new year, new startthe time to act is...
TRANSCRIPT
Opinions contained herein
do not necessarily
represent those of the
funding source, and no
endorsement should
be inferred.
The work of NFHF, including publication of this newsletter, is funded by Florida Parishes Human Services Authority,
Louisiana State Department of Education, Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals,
Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council, and is supported by corporate and individual contributions.
Northshore Families Helping Families is a United Way recipient.
CONTENTS
2 … Staff and Board
3 … Quarterly
Calendar
5 … NFHF News
9 … Upcoming Events
12 … LaDDC News
19 … Community
News and Events
January - March
2016
2016 is here; a new Governor, legislators, and BESE members have been sworn into office; and the Regular Legislative session is approaching, with a Special Session promised in the coming weeks to focus on the budget. Perhaps you have been involved in advocacy for some time, perhaps you were at one point and life got too hectic, or perhaps you are new to systems advocacy. Whatever the case may be, this new year and new start presents each of us with a fresh opportunity to act. Although disability can come to anyone at any time, the reality is most of our policymakers do not know what it is like to have a disability or care for someone with a disability. You can best inform them of the challenges faced by developing relationships with them. We invite you to become active members of LaCAN and LaTEACH, attend our Legislative Roundtable on January 29th, go on visits to meet with your legislators, contact your BESE member, attend school board meetings, go to Yellow Shirt or Purple Shirt Days, attend Disability Rights Day on April 5th, invite your legislator to your home to get to know your family and friends, etc. Your options are many in how you choose to create that relationship. The important thing is that you make the time to do it. The relationships you create really can make a difference in improving policies and allocating funding for people with disabilities. Do not underestimate your ability to be a “difference-maker.” You do not need to know the history or intricacies of laws or policies, all you need to know is your story. After that, all you need to do is share it, and share it over time. It really can be that simple. Our policymakers are counting on you to be their informants. As always, Northshore Families Helping Families staff and your LaCAN Leader, Sharon Delvisco, are resources to connect you to your policymakers. We are here to support you. You can also visit the legislative website or the Secretary of State website to determine your elected officials and obtain their contact information. Review the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council 2016 Advocacy Agenda and fact sheets. Join us at advocacy events, take advantage of opportunities, and act on action alerts. Take your seat at the table and tell your story. It’s a new year. We have a new Governor, new legislators, new legislative committee members, new BESE members, and most importantly, a new opportunity to develop relationships that will ultimately improve the service system for people with disabilities. All we need is YOU!
New Year, New Start...The Time to Act is Now
NFHF Office:
204 W. 21st Avenue
Covington, LA 70433
(985) 875-0511
(800) 383-8700
Office Hours:
9:00 am—4:00 pm
Monday—Friday
You can help make a
difference by directly
donating to our
organization.
Many companies are
interested in donating
to non-profit
organizations and will
match an individual’s
contribution.
Please contact Sue Ellen
Stewart with questions.
BOARD
2
Mission: To provide the individualized services, information, resources and support needed to positively enhance the independence, productivity and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Vision: To ensure all individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to attend school, live, work, recreate in their own communities.
SUE ELLEN STEWART
Executive Director
REBECCA ELLIS
Outreach Director
SHARON DELVISCO
Adult Program Coordinator
GAYNELLE FRANKLIN
Education Specialist
JUSTINE FUCCI
Administrative Assistant
STEPHENIE MILLER
CSHS Parent Liaison
LYNNE RENIHAN
Resource Specialist
HANNAH RUCKER
Education Specialist
CHAD DANENHOWER
Chairperson
MATTHEW GARNDER
Vice Chairperson
BERNADETTE LALA
Secretary
ANGELA TRAILL
Treasurer
JEANNNE BOWER
JENNIFER BRUNNING
SHELLEY MARENGO
Board Members
MICHELLE ANDERSON
Advisory Board Members
You are always welcome at NFHF Board
Meetings. Six meeting are held each
year on the third Thursday of the
month. The next meeting will be held
Thursday, January 21, 2016
at 5:30 pm at the NFHF office.
If you would like to
address the board, call
Sue Ellen Stewart at 985-875-0511.
