Supported Decision Making
2023-04-24 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Zoom
The Lower Hudson Special Education Task Force is pleased to present a Zoom webinar on Supported Decision Making
What is Supported Decision-Making (SDM)?
Supported decision-making is a process in which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) build their own decision-making skills and develop a structure of support of trusted persons in their lives while retaining all their legal and civil rights. SDM has increasingly become recognized as a preferable and less restrictive alternative to guardianship.
Presented by: The Lower Hudson Special Education Task Force
Flyer and Registration: Click Here

Supported Decision Making: The Legal Perspective
2023-04-25 10:30 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us for a virtual panel discussion on Supported Decision Making (SDM). Hear from Westchester County Surrogate’s Court (which grants guardianship petitions in the county) and SDMNY (the organization which oversees facilitation of SDM projects in NY state).

What is Supported Decision Making, and what is the significance of New York’s Supported Decision-Making Act, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in the summer of 2022?
How does Supported Decision Making differ from guardianship?
What does Westchester Surrogate’s Court consider when recommending SDM after a guardianship petition is filed?

Panelists include:

Joy Beane, Court Attorney Referee, Westchester County Surrogate’s Court
Kristin Booth Glen, Professor and Dean Emerita at the City University of New York School of Law and Former Director of Supported Decision-Making New York (SDMNY)
Jody Keltz, Supervising Court Attorney, Westchester County Surrogate’s Court
Judge Brandon R. Sall, Surrogate, Westchester County

Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Virtual Parent Member Training, Part 2 of 2
2023-04-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Zoom
This four-hour parent member certification is for parents/families with children with IEPs. This training is open to anyone interested in learning about the special education process, or even as a refresher course on CPSE/CSE!
This workshop (through Zoom), will provide an overview and best practices approach to the CPSE/CSE process. It will​ educate parents and Parent Members and assist them in developing techniques and strategies to become effective members of the IEP team in their respective roles. Parents or guardians whose child has or had an IEP in the last 5 years, will receive a certificate for submission to their school district to serve as a Parent Member at CPSE/CSE meetings.
Note: This is a four-hour training in two parts, with April sessions from 4-6pm over 2 dates, April 20 and April 27. Four hours must be completed to receive certification.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here
Mid-Hudson Early Childhood FACE Center, Mid-Hudson Regional Partnership Center (MHRPC), NYSED OSE Partnership

Virtual Resource and Transition Fair
2023-04-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Zoom
An Event for Parents, Educators & Advocates to Learn More About Adult Services & Transition Planning

Click Here for Flyer and Registration

FREE RESOURCE and TRANSITION FAIR
2023-04-28 09:00 - 14:00 | Palisades Center Community Rooms, 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY, 10994, United States
SUPPORTS AND INFORMATION FOR NOW AND IN THE FUTURE:
For students of all ages with an IEP or 504 Plan, families, & professionals.
(School Groups are Welcome)
Click Here for Flyer and Registration

Culturally Responsive Workshop: Creating Welcoming and Affirming Learning Environments
2023-04-28 09:00 - 15:00 | Dutchess BOCES, 5 Boces Road, Poughkeepsie, NY, 12601, United States
Creating Welcoming and Affirming Learning Environments is one of four high leverage principles identified in the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CRSE) Framework. When students feel like they belong at school, they have fewer absences, fewer disciplinary infractions, higher graduation rates, as well as increased engagement, self-esteem, and attitudes. Students with disabilities and students of different cultural backgrounds are less likely to feel like they have a positive relationship with their teacher and that their identities and abilities are valued and affirmed in school. Expected Outcomes: By the end of this training, participants will:
● Understand how a welcoming and affirming learning environment improves student outcomes
● Better understand their own identities and how those identities shape their relationships and experiences
● Develop strategies for creating a welcoming and affirming learning environment
● Identify 2-3 next steps for ongoing professional learning
* This is workshop will be in person at Dutchess BOCES @ Salt Point Turnpike Campus located at: 5 BOCES Road, Pougkeepsie, NY 12601
For information and registration: Click Here

WIHD Annual Spring Gala
2023-05-04 18:00 - 21:00 | Scarsale Golf Club, 1 Club Way, Hartsdale
Tickets for the WIHD Annual Spring Gala are now on sale! Please visit wihd.org/gala.

