The Family Empowerment Series is a multi-session training series offered each year by Starbridge . This series prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children, and to be resources for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities. This series is open to all families of children […]

SESSION 1- NOVEMBER 1: 4PM-5:30PM “Reluctance, Avoidance, Refusal: When Our Kids Don’t Go to School" Dr Jim Wallace, Child & Adolescent Pyschologist and Lynn Carragher, Director of Inclusive Education, Brockport CSD When children miss days of school they quickly fall behind academically, lose important social connections with peers and teachers and develop behaviors that make […]

(CSE) is responsible for developing a child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) through a process which involves the student and family. This workshop will explain the purpose of the CSE, the required members, and the family’s role on the committee. Participants will learn strategies for effective advocacy with the CSE. Trainers: Sue Wyatt and Christa

Do you wonder what services may be available for your child? Accessing and qualifying for OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities) services can be frustrating and overwhelming. This webinar will provide an overview of various services available for children and youth to support them around their developmental disability. Presenters will also share eligibility requirements. […]

Bullying is an increasingly serious problem in schools. Families, teachers, and children need help and support in knowing how to respond. Jane Gabriele of Legal Assistance of Western NY will discuss the difference between bullying, discrimination, intimidation and harassment. You will learn more about the Dignity for All Students Act and what a school district’s […]

For any parent with a child going off to kindergarten, it is a time of excitement and anxiety. For families of children who have disabilities, it can also be confusing and nerve-wracking. Participants will learn the differences between the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) and the Committee on Special Education (CSE) and learn strategies […]

When developing a student's IEP for the annual review, it is important for team members to work in collaboration to develop the IEP goals. This workshop will review guidelines used for identifying and writing effective goals that make sense for the student.

The Family Empowerment Series is multi-session workshop part of Starbridge’s Signature Series offered each year. This series of workshops prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children and to be a resource for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities. Series Schedule: All series will take […]

When a child qualifies for special education services, federal law requires the development of a document called an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Some students may not qualify for an IEP, but may receive accommodations and modifications from a 504 Plan or may receive support through Response to Intervention (RTI). This workshop will explain the process […]

Special Ed Task Force - Navigating Learning Disabilities - Session 1 Presenters: Annmarie Urso Ph.D. and Melissa Taberski, MS, CCC-SLP October 10th 6:00pm - 7:30pm Attendees will gain background knowledge on the considerations for the identification of a learning disability to include: 1. What is the role of language development and why it is so […]

Every person should have a voice in the decisions that impact their life. Depending on the person, the level of support and input they need from others can vary widely. New York State offers several legal decision-making models for issues from finances to health care to living arrangements. We encourage youth and adults with disabilities […]

The Family Empowerment Series is multi-session workshop part of Starbridge’s Signature Series offered each year. This series of workshops prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children and to be a resource for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities. Series Schedule: All series will take […]

Do you come away from educational or staff meetings not saying what you intended? Or feeling as though your viewpoint is misunderstood? Do you listen to what other team members say? How do you respond? Communication is key to effective partnerships. Participants will strengthen their collaborative skills by learning effective communication strategies. Topics include verbal […]

Do you wonder what services may be available for your child? This presentation, provided by Disability Rights New York, will provide practical information on eligibility for services through the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) including services funded through the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid waiver. Participants will get information on navigating this […]

The Family Empowerment Series is multi-session workshop part of Starbridge’s Signature Series offered each year. This series of workshops prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children and to be a resource for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities. Series Schedule: All series will take […]

The Family Empowerment Series is multi-session workshop part of Starbridge’s Signature Series offered each year. This series of workshops prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children and to be a resource for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities. Series Schedule: All series will take […]