Westchester Institute for Human Development

Understanding Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)
2017-03-07 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Independent Living, Inc., 5 Washington Terrace, Newburgh, NY, 12550, United States
Location: Independent Living, Inc., Newburgh, New York
Presenter: Lynda S. Rosner, BCBA, NYSLBA
Melanie Rigaglia, BCBA
Mary Jo Whateley, Attorney
Sponsored By: Mid-Hudson Special Education Task Force
Join us to hear Board Certified Behavior Analysts discuss how a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) can be conducted to identify why a behavior might be happening and how a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is developed to implement specific strategies to reduce or eliminate the behavior.
Online registration by March 1, 2017 at https://www.nyspecialedtaskforce.org/mid-hudson-task-force.html.
For more information, contact Dorothy Richards (845) 331-0541 x18 or email drichards@rcal.org. Snow date March 8, 2017.

Understanding Requirements for the Career Development & Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential
2017-03-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Cornwall Elementary School, 99 Lee Road, Cornwall, NY, 12518, United States
Location: Cornwall Elementary School, Cornwall, New York
Presenter: Joyce M. Hawk, Outreach Coordinator, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
This presentation will inform parents of the requirements for an optional certificate of work-readiness that students can earn to increase knowledge and experience needed for entry level employment opportunities. The credential can be used to meet the requriements for one Regents exam. Generally for parents of students in 8th grade or higher, who are not participating in the NYS Alternate Assessment. For more information email jhawk@wihd.org.

Parent Workshop - Transition from CPSE to CSE: Going to Kindergarten (English and Spanish)
2017-02-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Ossining UFSD
February 16th, at 6:00 pm.
Ossining Union Free School District
Contact Suzanne Peretz for more information. (914) 493-2902 or speretz@wihd.org.
Snow date March 2nd.

Preparing for Your Child’s Annual Review
2017-02-15 19:00 - 20:30, 2017-02-15 10:30 - 12:00 | Rockland BOCES, 65 Parrott Road, Building # 10, West Nyack, NY, United States
Rockland BOCES Conference Center, West Nyack, NY
Presenter: Stephanie Bellantoni, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Understand the purpose of the Annual Review/Program Review • Prepare to be an effective CSE member at the meeting • Create a binder to organize your materials • Learn to access valuable tools online for Annual Review preparation • THIS WORKSHOP IS BENEFICIAL FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS OF CHILDREN OF ALL AGES THAT HAVE AN IEP.
There will be 2 SESSIONS for this workshop.
10:30 am – 12:00 pm OR 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm (CHOOSE EITHER SESSION.)
Click here for event flyer and registration.
Contact Dawn Kitz at dkitz@rboces.org or (845) 624-5833 for information.

Communication Matters: Time Tested Strategies to Reduce Conflict & Improve Outcomes for Students with Disabilities
2017-02-15 10:00 - 12:00 | Mahopac Library, 668 Route 6, Mahopac, NY, 10541, United States
Location: The Mahopac Library, Mahopac, NY
Moderated by: Marion Walsh, Esq., Julie Passman, Esq.
Sponsored by: The Lower Hudson Valley Special Education Task Force
Join us for this free training featuring a video developed through the collaborative efforts of many experienced parents, school administrators and advocates highlighting common communication barriers that may arise during Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings. Learn proven strategies to promote communication, partnership, creativity, and agreement in Individualized Education Program (IEP) development. A live facilitated discussion after the video will offer the audience an opportunity to share perspectives and thoughts on the conflict–reducing strategies highlighted by those representing typical CSE team members. Parents, guardians, general education and special education teachers, school administrators and psychologists, service providers and advocates are all encouraged to attend and participate in an honest and productive discussion resulting in improved outcomes for students with disabilities. Click here for Event Flyer.

Preparing for Your Child's Annual Review
2017-02-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Gigi’s Playhouse, 720 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley, NY, 10502, United States
Location: Gigi’s Playhouse, Ardsley, NY
Presenter: Stephanie Bellantoni, Outreach Coordinator,HVSEPC
The most critical realization for parents is that they are integral PARTNERS in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will start with the purpose of the annual review (or any program review really), how the CSE team maneuvers through the various sections of the IEP in their discussion, and measures parents can take to effectively prepare for the annual review so as to properly engage in the CSE meeting. Parents will be guided through the process of creating a binder for pertinent documents in an effort to organize their thoughts and issues prior to the annual review. They will be introduced to essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Last, the discussion will cover a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team that cannot reach consensus. For more information visit the Gigi’s website at https://gigisplayhouse.org/westchester/event/annual-reviews-parents-partners/

Prepare for Your IEP/504 Plan Meeting (English and Spanish)
2017-02-08 19:00 - 20:30 | Greenburgh – The Mansion, 475 West Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale, NY, 10530, United States
Location: The Mansion, Greenburgh Central School District
Presenter: Lulu Bencosme, Bilingual Outreach Coordinator
Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center and Lower Hudson Early Childhood Direction Center
Join the discussion about the latest in Special Education, and get answers to your questions regarding the CSE/CPSE process.
For details and registration information see Event Flyer. Questions email gcsdptacouncilspecedcommittee@gmail.com.

