Volume 15 Issue 2

16 Pages·2014·12.24 MB·English

NEVADA
Winter 2014 • Volume 15 • Issue 2
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The Disability Rights Movement History
By: Karen Taycher
The advances in the disability movement are attributed areas including accessibility, employment, technology,
to many individuals over many years. Parents have been education, housing, transportation, healthcare, and
at the forefront of countless achievements and increased independent living for people with disabilities.
opportunities for children with disabilities. I was so
As parents we have a shared responsibility to continue this
fortunate to have met a wonderful parent, advocate and
work, it is about human rights, civil rights, it is about our
mentor when my son was young. Marjory “Midge” Turner
children.

worked tirelessly in the years since the fifty’s improving
I honor my friend and mentor’s life by continuing her work.
the lives of so many children with disabilities. Midge made
Join me in honoring those who have paved the road for our
a difference through her development of programs, her
children by making a commitment to get involved, expect
tenacious advocacy and her writings. Although Marjory
respect and dignity for individuals with disabilities in our
Turner passed away late last year, I believe her work lives on
communities.
as part of civil rights history for individuals with disabilities.
Helping Your Child with
Transitions
By: Michele Santee
Transitions between people, places, and activities can be
difficult for many of our children with disabilities. Change
can be very stressful and overwhelming for children, but
there are tools that can help.
• Use a timer to let your child know that an activity will
It is impossible to describe all that Midge accomplished, be ending soon.
her work lives on in the many families she helped, the • Let your child pick out a special toy or object to
policy she advocated for, the programs she started and the transition with.
individuals she mentored. I learned so much from Midge, • Sing songs as you transition.
most of all I learned to respect and appreciate the struggles
With my child, I have found that using a visual schedule
and accomplishments of those that paved the road for our
has made transitions more successful. Parents may be
son to have the opportunities he has today.
aware of the strategies that work best for their children
Parents who have high expectations for their children’s and communicating some of these ideas to school staff
future are the best advocates for change. The power of a can help make school transitions easier. Sharing what
loving parent is what changes the world. What one parent you know is a great advocacy skill that can help parents
fights for, many others benefit from their work. and professionals collaborate more effectively.
Although the opportunities have improved over the years
Adapted from “How to Help Your Child Transition
for individuals with disabilities, there is much more that
Smoothly Between Places and Activities,” from the
needs to be done. Improvements need to occur in many
Backpack Connection Series by TACSEI.
Statewide Central Office Satellite Office
Toll-Free 800-216-5188 2101 South Jones Blvd, Suite 120 4600 Kietzke Lane, Suite I-202
www.nvpep.org Las Vegas, NV 89146 Reno, NV 89502
[email protected] Phone: [phone] Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Education Empowerment Encouragement
E
PEP GOVERNING BOARD
Sam Lieberman, Chairperson
Terri Peltier, Vice Chair ducational Update
Bryce Loveland, Treasurer
Rita Varney, Secretary By: Robin Kincaid
Trish Leavitt Bob Zauhar
Nilza Shellhamer Alexia Conger Using Mediation to Resolve Disagreements
Doug Whitener Juanita Matz
Board Members Nancy Radford
Jason Sadow I have tried to resolve a disagreement with my Mediation gives both parties a chance to be
Bob Zauhar child’s special education program, however, heard in a setting that may encourage them
Alumni Board
there are concerns that remain. Could mediation to consider new ideas and problem solving
Craig Wetzel
help? The following information may help strategies.
Lois Tarkanian
Advisory Board families decide if mediation is a good option.
Parents may request mediation at any time and
Special education mediation is a process in can withdraw the request if they feel it isn’t
PEP STAFF
which a mediator helps to resolve a dispute working. Mediation discussions are confidential.
ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT between the parents and the school district over What is said in mediation cannot be used
Karen Taycher
a child’s special education program. A mediator as evidence in a due process hearing or civil
Executive Director
Natalie Filipic is a neutral person who will help the participants lawsuit. The mediator schedules the mediation
Director of Operations
express concerns and offer solutions for the at a convenient time and place and facilitates
Havander Davis
Communication Specialist purpose of arriving at a mutually the discussion. The mediator does not make any
Belen Herrera satisfactory agreement. decisions and should:
Program Accountability Specialist
Amanda Miller
• Help families and school staff state their positions clearly and productively;
Administrative Specialist
• Help parents and school staff stay focused on the relevant issues;
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT • Provide a neutral assessment of the strength of each side’s position;
DEPARTMENT
Stephanie Vrsnik • Identify areas of agreement and disagreement;
Community Development Director
Chad Uhl • Suggest possible ideas to each side that might bring them closer to agreement;
Web & Graphic Designer
Diane Lombardo • Facilitate the drafting of a mediation agreement, if the parents and school staff
Community Education Specialist have come to an agreement.
Parents may want to consider:
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
DEPARTMENT • Using mediation can be a less expensive than other dispute resolution options and the issue
Robin Kincaid
Educational Services Director could be resolved sooner than using state complaint or due process.
Stephanie Houle
• Families who prepare for mediation usually feel more confident and ready to problem solve
Educational Services Manager
Robin Renshaw the situation, while recognizing that there can be multiple solutions to the same issue.
Bob Humphreys
Transition Specialists • Resolving disputes can be an emotional process. Bringing a support person or advocate can
Michele Santee
help the family feel supported in this process.
Intake Specialist
For more information on mediation, contact Nevada PEP at 1-800-216-5188 and
STATEWIDE FAMILY NETWORK
ask about our workshops for families that discuss dispute resolution.
DEPARTMENT
Charlene Frost
Statewide Family Network Coordinator Adapted from CADRE, IDEA Special Education Mediation, A Guide for Parent of Children and Youth (Ages 3-21).
Teri Kirby
Dorena Ash
Magdalena Ruiz
Dorithia Coleman Volunteer corner
Santiago De La Torre
Family Specialists
Christa Peterson
Special Projects By: Sara Varney
My name is Sara Varney and I volunteer at Nevada PEP
SATELLITE OFFICE with my service dog, Rex. I started volunteering here
Retta Dermody
Director of Programs and Services in 2009. I love it here because I am around loving and
Cheri Day
caring people. Thanks Nevada PEP for all the things you
Jennifer Jones
Family Specialists have taught me.
Samantha King
Transition Specialist
Kelli Walker
Training & Information Specialist
Ron Kopicko
Outreach Specialist
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U
pcoming Events
Nevada PeP Trainings
5 Part IDEA Training Series physical, emotional, and social changes of Grupos de apoyo para los padres en Español
Learn about starting the process to obtain puberty and adolescence. Aprenda sobre diversos temas de interés a
help for a child, writing Individualized través de una discusión abierta con otros
Planning for Change –
Education Programs, rights and procedural padres.
School to Adult Transition
safeguards, behavior and discipline in school
Transition planning is an important step in Destrezas para una abogacía eficaz de parte
and getting ready for change.
preparing students with disabilities for life de los padres
Bullying Prevention: Everyone’s after high school. Participants will learn how Aprenda seis habilidades importantes
Responsibility to help students achieve their dreams and que puede utilizar para llegara hacer un
Participants will learn about the types of goals. defensor más efectivo para su hijo con una
bullying, how to intervene when bullying discapacidad.
Positive Behavior Approaches for Parents
happens, and how to encourage students who
Learn about evidence-based practices that Entrenamientos del IEP
witness bullying to take action. This session
support preschoolers to be successful and Este entrenamiento guiará a los padres
will also cover the roles schools play, laws and
a statewide project, the Nevada & TACSEI a través del desarrollo de cada parte del
policies, and bullying prevention strategies.
Pyramid Model Partnership. Programa de Educación Individualizada (IEP).
