I Tellai (The Bridge) Guam CEDDERS Newsletter June 05, 2009 Volume 11, Issue 3 Inside this issue: Page Annual Tri-Agency Conference 1-2 14th Annual GSAT AT Fair 3-4 PAC6 Team Presents at PacRim Conference 5 CIMAP Conducts CNMI TA Visit 6 FSM Continues AA-AAS Development 6 Telework Training 7 Menhalom Continues Training 8 Håtsa Leadership Training 8 Self Advocacy Training 9-10 Eval Team Conference Presentation 11 Guam EHDI Parent Night 11 Project Tinituhon Develops Next Steps 12 Developmental Disabilities Month 12 CSEFEL Training 13 Family Support Adv Council Meets 14 Child Care Center Scores 100% 14 PEPNet CNMI & GuamTA Visit 15-16 Job Fair 17 Region IX Specialist Presentation 17 Transit Training 18 WASC Poster Session 18 Calendar of Upcoming Events 19 Annual GSAT AT Conference Ad Nene Directory Ad Page 1 Annual Tri-Agency Conference Focuses on Transition Photo with caption Tri-Agency Conference Skit. (L-R) Dolores Palomo, Evelyn Duenas, Terrie Fejarang, Rose Mafnas, Elizabeth Borja, Thilani Pereda, Jef Limtiaco, Evelyn Claros, Leslie Gatan, and Carol Gima enact an IEP meeting to educate parents on transition issues, roles, and process. “Transitions: Roles, Rules, and Realities,” a conference held at the Westin Resort on March 20 and 21, redefined the traditional notion of the Three R’s in education. Sponsored by the Tri-Agency, comprised of Guam CEDDERS, Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, and Guam Legal Services Corporation, the conference focused on an audience of parents of children with disabilities in middle and high school, with participation of many service providers and community agencies who play a key role in the transition process of students. The purpose of the event was to help students have a seamless transition from high school to the real world through the realization of their dreams. So, who were the real stars of the conference? Students with disabilities who attended the conference. Transition has been a hot topic for the Guam Public School System (GPSS) for quite some time. The federal report from 2006-2007 indicated that only 3% of the Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) were in compliance with secondary Transition requirements. Although the following year reported an increase to 24% and as of March 2009, up to 46%, Guam still needs major strides to reach acceptable compliance levels. The numbers provide substance to the heat of parental temperament on transition, evident in the cries of frustration and the tears for hope that resonated throughout the two-day conference. Children were reportedly being failed by the school system, a system that should be a student’s ticket to the future, that should be a parent’s reassurance, that despite a disability, their child will have a bright future. As a parent leader of this conference said, “Will my child spend the rest of his life in our living room?” This fear was shared by other parents at the conference. When school ends, what is the plan? More importantly, has my child been equipped with the tools to carry out the plan? What community resources exist to support my child and see that the plan is carried through? The Tri-Agency created an agenda to provide parents and students with answers. Transition, being a multi-faceted process, involves many key players and various resources in order for a seamless and successful process to occur. (See Diagram 1) These key players and community agencies were invited to present. Day One of the conference opened with a dramatization of an IEP meeting. Through this dramatization, parents were educated about their rights and the IEP process. A parent panel followed. Panel members provided the audience with parental perspectives and experiences, descriptions of their advocacy approaches, and tips to navigate GPSS services. As the day continued, the audience observed first hand, a person-centered planning process known as MAPS. MAPS provides a structure to gather information for a transition plan, which is an integral part of the IEP. It provides a much broader view of the student’s life than a transitional perspective achieved by outlining deficits in specific skill areas. The day ended with a group from the Guam Community College, which shared the successes of the accommo-dative services provided to students. On the second day of the conference, a presentation from the University of Guam highlighted the service accommodations provided to students with a disability. A UOG student shared her experiences of her struggles as a student and how the university has been instrumental in her success. The Department of Labor, Guma Mami, Guam Legal Services Corporation, Merrill Lynch, and the Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, shared with the audience what their programs were about and the kinds of services they offer to aid in transition. Additionally, a team from Guam CEDDERS outlined an Emergency Preparedness Plan that identified what various agencies, organizations, and first responders should do in the event of emergencies, and then sought additional needs and input from conference participants. Guam CEDDERS Assistive Technology Program, in collaboration with GPSS’ Speech Pathology, showcased the impact that AT could have for an individual without verbal communication skills. With each presentation, parents were welcomed to ask questions, and they did. They also had the chance to meet individually or set up meetings with key stakeholders of their child’s transition plan during the breaks. Although the conference was