Annual Reviews - Parents as Partners
2017-02-06 19:00 - 21:00 | White Plains Ed House, Assembly Room, 5 Homeside Lane, White Plains, NY, United States
Presenters: Stephanie Bellantoni & Naomi Brickel, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Location: White Plains Education House, 5 Homeside Lane, White Plains, NY
Parents are integral partners in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will cover preparation for the annual review, communication measures to utilize for effective engagement in the CSE process, as well as steps to create a binder as a resource for your child’s educational program and progress. Parents will be introduced to some essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Of course, we will discuss a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team unable to reach consensus. Click here for event flyer.

Parent Workshop - Transition from CPSE to CSE: Going to Kindergarten (English and Spanish)
2017-02-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Carmel Central School District
February 6th, at 6:00 pm.
Carmel Central School District
Contact Suzanne Peretz for more information. (914) 493-2902 or speretz@wihd.org.
Snow date February 13th.

Pathways to Graduation: Understanding Diploma Options and Scoring for Students with Disabilities
2017-02-02 19:00 - 20:00 | Cornwall High School, 10 Dragon Drive , New Windsor, NY, 12553, United States
Presenter: Joyce M. Hawk
Location: Cornwall High School, New Windsor, NY
(Generally for parents of students who are not participating in the NYS Alternate Assessment). This presentation will offer parents an overview of the requirements that need to be met in order for a student to graduate with a Regents or local diploma, the appeals process for low scores and alternative pathways for students with disabilities. Requests for a Superintendent Determination of Graduation for a student with an IEP who cannot meet the graduation standards through the existing options, will also be explained. For more information, contact jhawk@wihd.org.

Annual Reviews – Parents as Partners
2017-01-31 19:30 - 21:00 | Columbus Elementary School, 275 Washington Ave,, New Rochelle, NY, 10801, United States
Presenter: Stephanie Bellantoni, Outreach Coordinator, HVSEPC
Location: Columbus Elementary School, Mt. Pleasant
The most critical realization for parents is that they are integral PARTNERS in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will start with the purpose of the annual review, how the CSE team maneuvers through the various sections of the IEP in their discussion, and measures parents can take to effectively prepare for the annual review so as to properly engage in the CSE meeting. Parents will be guided through the process of creating a binder for pertinent documents in an effort to organize their thoughts and issues prior to the annual review. They will be introduced to essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Last, the discussion will cover a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team that cannot reach consensus. Click here for Event Flyer.

Professional Development Workshop: "Supporting and Building Social Competence in Young Children"
2017-01-31 15:30 - 17:30 | WIHD, 20 Plaza West, Valhalla, NY, 10595, United States
Westchester Institute for Human Development, Valhalla, New York
Registration is required – please call the Early Childhood Direction Center at (914) 493-2902, or email jlowe@wihd.org. This workshop is for special educators and related service providers.

Annual Reviews - Parents as Partners
2017-01-25 19:15 - 21:00 | Mahopac Middle School, Library, 425 Baldwin Place Rd, Mahopac, NY, 10541, United States
Presenter: Stephanie Bellantoni, Outreach Coordinator, HVSEPC
Location: Mahopac Middle School, Library
The most critical realization for parents is that they are integral PARTNERS in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will start with the purpose of the annual review (or any program review really), how the CSE team maneuvers through the various sections of the IEP in their discussion, and measures parents can take to effectively prepare for the annual review so as to properly engage in the CSE meeting. Parents will be guided through the process of creating a binder for pertinent documents in an effort to organize their thoughts and issues prior to the annual review. They will be introduced to essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Last, the discussion will cover a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team that cannot reach consensus.

Annual Reviews - Parents as Partners (In English and In Spanish)
2017-01-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Park Early Childhood Center, 22 Edward Street, Ossining, NY, 10562, United States
Presenters: Stephanie Bellantoni & Lulu Bencosme (Bilingual), Outreach Coordinators, HVSEPC
Location: Park Early Childhood Center, Ossining, New York
The most critical realization for parents is that they are integral PARTNERS in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will start with the purpose of the annual review, how the CSE team maneuvers through the various sections of the IEP in their discussion, and measures parents can take to effectively prepare for the annual review so as to properly engage in the CSE meeting. Parents will be guided through the process of creating a binder for pertinent documents in an effort to organize their thoughts and issues prior to the annual review. They will be introduced to essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Last, the discussion will cover a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team that cannot reach consensus. Click here for Event Flyer.