STAFF
P A G E 3
JANUARY 2016
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
NFHF Office
Closed
2
3
4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17
18
NFHF
Office Closed
19
Dinner Club
@ Mugshots
20
People First
Northshore
21
NFHF Board
Meeting
22 23
24/31 25 26 27 28 29
Legislative
Roundatable
30
Quarterly Events
FEBRUARY 2016
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8
NFHF
Office Closed
9
NFHF
Office Closed
10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17
People First
Northshore
18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29
P A G E 4
MARCH 2016
Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 Regular
Legislative
Session Begins
15 16
People First
Northshrore
17
NFHF Board
Meeting
18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25
NFHF
Office Closed
26
27 28 29 30 31
Free Education & Resource Webinars
Louisiana Family to Family Health Information Center
Affordable Care Act (ACA):
New Tools for Families on Choosing Health Plans
Families Helping Families of Jefferson invites you to free webinars full of rich
content. A webinar event is viewed right from your computer where you can
watch, listen, and have the option to post questions and get LIVE responses.
For a listing of webinars visit www.fhfjefferson.org and then click on
“What’s Going On” and choose a topic and register. Families Helping Families of
Jefferson, 201 Evans Road Building, Suite 100, Harahan LA 70123, 800-766-7736.
P A G E 5
Congratulations New Board Officers! Officers for the Board of Directors were elected at the Annual
Board Meeting on Tuesday, December 29, 2015.
Chairperson - Chad Danenhower
Vice Chariperson - Matthew Gardner
Secretary - Bernadette Lala
Treasurer - Angela Traill
What Northshore Families Helping Families Has Done for Me…
By: Michael Holmquist
I’ve made new friends and I’ve done various fun
activities. The first event I attended was the
Summer Swim Party in July. I had a great time. I
met people that day that lived close to me and we
made plans to attend other events together. I want
to continue to make new friends and do more fun
activities. I joined the Book and Journal Club and
attend on Wednesdays in Covington when I don’t
have to work. I go to dinner club once a month
with my new friends. We talk and laugh and just
have fun being together. I really like the new
friends I have made. We went to the Louisiana
Renaissance Fest in November and I got kissed by the washing lady. I volunteered at
Touch a Truck in October. It was great! I served food and drinks to the kids and their
families that were there to see all those big trucks and fancy cars. I want to do more
volunteer stuff and help others in the community. It is a great feeling when I make a
contribution that matters. My life is really different now that I have friends and go
more places in the community. I look forward to spending time with people, I am
happier and I have more fun!
I never knew a program like Northshore Families Helping Families even existed. A
friend at church recommended that I call their office to find out about activities in
which my nephew Mike might be interested. Before I found them my nephew Mike was
so bored and isolated. He has done more things socially in the last 3 months than the
last 20 years combined. I/we are so incredibly thankful for Sharon Delvisco, the
members of the Book and Journal Club, the folks that attend the adult program events,
and the whole Northshore Families Helping Families staff. They are an answer to our
prayers. This group has truly changed our lives.
Forever grateful, Deborah Smegal
P A G E 6
Mugshots Grill & Bar’s Savory Crawfish King Cake
to Support NFHF COVINGTON, LA (PRWEB) JANUARY 06, 2016
What’s better than a sweet and colorful king cake? How about a
warm and savory crawfish king cake inspired by the tastes,
colors, and traditions of Mardi Gras? That’s exactly what you will
get at Mugshots Grill & Bar in Covington, LA.
Mugshots’ savory puff pastry is filled with a creamy blend of
peppers, onions, garlic, crawfish, shrimp, and pepper jack
cheese. It is then baked and topped with sour cream and colored parmesan cheeses. This king
cake, not exactly the traditional king cake that most taste buds are accustomed to, is a
signature dish by Eileen Bennett, Corporate Chef for Ain’t Life Grand Investments, LLC.
“I’m very excited to introduce this new menu item to our Mugshots’ customer base.” said Chef
Eileen. “I have been serving these king cakes at my mother’s Mardi Gras parties for almost 20
years now. Having the opportunity for my dish to be served to our loyal customers in multiple
restaurants across 3 states is both exciting and humbling.”
Ain’t Life Grand Investments, parent company of Mugshots Grill & Bar, and it’s nonprofit
organization, Making Life Grand, have partnered with Northshore Families Helping Families.
They will donate a portion of all Savory Crawfish King Cake sales to support the NFHF’s vision
of ensuring all individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to be educated, live, work
and recreate in their own communities.