Parent and Family Engagement within the Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) & Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) Process
2023-05-08 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Families, Caregivers, and Guardians will understand the definition of an FBA/BIP, when it is needed, and how it is conducted/developed and the role they play as part of the various teams. Participants will also understand how the FBA/BIP process is part of the Committee for Preschool Special Education (CPSE) /Committee for Special Education (CSE) process, as well as the guidance regarding the New York State (NYS) Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, Part 200. Professionals will explore how to engage families within the FBA/BIP process, when/how to include them as part of the team, and how they can provide critical information to support the development and implementation of an FBA/BIP.
Presented by: Lower Hudson Early Childhood FACE Center, Mid-Hudson Regional Partnership Center (MHRPC), Lower Hudson Regional Partnership Center (LHRPC), NYSED OSE Partnership
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Addressing Cyberbullying
2023-05-11 18:30 - 20:00 | Zoom
This virtual presentation will provide participants with a better understanding of how parents and professionals can protect students with disabilities from cyberbullying which can involve sending mean, vulgar, or threatening messages or images through the use of technology such as computers and cell phones. Questions will be answered on what should be done if you suspect cyberbullying and suggestions will be offered on how to prevent online cruelty and the harassment of vulnerable youth through social media.
For further information, please contact: Nancy Nowak at Disability Rights New York: Nancy.Nowak@drny.org or 516.238.1261
Presented by: Mid-Hudson Special Education Task Force
Click Here for Flyer and Registration

Positive Behavior Solutions for Families
2023-05-16 10:00 - 12:00, 2023-06-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Positive Behavior Solutions for Families is a four-session, monthly workshop series that will give parents, families and caregivers positive and effective strategies to promote children’s social and emotional development and address the challenging behavior of children ages 2-5 years old.
Four sessions, Third Tuesday of the Month, from 10am-12pm:
March 21
April 18
May 16
June 20
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here
Presented by: Lower Hudson Early Childhood FACE Center, Lower Hudson Regional Partnership Center (LHRPC), NYSED OSE Partnership

Diploma and Credential Options for Students with Disabilities
2023-05-17 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
Participants will learn about self-determination skills and its relation to students determining an individualized pathway to graduation from multiple options. Credit and diploma requirements, the appeal eligibility criteria for all students, and safety-net options for students with disabilities will be reviewed. Learn how earning a Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential is beneficial in a number of ways and understand the guidelines for the Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential which is awarded to students participating in the New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) testing program.
Presented by: Hudson Valley School-Age FACE Center, NYSED OSE Partnership
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA): Essential Information for Families of Students with Disabilities
2023-05-18 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
This training is to educate families on the New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) which is part of the NYS testing program that measures attainment of the State’s learning standards for students with the most severe disabilities in grades 3-8 and high school. Participants will learn about all State assessment options, what the NYSAA test entails, the eligibility and decision-making process, graduation/student exit options and how it will affect a student’s post-secondary planning.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here
Presented by: Hudson Valley School-Age FACE Center, Lower Hudson Regional Partnership Center (LHRPC), NYSED OSE Partnership

Planificación de la transición de la educación especial preescolar al jardín de infantes (CPSE a CSE)
2023-05-18 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Este taller apoyará a los padres mientras se preparan para la transición de su hijo de la educación especial preescolar al kindergarten. Los temas cubiertos incluyen: Entender las diferencias entre el Comité para la Educación Especial Preescolar (CPSE) y el Comité para la Educación Especial (CSE), entender el proceso de transición de CPSE a CSE, aprender cómo ser un miembro activo del equipo de transición, entender el propósito de un Programa de Educación Individualizado (IEP). Este taller se llevará a cabo a través de ZOOM. *Por favor, especifique si prefiere materiales en español y traducción al español para la sesión.*
Presentado por el Centro FACE de la Primera Infancia de Lower Hudson y Mid Hudson

Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Services and Eligibility
2023-05-19 10:00 - 11:30 | Zoom
Please join us for a workshop on OPWDD services and eligibility. The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Through this workshop you will learn about the range of OPWDD services available to you and your loved one, and about the requirements for service eligibility.
Presented by: Community Support Network
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Mental Health Awareness Month: Ending the Silence for Families and Staff
2023-05-24 19:00 - 20:30 | Zoom
May is Mental Health Awareness Month! The rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions continue to increase for young people, including those identified with additional special education needs. This compelling presentation will educate parents, school staff and caregivers about the warning signs of mental health conditions, about what steps to take if your child or a student is showing symptoms of a mental health condition and how school districts and parents can work together to help students.
Click Here for Flyer and Registration