Annual Reviews - Parent Rights, Steps to Resolve Concerns and Mediation Services
2017-01-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Beacon High School, 101 Matteawan Road (Rm C-138), Beacon, NY, 12508, United States
Presenter: Joyce M. Hawk, Outreach Coordinator, HVSEPC
Location: Beacon High School, Beacon, NY
This presentation will explain what topics will be discussed during a child’s annual review meeting as well as the rights of a parent. Non-adversarial problem solving strategies to address concerns and resolve differences while developing a child’s individualized education program, will be offered. For more information, contact jhawk@wihd.org.

Transition from CPSE to CSE: Going to Kindergarten (English only)
2017-01-17 18:00 - 20:00
Yorktown Central School District
For more information contact the Early Childhood Direction Center at (914) 493-7665, or email speretz@wihd.org

Annual Reviews - Parents as Partners
2017-01-12 18:00 - 20:00
Presenter: Stephanie Bellantoni, Outreach Coordinator, HVSEPC
Sponsored by Mt. Vernon Special Education Department
Location: Rebecca Turner Elementary School, Mt. Vernon, NY
The most critical realization for parents is that they are integral PARTNERS in the special education process, despite the inevitable differences of opinion. This workshop will start with the purpose of the annual review (or any program review really), how the CSE team maneuvers through the various sections of the IEP in their discussion, and measures parents can take to effectively prepare for the annual review so as to properly engage in the CSE meeting. Parents will be guided through the process of creating a binder for pertinent documents in an effort to organize their thoughts and issues prior to the annual review. They will be introduced to essential tools available on the HVSEPC website to support them in their preparation. Last, the discussion will cover a parent’s options in the case of a CSE team that cannot reach consensus. Click here for Event Flyer.

Transition from CPSE to CSE: Going to Kindergarten (English only)
2017-01-10 18:30 - 20:30
Location: PARC Preschool, 125 Baldwin Place Road, Mahopac, NY
For more information contact the Early Childhood Direction Center (914) 493-2902, or email speretz@wihd.org

Understanding Your Child's IEP - In English and Spanish
2016-12-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Park Early Childhood Center, 22 Edward Street, Ossining, NY, 10562, United States
Presenters: Stephanie Bellantoni and Lulu Bencosme, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Location: Park Early Childhood Center, Ossining, NY
This presentation will explore the nature and purpose of the IEP, as well as the various components of the IEP, and what information is intended to be covered within each of those components in plain language. The IEP form itself will also be reviewed in detail so that parents can have a better understanding of how to navigate the IEP, where certain kinds of information would appropriately be covered, and how to follow along during discussions at CSE meetings. Having a better understanding of this critical document will enable parents to be more astute in assessing their child’s education program (is it effective? is it appropriate?), in light of the student’s progress and development from year to year. Click here for event flyer.

Understanding Your Child's IEP
2016-12-14 09:00 - 11:00 | White Plains Ed House, Assembly Room, 5 Homeside Lane, White Plains, NY, United States
Presenters: Stephanie Bellantoni & Naomi Brickel, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Location: White Plains Education House, 5 Homeside Lane, White Plains, NY
This workshop covers the nature and purpose of the IEP, the various components of the IEP, and a careful analysis of the IEP form itself. Getting a grasp on the significance of the IEP, and understanding the team’s flexibility in creating an individualized program, empowers parents to more effectively engage in the development of a meaningful education plan for their child.

Understanding Your Child's Individualized Education Program (IEP)
2016-12-13 18:00 - 20:00
Location: Cioni Building, Kingston, NY
Presenter: Joyce M. Hawk, Outreach Coordinator, HVSEPC
This presentation will provide a review of the language and type of information that goes in each section of an Individualized Education Program (IEP); who contributes information; how progress is monitored and how a student’s needs of concern to a parent, are considered throughout the process. A tool that can be used to include the student’s voice during the development of the IEP will also be highlighted. For more information contact jhawk@wihd.org.

Hear Our Voices Self Advocacy Group Meeting and Holiday Celebration
2016-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Westchester Institute for Human Development, 20 South Plaza W, Cedarwood Hall, Valhalla, NY, 10595, United States
Please join us for WIHD’s self advocacy group meeting and holiday party. Teens and young adults in our area are welcome and encouraged to join our self-advocacy group as new members. This is your chance to connect with the Hudson Valley Region of the Self Advocacy New York State Association (SANYS) and find out about their meetings, trainings, conferences, networking and fun activities; learn useful information to lead a more independent and self-directed life; and become a self-advocacy leader.