Families in Early Intervention Los padres obtendran conocimiento necesario
Positive Behavioral Interventions
Don’t miss this workshop for families of para participar de manera efectiva en las
Challenging behaviors in children and youth
infants and toddlers with developmental reuniones del IEP.
are often misunderstood. This workshop
delays or disabilities. We will talk about the
will explore the purpose of behavior and Entendiendo ADHD
role of early intervention and transition at age
strategies to help children sustain appropriate Aprenda estrategias que pueden ayudar
3 to early childhood services.
behavior at school, at home, and in the a un niño con el trastorno por déficit de
Getting and Keeping the First Job community. atención/hiperactividad a desarrollar nuevas
Join us to learn about teaching self-awareness habilidades y comportamientos positivos.
Skills for Effective Parent Advocacy
and career planning to help youth develop the
Learn six important skills you can use to Es su hijo un blanco de Bullying?
confidence to pursue employment.
become a more effective advocate for your Venga y aprenda acerca de los
How is My Child Reading? child with a disability. comportamientos de acoso y las medidas que
Come and learn the about how students are las familias pueden tomar cuando su hijo es
Understanding ADHD
taught to read. This workshop helps families acosado.
Learn strategies that can help a child with
have a better understanding of reading terms
ADHD develop new skills and positive Intervenciones Positivas de Comportamiento
and will help when families are talking to their
behaviors. Los comportamientos desafiantes en los
child’s teacher about academic progress.
niños y los jóvenes están frecuentemente mal
Working for Change –
IEP Clinic Workshop entendidos. Este taller explorará los efectos
Using the Power of a Personal Story
This workshop will walk parents through de comportamiento y estrategias para ayudar
Learn how to deliver your personal story in
the development of each required part of a los niños mantener un comportamiento
a way that catches attention and motivates
the Individualized Education Program (IEP). apropiado en la escuela, casa y la comunidad.
others to action!
Parents will gain knowledge about how to
effectively participate in IEP meetings. You Can Do It! Please contact a Nevada PEP office
This workshop helps families and students about our Trainings, or to request a
Is Your Child a Target for Bullying?
with disabilities prepare for a successful workshop in your community.
Come and learn about bullying behaviors and
transition into college.
the steps families can take when their child is Southern Nevada – 702.388.8899
bullied. Nevada PEP Support Groups
Northern Nevada – 775.448.9950
Parent Support Groups in English.
Journey to Adulthood
Learn about various topics of interest through Rural Nevada – 1.800.216.5188
Parents will receive valuable information to
open discussion with other parents.
help a child with a disability understand the Register online at www.nvpep.org
Video Review: By: Charlene Frost
Discipline Under the New IDEA, Practical Methods and Procedures
This video focuses on the laws and regulations contained Knowledge is power and Nevada PEP encourages families to
within the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and come and explore our large resource library. The library is
how it applies to discipline in school. The video includes available to all families and includes books, video tapes, and
information specific to the law and the rights that parents
DVDs to check out.
and the student have and answers questions such as:
If you are interested in checking this video out or want to
• Is my child considered a child with a disability? learn more about our library, call 1-800-216-5188.
• How long can my child be suspended?
More information about IDEA can also be found at
• What is a manifestation determination?
http://idea.ed.gov.
• When is a Functional Behavior Assessment appropriate?
• What are my rights and my child’s rights in this process?
3
Thank you to our many community partners,
sponsors, donors, participants, and volunteers for
making the 2013 Statewide Run Walk Roll Event a
tremendous success on September 29th! This was
the perfect prelude to National Bullying Prevention
month in October. Our Run Walk Roll rocked Tivoli
Village in Las Vegas and the IGT properties in Reno
simultaneously. Morning festivities began with on-site registrations amidst
an array of activities and kick-off entertainment. In the South, performances
included the Las Vegas Cheer Authority, “Put PEP in Your Step,” and the LVH
Junior ROTC Wildcat Battalion Color Guard, as well as the National Anthem
sung by Sujana Laurendeau from ”O” Cirque du Soleil. The Notables also
delighted the crowd with their rendition of the Star Spangled Banner in the
North. Nevada PEP Governing Board Chairman, Sam Lieberman, welcomed
participants in Las Vegas, while Retta Dermody and IGT Vice President, Don
Hopkins, introduced Grand Marshall, Katherine Loudon, following a rousing
welcome and proclamation at the Nevada PEP Satellite location. Both sites
were stoked with excitement as record numbers of runners, walkers, and
rollers made their way to the finish line. Emcees, Steph MacKenzie from 97.1
The Point and television and radio personality, Nathan Tannenbaum, did a
stellar job keeping the action moving smoothly in Las Vegas, as did Melissa
Carlson of Channel 4 in Reno.