Agency 101 – Connecting Individuals with Disabilities to Adult Agencies
2023-06-01 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Identifying the agencies who will be working with students and their families post-high school is a critical component of transition planning. Join us as we explore self-determination and its impact on postsecondary success. We will discuss adult service agencies and the different types of programs they provide.
Presented by: Hudson Valley School-Age FACE Center
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Parent University Presents: Transition Planning from Preschool Special Education to Kindergarten
2023-06-01 18:00 - 19:00 | Zoom
The transition from preschool to kindergarten can be a time of excitement but it can also be a source of anxiety. Transitions are made easier when families and providers understand the process. This workshop will help participants to understand the transition process, to be an active member of the transition team, to understand the difference between services in CPSE and CSE, and to understand the purpose of an IEP. Parents will come away from this workshop with a better understanding of what to expect as their children move on to kindergarten.
Presented by: Lower Hudson Early Childhood FACE Center, NYSED OSE Partnership
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Accessing Healthcare: Life Skills Series for Parents and Caregivers of Teens and Young Adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
2023-06-14 09:30 - 11:30 | Zoom
Life skills, or daily living skills, are abilities that our loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities need to achieve their highest level of independence. These include skills related to managing money, personal hygiene, medication management, taking care of living spaces, laundry, cooking, transportation, and shopping.
Join us for our second workshop in our Life-Skills Summer Series: Accessing Healthcare
Accessing healthcare services successfully is a skill that is important to establishing and maintaining a good quality of life. This workshop focuses on how parents and caregivers of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities can help their children who are transitioning into adulthood to develop more awareness and independence when interacting with medical service providers.
· Get the healthcare provider’s perspective: What types of patient and caregiver interactions do doctors, nurses and healthcare administrators prefer for a successful visit?
· Hear directly from one young person with disabilities about what it is like to navigate healthcare services, and about the path towards a greater level of independence.
· Learn the process of teaching and reinforcing life-skills necessary for accessing healthcare services to your loved one.

Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

EI (Early Intervention) to CPSE (Preschool Special Education) for Families
2023-06-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Zoom
This presentation will guide parents through the process of transitioning their child from Early Intervention to the Committee on Preschool Special Education.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Developing Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness Life-Skills: Life Skills Series for Parents and Caregivers of Teens and Young Adults with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities
2023-06-21 09:30 - 11:00 | Zoom
Life skills, or daily living skills, are abilities that our loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities need to achieve their highest level of independence. These include skills related to managing money, personal hygiene, medication management, taking care of living spaces, laundry, cooking, transportation, and shopping.
Join us for our first workshop in our Life-Skills Summer Series: Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness
Developing good personal hygiene habits is an important part of participating in community life. This workshop focuses on how parents and caregivers of people with intellectual or developmental disabilities can help their children who are transitioning into adulthood to develop more awareness and independence in care of themselves and their surroundings.

We will cover:
· The process of teaching and reinforcing hygiene life-skills
· The self-advocate’s perspective on the challenges in developing these skills
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Project SEARCH Information Session
2023-06-28 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Please join us via Zoom to learn more about Project SEARCH at New York Presbyterian Westchester Hospital in Bronxville! This program serves young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the OPWDD system as well as students who are in their last year of high school who can benefit from personalized support in an intensive year of career development and internship experience. The program is a collaborative partnership and it is a community based, employment training program and is business focused. Please attend this information session to find out more and the eligibility requirements. Presented by: Community Support Network
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Hear Our Voices - Self Advocacy Group Meeting
2023-06-28 18:00 - 19:30 | WIHD, 20 Plaza West, Valhalla, NY, 10595, United States
Topic – TBD
Please join us for this IN-PERSON self-advocacy meeting and note the date change as this meeting will be held on June 28 from 6:00-7:30.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Transition Planning for Life After High School: An Introduction to the Process for Families
2023-07-11 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
This workshop will provide information on the school to post-school transition planning process for students with disabilities and the transition components of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) starting at age 15. Families, as essential members of the Committee on Special Education (CSE), will improve their ability to work collaboratively with school teams in assessing students’ strengths, interests and needs, establishing postsecondary goals, and supporting the needs of students by identifying appropriate transition services that will help to prepare them for adulthood.
Presented by: Hudson Valley School-Age FACE Center, NYSED OSE Partnership
For Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Virtual Parent Member Training
2023-07-12 09:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
This four-hour parent member certification is for parents/families with children with IEPs. This training is open to anyone interested in learning about the special education process, or even as a refresher course on CPSE/CSE!
This workshop (through Zoom), will provide an overview and best practices approach to the CPSE/CSE process. It will​ educate parents and Parent Members and assist them in developing techniques and strategies to become effective members of the IEP team in their respective roles. Parents or guardians whose child has or had an IEP in the last 5 years, will receive a certificate for submission to their school district to serve as a Parent Member at CPSE/CSE meetings.
Note: This is a four-hour training in two parts, 9-11 am and 12-2 pm with a one-hour break for lunch. (April sessions are 4-6pm over 2 dates.). Four hours must be completed to receive certification.
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here
Mid-Hudson Early Childhood FACE Center, Mid-Hudson Regional Partnership Center (MHRPC), NYSED OSE Partnership