Mugshots’ Savory Crawfish King Cake will be available at their Covington location starting on
Wednesday, Jan. 6, (Twelfth Night), through Mardi Gras, Tuesday, Feb. 9.
A quick back story:
NFHF provided Tyler and I with an advocate to help us navigate the process at the school level
to make sure that Tyler's educational concerns were being met. They were right there with
me during the beginning stages of diagnosis until we finally identified what was going on.
They taught me what to expect and educated me on how to be the best advocate for my son
while still being respectful of the school. They helped me develop a healthy relationship
with his educators so that we could truly work as a team in the best interest of my son.
Without their help I would have been lost. My sons needs are MINIMAL compared to what the
majority of the special needs children face. Right now funding for such programs is very low
so they will certainly put this resource to good use.
Ironically enough, after building a great friendship with our advocate Rebecca Ellis I
approached her looking for a job 3 1/2 years ago. I interviewed with Sue Ellen, and did not
get the job. So really I feel I owe her tremendous gratitude. I may have never found my way
back to professional kitchens without that happening!
Making the King Cakes yesterday, knowing each one I shaped would help this organization in
our community was truly wonderful. I am so humbled knowing my food feeds hungry people,
provides assistance to programs such as this, and in turn feeds my heart and soul!!
Eileen
P A G E 7
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING NFHF!
Northshore Families Helping Families extends deepest thanks to the businesses and
individuals who donated to make our Annual Breakfast with Santa event a success!
Funding Sponsors
Clarion Inn & Suites Conference Center
Florida Parishes Bank
S&W Wholesale Foods
Paul Spalitta
Mayor Donald Villere
Jan & Gus Kuntz
Randy & Wanda Stroud
Sysco
Shot By Joel Photography
JWP Studio
Toy Shop Sponsors
Arc Northshore Community Center
Woody Dahl
Michelle Lapin Family & Friends
Mindy & Steve Lee
Betty LeBlanc
Sandra A. Lelleck
Shelley & Jeff Marengo
Kevin T. McGehee
SOAR
Shout out to our awesome volunteers!
We could not have done it without you!
Tell us how Northshore Families Helping Families has made a difference
in your life and we will include it in our media publications.
Send your story to [email protected]. We want to hear from you!
P A G E 8
LaTEACH is a statewide grassroots advocacy network created for the purpose of effecting systems change. LaTEACH promotes appropriate, inclusive education for all students. LaTEACH works to make parents, educators, the general public, and state leadership informed and supportive of research-based and effective practices used appropriately for each student. If you believe all students, with or without disabilities, should be provided the same opportunities to be educated in neighborhood schools as their sisters, brothers, friends and neighbors, and should be provided the support to learn together effectively, then you should consider becoming a LaTEACH member. For more information, visit www.lateach.org.
LaCAN is a statewide grassroots network of individuals, families and advocates who have worked together since 1988 advocating for a service system that supports individuals with disabilities to live in their own homes rather than having to be segregated from their communities in a facility to receive support. For more information, contact Region 9 LaCAN Leader, Sharon Delvisco at 985-875-0511 or [email protected].
LaTEACH is seeking a Region 9 Team Leader LaTEACH Regional Team Leaders: Support other parents and self-advocates to connect with their policy makers Inform policy makers of the impact of policy decisions on students with
disabilities Receive training and education in topics related to special education What to expect: Competitive hourly pay and performance-based bonuses (as budget allows) Regional and statewide travel (travel reimbursement based on current Louisiana
State rates) Continuing education hours Position Requirements: Be a parent or family member of someone with a developmental disability or an
individual with a disability Strong belief in full inclusion of people with disabilities Effective verbal and written communication skills Organization and presentation skills Enthusiastic attitude and ability to work well as a team member and leader Minimum GED or high school diploma Live in the LaTEACH Region 9 Qualified applicants are encouraged to mail, fax or email a resume’ and letter of interest to: Susan Benoit, Executive Director, Families Helping Families of SWLA 2927 Hodges St, Lake Charles, LA 70601 1-800-894-6558 (phone) 337-436-2578 (fax)
P A G E 9
Breakfast will be served at 9 and the Roundtable will begin at 9:30.
Meet with legislators from our region,
get current information on state issues,
increase your ability to be an effective advocate,
and learn techniques for sharing your personal story
to encourage positive changes for individuals with disabilities.