a two day event, the audience was promised continued support throughout the year in the form of follow-up seminars particular to topics of their needs and interests. Transition being a complex process, parents and students need the knowledge and continuous support to ensure that a plan is created for the student and that the plan gets carried out. The Tri-Agency has given their commitment to do just that, and already, one such seminar has been carried out. With such support, there is anticipation that the percentages of transition compliance reported by GPSS will speed the approach to acceptable levels of compliance. Photo with caption Berni Grajek delivers a review one of the many community resources available to students and families. Page 2 Diagram of the IEP Results Process for Transition Services Step 1 Measurable Post Secondary Goals Age-Appropriate Transition Assessments Training Education Employment Independent Living Skills-where appropriate Step 2 Present levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance Step 3 Transition Services Includes Courses of Study Includes: Instruction Related Services Community Experiences Employment and other post-school adult living objectives When appropriate: Daily Living Skills Functional Vocational Evaluation O’Leary, E., 2005 © Copyright Page 3 Tri-Agency Conference cont’d from Page 1 Six Photos with caption Number 1. UOG President Robert Underwood and Senior Vice President for Academic & Student Affairs, Dr. Helen Whippy drop in to chat with Drs. Gayle Hendricks, Aline Yamashita, & Heidi San Nicolas, Guam CEDDERS Director. Number 2. Transition parents Nick & Josie Dela Rosa share their experiences and insights with other parents. Number 3. Nenea Jamilla poses with her daughter Vanessa, who will move from Palau to Guam to enroll in the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program at JFK high school. Number 4. Dr. Aline Yamashita joins GDDC’s Manny Cruz, & Ray Salas during break. Number 5. Young Nick Dela Rosa shares interests and school experiences with conference participants. Number 6. Hank Schilling, GPSS Transition Coordinator, and Carla Torres, GSAT AT Specialist, facilitate MAPS Planning with student Nick Dela Rosa as a demonstration of exemplary practice. Page 4-5 14th Annual GSAT Assistive Technology Fair Features New Devices & Displays GSAT Assistive Technology Fair held on March 28 at the Guam Premier Outlet, featured a variety of display, devices, and vendors. Nine Photos with caption Number 1. Carla Torres, AT Specialist, explains the impact of a communication book to parents in attendance Number 2. Advisory council member, Josie Cortez, shares the joy of cooking in an accessible kitchen built by Benson Guam Number 3. Dee Palomo, GSAT center assistant, demonstrates a language development device to curious observers Number 4. Tracy Perez from Atkins Kroll demonstrates the “Bruno”, a new option in car accessibility. Number 5. Evelyn Duenas, GSAT Advisory Council Member, demonstrates the ease of obtaining something from the cupboard with the use of a reaches Number 6. Advisory Council members Kathy Millhoff and Lee Cruz showcase the world of accessible print in the Bestseller Bookstore Number 7. An intrigued fair-goer learns how individuals with visual impairments can enjoy books Number 8. Ginger Porter, Guam CEDDERS staff, gets the low-down of product and services offered by Pokilabot Computer Sales & Service owner Andrew Tydingco Number 9. Advisory Council Member, Bill Fuppul, sits poised ready to answer questions participants might have with mobility. Page 6 PAC6 Team Presents at 25th Annual Pac Rim Conference PACIFIC Project Partners Guam CEDDERS and the University of Kentucky Inclusive Large Scale Standards and Assessment (ILSSA) group conducted a presentation entitled "Accessing the General Curriculum for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities" at the 25th Annual Pacific Rim International Conference on Disabilities in Honolulu, Hawaii on May 5. The theme of this year’s conference “Working Toward a Brighter Future”, provided the team an opportunity to discuss “What is important for Juan to learn?” The interactive workshop engaged participants in activities and conversation on how careful planning and implementation of classroom instructional design can increase the academic achievement of students with significant cognitive disabilities in the general curriculum. The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework of multiple and flexible methods of presentation and student engagement and expression were demonstrated through the work of the Pacific Assessment Consortium Implementing Fully Innovative Change (PACIFIC) Project, a federally funded project. The project provides technical support to the six Pacific entities of American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. Administered through the University of Guam CEDDERS, in partnership with University of Kentucky's ILSSA group, the PACIFIC Project facilitates the full implementation of entity-specific alternate assessment based on alternate achievement standards (AA-AAS). The implementation has created opportunities to address the critical changes in the teaching and learning dynamics for academic instruction meaningful for ALL students, including students with significant cognitive disabilities. Photos with caption Participant Anna Yamada provides suggestions to Maria Quintanilla (R), both from the CNMI, during an activity in the Accessing the General Curriculum