Family Forum: Post School Planning for Young Adults Not Going to College
2023-07-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Zoom
Join us for a discussion on program options and considerations for young adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Participants can ask any questions they may have including the eligibility process for services through the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and other state service systems, the types of programs and support services available, as well as things to consider when selecting or visiting adult community-based programs.
Presented by: Hudson Valley School-Age FACE Center
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Family Forum: Assistive Technology Services at WIHD
2023-07-18 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Would you like to learn more about Assistive Technology? It’s any piece of equipment that helps an individual with a disability improve their ability to perform everyday tasks.
Join us to hear how WIHD’s Assistive Technology (AT) Program provides services and collaborates with individuals and their families, caregivers, teachers, and/or related service providers to identify assistive technology devices, adaptations, and strategies to improve mobility, communication, computer access, access to the school curriculum, or control over the environment. A brief overview on AT evaluations, funding, available training and equipment that is available on loan will be shared. If you are interested in services that are directly available to clients or to students who are in school, this information session is for you.
Presented by: Community Support Network and Westchester Institute for Human Development
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here
Please note: In case you are unable to attend on this date, this session is also being held on 9/19/23. See the WIHD Calendar for registration information.

Soluciones Positivas para Familias
2023-07-20 10:30 - 12:30 | Zoom
Soluciones Positivas para Familias es una serie de talleres mensuales de cuatro sesiones que brindará a los padres, familias y cuidadores estrategias positivas y efectivas para promover el desarrollo social y emocional de los niños y abordar el comportamiento desafiante de los niños de 2 a 5 años. Cuatro sesiones, tercer jueves del mes, de
20 de Julio
17 de Agosto
21 de Septiembre
19 de Octubre
Zoom Registration Link: Click Here

Community Pints at Captain Lawrence
2023-07-20 17:00 - 22:00 | Captain Lawrence Brewery, 444 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, NY, 10523
Join us for a fun evening out on July 20th at Westchester’s favorite brewery! Reserve your spot here today!
When: Thursday, July 20th from 5 pm to 10 pm
Where: Captain Lawrence Brewery, 444 Saw Mill River Rd., Elmsford, NY 10523
Who: All ages welcome!
What: A minimum $5 donation gets you happy hour pricing on all beers and cocktails from 6 pm to 10 pm.

Culturally Responsive Workshop: Creating Welcoming and Affirming Environments
2023-07-25 09:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Creating Welcoming and Affirming Learning Environments is one of four high leverage principles identified in the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CRSE) Framework. When students feel like they belong at school, they have fewer absences, fewer disciplinary infractions, higher graduation rates, as well as increased engagement, self-esteem, and attitudes. Students with disabilities and students of different cultural backgrounds are less likely to feel like they have a positive relationship with their teacher and that their identities and abilities are valued and affirmed in school.
Expected Outcomes: By the end of this training, participants will: ● Understand how a welcoming and affirming learning environment improves student outcomes ● Better understand their own identities and how those identities shape their relationships and experiences ● Develop strategies for creating a welcoming and affirming learning environment ● Identify 2-3 next steps for ongoing professional learning
* This is a two-part online course offered synchronously via Zoom. Each session will be 3 hours. Workshop dates are: Day #1- 7/25/23 (9 am-12 noon) Day #2 August 1,2023 (9 am-12 noon). Participants will receive Zoom log-in information 24 hrs. prior to workshop commencement via registered Frontline email. Attendance to both sessions is required for full CTLE credit.
For Registration Information: Click Here