Sign up today
P A G E 1 0
Book & Journal Club meets on Wednesdays at 1 pm at St. John’s Coffee
Shop, 535 E Boston St in Covington.
Upcoming dates: January 13, January 27
February 3, February 10, February 24
March 2, March 9, March 23, March 30
Tuesday, January 19th at 6:00 pm - Dinner Club at Mugshots, off Highway
190 at 300 River Highlands Blvd, Covington
Wednesday, January 20th from 1:00 pm until 2:30 pm - People First
Northshore at the Arc of GNO Northshore Community Center, 106 E 25th
Avenue, Covington. Come learn about People First and self-advocacy.
People First of Northshore co-leaders are Perry Evans and Scott Smith.
Advisors are Sharon Delvisco and Dawn Culbreath.
Wednesday, February 17th from 1:00 pm until 2:30 pm - People First
Northshore at the Arc of GNO Northshore Community Center, 106 E 25th
Avenue, Covington. Come learn about self-advocacy and self-
determination in Family Feud Style presented by Sharon Hennessey
(People First LA). This will be an interactive discussion about speaking
up for yourself and making choices that are important for your life. This
is important for everyone! People First of Northshore co-leaders are
Perry Evans and Scott Smith. Advisors are Sharon Delvisco and Dawn
Culbreath.
Wednesday, March 16th from 1:00 pm until 2:30 pm - People First
Northshore at the Arc of GNO Northshore Community Center, 106 E 25th
Avenue, Covington. Come learn about People First and self-advocacy.
People First of Northshore co-leaders are Perry Evans and Scott Smith.
Advisors are Sharon Delvisco and Dawn Culbreath.
COMING SOON: Astronomy Night, Mandeville Lakefront Picnic, and NASA Tour!!!
Meet and Greet:
Try It to See If You Like It Events - Adult Programs
The purpose of these events is to provide folks who are 16 and older
with the opportunity to meet new people, have fun and try new things!
For more information call (985) 875-0511
or email [email protected] or [email protected]
P A G E 1 1
Visit www.goodsearch.com and select Northshore Families Helping Families as your cause.
Create a user profile that will allow you to keep track of your individual amount raised.
Use the search box on www.goodsearch.com or download a Good To-Go add-on to search the Internet
just like you normally would, with the added bonus that you are earning a donation for virtually every
search.
AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5%
of your purchase total to Northshore
Families Helping Families when you shop
online at AmazonSmile. Be sure to select
NFHF as your organization of choice
and add the link to your bookmarks!
MORE EASY WAYS TO SUPPORT NFHF!
What is GiveNOLA Day?
Hosted on Tuesday, May 3rd by the Greater New Orleans Foundation, GiveNOLA Day is the community’s one-day,
online giving event to inspire people to give generously to the nonprofit organizations that are making our region
stronger, creating a thriving community for all. Every dollar donated from midnight to midnight on May 3rd will be
increased with additional “lagniappe” dollars provided by the Greater New Orleans Foundation and our generous
GiveNOLA Day sponsors. GiveNOLA Day is tied to a national event called Give Local America where community
foundations across America are asking their communities to give back on May 3, 2016.
How can I participate?
Everybody can participate on GiveNOLA Day! Individuals can make online donations to participating nonprofits.
The minimum donation is $10. All donations made on May 3rd give your favorite nonprofit the opportunity to earn
lagniappe dollars, awards, and hourly prizes. This year, the participating Northshore nonprofits will hold a
GiveNOLA event on May 3rd! Stay tuned for details.
Northshore Families Helping Families thanks you in advance for supporting us on GiveNOLA Day 2016!
For more information, visit www.GiveNOLA.org.
Save the Date GiveNOLA Day 2016
P A G E 1 2
Are you or a family member a waiver recipient? When you’re looking for a provider, do you
wonder about the types of services they provide or their staff turnover rate? Maybe you’ve
wanted to know if the provider is able to provide supports for individuals with intense
medical needs. A couple of years ago, the Council recognized that individuals with
developmental disabilities and their families need more information to make informed
choices about providers and asked the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities
(OCDD) to make provider data available online. In late 2014, OCDD began asking providers
to complete a voluntary questionnaire which includes questions about the services they
provide, the staff they employ, any specific populations they serve, and other various things
about their agency. The completed questionnaires are available to the public on the
Freedom of Choice website, but since it is voluntary, very few providers have completed it.