for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities in the Pacific breakout session at the PACRim Conference. Pacific Rim Presenters. (L-R) Lisa Friendly, from Bookshare.org, and June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS Project CIMAP Director, conducted a one-hour session during the 25th Annual Pacific Rim Conference in Honolulu. The title of their presentation was Pacific CIMAP and Bookshare.org: A Partnership for Crafting and Transforming Accessible Formats in the Pacific. PACIFIC Project staff and consultants presented a two-hour workshop entitled “Accessing the General Curriculum for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities in the Pacific” at the 25th Annual Pacific Rim Conference in Honolulu. (L-R) June Quitugua, Guam CEDDERS, Michael Burdge, UKY ILSSA, Jean Clayton, UKY ILSSA, Anne Denham, UKY ILSSA, & June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS. Page 7 CIMAP Project Consultants Provide TA to CNMI Photos with caption Vision Consultants Conduct Home Visit, February, 2009. Donna McNear, Vision Impairments Consultant, shows a book and allows “wait time” for preschooler Elyza to respond. Ms. McNear and Lisa Friendly from Bookshare.com (standing) were part of a team from the Pacific Consortium for Instructional Materials Accessibility Project (CIMAP). Elysa’s mother (partially hidden) and Kelly Phillips, CNMI Vision Teacher Specialist, (seated, right) observe the process. CIMAP On-Site TA Visit Feb 17-18. (L-R): CNMI’s Jerry Diaz, Early Childhood Special Education Teacher, Robin Palacios, Early Intervention Teacher, and Kelly Phillips, Vision Teacher Specialist, stand with Lisa Friendly, Bookshare.org Operations Director, during a meeting on appropriate Visual Impairment services for young children. Donna McNear, Vision Impairments Consultant and Mike Sharpe, External Evaluator, are seated in the foreground. FSM Teams Continue Work on Alternate Assessments Photo with caption FSM Cadre Teams met with the Guam CEDDERS staff in Pohnpei during the week of May 25-30 to continue work on activities that were tasked during the PACIFIC Project’s Regional Cadre Training Strands held in February in Guam. Cadre #1 focused on completing the Scoring rubric, Performance Level Descriptors (PLDs), and then determining the cut-scores. Cadre #2 continued work on the FSM Teacher’s Guide, while Cadre #3 developed a media clip on Alternate Assessment-Alternative Achievement Standards. Ad: Visit the new GSAT Website at www.gsatcedders.org Page 8 Guam Consumers Receive Individualized Telework Training Guam residents who wanted to learn more about the world of telework recently had the opportunity to attend customized training on the subject. Ben Servino, a vocational rehabilitation counselor from the University of California, East Bay, and former Guam CEDDERS staff member, was on Guam on March 30-31 to conduct group and individualized training for consumers interested in setting up their own businesses at home . The training, which was the culminating event of a series of assistive technology activities during the month of March, was welcomed by the twenty participants who attended. The workshop, titled, “AT Access and Utilization in the Telework Environment: An Assistive Technology Training for Consumers,” covered topics ranging from benefits of teleworking, Home Office Ergonomics, legislation, regulations, and policies, opportunities and skills required. Day Two of the training specifically addressed individual concerns in developing action plans. Recommendations relating to telework goals, recommendations for assistive technology assessments, identifying local resources, resume’ enhancement, “working with the system,” and accessing legal services were some of the topics addressed during this session. Text in colored box: “AT Access and Utilization in the Telework Environment: An Assistive Technology Training for Consumers” Agenda Definition and benefits of telework Assessing if Teleworking is right for you Status of Telework in Private/Government Sectors Telework Legislation/Policies Telework Job Opportunities and Skills Required Challenges Telework Home Office System Considerations Impact of Telework on SSI/SSDI Benefits AT Utilization in Telework Environments AT Access and Funding Local/Federal Resources Taking Next Steps Photo with caption “AT Access and Utilization” training participants are all smiles as they look towards their prosperous futures. (Front, L-R) Bill Fuppul & Evelyn Duenas; (Back row, L-R) Andrew Tydingco, Ben Servino, presenter, Lee Cruz, Marlene Crisostomo, Candice Perry, Erlinda Tydingco, Dolores Palomo, GSAT Center Assistant, Carla Torres, GSAT Assistive Technology Specialist, & Lisa Ogo. Participants missing in this photo are: Connie Wegner, Lydia Calvo, Kasinda Ludwig, Eloy Delos Santos, Rose Marie Atoigue, Samuel Ilesugam, Deborah Sarrosa, Chris Sarrosa, Maggie Reyes, Desiree Reyes, Manno Raigelig, Priscilliana Toves, & Jovonne Dela Cruz. Page 9 Menhalom Continues Positive Behavior Supports Training Thirty-five members of the public middle schools’ School Climate Cadres, including teachers, counselors, and administrators, attended a two day Spring Training on Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS)on May 18 - 19. Guam CEDDERS Training Associates Rosemarie Camacho, Dr. Nieves Flores, and Bonnie Brandt, facilitated the training and assisted teams with completing the Benchmarks of Quality, which measures critical elements of PBIS, including team representation, faculty commitment, effective discipline procedures, behavior