, Suite 1, in Pittsburgh, PA 15234. I want to bring to your attention two innovative ways to donate to LDA: (1) a gift of appreciated stock, and (2) for individuals at least 70 1/2 years old who are receiving required minimum distributions out of IRAs, gifts out of IRAs. First, under tax law, you can donate appreciated stock to a charity and not pay the tax on the appreciation that would have been due if you sold the shares. For example, suppose you wish to donate $10,000 to a charity. You might consider using shares that you originally bought for $5,000, that you have owned for more than a year, and that now have a $5,000 unrealized gain, for a total value of $10,000. By donating the shares to LDA, you may deduct the full $10,000 value as a charitable deduction and not pay capital gains tax on the appreciation. Second, if you are at least 70 1/2 years old, you may make a gift to a charity out of a traditional IRA (up to $100,000). If you

are required to take a certain amount from a traditional IRA (termed a required minimum distribution or RMD), which amount is taxable income, then the gift to charity would reduce the taxable RMD by the amount of the gift. For example, if you have an RMD of $80,000 for 2013 and make a gift of $10,000 out of the IRA to a charity, then the taxable RMD for 2013 would be $70,000. Note that this is not reported as a charitable deduction, but, instead, the gift reduces the reportable taxable gross income. The gift must be transferred directly from the IRA to LDA. You should consult with the IRA custodian to obtain information as to transfer procedures. The information provided regarding these types of gifts is for general educational purposes and is not intended as legal, accounting, or financial advice. Individuals considering a gift should consult with professional advisers for advice as to whether or not such a gift is appropriate in their particular circumstances.

Always bear in mind that your own

resolution to succeed is more important than

any other.Abraham Lincoln


ACROSS THE STATES

Analisa Smith, State Presidents’ RepresentativeLeslie Rubinstein, Assistant State Presidents’ Representative

Our contact information:

• State President’s Representative – Analisa L. Smith (LDA of SC): [email protected]. • Assistant State President’s Representative – Leslie Rubinstein (LDA of NJ): [email protected].

In our efforts to promote advocacy and support for individuals with learning disabilities through efforts of our state

affiliates, representatives to the national board for LDA state affiliates and their presidents, Analisa and Leslie, have collected special affiliate happenings as shared below. Please feel free to contact

either of us with any thoughts or ideas that you might have. Each affiliate does many significant things in their communities. We would love to hear about what you are doing in your individual communities and the contributions you make in your state for individuals with LD. We hope to be a sounding board for your ideas as they are shared with other state affiliates. Make your state’s submissions for the next issue of Newsbriefs to either Analisa or Leslie at the e-mails listed above.

State ConferencesLDA of Utah held their annual state conference on March 15, 2013, at Weber State University. The conference was titled: Reaching and Teaching Individuals with Learning Disabilities, with Dr. Jerome Schultz as the keynote speaker.

LDA of Arkansas held its annual

conference at Pulaski Technical College on March 9. Professional educators and parents and individuals with learning disabilities were invited to attend the annual conference which was designed to help parents, teachers and other professionals learn the latest treatment and teaching strategies for individuals with learning disabilities. The conference featured Nancy Coffman, director of outreach and training for the Shelton School and Evaluation Center in Dallas.

Local State Happenings LDA of Utah offered an educational topic discussion group presented by Michelle Murphey, Utah Parent Center Consultant. The education group topic was Section 504-Services for Students in Public

ACROSS THE STATEScontinued on page 7

Schools. The group discussion focused on getting parents information to understand Section 504 and understanding the services available to students under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This workshop helped parents understand their role and responsibilities in working with school personnel. The workshop and materials were free.

LDA of Arkansas hosted a recent UPHOLD meeting entitled Dyslexia: Treatment and Resources. The meeting was presented by Dr. Tiffany Atkins Howell, Pediatric Psychology Fellow, Arkansas Children's Hospital.

LDA of Minnesota offers support groups for parents of teens and tweens with ADHD, and for adults with ADHD. The parent support group meets monthly and the ADHD adult group meets weekly in morning and evening sessions. Visit the website www.ldaminnesota.org for the calendar.