In order for individuals with developmental disabilities and families to have access to
information to help them make more informed choices, individuals and families must ask
providers to complete this questionnaire online. Visit the Freedom of Choice website to see
if your current provider has a questionnaire online. If not, ask them to complete it here so
you and other individuals/families will have access to the information.
The next time you are looking for a new provider, check the Freedom of Choice website to
see if the providers you are considering have completed the questionnaire. If not, ask them
to complete it here so you and other individuals/families will be able to make an informed
choice.
Providers need to know that this information is important and without it they run the risk of
losing business to other providers who have completed the questionnaire.
www.laddc.org
Provider Questionnaire Helps Individuals and Families
Make Informed Choices
P A G E 1 3
Assistant principals from across the state received practical strategies to establish inclusive
school cultures and practice from a panel of three principals nominated by family members
for leading inclusive school cultures. The Louisiana Association of Principals organized this
session at the Assistant Principals’ Conference on November 2nd. Three common themes
shared by the panel of educational leaders for effective inclusion in schools were 1) hire
and support good teachers; 2) develop strong relationships and communicate with parents;
and, 3) plan around students with disabilities first.
Jared Martin, principal of Lockport Middle School in Lafourche Parish, shared how
students who need the most support need to be served by the best teachers. To accomplish
this Lockport Middle begins planning each year by considering the needs of students with
disabilities first. With a skeleton schedule based on the needs of students with disabilities,
other students’ coursework and extracurricular activities fall into place easily.
What a parent said when nominating Mr. Martin as an exemplary leader of inclusion:
“...always looking for ways to meet the needs of all students and has been very
creative and resourceful to make that happen.”
Ken Oertling, principal of Hahnville High School in St. Charles Parish, offered ten major
strategies used to promote inclusion for his students. Among some of the big areas Mr.
Oertling stressed was annual professional development for the entire staff by the high
school special education department. This seems to open up lines of communication and
builds collaboration around students’ unique needs. Students with disabilities lead
discussions of roundtables with teachers to provide insights into their disabilities. Click here
for more recommendations from Mr. Oertling.
What a parent said about Mr. Oertling:
“Under Mr. Oertling’s leadership students with disabilities are in classes and
activities alongside their typically developing peers. I believe that Mr. Oertling, in
addition to including students with disabilities, promotes education and awareness
to the general population about students with disabilities, their diagnoses and
needs.”
Principals Share Effective Inclusive Practices
P A G E 1 4
Mary Jane Smith, principal of Honey Island Elementary in St. Tammany Parish, brought a bit
more flair to the presentation but made it clear she was serious about inclusion. Honey
Island provides access to opportunities for students with disabilities by starting with a smile
and pulling everyone at school on board to help every child succeed every day.
This is how a parent ended a two-page description nominating Ms. Smith and commending
the Honey Island Elementary team:
“...as I write, I am crying reflecting on THE TEAM OF DEDICATED EDUCATORS, and
Community Leaders THAT HAVE PARTNERD WITH US TO HOLISTICALLY Discover and
Shape my son INTO A HAPPY, ENGAGED, CARING STUDENT/CHILD.”
The Council appreciates the work these education leaders and their staff do every day to
include students with disabilities and for sharing these successful strategies with their peers
from across the state. The Louisiana Association of Principals also deserves our collective
gratitude for recognizing school is for everyone and providing a forum for educational
leaders to gain fresh ideas on how to build and sustain inclusive schools.
Have you told your teacher and principal how much you appreciate all the things they do to
include your child? Let’s work together to build inclusive communities.
Pictured: Jared Martin, principal of Lockport Middle School, and Ken Oertling, principal of
Hahnvile High School
www.laddc.org
Principals Share Effective Inclusive Practices (Continued)
P A G E 1 5
The Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council has adopted its 2016 legislative/advocacy with
input from its grassroots advocacy networks (LaCAN and LaTEACH) and Families Helping Families.
Fact sheets for each agenda item have been developed and are available on the Council’s website as
indicated below.
Individual and Family Supports and Services (LaCAN)
The Council will continue to advocate for increased availability of various individual and family
supports/home and community-based services including waiver slots, the Individual and Family
Support (IFS) program, and the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program.