More Information & To Register:
Contact Mitchell Levitz, Self Advocacy Coordinator at (914) 493-5207 or email mlevitz@wihd.org
Click here for event flyer

Transition from CPSE to CSE: Going to Kindergarten (In English and Spanish)
2016-12-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Prime Time Preschool, 456 North Street, White Plains, NY, 10605, United States
For more information contact the Early Childhood Direction Center (914) 493-2902, or email speretz@wihd.org

Including Samuel - A documentary by Dan Habib
2016-12-06 12:00 - 14:00 | Dutchess County BOCES, Career & Technical Institute (Room 301), 5 BOCES Road (parking in rear of building), Poughkeepsie, NY, 12601, United States
Location: Dutchess County BOCES, Career and Technical Institute, Poughkeepsie, NY
Discussion Facilitators:
Richard Zipp, Executive Director of Special Education & Student Services, Wappingers Central School District
Mary Jo Whateley, Esq., Of Counsel to Sussman & Watkins, Esqs.
Joyce M. Hawk, Outreach Coordinator, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Dan Habib’s award-winning documentary film, chronicles the Habib family’s efforts to include Samuel in every facet of their lives. It is a highly personal, passionately photographed film that captures the cultural and systemic barriers to inclusion. After the screening, a brief discussion outlining the legal responsibility of schools to provide special education services to students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) will be offered. Click here for event flyer.

CPSE/CSE Parent Member Training
2016-12-02 09:00 - 14:00 | Rockland BOCES, 65 Parrott Road, Building # 10, West Nyack, NY, United States
Presented by: Laurie Levine, Regional Special Educational Training Specialist
Naomi Brickel, Director, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
This workshop will provide an overview and best practices approach to the CPSE/CSE process to educate parents and Parent Members and assist them to develop techniques and strategies to become effective members of the IEP team in their respective roles. For event details and registration click cpse – cse-parent-member-flyer-fall-2016.

Ipad Apps for Writing
2016-12-02 09:00 - 12:00 | WIHD Assistive Technology Center, 20 Hospital Oval West, Cedarwood Hall, Room 443, Valhalla, NY, 10595, United States
Many apps are available to support writing. In this hands-on session participants will learn about apps to support the motor aspect of writing as well as the composition of writing. Apps to support scheduling and note taking will also be discussed. This workshop will demonstrate the use of some of the features in these apps, as well as allow hands-on exploration of the apps by participants.
Presenter: Izel Obermeyer, MS, OTR
Workshop Fee: $75
Parking: Included in Workshop Fee
Group Size: Limited to 12
To Register: Email atp@wihd.org OR call 914-493-1317 (note: advanced registration is required)

Starting Early: Understanding How Schools Help Families Prepare for Life after High School
2016-12-01 19:00 - 21:00
Location: Roy C. Ketcham High School Library – Wappingers Falls
Speaker: Joyce M. Hawk, Outreach Coordinator, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
The transition planning process helps students with disabilities prepare for their transition to post-school living, learning and working. This presentation will explore the importance of parent involvement in thinking about their child’s future which begins with an assessment at age 12 and continues with the provision of transition services by age 15. The direct connection between transition activities and the requirements for earning a CDOS Commencement Credential (a work-readiness certificate) which can be used to meet the requirements for one Regents exam will be highlighted. (Generally for parents of students with disabilities in both middle school and high school). Sponsors: Westchester Independent Living Center’s Parent Training & Information Center, and Arlington CSD Special Education PTA. Click here for flyer and registration

Preparing for the Transition to College
2016-11-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Christian Faith Academy, 25 Golf Club Dr., Poughkeepsie, 1203, United States
Presenter: Joyce M. Hawk
Location: Christian Faith Academy 25 Golf Club Dr. Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
This presentation is designed to assist parents of young adults with an IEP or 504 Plan in understanding the differences that can be expected as students move from high school to a college setting including the laws which govern services at the college level; the process to access academic accommodations, disability documentation requirements; the changing role of parents; and tips on what students can do now to gain the necessary skills needed for a successful college experience. For more information contact Joyce Hawk 845-891-1305 or jhawk@wihd.org

New Special Education Regulations and Updates
2016-11-16 11:00 - 13:00 | Westchester Institute for Human Development, Cedarwood Hall (20 Plaza West), 1st Floor Boardroom , Valhalla, NY, NY, 10595, United States
Presented by: Naomi Brickel, Director, Hudson Valley Special Education Parent Center
Laurie Levine, Regional Special Educational Training Specialist
This session will provide an overview of recent changes in policy enacted by the NYSED Board of Regents, and any important proposals being considered. It is a must for parents and professionals of students with disabilities in middle and high school. Administrators and SEPTA (or other special education parent leadership) are encouraged to attend together. For event details and registration click Nov 16 Flyer – New Special Education Regulations.