LDA of South Carolina is reaching out to the homeschool community. LDASC was a viable presence at the Great Southeast Homeschool Convention in SC. Information about learning disabilities, the Healthy Children’s project, and LDASC was distributed to parents and students at the Convention.

LDA of Kentucky has support group meetings on the last Thursday of each month for the ADHD/LD support group.

LDA of New Jersey has been involved in supporting bills being considered by the Assembly Education Committee that will require all public school kindergarten students be screened for dyslexia and other reading disabilities, require 20 hours of professional development for public school teachers to be devoted to reading disabilities, and require that the Department of Education provide professional opportunities related to reading disabilities to school district personnel.

LDA of Kansas is thrilled to announce a new series of events known as NED (Networking for Education and Disability).

This series of quarterly events that started 4.9.13 will provide attendees with an informal venue to network and socialize with other people in the field of LD and other disabilities. Each event will feature speakers who will speak about ongoing projects and ideas for empowering people in the field. NED Night One: Let's Get Social! featured speakers from the world of social skills development who spoke about their projects and opportunities.

ScholarshipsLDA of Iowa is offering three scholarships to current Iowa high school seniors who plan to enroll in postsecondary education for the 2013-2014 school year. Forms and information are available at http://www.lda-ia.org/Scholarships.htm.

LDA of North Carolina offers the Marco Camastra Memorial Scholarship each year to a NC high school student with LD/ADD who has been accepted to a university, college, community college, or technical school. The scholarship is given to a student who, despite the challenges of learning disabilities and/or attention disorders, has demonstrated persistence in academics; participated in school activities such as sports, music, art or drama; participated in community or church activities; and shown sensitivity to the needs or feelings of others. Information is available at http://www.ldanc.org/services.

Webinars/SeminarsLDA of Minnesota offered a webinar: Avoiding Video Game and Screen Time Addictions in Children with ADHD. The webinar was presented by Robin Nordmeyer on Wednesday, April 17, 2013. CEUs were available for $10. Avoiding Video Game and Screen Time Addictions in Children with ADHD focused on how gaming and screen time can interfere with life activities and priorities. This webinar’s goal was designed to help individuals understand how to create a balance between video games and life events. The workshop dealt with why video games can become addictive and considered strategies and options for keeping video game and computer time an enjoyable and reasonable experience for your family.

LDA of Kentucky is offering a seminar on Differentiated Instruction with Gayle Gregory on June 21, 2013. Information

can be found at http://www.ldaofky.org/Gayle%20Gregory%20registration%202013.pdf. The title of the seminar is Differentiated Instruction: One Size Doesn’t Fit All will be held at the Paroquet Springs Conference Center in Shepherdsville.

LDA of Georgia co-hosted with CHADD-GA an Atlanta Community Forum entitled ADHD at Home and in the Classroom. The event was recently held at Sophia Academy and was free to the public. Topics covered behavior management, innovative practices, and an expert panel’s answers to audience questions. Speakers included Anne Teeter Ellison, Mark Katz, and Sharon Weiss. Panelists included Ann Abramowitz, Marie Paxson, Steven Peer, and Joan K. Teach.

LDA of Pennsylvania offered a Spring Seminar on April 13, 2013, at the Holiday Inn of Pittsburgh/Monroeville entitled Overcoming Executive Dysfunction in Individuals with Learning Disabilities, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. The four-hour seminar was presented by leading psychologist, Dr. John Harvey, for parents and professionals.

The Learning Disabilities Association of New York State, Inc. is offering a series of comprehensive training programs to educate the general public, nurses, social workers and other health service professionals about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Topics include the causes and diagnoses of FASD, the impact of FASD, and strategies to manage persons with an FASD. “Our overall mission is to reduce the incidence of learning disability and other neurological impairments attributable to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.” Information can be found at http://www.ldanys.org/images/uploads/misc/1359126977_LDA%20FASD%20Registration%20Flyer.doc.

Lending LibrariesLDA of Oklahoma offers a video lending library for support groups, individuals, and schools to use. There is no rental charge for use of the videos in the lending library, but a refundable deposit is required. Videos offered cover a wide array of viewing materials. This is an excellent way to make


ACROSS THE STATEScontinued from page 6

ACROSS THE STATEScontinued on page 8


your affiliate resources available to local support groups and individuals with LD.