Fund New Slots to End the Wait
Fund Individual and Family Support
Put Louisianans with Disabilities to Work
Ensure Statewide Consistency in the Level and Quality of Developmental Disability Services 1
Support Funding for Direct Support Professional (DSP) Overtime Pay 2
Education (LaTEACH)
The Council will continue to advocate for the implementation of education policies and practices
that are inclusive and reflective of the needs of each student through informed stakeholder input
and the collection of data relative to students with disabilities.
Effective Policy Requires Stakeholder Input and Transparency
Get Involved
Individuals with disabilities, family members, and advocates are encouraged to participate in the
Council's advocacy efforts, including legislative visits and roundtables. Roundtables have been
scheduled in January and February throughout the state and provide participants with more
information about the issues on the advocacy agenda and an opportunity to connect with
legislators.
Click here for the 2016 Legislative Roundtable Schedule.
Those interested in visiting legislators in their district office or those needing more information
should contact the LaCAN Leader and/or LaTEACH Leader for their region.
“One person can make a difference and every person should try.”
John F. Kennedy
_________________________
1 The Council advocates for this outcome through its Act 378 Sub-Committee and other administrative activities.
2 The Council will not take the lead on this initiative but will support others’ efforts.
www.laddc.org
Council’s 2016 Legislative/Advocacy Agenda
P A G E 1 6
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965 received the seventh, and long
overdue, reauthorization with the passage of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). ESSA
marks more changes than just a new name for ESEA, more commonly referred to by the
previous reauthorization, No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001 but what do these
changes mean for students with disabilities?
Since laws that apply to all students also apply to students with disabilities, parents of
students with disabilities need to understand EVERYTHING about how the new law impacts
students AND how certain provisions may impact students with disabilities. This article will
merely touch on a few of the interesting and significant changes to how the law may impact
students with disabilities in Louisiana. The operative word here is ‘may’ since how the
changes to law really impact students will depend on various interpretations such as rules,
guidance, implementation and enforcement are carried out at the federal, state and local
levels. And of course, differences in interpretation will ultimately be decided by the courts.
So
perspectives shared here are certainly not final or binding. With that perspective, a few
interesting and significant changes ESSA makes regarding students with disabilities in
Louisiana include:
Louisiana Alternate Assessment - Level 1 (LAA-1)
ESSA changes the requirement related to how many students can be tested on alternate
academic achievement standards, which in Louisiana is the LAA-1. Previously, federal law
(i.e., ESEA/NCLB) only allowed one percent of students at each grade level to be COUNTED
as proficient on the LAA-1. The new federal law (ESEA/ESSA) limits the students who can
TAKE the LAA-1 to one percent of students at each grade level.
A few problems are anticipated with this shift in limiting who can take the LAA-1 to a
certain percentage of students, particularly in Louisiana. First, another federal law, the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), authorizes a students’ Individual
Education Program team to decide whether a student is eligible to participate in an
alternate test (i.e., LAA-1). So it is not clear how a decision made at the student level in
one federal law can be deemed inappropriate relative to meeting a quota or limit (cap) on
participation. Interestingly, this shift seems at odds with the general movement of ESSA
seeking to give more authority and decision making power to people closest to the child.
Second, each state determines criteria IEP teams must use in determining which students
are eligible to take alternate assessments. In the middle of last school year, 2014-2015,
ESSA Impact on Students with Disabilities in Louisiana
P A G E 1 7
Louisiana expanded LAA-1 eligibility criteria, allowing more students - likely more than one
percent of students at each grade level - to qualify for the LAA-1. Louisiana will likely shift
eligibility criteria back to more restrictive requirements for LAA-1 to align with this ESSA
participation cap. It is not clear what will happen to all the students just deemed eligible
for LAA-1 by their IEP teams. To meet the one percent rule will the state require these IEP
teams to reverse the decision they just made? Will enforcing the cap on how many students
can take the alternate assessment, LAA-1, violate decisions made by the IEP team?