expectations and rules, reward systems for positive behaviors, and evaluation procedures. The schools also worked to develop district-wide definitions for problem behaviors so that everyone is clear and consistent on what is meant by such behaviors as “disrespect” or “non-compliance.” These district-wide definitions will be adopted by all middle schools for the upcoming school year. Ms. Brandt delivered a presentation on “Data is Not Just a Four Letter Word” and discussed how teams can obtain and effectively use quality data to make decisions that result in a more positive school climate. Teams also reviewed their school’s discipline data and developed action plans to improve their PBIS system for the 2009-2010 school year. Photos with caption Oceanview Middle School Administrators and Staff prepare their Action Plan for PBIS for the upcoming school year. Oceanview Middle School’s Histomap illustrates stormy weather as schools seek direction for Character Education. Sunshine and rainbows represent the present and future as Character Education is fully implemented. Håtsa Conducts Leadership Training Photo with caption Project Håtsa Director, Dr. Nieves Flores and GPSS Faculty members Colette Beausoliel & Dave Cruz provided training to approximately 90 Guam Public School System administrators on April 6 & 7 at the Guam Fiesta Resort during the Project Håtsa Leadership Academy. Continuing Education credits were offered for the Academy-”Improving Student Learning Through the Use of Quality Data.” Page 9 Individuals Sharpen Self Advocacy Skills Their most exciting personal experiences ranged from interning at the White House West Wing, meeting President Clinton and known personalities such as Whoopi Goldberg; being whisked off an African street to be secreted away to prevent exposure to tear gas and mob-like crowds; getting the first permanent job; experiencing a snow ball fight in piled high mountain snow; working for money; arriving early for a concert by Kool and the Gang long before the ticket gate was set; competing in the World Games Special Olympics; and getting out of the house and into the community. In spite of the differences in their “most exciting” experiences, these individuals had one thing in common, they all had a disability, and they were all seeking skills to become better self advocates. Saturday morning, May 30, eleven individuals met at GSAT to begin the journey of bonding and learning more about themselves and Self Advocacy. Topics covered were: Understanding Self-Advocacy, Cultural Influences, Empowerment, Legal Rights, Expectations & Goals, Methods & Strategies, Resources, Personal Projects. After a morning of dialogue and information building, each individual chose a project to demonstrate self advocacy before the next training session in two weeks. Either individually or by small group, they will undertake speaking up about accessibility issues at restaurants and retail stores; express their views in an appeals process; recommend improved access at movie theaters; advocate for timely remedy of public library internet access; request the dignity of accessible transportation; and self advocate their needs and goals to Vocational Rehabilitation counselors. During their final meeting on June 13, they refined their responses by practicing assertiveness, recognizing their networks of support, and learning more about the resources available to them. Their new understanding of self advocacy is the first step of developing the next generation of leadership in the community of persons with disabilities. Quarter page advertisements: Need to Purchase and Assistive Technology Device? Guam Options for Alternative Loans for Assistive Technology GOAL-AT Provides affordable loans to persons with disabilities for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services. Would You Like to Learn More about Self-Advocacy? UOG CEDDERS invites you to learn more about self-advocacy and practice the skills to become a good self-advocate. This just might be a life changing event, and we think you’ll be glad you chose to come. Two Sessions: Saturdays, September 19 & October 3, 8:30 am-12 Noon, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, University of Guam, For more information, contact Ginger Porter at 735-2369 or email at ginger.porter@guamcedders.org. For more information contact Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) office at 735-2490 or email at gsat@guamcedders.org. Page 11 Self Advocacy Training. Participants of the Self Advocacy training on May 30 engaged in bonding experiences and idea development as they began to unwrap the legal resource framework of rights for individuals with disabilities. Five photos with caption Number 1. Vanessa Longa and Moses Puas Number 2. Andrew Tydingco Number 3. Ginger Porter, Guam CEDDERS Number 4. Leah Rassier Number 5. Table discussion group: Lisa Ogo, Marlon Molinas, Vanessa Longa, Susan Guerrero, Moses Puas, Candice Perry, Ginger Porter (standing), Lee Cruz, Clinton Mesa, Lynn Tydingco, & Evelyn Duenas. Page12 Guam CEDDERS Presents at Mental Health Conference Bonnie Brandt, Lead Evaluator for Guam CEDDERS Children’s Mental Health Initiative (CMHI) I Famagu’on-ta Evaluation Project, participated in two presentations at the 22nd Annual Children’s Mental Health Research conference in Tampa, Florida on March 1–4. The annual conference was hosted by the University of South Florida Research and Training Center for Children’s Mental Health. The conference title was: A System of Care for Children’s