LDA of Nebraska offers a lending library of books and videos that are maintained in the LDA of Nebraska office in Omaha.

LDAN offers a comprehensive list of books and videos for parents, educators and individuals with learning disabilities and/or ADHD. Current members of LDAN may check out books and videos, by visiting the state affiliate office or fax or email contact, for up to a three week period. This is an excellent way to make your affiliate resources available to local support groups

and individuals with LD.

Sam Kirk AwardLDA of Illinois Board Member, Meg Carroll, was honored to receive the prestigious Sam Kirk Educator of the Year Award from the LDA of America in 2012. LDAIL is proud of Meg Carroll and her contributions to LDA.

ACROSS THE STATEScontinued from page 7

Ab l e D a t a a n d t h e N a t i o n a l R e h a b i l i t a t i o n I n f o r m a t i o n Center (NARIC) offer the most

comprehensive collection of information on almost every aspect of disability, including resources, assistive technology, research, and support organizations, and the best part is most people can access this information for free. Funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), NARIC and AbleData have served the disability and rehabilitation community for more than 35 years by providing information that is key to full participation for the disability community. Both serve people with disabilities, caregivers, researchers, educators, allied health professionals and others who provide support and services for people with disabilities.

“AbleData provides the public with free, objective information on assistive technology products and rehabilitation equipment,” said Katherine Belknap, AbleData Project Director. “We offer one of the most comprehensive listings of assistive products available and provide information on more than 40,000 products and 5,000 manufacturers and distributors.” The AbleData project also provides detailed descriptions of each product’s functions and features, price information (when available), and contact information for the product’s manufacturer and distributors. From reachers and wheelchairs to smartphone apps and modified vehicles, AbleData covers the entire range of assistive products, including custom adaptations, prototypes and do-it-yourself solutions. All of this information is

available for free from the AbleData.com, which also includes an extensive library of fact sheets, categorized lists of nearly 3,000 support organizations and resources, and the AT Literature database of over 11,000 research literature abstracts focused on assistive technology. Information specialists are available on AbleData’s toll-free information line, 800-227-0216, or via email at [email protected].

“NARIC is a full-service library and information center without walls,” said Mark Odum, NARIC Project Director. “Our online collection has more than 80,000 volumes of literature including journal articles, technical reports, and consumer-level materials fully available through the Internet. The NARIC project has paired these resources with innovative communication and dissemination services to be a catalyst in helping improve the lives of persons with disabilities.” NARIC’s staff members provide free information and referral for patrons on a wide range of disability and rehabilitation issues. Information specialists assist professionals in locating the latest research in the field, help service providers identify programs and services for their clients, and offer support and information to people with disabilities and their caregivers so they can remain independent. NARIC.com features three searchable databases, including the REHABDATA index of disability and rehabilitation literature, along with information resource brochures, topic-specific newsletters, and browsable resource lists. Patrons can connect with NARIC information specialists in English and Spanish by toll-free phone at 800/346-

2742, email at [email protected], and by chat and social media at naric.com.

NIDRR operates under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS); it is the main federal agency that supports applied research, training, and development to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Accomplishing NIDRR's mission is a first step on the journey toward ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to participate fully in every aspect of society. NIDRR’s staff and its grantees are committed to generating new knowledge and promoting its effective use in improving the ability of people with disabilities to perform activities of their choice in the community and expanding the nation’s capacity to provide full opportunities and accommodations for its citizens with disabilities. Through NARIC and AbleData, NIDRR fulfills this commitment by providing the public, and especially the disability community, with two sources for reliable information.

Together, AbleData and NARIC provide the public with information on more than 100,000 products and resources, and they are available online for free and in print at no or low cost. People can turn to AbleData and NARIC for the latest in assistive and rehabilitation technology, new research in rehabilitation treatments and interventions, and referral to quality support organizations and services in their local area.

AbleData and NARIC Press Release of April 18, 2013.