Diplomas and Accountability
ESSA continues to grant states the right to define requirements for earning a diploma, but
separates out a state-defined alternate diploma from a regular diploma, somewhat. While
there are some concerns regarding the wording related to requirements for both alternate
and regular diplomas in ESSA, or for an alternate diploma at all, it is an historic shift for
Congress to formally recognize that students with the most significant disabilities can exit
with a diploma, albeit an alternative one. The significance of this development for an exit
option reveals an awakening of a vision for all students, a vision which was lost and may get
clouded when applying norm-referenced standards to define success or failure. Now states
and schools will be able to get credit for every student earning a diploma. Prior to language
provided by ESSA there were questions about whether students with the most significant
disabilities could be counted in the diploma rates and indices. Considering in Louisiana half
of high school performance scores are comprised of diploma rates and indices, and ESSA will
require diplomas to be part of school accountability, it matters that some students were not
able to earn a diploma by virtue of having a disability and schools lost points for serving
them. While Act 833 of 2014 generated dialogue and changes to the accountability in
Louisiana, it is a positive step for Congress to recognize and place value on outcomes for
students with the most significant disabilities.
ESSA definitions of both the alternate and regular diploma contain some language that is
likely to generate further dialogue and discussions regarding diploma requirements both in
Louisiana and across the nation - dialogue that is long overdue. It sees clarity is needed in
defining ‘alignment’ as this is expected to be the root of discussions and decisions related
to diploma requirements. Alternate diplomas are to be standards-based and aligned with
the state requirements for a regular high school diploma. A ‘regular high school diploma’ is
‘the standard high school diploma awarded to the preponderance of students in the State
that is fully aligned with State standards, or a higher diploma, except that a regular high
ESSA Impact on Students with Disabilities in Louisiana (Continued)
P A G E 1 8
school diploma shall not be aligned to the alternate academic achievement standards…’
How rules and guidance on interpreting whether a diploma is ‘fully aligned’ with State
standards has huge implications for not only Louisiana, but for most of the nation. Currently
there is incredible variability across the states in requirements for earning a high school
diploma, particularly considering pathways available for students with disabilities. 1
Dialogue and advocacy for a vision for every student, including students with disabilities, to
be equally valued will be necessary as success is further defined in our education
accountability structures, support systems, and outcomes through the rule making and
policy guidance of ESSA.
Bullying and Restraints and Seclusion
ESSA will require states to support local school systems to reduce the use of aversive
behavioral interventions, including the use of restraints of restraints and seclusion.
Although Louisiana passed a law (Act 328 of 2011) to govern the use of restraints and
seclusion in schools, it has become evident recently that increased attention and oversight
of these practices is needed by the Louisiana Department of Education.
A few useful links:
U.S. Department of Education Laws and Guidance
* U.S. Department of Education Takes First Steps in Transition to New Law (press
Release 12/18/15)
* Every Student Succeeds Act - U.S. DOE press release with other useful links
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1 Thurlow, M.L., Albus, D.A., & Lazarus, S.S. (2015). Graduation policies for students with
disabilities who participate in states’ general assessments (Synthesis Report 98).
Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota, National Center on educational Outcomes.
http://www.cehd.umn.edu/NCEO/OnlinePubs/Synthesis98/SynthesisReport98.pdf
www.laddc.org
ESSA Impact on Students with Disabilities in Louisiana (Continued)
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Florida Parishes Human Services Authority (FPHSA) is a state funded local governance entity
with the vision of enhancing the availability of services and supports leading to a satisfying
and productive life for persons with addictions, developmental disabilities, and mental
illnesses. FPHSA Developmental Disabilities Services is the single point of entry in the
five-parish area for the following services provided to individuals with developmental
disabilities:
* Individual and Family support;
* Flexible Family Fund (formerly known as Cash Subsidy);
* Personal Support Coordination;
* Residential Placement (Community Homes and facilities);
* Crisis Support; and
* Home and Community Based Waiver Services such as New Opportunities Waiver (NOW);
Children’s Choice Waiver (CC); Support Waiver (SW); and Residential Options Waiver (ROW).
Need Developmental Disabilities services?
Address: 835 Pride Drive, Suite B, Hammond, LA 70401
Phone: (985) 543-4730
Toll Free: (800) 866-0806
Fax: (985) 543-4752
The Flexible Family Fund (FFF) program requires Florida Parishes Human Services
Authority (FPHSA) to verify the FFF Service Request List. If you have applied for the FFF
program, you should have received an “Annual Notice of Status and Request for Current
Information” letter and returned the application and supporting documentation. If you
did not receive the letter, please contact Andrea Albert at
985-543-4730. View the letter.