Children laughed and smiled as their faces were painted. They sang and
danced to music from The Notables, 95.5 Doug Daniels, and Michael Darby
and Smile. Families posed for pictures with McGruff the Crime Dog, Smokey
the Bear, and Duke from the Las Vegas Wranglers. Everyone scurried to
get their raffle tickets in time for the drawings and award ceremonies. The
crowds were treated to professional handling of the drawings, for which we
would like to extend special acknowledgement and genuine gratitude to
Trish Leavitt, Nevada PEP Governing Board Member, and Valerie Padovani
and Jenna Holdridge at IGT for their energy and expertise.
Once again, talented artist, Courtney Blanchard, presented the hosts with
pastel self-portraits. These self-portraits are priceless. Each year we are truly
amazed of her generosity and her elegant talent.
Closing comments, “Today’s Steps…Tomorrow’s Steps,” by Sam Lieberman
in the South and Executive Director, Karen Taycher in the North, inspired
one and all to come together as one again next year in support of this great
cause. The statewide annual Run Walk Roll event promises to be bigger and
better with every step we take. Remember, “The end of bullying begins with
you!”
Nevada PEP would like to extend its deepest appreciation to all the hard
working volunteers that made this event such a success. Without their
dedication and support, this event would not have been possible.
Take a STEP with PEP to
STOP
Bullying!
Watch 2013 Event Video: RunWalkRoll2013video.NVPEP.org
4
Sponsors for 2013 Run Walk Roll Against Bullying
Champion Sponsors Dignitary Sponsors
• Councilwoman Lois Tarkanian
• Tivoli Village • Romo Films • Judge Michelle Leavitt
• IGT • Las Vegas Metro Police • Erika & Bryce Loveland
• Magic 95.5 FM • Seaworld • Core Power
• Bank of America • Spring Mtn. Treatment Center
• News 3 • Willow Springs Center Leader Sponsors
• News 4 • Trish & Andy Leavitt • Atlantis Casino
• Amy & Jim Leavitt • Children’s Advocacy Alliance
Hero Sponsors • Robert Marshall, Esq. • Montevista Hospital
• Clark County School District • Imperial Wine Wholesalers LLC • Las Vegas High School JROTC
• Washoe County School District • REI • Wildcat Battalion Color Guard
• NV Energy • United Site Services • Police Officers Association of CCSD
• Southwest Gas • Las Vegas 51s • Domino’s Pizza
• Nevada State Bank • 702events.com • Vegas Cheer Authority
• Southwest Airlines • Winder Farms • Las Vegas Mini Gran Prix
• Richard Carrillo • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf • Allstar Balloons
• Brownstein | Hyatt | Faber | Schreck • Caughlin Athletic Club • Amazing Face Painting
• Nature’s Bakery • Run Vegas Run • Michael Darby & Smile
• Helen Jo & Seaynoah Mayfield • Peppermill Reno • Serenity Mental Health
• The Note-Ables • Nevada Health Co-Op • Lush
• Courtney Blanchard • Denny’s • Frontier Financial Credit Union
• Sunrise Casablanca • Findlay Toyota • Smith/Peltier & Associates
• Transformation Photo Services • Lovaas Center • RSG Accounting & Consulting, LLC
n
Save the Date!
a
t
Saturday, September 27th h
a
n
3r d Annual Statewide
’
s
Run Walk Roll
Smile
Against Bullying
Southern Nevada:
Calvin King, 4 years old
Findlay Chevrolet Join us as we kick off
6800 S. Torrey Pines Dr.
National Bullying
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Prevention Month
Northern Nevada:
IGT
Toll-Free
9295 Prototype Dr.
800.216.5188
Reno, NV 89521
www.NVPEP.org
gossiping
lies Did You Know...?