Information for Independence: A Wealth of Resources Are Just a Click Away


Ernie FlorenceCo-Chairman

Membership in LDA has been an important par t of my life since the 1980’s. The

information and support from my local and state affiliates as well as the national organization have enriched my knowledge about learning disabilities. There are so many reasons to have a membership in LDA. These include the information received through Newsbriefs, Stateline E-News, News-in-Brief, and THE LD SOURCE, the advocacy provided at all levels, the many fine conferences and workshops offered, as well as so many other things. I have received personal support through the many great friendships I have made with other members. These are all things that people are aware of. There are also other ways in which LDA has made a difference in my life, and in the lives of those around me, that often go unnoticed.

Recently something happened that touched me deeply and my membership in LDA is at the heart of it. In 2004, during the time I was a special education teacher

in Naperville, Illinois, a very special student was placed in my classroom. He responded quite well to the program and remained in my classroom for two years. He left and went on to junior high and exited from the special education program while there. I remained in contact with him and often attended his plays and musical productions. He is now a senior in high school and graduates this spring. He has been accepted by, and will be attending, the University of Illinois in the fall of 2013.

At the request of his mother, I had gone to their home several times and assisted them in filling out necessary documentation for the university as well as financial aid information. Even though he has received multiple scholarships and financial aid, additional funding was still needed. His mother was unable to come up with the additional funding and was even unsure as where she would find the money for the down payment for housing and tuition. Needless to say, she was heartbroken.

After talking with her, I called my good friend, Connie Parr, who is the treasurer of my local LDA affiliate. I

explained the situation to her and inquired if she knew of any other resource this mother might turn to for financial aid. Immediately, Connie said she thought our local affiliate should provide some financial support. I then talked to our affiliate president, Penny Richards, and she reiterated what Connie had suggested. My local group has decided to donate $500 to this former student and his mother. When I called his mother to tell her of the donation, she was in tears. She now has the money for the down payment and some additional funds left over for some of the many other college expenses. This would not have happened had I not been a member of LDA. This young man’s life has been touched through my membership in LDA

I truly feel that LDA has impacted my life as well as the lives of those around me in countless ways. I encourage anyone who is not a member to join today and become part of an organization that makes a difference. If you are already a member, make sure you renew your membership and encourage your friends and colleagues to join. LDA makes a difference!

Affiliate Support/Membership Committee

Learning Disabilities Association of America is seeking submissions for the 2014 Conference to be held

in Anaheim, CA, February 19-22, 2014. Anyone wishing to present a paper, conduct a workshop, provide an informational session, or make a formal presentation is invited to submit a proposal. LDA values sessions that present current and best practices, including basic information about the nature of learning disabilities as well as innovative approaches to advocacy, assessment, intervention, and instruction. Also sought are sessions that present new ways to ensure successful transition, utilize assistive technology, access the general curriculum, provide

a continuum of services, and foster productive adulthood. Of particular interest are hands-on practical techniques for Table Talk and reports of research for Poster Sessions. A special focus will be placed on research best practices and skill building of both children and adults in culturally diverse populations. It is expected that basic and advanced presentations will be offered to provide both new and experienced conference attendees current information and opinion on both continuing and evolving topics of interest and concern. Please note that presenters are limited to one major presentation and that sessions may not promote commercial products and/

or services. Deadl ine for submiss ions i s May 31, 2013. Individuals interested in having a proposal considered for the Anaheim Conference should go to www.LDAAmerica.org and follow the steps for completing and submitting online.

2014 Call for ProposalsLDA 51st Annual International Conference

In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than

your fear of failure.Bill Cosby


Davis Dyslexia Correction®

To find a Licensed Davis Facilitator:Go to www.davismethod.org

or call 1-888-999-3324For information about professional training:

Check www.davistraining.orgor call 1-888-805-7216

Davis is a counseling-based approachwhich uses the natural creative strengthsof dyslexic learners to address problemswith reading, math, and attention focus.