FPHSA has Individual and Family Support Funds available! Individual and family
support services provide assistance not available from any other resource that will allow
people with developmental disabilities to live in their own homes or with their families in
their own community. These services include respite care, personal assistance services,
specialized clothing, dental and medical services, equipment and supplies,
communication services, crisis intervention, specialized utility costs, specialized
nutrition, and family education. Services are provided through contractual agreements by
private provider agencies or through individualized agreements with individuals and
families who obtain their own service providers. A Support Coordinator is not needed to
request Individual and Family Support. Call 985-543-4730.
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Each region in the state has a Regional Coordinating Council (RICC). This gives parents an opportunity locally
to stay current with the latest information and provide valuable feedback to EarlySteps. Parent participation
is needed at our Regional Interagency Coordinating Council Meetings. The next RICC meeting is:
Friday, January 29, 2015
12:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Louisiana Workforce Commission
1711 Nashville Ave., Hammond, LA 70401
The Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) for Developmental Disabilities Services for Florida Parishes Human Services
Authority, established by legislative act, ensures public input in an advisory capacity in the development and
implementation of policies, procedures, and the allocation of resources to the Office for Citizens with Developmental
Disabilities. This input shall be derived from communication with, but not limited to, individuals with disabilities and
their families and other concerned groups or individuals. Give comments about an interest, need or concern about
issues facing families or individuals with disabilities. Get information about resources that may be available for you or
others. Region 9 RAC wants to hear from you! For more information on the Regional Advisory Committee, email:
[email protected]. The next RAC meeting is:
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
10 am - 12 pm
Florida Parishes Human Services Authority , Room 58
835 Pride Drive, Suite B, Hammond, LA
NFHF is currently looking to grow our volunteer base.
If you are interested, sign up here.
The Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) for Developmental Disabilities Services for Florida Parishes Human Services
Authority, established by legislative act, ensures public input in an advisory capacity in the development and
implementation of policies, procedures, and the allocation of resources to the Office for Citizens with
Developmental Disabilities. Over the next few months, the terms of several members will expire and the committee
wants you to join! Positions needed: 2 adults with disabilities
If you live in the parishes of Washington, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, St. Helena or Livingston please complete the
nomination form and return it to [email protected].
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About EarlySteps
EarlySteps provides services to families with infants and toddlers aged birth to three years
(36 months) who have a medical condition likely to result in a developmental delay, or who
have developmental delays. Children with delays in cognitive, motor, vision, hearing,
communication, social-emotional or adaptive development may be eligible for services.
EarlySteps services are designed to improve the family’s capacity to enhance their child’s
development. These services are provided in the child’s natural environment, such as the
child’s home, child care or any other community setting typical for children aged birth to
3 years (36 months).
Services
Services the EarlySteps program provides include:
* Assistive technology
* Audiology
* Health Services (family education, assistance with other EarlySteps services only)
* Medical Services (evaluation only)
* Nutrition Services
* Occupational Therapy Services
* Physical Therapy Services
* Psychological Services
* Service Coordination
* Social Work Services
* Special Instruction
* Speech Language Pathology
* Translation Interpreter Services (foreign language and sign language)
* Transportation (to and from an EarlySteps service only)
* Vision Services
Effective October 1, 2013 EarlySteps implemented a cost participation system which allows
families to share in the cost for some early intervention services. Financial information is
gathered during intake for children who are eligible for EarlySteps. Family size and income are
used to determine if a family will be required to pay for some services.
The EarlySteps Process
Anyone can make an EarlySteps referral. Children can be referred to EarlySteps by contacting
the System Point of Entry (SPOE) in their region. Once the SPOE receives the referral, the
family will be contacted to begin the eligibility determination process.
For more information call: 985-429-1252 or 1-866-327-5978
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Attention: Families Helping Families of Jefferson does a social media disability
awareness campaign in March called # ThinkABILITY . They are looking for some local
stories to feature. Click the link to read stories that were featured last year:
http://fhfjefferson.org/whats-g…/special-events/thinkability
The purpose of #ThinkABILITY to bring attention to individuals with disabilities that
are doing things most people wouldn't expect them to do. It can be something "big"
or "small." People with disabilities can do things like people without disabilities, but
unfortunately, they are so often judged for what they can't do vs. what they can do.
Stories can be sent to Mary Jacob at [email protected].