Hitting
name -calling teasing The Americans with Disabilities
bullying
Act (ADA) became law in 1990 and
threats pushing
cyber bullying rumors provided the most comprehensive
mean words civil rights protection for people with
leaving somebody
out
disabilities to date.
5
My Family Story - A Sisters Story: My Brother hasAutism
By: Amelia
Eleven months after I was born, my brother was born.
I’m Amelia and I am 11 years old. My brother’s name is
Ashton and he is 10 years old. I didn’t expect a brother
who was different. It took a long time to learn about
his disability, but my mom explained everything to me.
Ashton’s therapists even included me in his therapies. I
learned so much about him and everyday I learn more.
My friends always ask me why he acts the way he does or
if he can get rid of his autism someday.
Sometimes I get embarrassed when we are out in public.
Mostly because people look at him like he were an alien
from outer space when he has meltdowns at places we
go. I always want to go up to the person and say “what?
He has autism”. Lots of kids at school ask me what’s

wrong with him. When I tell them he has autism they ask
I did it anyways because it made him laugh. Ashton also
me what it is. I try my best to explain my brothers’ autism
grabs my finger, points to something, and tells me what
like my mom explained it for me. It also makes me happy
to say. He doesn’t do that to just me, he does that to
that I get to help people understand my brother like I do.
everyone else too. His favorite animal he likes us to point
Ashton talks in many different ways, but even though he to most is a Moose. He loves Moose.
can talk he can’t have a conversation with me. He loves
My mom and I are always there for him. I am there for
to talk to himself and that makes me smile when he
him at school and my mom is there for him at home.
does that. I wish I knew what he was saying sometimes.
Knowing I am there for my brother makes me feel
Ashton likes to repeat himself over and over.
important. He may not hug or kiss me, but I know he
My brother makes me laugh everyday because he’s loves me! He just shows it in different ways and that
always making me do silly stuff. For example, he asked makes me feel special. I never thought I would have a
me to put underwear on my head. I got grossed out but brother with Autism, but I feel lucky to have my brother.
Keeping Students in School & Out of Trouble
By: Stephanie Houle
Many families who contact Nevada PEP are Guiding Principle 1: Climate and Prevention
concerned that suspension may not be an • Use evidence-based prevention strategies and social and
appropriate consequence for their child’s emotional learning programs.
misbehavior. Students with disabilities may be • Promote positive behavior.
disproportionately impacted by suspensions
Guiding Principle 2: Expectations and Consequences
and expulsions, often for nonviolent, minor
• Develop a school-wide discipline policy that sets high
disruptions. The widespread overuse of out-
expectations for behavior.
of-school suspensions has tremendous costs.
• Establish clear, developmentally-appropriate, and
Suspended students are less likely to graduate
proportional consequences for misbehavior.
on time and more likely to be suspended
• Strive to keep students in school and engaged in learning as
again, repeat a grade, drop out of school, and
much as possible.
become involved in the juvenile justice system.
Guiding Principle 3: Equity and Continuous Improvement
Creating safe and productive learning
• Train all school staff to apply discipline policies in a fair and
environments for all students is critical to
equitable manner.
raising academic achievement and supporting
• Regularly review and improve disciplinary practices to ensure
student success. The U.S. Department
that school discipline is applied fairly and without bias.
of Education recently released, “Guiding
Principles: A Resource Guide for Improving By prioritizing positive climates, prevention, and targeted
School Climate and Discipline,” which interventions, schools will develop safe and productive learning
identifies three guiding principles to consider environments. Parents can use this information as a conversation
when working to improve school climate and starter with their child’s school about how they are implementing this
discipline. guidance to keep all students in school and engaged in instruction.
Adapted from the U.S. Department of Education’s “Guiding Principles: A Resource Guide for Improving School Climate and Discipline.”