For more information or to orderDavis books or kits, go to:

dyslexia,the giftwww.dyslexia.com

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The LDA Nominating Committee is looking for a few good men and women to develop a slate of officers

and board of directors to be presented to the LDA 2014 Assembly of Delegates Meeting in Anaheim, California. The Nominating Committee is looking for candidates with leadership and teambuilding skills as prospective leaders of our organization. A commitment to work for the goals of LDA is a requirement for those who will fill these positions. Nominating Forms will be distributed soon. Your help is needed to find worthy candidates and to submit completed applications to the Nominating Committee. This year, the Nominating Committee is charged with selecting a new President

for LDA, plus the Officers who will comprise the Executive Committee. The Board of Directors is the governing body of LDA that enacts policies, adopts plans, monitors programs and services, and sets priorities of the organization subject to the approval of the Assembly of Delegates. Prospective Members must be LDA members in good standing. Board responsibilities include attending board meetings, helping to establish the organization’s policy, serving on and/or chairing committees, and working to further the goals of LDA. Board members may be called upon to contact legislators to express LDA’s position or to represent LDA in meetings with other stakeholder organizations.

Nominating Committee Chairman, Sandra Britt, is asking each state Affiliate to search its membership and make recommendations to the Nominating Committee. We are very interested in having people serve who have taken an active role at the local/state level. We want input from the state and local levels as we fill important positions within our Organization.

Nominating Committee Seeks Candidates

Do what you can,with what you have,

where you are.Theodore Roosevelt


Benefits of MembershipThe Learning Disabilities Association of America believes that every person with learn-ing disabilities can succeed in school, at work, in relationships, and within the community -- when provided the right supports and the right opportunities.

Join LDA in creating those opportunities!• LDA is the voice for people with learning

disabilities of all ages and their families. • LDA is the leading advocate for laws and

policies that create opportunities for people with learning disabilities.

• LDA is a leader in promoting research into the nature and causes of learning disabilities.

What LDA Offers:• At the national, state and local levels, LDA

provides cutting edge information on learn-ing disabilities, practical solutions, and a comprehensive network of resources.

• LDA provides support to people with learn-ing disabilities, their families, teachers and other professionals.

Benefits of Membership:• Support through local and state groups and

workshops • Advocacy through assistance, training and

information • Information via a toll-free call-in line, 888-

300-6710• Resources on LDA website for parents,

teachers, professionals, adults, and those new to learning disabilities

• Information on learning disabilities and topics of interest, including advocacy efforts, sent to all state and local affiliates via a monthly e-newsletter, Stateline E-News

• News briefings of the week’s top stories on learning disabilities and related topics via THE LD SOURCE, a free, opt-in e-mail resource

• News from Washington - monthly reports on legislative issues via News-in-Brief

• Newsbriefs - LDA’s comprehensive national newsletter published five times a year; archived copies are available on the web site back to 2003

• Comprehensive Web site featuring exclu-sive Members area with access to leading experts and online training

• Discounts on registration for state and national LDA conferences and workshops

• Discount subscription to Learning Disabilities: A Multidisciplinary Journal, a peer-reviewed journal published three times a year

• Access to Professional Liability, General Liability and Abuse and Molestation defense coverage, at a reduced rate, for members in private practice

Membership:As an advocacy organization, membership is what keeps LDA thriving and allows our voices and those of the children and families whom we serve to be heard. The support we receive through membership in LDA enables us to:• Unite individuals, families and professionals

who have a shared commitment to individu-als with learning disabilities.

• Raise awareness about learning disabilities among policymakers and the public at large.

• Advocate to preserve, enhance and expand access to services for children and adults with learning disabilities.

• Represent the needs and interests of chil-

dren and adults with learning disabilities to regulatory and policy-making entities.

• Create and distribute policy and position statements and public testimony on various aspects of policies that impact the lives of children and adults with learning disabilities.

• Develop Action Alerts on crucial National legislation.

• Collaborate with professional and advocacy organizations on public policy on a national level.

08.09.2012

LDA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION PLEASE COMPLETE ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION SO THAT WE CAN PROCESS YOUR MEMBERSHIP– THANK YOU!

___________________________________________________ Member Name ___________________________________________________ Street Address ___________________________________________________ City State Zip ___________________________________________________ Telephone Number ___________________________________________________ Email Address

Membership dues as shown by member’s state $___________

Tax deductible donation to LDA $___________

Member’s only discount price ($45/year) for 1-year subscription to the LDA Journal “Learning Disabilities: A Multidisciplinary Journal” $___________

TOTAL enclosed $___________

I want to help but don’t need a membership at this time. Please accept my gift of: ____ $100 ____$75 ____ $50 ____ $ 35 ____$25 ____ Other

Annual membership dues entitling you to

membership in LDA at the National, State

and Local level: $25 Student Membership

*Paper application accepted only and must include verification of age.

