Bridges4Kids News Digest

December 28, 2008

Bridges4Kids NewsDigest Topics

• National News	• Disability News
• Michigan News	• Special Education Issues
• Parenting/Parental Involvement	• Ask the Attorney/Advocate
• Early Childhood	• Upcoming National Events
• Visit Bridges4Kids	• Upcoming Michigan Events
• Where to Find Help For a Child

National News	top
President-Elect Wants Your "Vision for America" The Office of President-Elect Obama has created a web site, www.change.gov with a place for all of us to e-mail our "vision for what America can be (and) where President-Elect Obama should lead this country." More details are available online at http://www.change.gov/page/s/yourvision. Florida Atlantic University Grad Overcomes Paralysis to Earn MBA http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/12-08/Travis12-12-08.html As an able-bodied but unmotivated teenager, Ryan Gebauer didn't think he was cut out for college. When an accident in 1995 left him paralyzed from the neck down, he doubted he would even finish high school. But Gebauer, 30, has proven himself wrong time and time again. On Thursday, he accepted his master's degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic University. He was one of about 2,200 students receiving degrees this week during FAU's fall commencement. The audience gave Gebauer a standing ovation. Obama Picks Chicago's Schools Chief For Cabinet http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/12/15/ST2008121503446.html President-elect Barack Obama nominated Chicago schools executive Arne Duncan as his education secretary this morning and is expected to tap Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colo.) later this week to serve as secretary of the interior, all but finalizing his selections for major Cabinet posts. Dropouts Establish Patterns Early On http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/12-08/12-1-08.html Warning signs of high school academic woes can be seen in students as young as 11 and addressed, researchers say. Bridges4kids Featured Book: I Before E (Except After C); Old-School Ways to Remember Stuff http://search.barnesandnoble.com/I-before-E/Judy-Parkinson/e/9780762109173 Hundreds of Memory Tricks You Learned in the Classroom! "Thirty days hath September..." How many times have your relied on that old maxim to figure out a calendar? Or how about "Every Good Boy Does Fine" to remember the notes on the treble clef? These ingenious, practical memory techniques abound in I BEFORE E (EXCEPT AFTER C) with its hundreds of curious sayings. In this clever -- and often hilarious -- collection, you'll find engaging mnemonics, arranged in easy-to-find categories. Bridges4kids Featured Book: Know It All: The Little Book of Essential Knowledge http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Know-It-All/Elizabeth-King-Humphrey/e/9780762109333/?itm=1 Wish you were that person who could answer any question? Can’t find just the right thing to say to start a conversation at a cocktail party? This book offers hours of fact-finding pleasure with a huge collection of intriguing and useful facts, plus quizzes to improve your knowledge. You can gain valuable information about a myriad of subjects—with just a page or two devoted to each topic—presented in clear, easy-to-understand language. And, best of all, you will be on your way to becoming a Know It All! Need Help With Class? YouTube Videos Await http://tech.yahoo.com/news/ap/20081211/ap_on_hi_te/tec_youtube_tutoring When University of Central Florida junior Nicole Nissim got stumped in trigonometry, she checked out what was showing on YouTube. It turned out YouTube was full of math videos. After watching a couple, the psychology major says, she finally understood trig equations and how to make graphs. Soshiku – Tracking Homework with Cell Phones http://education.zdnet.com/?p=1980 Soshiku, a website created by 17-year old Andrew Shaper, is a simple and elegant web-based tool for tracking school assignments. Launched this September, I stumbled across it via a note on Twitter and I have to say I’m completely impressed. Space Study Sessions for Better Retention, Researchers Suggest http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/11/081118141708.htm Proper timing between presenting class material and scheduling study sessions can dramatically affect learning, according to a new study of more than 1,000 people. Researchers found that the longer the gap between when material was first covered and when it was revisited in study sessions, the more likely students were to remember it a year later. "Instruction that packs a lot of learning into a short period is likely to be extremely inefficient," said Hal Pashler, a University of California, San Diego, psychology professor. Realtors Violated Lead Paint Disclosure Rules http://www.registercitizen.com/articles/2008/11/08/business/doc491557e6f0770976695228.txt The corporate owners of Coldwell Banker real estate brokerage offices in four New England states face fines of up to $1.1 million for violating lead paint disclosure rules, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Thursday. Inspections and a review of documents by the EPA uncovered 102 violations of disclosure rules committed by Coldwell Banker offices owned by NRT New England LLC of Waltham, Mass., and Coldwell Banker Real Estate Services LLC of Parsippany, N.J. Vendors Urge Relaxed Lead-Safety Rule http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122696993087535701.html?mod=googlenews_wsj Manufacturers and retailers of children’s products are asking Congress to relax strict new requirements on the allowable lead content in their products. Many smaller retailers claim that they cannot afford to pay for the testing new legislation would require and fear that the February 2009 deadline will devastate sales, inventory, and credit.