Mental Health: Expanding the Research Base. Ms. Brandt co-facilitated the topical discussion, Cultural Competency: What is “Mental Health” in Indigenous, Island, and Immigrant Populations?, with Jennifer Dewey from Macro International and Dr. Ranilo Laygo from the University of Hawaii. The discussion explored the meaning of mental health for indigenous, island, and immigrant populations, and the cultural dimensions that impact access, utilization, and satisfaction with services in systems of care. Bonnie also participated in a symposium titled 2008 Honoring Excellence in Evaluation (HEE) Event: Recipients Share their Work facilitated by Sylvia Fisher from SAMHSA and Laura Whalen from Macro, International. This symposium featured presentations by recipients of the 2008 HHE awards and Ms. Brandt discussed Guam’s recognition in the category of family and youth involvement. Photo with caption Cultural Competence Mapping Exercise. Dr. Ranilo Laygo assists participants in completing a mapping exercise to identify immigrant populations served in their system of care sites across the U.S. and its Territories during the topical discussion, Cultural Competency: What is “Mental Health” in Indigenous, Island, and Immigrant Populations. Guam EHDI Parents Meet with Audiologist & Deaf Community Photo with caption Guam EHDI Parent Night. On March 30, Ms. Kim Aeillo, audiologist and consultant for the National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management, gave a presentation to 19 parents and members of the Deaf community on March 30 at the Guam Marriot Resort and Spa. Ms. Aeillo’s presentation focused on “Getting The Facts About Hearing Loss”. The presence of adult members of the Deaf community during the meeting was an added treat for the Guam EHDI families. The Deaf community members shared their experiences to let the families know that they are there as a resource and that people with severe hearing loss can have careers and be contributing members of society. Jeanne Hollis, (standing, second from left) donated her interpreting services during the meeting. Page 13 Project Tinituhon: Teams Develop Next Steps “In this world, you may be one person…and to one person, you may be the world.” On April 29, thirty stakeholder representatives gathered to strategize the next steps for Project Tinituhon. Project Tinituhon–“The Beginning” is a grant awarded from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Maternal and Child Health Bureau to Guam CEDDERS. Project Tinituhon organizes its work in four focus areas: Early Care and Education, Social-Emotional Development/Mental Health, Family Support Services & Parent Education, and Medical Homes & Health Care. By making strides in these focus areas, Guam is strengthening its Early Childhood Comprehensive System. Significant steps have been taken in health and dental care, developmentally appropriate practices, healthy social emotional habits, family training and supports, and infrastructure and foundation strengthening for a safe, healthy, and happy beginning with lifelong outcomes for each of our young children and their families. Like the volume and intensity of conversations from group to group, commitments grew at the Strategic Management Team meeting. Each group focused on the importance of advocacy for children birth to five. Just as important, teams focused the need for assurance that every person interacting with young children has a clear awareness of the impact of their actions and interactions on developing children. Persons interested in joining one of the focus groups should call Ruth Leon Guerrero at 735-2466. Photo with caption Strategic Management Team Members are shown gathered for a meeting on April 29. Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2009. Manuel Cruz, Executive Director of the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, presented the Proclamation by the Governor of Guam, designating March as Guam Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, to the GDDC during its regular meeting on March 11. Attending the meeting were (front row, L-R) Thomas Manglona, Evelyn Duenas, Meriam Peredo, Moses Puas, Josephine Cortez; (middle row, L-R) Vangie Cepeda, Elisabeth Cruz, Mark Peredo, Claire Duenas, Susan Guerrero, Manuel Cruz, Jodie Pizarro, Lisa Ogo, Kristina Perez, Marie Libria, Rosanne Ada, & June Perez. (back row, L-R) Jesse Pangelinan, Daniel Cobb, Shirley Lujan, Ella Cruz, Raymond Salas, Terrie Fejarang, Esther Arca, Joseph Manibusan, & Albert San Agustin. Page 14 CSEFEL Training Spreads Positive Solutions for Families The participants came from the Department of Public Health and Social Services, the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Guam Community College, Guam Early Intervention System, Guam Head Start, Special Education Preschool Program, Model Child Care Centers, Guam Parent Information Resource Center, Sanctuary, Educational Developmental Intervention Services, Guam Identifies Families Terrific Strengths, Guam Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, and Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service. Throughout 10 hours, these child and family advocates were presented the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL) Positive Solutions for Families training modules. As the group reviewed how to strengthen relationships with families, expand emotional vocabulary, determine the meaning of behavior, manage challenging behavior, and explore strategies to promote positive behavior, they shared “island-style” adaptations