$30 Alabama Alaska Delaware D.C. Florida Idaho Louisiana Massachusetts Mississippi Montana Nevada

New Mexico North Dakota Puerto Rico Rhode Island Tennessee Vermont West Virginia Wyoming $35 Kentucky

Maine Ohio Texas Virginia

$40 Arizona

Connecticut Georgia Iowa Indiana Kansas Nebraska New Hampshire New Jersey

$45 Arkansas

California Foreign Member Minnesota Missouri Oklahoma South Carolina South Dakota Utah Wisconsin

$50 Colorado

Hawaii Illinois Maryland Michigan New York North Carolina Oregon Pennsylvania Washington

Mail completed form to: LDA

4156 Library Rd. Suite 3 Pittsburgh, PA 15234

Method of Payment

Check #: OR

C. Card #: CVC Code: ___________ Expiration Date: Signature:

Note: LDA does not accept Purchase Orders for Membership Dues or subscription to the LDA Journal “Learning Disabilities: A

Multidisciplinary Journal”

LDA NEWSBRIEFS 12 MAY/JUNE 2013

American Association of School Administrator’s (AASA) and Parents’ Rights under IDEA

AASA recently released a report on resolution of disputes between parents and school districts. AASA

believes that now is the time to rethink how parents and districts resolve disputes over a student’s individualized education program (IEP)…This report is intended to promote a dialogue between education organizations, parent and disability advocacy groups and policymakers…recommendations reflect a starting point for members of Congress and advocates to consider and discuss as we prepare for the next IDEA reauthorization…AASA has begun to compile recommendations for the next re-authorization of IDEA and Rethinking the Special Education Due Process

System, is the first report in our series that addresses problems with the current statute as well as proposed improvements. The proposal would prohibit attorneys or advocates in the Mediation process. If mediation fails, the district and parents would jointly select an independent, neutral special education consultant designated by the state to review evidence of the child’s disability and advise the parties on how to devise a suitable compromise IEP. The report can be downloaded from http://www.aasa.org/. LDA is monitoring the situation and will keep the membership advised through Stateline E-News, News-in-Brief, and if necessary, Critical Updates.

Looking for Information?Shirley Hilts-Adams, Co-ChairmanLDA Public Policy Committee

The Learning Disabilities Association of America website contains a wealth of information. Various

position papers, articles, and information sheets are archived on the website as well as the organization’s newsletter, Newsbriefs, dating back to 2003. If you’re seeking information on advocacy, bullying, counseling, dysgraphia, legislation, literacy, motor skills, sensorimotor integration, tactile defensiveness, or other topics related to learning disabilities, the information is as close as the search window at www.ldaamerica.org. Federal or state legislative information can be accessed via the Library of Congress at thomas.loc.gov/home/thomas.php. In addition to the U.S. House of Representatives and the U. S. Senate, the Congressional Record, Committee Reports, Summary of Bills and their status, and Current Activity can all be accessed. Your state legislature can be reached under the menu item, More Legislative Information.

Click on State Legislature Websites and select your state. State Boards of Education, the link between State Legislatures and State Depar tmen t s o f Educa t ion /Pub l i c Instruction, can be accessed through www.nasbe.org/about-us/state-boards-of-education/. State Departments of Education, with links to state education agencies, key state contacts, information centers, service organizations, press releases, and statistical information can be found at www2.ed.gov/about/contacts/state/index.html. State School Board Associations can be found at www.nsba.org. These associations determine state education legislative items to be pursued or lobbied for or against, based on local school district delegates’ votes at annual meetings. They also provide training for school board members, policy guidance, and assist in searches for district superintendents. The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities is …a central source of information on disabilities in infants, toddlers, children and youth.

Of particular help is a booklet entitled Communicating with Your Child’s School Through Letter Writing, and the Spanish version, Comunicándose con la Escuela: Una Introducción al Arte de Escribir Cartas. Comprehensive State Resource Sheets that list disability agencies and organizations in each state are available at nichcy.org.

There is nofailure

except in no longer trying.