Michigan News	top
Commentary: Dis-investing in Education and Our Future http://www.pressandguide.com/stories/112308/loc_20081123009.shtml By early December, Gov. Jennifer Granholm, faced with declining revenue and a state constitutional mandate to maintain a balanced budget, will be executing hundreds of millions of dollars of budget cuts. What are schools going to do when, after having received less-than-inflation budget increases for the past six years and claiming to have already "cut to the bone," the cuts come again? Schools need to change, not just rearrange. This includes making the structural changes necessary to bring educational pensions and health benefits in line with employees in the private sector, consolidating some of the 500-plus school districts, and instituting more shared administrative and educational services to reduce costs. Michigan Virtual Learning Gets Second Place http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/11-08/MIRS11-18-08.html Only two years after being the first state in the nation to implement an online learning graduation requirement, Michigan's virtual learning program ranks second-place nationwide, according to the Center for Digital Education (CDE) annual report. MPAS Comments RE: ESY, Complaints, Jail Policies http://www.bridges4kids.org/Complaint%20and%20ESY%20regs%20comments%2011-08.pdf Comments from Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service, Inc. (MPAS) regarding proposed state rules on extended school year, special education complaints, and jail policies (2008-022-ED). For further information on the comments, please contact: Mark McWilliams at mmcwill@mpas.org or (517) 487-1755. Charter, Promise Zones, Anti-Bullying Measures Move in Michigan Senate Education Committee http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/12-08/MIRS12-4-08.html Senate Education Committee Chair Wayne Kuipers (R-Holland) today once again slipped in a measure to expand charter schools, this time on a Promise Zone bill the Governor wants to sign before the end of the year. Online Classes Bloom In Trend-Setting Michigan http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/12-08/MIRS12-5-08.html Lorri Macdonald leads 40 students in two introductory forensic science classes. As with any high school course, her students participate in class discussions, complete lessons and do homework. But MacDonald's students won't get into trouble for talking or chewing gum. Their work is done in a virtual classroom.
Parenting/Parental Involvement	top
Stacking the Deck for Family Holidays http://www.coultervideo.com/stackingdeckessay.htm It’s family holiday gatherings season. So, do you feel anticipation or anxiety? If you have a child with an autism spectrum disorder, you might feel a bit of both. New Study Shows Time Spent Online Important for Teen Development http://www.macfound.org/site/c.lkLXJ8MQKrH/b.4773437/ Results from the most extensive U.S. study on teens and their use of digital media show that America’s youth are developing important social and technical skills online – often in ways adults do not understand or value. Raising Kids Of Relatives Could Bring Federal Funds http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/16/AR2008111601728.html A new federal law would steer monthly financial support to people who take in children their relatives have abused or neglected. The law is among the most sweeping reforms of the U.S. foster care system since President Bill Clinton overhauled federal law to streamline the adoption process in 1997. It also increases the rewards for placement of older children and gives states money to allow children to stay in foster care until age 21 instead of 18. Ten Actions ALL Parents Can Take to Help Eliminate Bullying http://www.education.com/reference/article/Ref_Ten_Actions_Parents/ An excellent list of interventions parents can take to help eliminate bullying and its destructive effects on the victim, the bully and the witnesses. Bullying at School and Online http://www.education.com/topic/school-bullying-teasing/ Up-to-date research and practical tips on bullying and cyberbullying including warning signs, how to help a child, how to spot victims and bullies, parents and schools working together and preventing bullying at your school. Book & Product Reviews & Recommendations by Home Schooling Mom, Penny Ray Penny's Book Review: One2Believe Tales of Glory Nativity Set http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/11-08/penny.nativity.html Penny's Book Review: Spears Art Studio http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/11-08/penny.spears.html Penny's Book Review: Peterson Directed Handwriting http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/peterson-directed-handwriting-tos.html Penny's Book Review: All About Spelling http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/all-about-spelling-tos-homeschool-crew.html Penny's Book Review: Puppetools http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/puppetools-dot-com-tos-homeschool-crew.html Penny's Book Review: MotherBoard Books "Let's Make A Web Page" http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/motherboard-books-lets-make-web-page.html Penny's Book Review: Trigger