6
congratulations PEP Staff Anniversaries
Nevada PEP has a wonderful team. Their dedication and longevity to Nevada PEP is truly admired and recognized.
The following staff members have made their anniversaries in the past months.
(Left to Right) Karen Taycher 18 Years, Natalie Filipic 9 Years, Havander Davis 3 Years, Teri Kirby 5 Years, Charlene Frost 3 Years,
Stephanie Vrsnik 13 Years, and Robin Kincaid 14 Years. Dorithia Coleman 3 Years, and Magdalena Ruiz 1 Year.
Ronald Kopicko 8 Years, Kelli Walker 1 Year, Retta Dermody 16 Years, Chad Uhl 3 Years, Diane Lombardo 8 Years, Dorena
Cheri Day 6 Years, and Samantha King 5 Years. Ash 8 Years, Robin Renshaw 14 Years , Michele
Santee 1 Year, and Stephanie Houle 2 Years.
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
By: Charlene Frost
Mental Health Awareness Month takes place every year in May with
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day happening on the second
Thursday of the month. Nevada PEP recognizes and brings attention to
Children’s Mental Health for the entire month of May.

This year, Nevada PEP kicked off the month by posting signs in front of our
Las Vegas and our Reno offices commemorating Children’s Mental Health
Awareness Day on May 8, 2014. Our staff and volunteers were also kept
busy spreading the word and selling our Green Ribbons to be posted in
our offices with the names of those who support this important cause.
Nevada PEP also sent parent representatives to participate in the First
Lady’s 2 n d Annual Children’s Mental Health Summit at the Governor’s
Mansion in Carson City, Nevada. Through this event, our staff were
able to continue to gather information about what’s happening statewide in children’s mental health and have the
opportunity to reach more stakeholders about the importance of the family voice and family choice at all levels of
children’s mental health systems. The Summit agenda was packed full of quality presentations, including a focus on
Nevada’s System of Care, Clark County’s Children’s Mobile Crisis Response Team and the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Fellowship Program at University of Nevada Las Vegas. The First Lady Kathleen Sandoval’s commitment to our children
and families in Nevada is evident in her continuing focus on children’s mental health.

If you, or someone you know, is passionate about any of the issues surrounding Children’s Mental Health in Nevada, the
Clark County, Washoe County and Rural Children’s Mental Health Consortiums are available to all to voice their concerns
or suggestions for improvements. For more information, please contact Nevada PEP at 702-388-8899 or 775-448-9950.
7
Las Personas que
Debe de conocer en
Jessie’s Voice
la Escuela de su Hijo
By: Kenny Juarez-Montes, age 22
Revisado por Magdalena Ruiz
Nevada PEP is a great place to volunteer and work. Everyday is a new learning
experience. The staff works as a team. Volunteers and employees complete Es importante que las familias
projects together. I make copies, assemble packets, and even answer phones. participen en la educación de sus hijos.
I volunteer on a weekly basis. I gain experience and confidence and make things Se ha demostrado que cuando los
better for other people. padres participan en las escuelas de
sus hijos; mejoran las calificaciones, los
estudiantes mejoran su autoestima, y
Wells Fargo Foundation Supports
se vuelven cada vez más motivados en
aprender.
the Include Me Program
By: Stephanie Vrsnik
Es útil cuando las escuelas y las familias
Nevada PEP is excited to be partnering tienen un sistema de comunicación.
with the Wells Fargo Foundation Por ejemplo, en la mayoría de las
for a second year. The Wells Fargo escuelas los maestros se comunican
Foundation supports the Include Me a través ParentLink, Infinite Campus,
program through the Include Me correo electrónico, mensajería de
sponsorship. Nevada PEP’s “Include texto, correo, o en persona. Es una
Me” program is a disability awareness buena idea para discutir con el profesor
and bullying prevention program. al inicio del año escolar según la forma
The program features six endearing de comunicación que funcionará
child-sized multicultural puppets that mejor. ¿Cuál es la palabra clave?
portray children with disabilities. The goal of the program is positive inclusion COMUNICACIÓN.
for all children, with and without disabilities. The program teaches all children
that good things happen by learning together and building friendships. The
puppets come to life and make learning fun for all. Thank you Wells Fargo
Foundation for your continued support to our children in the community. If you
are interested in sponsoring the Include Me program, please contact Stephanie
Vrsnik, Community Development Director.