that are useful to know as they work on Guam. Examples of knowledge tidbits ranged from understanding that a culture may not want its kids to sweat, to take off their shoes, to call everyone “auntie,” to understanding terms like “magodai” and “mahalang.” Now these advocates will share these practices and culturally competent strategies known to build healthy, happy beginnings both socially and emotionally for our young children and their families. Photo with caption Positive Solutions Training. Twenty-nine caregivers, child care center directors, government agency and non-profit organization representatives, attended the workshop held on April 30 & May 1. Aline Yamashita, Ph.D., facilitated the 12-hour training. Below are the names of the participants of SCEFEL Training CSEFEL Positive Solutions Training Participants Text in colored box: CSEFEL Positive Solutions Training Participants Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse CAMACHO, Lavina Department of Public Health & Social Services, Bureau of Social Services Administration CHUGRAD, Cindy FAUSTO, Lydia Educational Developmental Intervention Services (EDIS) FLORES-LOBO, Brigette Guam Community College CAMACHO, Clare Ann Guam Parent Information Resource Center (PIRC) CAMACHO, Pauline CAMACHO, Louise FUPPUL, Iosindo WUSSTIG, Marie Guam Identifies Families Terrific Strengths, Inc. (GIFTS) EDGERLE, Mary-Therese Guam Public School System (GPSS), Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) OWEN, Pauline QUENGA, Carmen GPSS, Head Start CRUZ, Angelina-Marie CURA, Arlene PINEDA, Annie NGIRIARIKL, Maiomihna GPSS, Preschool Program HARPER, Charlita TAITANO, Maria Julieta Model Child Care Centers HUFFER, Michele HUFFER, Gerard GAPAS, Estela UNDERWOOD, Lagrimas PELAYO, Rina Parent CAMACHO, Rosemarie Sanctuary, Inc. CRUZ, Monica GUZMAN, Stephanie University of Guam, CEDDERS BORJA, Elizabeth ECLAVEA, Elaine KIDD, Mary Page 15 Family Support 360 Holds Advisory Meeting Photo with caption Family Support 360 Advisory Meets. The Family Support 360 for Military Families advisory council had its second meeting on May 20 at House 22/23, UOG Dean Circle. The advisory members had the opportunity to see its new Center. The Center is available for military families including Reservist families to come in and inquire about services on and off-base, referral to the services off-base, and resources and reference materials related to disabilities. (Standing, L-R) Pauline Camacho, Guam PIRC Director; Evelyn Claros, Senior Family Navigator, Guam’s Family Support 360 for Military Families; Dr. Nieves Flores, Project Director, Guam’s Family Support 360 for Military Families; Manny Cruz, Executive Director, Guam Developmental Disabilities Council; Anthony Ooka, Guam/CNMI Community Support Coordinator, Joint Service Family Support Network; Kristen Galbreaith, Parent; (Sitting, L-R) Dr. Sue Burdick, Deputy Superintendent, DoDEA; Dr. Mary Fegurgur, Co-Principal Investigator, Guam’s Family Support 360 for Military Families; Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, Director, Guam CEDDERS and Principal Investigator, Guam’s Family Support 360 for Military Families; Teresa Quiner, Parent; & Barbara Askey, Navy School Liaison. Accessibility Counts: Model Child Care Center Scores 100% For the first time in its history, the Licensing Unit of the Dept. of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) awarded a 100% rating to a child care center. The “Good Day” Child Care & Learning Center earned this unprecedented rating during a monitoring visit in March. Jeanette Reilly and Diane Artero, owners, with Delilah Charfauros, director, have worked diligently to meet the many standards set by DPHSS. The center has been a Model Child Care Center since 2007, which involved key staff completing 40 hours of training that covered a wide range of topics including developmentally appropriate and inclusive practices and on-site technical assistance by Guam CEDDERS Training Associate Mary Kidd. The center also received mini-grants through the Child Care and Development Fund Program to implement the Guam Early Learning Guidelines for Young Children Birth to Age Five and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Special recognition was given to the center for having all of its exits ADA accessible. In addition, there is a new accessible bathroom, marked with a sign including Braille markings and a new accessible parking area in close proximity to the entrance. Photo with caption Day Care Receives 100% Rating. Jeanette Reilly, Co-owner of “Good Day” Child Care & Learning Center, proudly displays the scoring sheet which shows her Center’s 100% rating during a monitoring visit in March, conducted by the DPHSS, Child Care Monitoring Program. Page 16 PEPNet Project Shares Information & Hope Deaf/hard of hearing (D/HH) is considered to be a “low incidence” disability. This essentially means that it affects individuals at a much lower rate, relative to other types of disabilities. However, according to recent statistics, the number of people who are deaf/hard of hearing is increasing. Currently, one out of 10 people in the U.S. has a hearing loss. This is one of the facts that was shared during the recent workshops conducted by PEPNet-West project personnel. Cathy McLeod, Director, based at California State University, Northridge, and Mary Morrison, Associate Director, based at the University of Montana, visited Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam during the week of May 11-14. The consultants conducted