Memory Systems http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/trigger-memory-systems-education.html Penny's Book Review: Rime to Read http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/rime-to-read-tos-homeschool-review.html Penny's Book Review: ALEKS http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/aleks-tos-homeschool-crew-review.html Penny's Book Review: Time4Learning http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/time4learning-tos-homeschool-crew.html Penny's Book Review: And Then Mama Said..."It Takes Time To Learn To Read" http://notnewtoautism.blogspot.com/2008/12/splish-and-then-mama-said-it-takes-time.html For more information on Parenting, Siblings, Adoption and Foster Care, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Parenting.html
Early Childhood	top
Obama’s $10 Billion Promise Stirs Hope in Early Education http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/17/us/politics/17early.html It was the morning after the presidential election, and Matthew Melmed, executive director of Zero to Three, a national organization devoted to early childhood education, could barely contain his exultation. Fan in Baby’s Room Lowers SIDS Risk http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/10/06/embargo-fan-in-babys-room-lowers-sids-risk/ Babies who sleep in rooms with a fan have a dramatically lower risk for sudden infant death syndrome, a new study shows. The finding is the latest evidence to suggest that a baby’s sleep environment is a critical factor in the risk for SIDS, which is diagnosed when the sudden death of an infant can’t be explained by other health concerns. MI Michigan Child Care Task Force Reports (November 2008) http://www.earlychildhoodmichigan.org/MCCTFreports11-08.pdf
Disability News	top
Expecting Longer Lives With Greater Risk, Reward http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/09/AR2008110902189.html Longer lives brings new demands as first generation of kids With disabilities set to outlive their parents. Warning Given on Use of 4 Popular Asthma Drugs, but Debate Remains http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/06/health/policy/06allergy.html?em Two federal drug officials have concluded that asthma sufferers risk death if they continue to use four hugely popular asthma drugs — Advair, Symbicort, Serevent and Foradil. But the officials’ views are not universally shared within the government. Software That Opens Worlds to the Disabled http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/18/business/smallbusiness/18edge.html?_r=1 One computer program would allow vision-impaired shoppers to point their cell phones at supermarket shelves and hear descriptions of products and prices. Another would allow a physically disabled person to guide a computer mouse using brain waves and eye movements. Assistive Technology Fact Sheets http://www.fctd.info/resources/index.php New fact sheets from the Family Center on Technology and Disability, include an AT Glossary, Assistive Technology 101, Assistive Technology and the IEP, and Assistive Technology Laws. IL Illinois Autism Bill Would Mandate Insurance Coverage of $36,000 a Year http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2008/nov/21/local/chi-autism-coverage_21nov21 Insurance companies would be required to cover autism diagnosis and treatment up to $36,000 a year under legislation sent to the governor Thursday. The action marks a victory for advocates who say early intervention and therapy is key to helping children with autism gain communication and social skills. The Secret Social Skills Ingredient http://www.coultervideo.com/secretingredientessay.htm I love the story about a man who approached legendary pianist Arthur Rubinstein on the street in New York and asked, “Excuse me, how do I get to Carnegie Hall?” Rubinstein reportedly looked at the man and said, “Practice, practice, practice.” This anecdote may be apocryphal, but it’s still a great story. For more information on Disabilities, Disorders and Diseases, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Disabilities.html
Special Education Issues	top
Reexamining Rowley: A New Focus in Special Education Law http://www.harborhouselaw.com/articles/rowley.reexamine.johnson.htm Three important events have occurred since the Rowley decision that impact the validity of the "some educational benefit" standard and change the nature of educational services that schools must provide to students who receive special education services under the IDEA. 10 Tips for Good Advocates http://www.wrightslaw.com/howey/10tips.advocates.htm Wrightslaw's Pat Howey says parents need to understand that the law gives them power to use in educational decisions for their children. Parents should not be afraid to use their power. But, there are better ways to obtain positive results than to roar through IEP meetings in a Mack Truck. Here are Pat's newest tips for effective, successful advocates. For more information on Special Education, IEPs and Section 504, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Rules.html
Ask the Attorney/Advocate	top
Visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/AA.html for dozens of Attorney John Brower's previously posted Q&As.