Charles Marshall Foundation
Giving Back to the Community By: Stephanie Vrsnik Asistir a los eventos escolares, casas
abiertas, o de voluntario en el salón de
The Charles Marshall Foundation is a family-run 501(c)(3) organization founded clase de su niño es una buena forma
in 2010, which directly supports Nevada public schools, hospitals, and non- de conocer a los maestros, consejeros,
profit organizations. They provide partnership to raise the quality of life in el principal y el personal. La mayoría
our community. The Charles Marshall Foundation believes, “Every person in de las escuelas también envían a casa
our community deserves the chance to lead a healthy and productive life, anuncios y posiblemente una revista
and we’re here to assist the community in making that happen,” says Rena que le dará una perspectiva de lo
Loughton, Board Member. que está sucediendo en la escuela en
Nevada PEP invited Rena and forma regular. Todas estas estrategias
Susan from the Charles Marshall son una gran manera para reforzar a
Foundation to learn more about PEP los estudiantes que la educación es
and the services we provide to the importante.
community. Nevada PEP applied for
Cuando los padres tienen algún tipo
new computers from the Charles
de problema, puede llamar, escribir
Marshall Foundation. The foundation
o visitar la escuela y hablar con el
immediately stepped up to the
maestro y/o el principal y discutir
plate and generously responded
sus preocupaciones; si se trata de
to our request by donating six new
all in one Gateway computers. With more efficient computers and up-to-date académicos, acoso, o de un cambio
software, Nevada PEP will continue to educate, encourage, and empower súbito en el comportamiento.
families who have children with disabilities.
¡Trabajemos juntos por una mejor
educación para celebrar un gran éxito!
Thank you to the Charles Marshall Foundation
for making our community a better place for all of our families.
8
IMPAct Nevada NEWs
Information Motivating Positive Adults’ Choices for Transition
Nevada Student Leadership Transition Summit
By: Samantha King
The 7 t h Annual Nevada Student Leadership Transition Summit took place this past
November at the Joe Crowley Student Union at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Over 100 students with disabilities from all over the state of Nevada participated in
two days of team-building activities to help them get ready to make the transition
from high school to post-secondary living.
Students had the opportunity to listen to National and Nevada young adult speakers
with disabilities who shared their personal stories of struggle and triumphs and the
lessons they learned as they moved from high school into adult life. Students also had the opportunity to tour the UNR
campus and hear about the many different resources that a college campus can provide, and what it takes for students
to access those supports.
New and returning students, along with their adult ally, created and shared an action plan that they developed to focus
on transition related topics that they could bring back to their individual schools to help promote a greater sense of
leadership and community for students with disabilities. The adult ally is usually a teacher or school counselor who
accompanies the students and supports their transition efforts. They also were able to connect with service providers
and community agencies to gather materials and post-secondary information to take back and share with their schools.
“
The next Nevada Student Leadership Transition Summit will be held on
November 18t h & 19t h , 2014. Parents and educators can help get their
“Injustice anywhere is a threat
students engaged before the Summit by encouraging participation in their
to justice everywhere.”
IEPs, and practicing good self-advocacy and self-determination skills.
- Martin Luther King Jr.
For more information, please contact Nevada PEP at 1-800-216-5188.
My Child has Turned 18:
A Changing Role for Parents in the IEP Process
By: Robin Renshaw
It is important for young adults with disabilities to develop self- parents have been informed about the transfer of IDEA rights
determination and self advocacy skills. The IEP (Individualized to the student. In rare instances, parents can retain the IDEA
Education Program) meetings are opportunities to practice rights if they feel that transferring of these rights may not be
these skills as they approach the age of majority, which is 18 appropriate. In this circumstance, parents will want to discuss
years old in Nevada. their concerns with the school. In most situations, students
will have a primary role in developing their IEP and become
Beginning at least one year before your child turns 18 years
responsible for making decisions, such as consenting to any
old, the IEP must include a statement that the student and the
changes in placement or requesting mediation or due process
hearings to resolve disputes.