Elbert Hubbard


HEALTHY CHILDREN PROJECT

Maureen SwansonHealthy Children Project Director

April brought enormous strides forward for everyone working to protect children from toxic

chemical exposures. Here are three exciting developments that LDA is helping to promote.

Safe Chemicals Act In the second week of April, Senators Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Gillibrand (D-NY) re-introduced the Safe Chemicals Act, along with 27 Senate co-sponsors. The Act would require that chemicals be tested for health effects, and that the most toxic chemicals be removed from the market. Thank you to all the LDA members who contacted their Senators to provide LDA’s perspective on the Safe Chemicals Act. We will be continuing our advocacy efforts throughout the coming months through public events, meetings with policymakers, action alerts, letters to the editor, e-mails and opinion articles.

Mind the Store Also in April, the Safer Chemicals Healthy Families coalition (SCHF), launched a Mind the Store Campaign, aimed at getting the top 10 retailers in the country to use their considerable power to help eliminate the use of the 100 most hazardous chemicals in products they carry. LDA will be playing an active role in this “market campaign” so please watch for opportunities to add your voice. For more information on “Mind the Store” including a list of the retailers and what we’re asking of them, see: www.mindthestore.org.

American Academy of Pediatrics Finally, the American Academy of Pediatrics announced that they are endorsing the Safe Chemicals Act as the best way “to protect children from unhealthy chemical exposures,” according to the AAP press release. It is very unusual

for a major medication association to endorse a specific piece of legislation. The AAP’s endorsement greatly amplifies the chorus of health voices – including LDA’s – that are calling for safer chemical policies to protect developing brains and bodies. Below is the text of the AAP press release, as LDA believes it warrants sharing with our entire membership. We welcome every LDA member’s help in the coming weeks and months as we continue our work together.

American Academy of Pediatrics Endorses Legislation to Protect Children from Unhealthy Chemical Exposures Pediatricians commend Senators Lautenberg and Gillibrand’s efforts to prevent childhood exposures to toxic chemicals

Washington, DC—Today, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) endorsed the Safe Chemicals Act of 2013, a bill introduced by U.S. Senators Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) that would reform chemical management policy in the United States. “As they grow and develop, children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of chemicals in the environment,” said AAP President-Elect James Perrin, MD, FAAP. “Pediatricians commend Senators Lautenberg and Gillibrand for introducing the Safe Chemicals Act of 2013, which puts children’s health first and foremost by making needed improvements to current law.” Specifically, the Safe Chemicals Act of 2013 would give the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) new tools to protect children and families from toxic chemicals, including:

• Requiring chemical manufacturers to prove that new chemicals are safe before they enter the market

• Giving the EPA more authority to ban harmful chemicals, ensure the safety of

chemicals that are already in use and protect children and other vulnerable populations from chemical exposures

• Establishing a children’s environmental health research program and an independent advisory committee

These provisions represent a balanced approach to reforming the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the federal law that currently governs chemical production and use in the United States, which hasn’t been updated since it was passed in 1976. Since then, thousands of new chemicals have entered the market and widespread exposure has been well-documented, but under TSCA, the EPA has only limited authority to regulate unsafe chemicals. In fact, more than 80,000 chemicals are being used every day with inadequate data on their safety or how they impact children’s health. “Our current federal chemical management policy falls short for children,” said Dr. Perrin. “The Safe Chemicals Act of 2013 is a welcome and needed step toward protecting children and their families from harmful chemicals. The American Academy of Pediatrics looks forward to working with Senators Lautenberg and Gillibrand to move this important bill through the Senate.” The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.

We won't have a society if we

destroy the environment.

Margaret Mead


Rates for classified ads are as follows: $25.00 for 12 words or less and $1.00 for each additional word. Orders should be sent to LDA, 4156 Library Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15234. Payment must accompany the advertisement. Ads will be run in the issue following their receipt.

LIMIT 40 WORDS Closing dates for each issue are:January/February: December 15March/April: February 15May/June: April 15September/October: August 15November/December: October 15

CLASS IF IEDS

NADD Annual Conference and Exhibit ShowOctober 23-25, 2013Hyatt Regency Baltimore on the Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MDNADD Headquarters (845) 331-4336 [email protected]

LDA 51th Annual ConferenceFebruary 19-22, 2014Disneyland HotelAnaheim, [email protected]

CONFERENCECALENDAR

Your membership expiration date

appears on the mailing label of Newsbriefs.