a workshop on “Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Understanding Leads to Success” in collaboration with Guam CEDDERS represented by Terrie Fejarang, Associate Director. The workshops were attended by parents and service providers who primarily work with high school students and adults who are D/HH. These included teachers, interpreters, transition coordinators, job coaches, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and coordinators of support services for students with disabilities at post-secondary institutions of education. Evening meetings attended by adults and students who are D/HH and their families were held on both islands. During these meetings, Ms. McLeod shared some of her experiences while growing up deaf in a hearing family. Ms. Morrison shared her experiences as a hearing person growing up in a family of eight children, three of whom are deaf. Feedback from participants of these events were very appreciative of the information shared, stating that their knowledge base was increased significantly. Plans are currently being developed to schedule similar training and meetings with families and service providers on the other island entities in the region. Text in colored box: “Thanks to our presenters and the attendees for sharing personal stories. This is one of the most informative and heart-warming trainings I’ve attended in a long time. I’ve learned so much and have many more resources to add to my list not only for persons who are deaf & h.h., but persons w/ disabilities in general. This workshop should be mandatory for all CRTs, interns, and other professionals who work directly w/ the deaf & hard of hearing.” Guam Workshop Participant Photos with caption Guam Children & Families Meeting, May 14. Posing with Guam middle & high school students. Consultants & participants at the conclusion of the Guam training session. Page 17 PEPNet Snapshots Photos with caption Cathy McLeod, PEPNet-West Director, shares stories from her personal experiences to encourage parents as they guide their children. Cathy McLeod & Mary Morrison urge students at JFK High School to plan & pursue their dreams. Teacher Mike Castro is at right. Participants in the Saipan training session. Fiddling with a camera and seeing pictures of yourself is fun! Visiting with students & staff at Oleai Elementary School in Saipan, CNMI. Text in colored box: “It is so encouraging to hear the success stories of deaf children. I hope the parents present here tonight will take heed and motivate their kids to work, study hard, & go to college. Nothing is impossible! Thank you for having the workshop/ dinner tonight.” CNMI Parent-Family Night Participant Page 18 GSAT Joins Guam Community College Job Fair Guam CEDDERS GSAT Advisory Council members and staff participated in a job fair held in partnership with Guam Community College’s Industry Partners, Guam’s Community Based Organizations, and the Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association on February 21 at the Micronesia Mall Center Court. Over 35 organizations participated in this event. Photos with caption Several consumers visited the GSAT display during the Guam Community College’s Job Fair. (Left photo) Josephine Cortez, Lisa Ogo, and Evelyn Duenas visit with Carla Torres, AT Specialist. (Above photo) A Job Fair participant met with Dee Palomo, GSAT Center Assistant. Region IX State Specialist Conducts Presentation On April 27, Abby Cohen, Region IX State Technical Assistance Specialist from the National Child Care Information Center, conducted a presentation to parents at the Guam Parent Information Resource Center (PIRC) Conference Room on the importance of quality child care, the impact on their child’s development, and resources available to them on early learning and making child care choices for their children. Photos with caption Region IX State T.A. Specialist, Abby Cohen, from the National Child Care Information Center, conducts a presentation to 23 parents of young children ages birth to five, on “Strengthening Guam’s Future with Quality Early Care and Education” on April 27 at the Guam PIRC center in Hagatña. Region IX State Specialist, Abby Cohen answers questions from parents during a Parent Night event held on April 27 that was facilitated by Guam CEDDERS and co-sponsored by the Dept. of Public Health & Social Services and the Guam Parent Information Resource Center. Page 19 JFK Students Undergo Transit Training Photo with caption Transit Training. Twenty students from the JFK High School Basic Life Skills class are shown boarding Red Line 1 at the Flores Public Library stop on their return to campus, May 20. Students and instructors explored fixed route transit services between campus and Hagåtña as a means of expanding their transportation options. Guam CEDDERS Initiative Area Coordinator, Ginger Porter, provided the instructors with schedules, maps, and travel training curriculum to enhance the experience and rode with students, answering their questions about transit operations and conducting a quality check on driver passenger assistance training. CEDDERS Showcases Activities During WASC Poster Session Photo with caption Western Association of Schools and Colleges Site Visit. Guam CEDDERS participated in the University of Guam WASC Accreditation poster session held on April 2. Shown in front of the Guam CEDDERS display table at the field house is Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, Guam CEDDERS Director, who provided an overview of the organization’s mission