Even though parents may not be making decisions at the
IEP, the Nevada regulations require that both the parent and
student receive all the notices that are required under Federal
Law. Parents can attend meetings if either the student or
school district invites them. Many families recognize the role
of the parents is now more of an “advisor,” rather than the
primary decision-maker. Young adults should be encouraged to
consult with their parents or trusted advisors before making life
changing decisions or signing any forms.
Learning self-advocacy and self-determination skills are “key”
for youth to transition. The role of the parent changes, but is
still “key” in supporting young adults as they reach for their
dreams.
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IMPAct Nevada NEWs
Employment for Persons with Disabilities
By: Robin Kincaid
Over the last twenty years, families across the country have
worked to increase the opportunities for their children
to be included with their same-age peers in school and
community settings. The “inclusion” movement in schools
has led to many of our children developing neighborhood
friendships, having access to what everyone else learns,
and has increased our expectations for our children’s
future.

This inclusion movement has been evolving and now the
national focus is on integrated employment and living for
individuals with disabilities in the community.

In 1999, the Olmstead Supreme Court case laid the
foundation to make significant changes for a person with
In Nevada, on August 30, 2013, Governor Brian Sandoval
disabilities. The Supreme Court stated loudly and clearly
issued an executive order directing all state agencies
that the denial of community placements to individuals
to make a concerted effort to include persons with
with disabilities is precisely the kind of segregation that
disabilities in the preliminary and final group of candidates
Congress sought to eliminate in passing the Americans
considered for employment in an effort to allow people
with Disabilities Act (ADA). The decision presents new
with disabilities greater opportunity to enter the workplace
opportunities for advocating for community-based services
and to lead the way for businesses and other organizations
and supports for people with disabilities.
to do the same. He also established a Preferred Purchase
On April 8, 2014 the United States entered into the nation’s Program to encourage state agencies to purchase goods
first statewide settlement agreement with the state of from training and employment centers. At a recent
Rhode Island, vindicating the civil rights of individuals with statewide meeting of the Nevada Vocational Rehabilitation
disabilities who are unnecessarily segregated in sheltered Council, the members were informed that individuals
workshops and facility-based day programs. in the Preferred Purchase Program are making at least

minimum wage.
In another significant event, President Barack Obama
signed an executive order Wednesday February 12, 2014, These and other events across the nation demonstrates
raising the minimum wage for federal contract workers the change is occurring and the future should hold many
to $10.10 per hour, including those with disabilities more opportunities for our children as they become
employed under service or concessions contracts with the adults to work alongside their friends and neighbors in the
government. community.
Ask Your Child’s School About Summary of Performance!
By: Bob Humphreys
When a student with a disability exits high school, IDEA The SOP must be completed during the final year of a
(Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), requires student’s high school education and is most useful when
the school to provide the family with a “Summary of completed by the IEP team, including the parents and the
Academic Achievement and Functional Performance”. student. The most helpful and comprehensive summary
The Summary of Performance (SOP) should include is developed when the IEP team gathers data in the first
recommendations and strategies to help assist the year of high school, adds new information each year,
student in meeting the goals that have been established and gets the student involved as an active participant
for after high school. in the development of the SOP. The document should
contain the most updated information on the student’s
academic achievement and functional performance, as
well as recommendations on how to assist the student in
meeting his or her post-secondary goals.
The information in the Summary of Performance should
be based on your child’s unique needs and goals after
graduating from high school. The intent of the SOP is to
provide crucial information to those people who may
assist your child in the future. For more information
about Summary of Performance or high school transition,
visit our website or register for a Nevada PEP workshop,
Planning for Change – School to Adult Transition.
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