The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) recently published a listing of summer

camp opportunities. Included in the listing are specialized camps for children with disabilities as well as general information on what to look for when seeking a camp for your child. Visit http://nichcy.org/publications/camps. Your child’s school, the municipal or county recreation departments, a local library, museum, college or university may have information on summer programs for children.

Summer Camp Info

The GED Testing Service announced that starting on January 2, 2014, there will be a new GED Test. The current version expires December 31, 2013. Test scores will expire if all parts of the test are

not finished by that date. Check the LDA website www.ldaamerica.org for additional information.

Changes to General Education Development (GED) Test.


It is the policy of LDA to use the phrase children (adults, persons, etc.) with learning disabilities rather than learning disabled children, etc. LDA reserves the right to edit copy other than copyrighted material to comply with this policy. Classified ads will be changed at no additional cost.

Webinars of Interest Housed on LDA's Website

For your convenience, LDA has archived three recent webinars in the Members Only section of our

website. These are available to our current members, free of charge. Log in and view when it's most suitable for you.

How to Prepare for an Emergency: What Every Parent and Adult with LD Needs to Know In this webinar, Marcie Roth, Director, Office of Disability Integration and Coordination, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), provides a briefing on FEMA’s disability integration efforts working with disability advocacy, services and support organizations, voluntary agencies and community groups, local, state, tribal and federal government, and the private sector to include individuals with communication, learning, sensory, mental health, cognitive, chronic health, chemical sensitivities, and other disabilities when preparing for emergencies, and during and after disasters. How to Successfully Address the Needs of Children with Learning Disabilities on A Systemic Basis

As advocates for children with learning disabilities, we spend most of our time helping and supporting families on an individual basis. This webinar, presented by Matt Cohen Esq., an attorney who specializes in disability law, will give you the ability to address systemic issues related to IDEA and Section 504 in your state. Cohen shows us how to file complaints with your state department of education as well as with the Office of Civil Rights at the federal level. With these additional tools in our toolbox we can begin to make systemic changes which will benefit all children with learning disabilities. Cohen also identifies key areas of difficulty in obtaining timely, appropriate evaluation and services for children with or suspected of having LD. He addresses legal arguments that may support changes in district or state procedures relative to these issues, particularly in relation to the impact of RTI. Influencing State Policy: You Can Make a Difference Whether you're a new state leader or an LDA veteran, this webinar with LDA Policy Director Myrna Mandlawitz will help you improve your advocacy skills on behalf of

individuals with learning disabilities. Topics include: 1) Building relationships with policymakers and their staff; 2) Best ways to communicate concerns and support; and 3) Developing partnerships with other community activists. To view these webinars, simply go to our website www.ldaamerica.org, and click the 'LDA Members Enter Here' blue button on the left side of the homepage. Then enter your member ID and password. It's that simple! If you have misplaced your member ID and/or password, please contact the national office at 412-341-1515, ext. 209, or via email at [email protected].

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to

continue that counts.Winston Churchill

LDALearning Disabilities Association

4156 Library RoadPittsburgh, PA 15234

(412) 341-1515

Email: [email protected]: www.ldaamerica.org

LDA’s Mission: To create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities and to reduce the incidence of learning disabilities in future generations.

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1260Pittsburgh, PA


2014 LDA International Conference_____________________Anaheim, CA

February 19-22

We’re going green!

LDA will be replacing its printed national newsletter with

an electronic one. Beginning January 2014, current mem-

bers with an active email address will receive the current

edition in their inbox. All newsletters still will be archived

in our “Members Only” section on the LDA website as well.

Please update your email address and stay informed.

Contact us TODAY and continue to receive

LDA Newsbriefs!

Stay informed! Be Involved 3 ways to contact us:

Visit our website and log into your LDA profile

www.ldaamerica.org

Call the National Office

(888)300-6710

Email us with your current email address

[email protected]

ACT TODAY! DON’T DELAY!

LDA Newsbriefs | May/June 2013 | Learning Disabilities ...

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