Genetic Education and Materials for School Success (GEMSS)

GEMSS are tools for schools! They explain genetic conditions and offer helpful strategies for use in classrooms. These include ideas for emergencies, field trips, and diets. Find out more about GEMSS by visiting their website: www.gemssforschools.org.

CMT/CAPT (Modified Assessment System—MAS) PPT Eligibility Worksheet

Did you know that the CT State Department of Education has a worksheet to determine a student’s eligibility for the CMT/CAPT (Modified Assessment System-MAS)? Visit the SDE website to view the worksheet.

GCYD Scholarship Information

The Governor’s Coalition for Youth with Disabilities (GCYD) is now accepting scholarship applications from qualified high school students with disabilities seeking to continue their training or education. Read more about the GCYD scholarships>>

Analysis of State Seclusion and Restraint Laws and Policies

A new report written by Jessica Butler and published by The Autism National Committee entitled, “How Safe Is The Schoolhouse?
An Analysis of State Seclusion and Restraint Laws and Policies” offers extensive information from 51 states on the use of seclusion and restraint in schools. Read more about the report>>

Civil Rights Office Expands Its Reach Into Schools

The Education Department’s office for civil rights is trying to make good on a pledge to aggressively combat discrimination, in all forms, in the nation’s schools.  Read more about their efforts in “Civil Rights Office Expands Its Reach Into Schools.”

Keeping Schools Safe Act

On December 16, 2011, Chairman Tom Harkin introduced the Keeping All Students Safe Act. This bill would promote the development of effective intervention and prevention practices that do not impose restraints and seclusion; protect all students from physical or mental abuse, aversive behavioral interventions that compromise health and safety, and any restraint imposed for purposes of coercion, discipline or convenience, or as a substitute for appropriate educational or positive behavioral interventions and supports. The bill also works to ensure the safety of all students and school personnel and promote positive school culture and climate. Read more about the bill on the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates’ website.

School Governance Councils

As of November 1, 2011, 184 schools in the state needed to have councils in place. Some councils still have vacancies for parent members. Check with your child’s school to see if there are vacancies or if you want to know the meeting schedule. All meetings are open to the public. Learn more about School Governance Councils >>

U.S. Department of Education Announces New Measure to Safeguard Student Privacy

On December 1st, the U.S. Department of Education announced new regulations to safeguard student privacy while giving states the flexibility to share school data that can be helpful in judging the effectiveness of government investments in education.
Read more about the regulations >>

Legal Implications of RTI and Special Education Identification

One of the key concerns raised by the State Board of Education about CT’s proposed special education regulations relates to the use of SRBI/RTI in the identification of students with specific learning disabilities. “Legal Implications of Response to Intervention and Special Education Identification” describes some of the challenges in using RTI and the legal requirements of Child Find under the IDEA.