Upcoming National Events	top
These are NEW calendar listings that have been added this week, along with events taking place this week. To view a complete calendar of National events, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Conferences.html Save the Date: The Sixth International Conference on Positive Behavior Support WHEN: March 26-28, 2009 WHERE: Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, Jacksonville, Florida Save the Date: Postsecondary Disability Training Institute WHEN: June 2-5 & 6, 2009 from 8:30-4:00 WHERE: Philadelphia, PA DESCRIPTION: The objective of this Training Institute is to assist dedicated professionals to meet the unique needs of college students with disabilities. COST: Cost is $395.00 per person (early registration). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit our website at http://www.cped.uconn.edu for detailed information. Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. Presents "What’s Out There and How to Get It" 2008-2009 Free Training Series For Families and Professionals Needing Programs and Services for Children with Disabilities DATES/LOCATIONS: These workshops are being held throughout 2008-2009. Visit http://www.resourcesnyc.org/rschedule.php for specific dates, times and locations across New York state. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Contact Gary Shulman, MS.Ed. (212) 677-4650, gshulman@resourcesnyc.org, www.resourcesnyc.org, www.resourcesnycdatabase.org (searchable website). For more information or to register, visit http://www.resourcesnyc.org/rschedule.php.
Upcoming Michigan Events	top
These are NEW calendar listings that have been added this week, along with events taking place this week. To view a complete calendar of Michigan events, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Conferences.html Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do. Part 1: What To Know. WHEN: January 6, 2009. February 3, 2009. March 3, 2009. April 7, 2009. May 5, 2009. June 2, 2009. Each workshop is held from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. WHERE: St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti Michigan 48197 DESCRIPTION: Free, 2-part program to learn to understand, identify and address teen alcohol/other drug problems. Presented by Ron Harrison, SW. Sponsored by Dawn Farm, St. Joseph Mercy Health System and Livingston/Washtenaw Safe and Drug Free Schools Consortium. Targeted to parents; inclusive of teens, family, professionals, students, others. Registration not required. FOR MORE INFORMATION: See http://www.teensusingdrugs for info. To register, contact Jess Antanaitis at 734-973-7892. Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do. Part 2: What To Do. WHEN: January 13, 2009. February 10, 2009. March 10, 2009. April 14, 2009. May 12, 2009. June 9, 2009. Each workshop is held from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm. WHERE: St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center, 5305 Elliott Drive, Ypsilanti Michigan 48197 DESCRIPTION: Free, 2-part program to learn to understand, identify and address teen alcohol/other drug problems. Presented by Ron Harrison, SW. Sponsored by Dawn Farm, St. Joseph Mercy Health System and Livingston/Washtenaw Safe and Drug Free Schools Consortium. Targeted to parents; inclusive of teens, family, professionals, students, others. Registration not required. FOR MORE INFORMATION: See http://www.teensusingdrugs for info. To register, contact Jess Antanaitis at 734-973-7892. Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do. Part 1: What To KNOW. WHEN: March 18, 2009 from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm WHERE: St. Joseph Mercy Woodland Health Center, 7575 Grand River Road, Brighton Michigan 48114 (Livingston County) DESCRIPTION: Free, 2-part program to learn to understand, identify and address teen alcohol/other drug problems. Presented by Ron Harrison, SW. Sponsored by Dawn Farm, St. Joseph Mercy Health System and Livingston/Washtenaw Safe and Drug Free Schools Consortium. Targeted to parents; inclusive of teens, family, professionals, students, others. Registration not required. FOR MORE INFORMATION: See http://www.teensusingdrugs for info. To register, contact Jess Antanaitis at 734-973-7892. Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do. Part 2: What To Do. WHEN: March 25, 2009 from 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm WHERE: St. Joseph Mercy Woodland Health Center, 7575 Grand River Road, Brighton Michigan 48114 (Livingston County) DESCRIPTION: Free, 2-part program to learn to understand, identify and address teen alcohol/other drug problems. Presented by Ron Harrison, SW. Sponsored by Dawn Farm, St. Joseph Mercy Health System and Livingston/Washtenaw Safe and Drug Free Schools Consortium. Targeted to parents; inclusive of teens, family, professionals, students, others. Registration not required. FOR MORE INFORMATION: See http://www.teensusingdrugs for info. To register, contact Jess Antanaitis at 734-973-7892.
Bridges4Kids NewsDigest Staff Deborah Canja Chief Executive Officer deb@bridges4kids.org Jackie Igafo-Te'o Director of Information Technology & Information Systems jackie@bridges4kids.org Bella Djordjevski Resource Assistant news@bridges4kids.org