and activities to an Accreditation Team member and Dr. John Salas, Professor of International Tourism. Page 20 Calendar of Upcoming Events June 2009 * Jun 5—Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council Meeting, GSAT Training Center, 3:30-5 pm * Jun 6-Model Child Care Module 2 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Jun 6 - Project Kid Care (Immunization Outreach for Children birth—18 yrs, Agana Shopping Center, 11am-1pm * Jun 9-Project Tinituhon Focus Group Meeting, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 9-11 am * Jun 10-12-Menhalom Positive Action Training of Trainees, Holiday Inn * Jun 13-Self Advocacy Training, GSAT Training Center, 8:30 am-1:30 pm * Jun 15-GSAT Advisory Council Meeting, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean Circle, 3:30 -5:00 pm * Jun 16-Administration on Developmental Disabilities TA Visit for Family Support 360, UOG Dean Circle, Hse 22 * Jun 20-Model Child Care Module 3 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Jun 22-26- “Train-the-Trainer” Guam Early Learning Guidelines Parent Training, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 8 am-12 pm July 2009 * Jul 8-9-Children’s Mental Health Summit, TBA * Jul 9-Pacific Project Cadre Meeting * Jul 10-14-Pacific Project GSEG III Regional Assessment Institute * Jul 11-Model Child Care Module 4 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Jul 13-14-ALONG Parent Training/TA, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 8 am-12 Noon * Jul 14-Project Tinituhon Focus Group Meeting, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 9-11 am * Jul 15-17-Pacific Educational Conference, Time & Venue TBA * Jul 18-Model Child Care Module 5 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Jul 20-24-Creative Curriculum Developmental Continuum Assessment & Progress and Outcomes Reporting Tool for Ages 3-5, Palau * Jul 20-31-RMI Special Education Teacher Institute, Majuro, RMI * Jul 27-31-Pacific CIMAP Braille Training, Pohnpei * Jul 27-31-FSM Teachers’ Symposium, Pohnpei August 2009 * Aug 1-Model Child Care Module 6 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Aug 11-Project Tinituhon Focus Group Meeting, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 9-11 am * Aug 15-Infant Toddler CSEFEL Trng, TBA, 8 am5pm * Aug 22-Infant Toddler CSEFEL Trng, TBA,8 am-5 pm * Aug 29-Model Child Care Module 7 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm September 2009 * Sep 8-Project Tinituhon Focus Group Meeting, Guam PIRC Conference Room, 9-11 am * Sep 8– Train-the-Trainer: “Transit Rider Rights & Responsibilities,” TBA, 8:30 am –noon * Sep 12-Power of Play & Annual Parent Conference, “All Eyes on Five”, Venue & Time TBA * Sep 19-Model Child Care Module 8 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm * Sep 19-Self Advocacy Training, GSAT Training Center, 8:30 am-1:30 pm ?Sep 26-Model Child Care Module 9 Training, Guam Marriott Resort, 8 am-1:30 pm Advertisement Nene Directory Now Available Nene Directory: A Directory of Guam’s Service Providers for Children Birth to Five was published in April through a collaborative effort between Guam CEDDERS, the Department of Public Health & Social Services-Project Tinituhon, Guam Public School System - Head Start and Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS), and the Guam Parent Information Resource Center (Guam PIRC). Contact Ruth Leon Guerrero at 735-2466 or ruth.leonguerrero@guamcedders.org for a copy. Advertisement Quarter page ad: 15th Annual GSAT Assistive Technology Conference “In the World, a Person; In a Person, a World: A.T. UNLOCKS it ALL!” Westin Resort Guam, Wednesday, July 8, 2009 from 8am-2pm, Special Conference Sessions for: Teachers, Related Services Personnel and Parents – “A World of Inclusive Schools: Universal Design for Learning (UDL), UDL and Assistive Technology (AT), and AT and Communicative Success” presented by Anne Denham, University of Kentucky and Jennifer Noxsel, Speech Language Pathologist Persons with Disabilities – “A World at Home,” “A World on the Road,” “A World at Work,” “A World of Fun,” “A World of Faith,” and “A World of Fashion” To pre-register and to request for reasonable accommodations please contract GSAT by July 3 at 735-2490 (V), 735-2491 (TDD, TTY), 734-8378 (Fax) This event is supported by Grant No. H224A080053 from the Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education. The University of Guam is an equal opportunity employer and provider. University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS) Newsletter Guam CEDDERS Office of Academic & Student Affairs University of Guam, UOG Station Mangilao, Guam 96923 Phone: (671) 735-2480/1 Fax: (671) 734-5709 TTY: (671) 734-6531 Email: heidi.sannicolas@guamcedders.org I Tellai is a quarterly publication of Guam CEDDERS. Director: Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D. Editors: Terrie Fejarang, June De Leon, & Ginger Porter Layout & Design: Margaret Johnson This issue of I Tellai was made possible by contributions from the following Guam CEDDERS staff members: Bonnie Brandt, Rosemarie Camacho, Liz Borja, June De Leon, Terrie Fejarang, Mary Kidd, Ginger Porter, June Quitugua, Vicky Ritter, Carla Torres & Aline Yamashita. Alternative formats (e.g. Braille, large print, or audio tapes) of I Tellai will be made available upon request. Please contact Margaret Johnson at (671) 735-2477 (v), (671) 735-6531 (TTY), or (671) 734-5709 (fax) for more information. The University of Guam is an equal opportunity employer and provider.