Bridges4Kids News Digest

National News	*top*
Bush: Cut $3.2 Billion From Education Corey Murray, eSchool News, February 7, 2006 http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/showstoryts.cfm?Articleid=6101 President Bush's proposed budget for 2007 would eliminate 42 education programs totaling more than $3 billion. For the second year in a row, Bush proposes eliminating the Enhancing Education Through Technology block-grant program, the main source of federal funding for school technology--despite his promise to make competitiveness in the new global economy a top priority. The Rising Risk of Cheerleading Heather Simonsen, The Salt Lake Tribune, February 7, 2006 http://www.sltrib.com/healthscience/ci_3482702 Acrobatic maneuvers can prove perilous; A new study by the Columbus Children's Research Institute found the injury rate among cheerleaders has gone up drastically. The study looked at boys and girls age 5 to 18. Researchers found that from 1990 and 2002, approximately 209,000 children in the U.S. were treated in hospital emergency rooms for cheerleading-related injuries. New Leaders for New Schools Seeks Urban Principals New Leaders for New Schools is accepting applications from qualified applicants who wish to become urban school principals. Each year, New Leaders admits a number of outstanding applicants with differing backgrounds, personal and professional experiences, and perspectives. Though diverse, New Leaders are united by a common drive and are people who believe in the potential of every child to achieve academically at high levels; have proven leadership experience with adults; and possess instructional expertise in a classroom setting, including a minimum of 2-3 years of full-time, K-12 teaching experience. The final deadline for applying to become a New Leader is March 1, 2006. To learn more about New Leaders for New Schools, see their selection criteria, and apply to become a New Leader, please visit http://www.nlns.org. Kids Need Each Other Dan Coulter, Coulter Video, January 30, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/Coulter1-30-06.html#top I think kids need each other. Kids don't just learn from parents and teachers, they learn from other kids. One of the most important lessons they can learn is how to get along with people who don't look or think or act exactly like they do. That's why I believe everyone -- typical kids, gifted kids, and kids with special needs - should be interacting in schools. Young Scientist Research Fund Awards CHADD announces a new program to recognize young researchers making contributions to the understanding of AD/HD. Three researchers will receive unrestricted cash awards of $5,000, expenses and travel to the 2006 18th Annual International CHADD Conference, where they will be recognized, and a one year CHADD professional membership. Applicants must be in the process of completing a doctoral degree or must have completed such a degree within the last five years. The awards are funded by Eli Lilly and Company, McNeil Consumer & Specialty Pharmaceuticals and a number of individual donations. For more information and application information, contact youngscientist@chadd.org. Deadline for applications is May 11, 2006. The Big Gift: A New Fundraising Strategy For Public Schools (PDF) Stan Levenson, The American School Board Journal, February 2006 http://www.asbj.com/2006/02/0206asbjlevenson.pdf In 2004, more than $240 billion was contributed to worthy causes across America. Of this amount, approximately $31 billion (13 percent) went to education -- second only to religion in grants and gifts received. More than 80 percent of all contributions, including bequests, came from individual donors. That’s $170 billion. What does all this mean to public schools trying to bring in outside monies? It means that the schools need to learn how to pursue individual donors as never before. Free Fundraising Ideas http://www.fundraisingdeals.com/Fundraising-Ideas.aspx Visit this website for some great free fundraising ideas that will help you raise money for your group or organization. Get a Job. Get it Online. AT&T, January 2006 http://www.sbcup2speed.com/lp/52_jan2006/mw/ITK0106MW1.html You've decided to take your job hunt online. There are plenty of sites offering job listings and career information to help you along. Now, all you need to do is prepare your resume, pick a site on which to post your profile and wait for the offers to start rolling in. Not so fast — there are several things to consider before putting your resume on the Web.
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)	*top*
Drop Outs In this three-part series, the Los Angeles Times examines why so many students drastically limit their prospects by dropping out of high school. Part One: Back to Basics: Why Does High School Fail So Many? http://www.latimes.com/news/education/la-me-dropout29jan29,0,6750397.story Part Two: Algebra: A Formula for Failure in L.A. Schools http://www.latimes.com/news/education/la-me-dropout30jan30,0,3211437.story Part Three: Trail to Graduation: 'It's Like You're Climbing Everest' http://www.latimes.com/news/education/la-me-dropout3feb03,0,6111121.story For more information on No Child Left Behind, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/ESEA.html
Parenting/Parental Involvement	*top*
New Website Offers Parents Help In Safeguarding Kids' Sexual Health http://www.4parents.gov An official in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is hailing a new tool available to parents who want to teach their teens and pre-teens about staying safe through abstinence from unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, and other risky behaviors. For more information on Parenting, Siblings, Adoption and Foster Care, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Parenting.html
Early Childhood	*top*
TX The Early Bird Misses the Worm (PDF) Jamie Story, Texas Public Policy Foundation, January 2006 http://www.texaspolicy.com/pdf/2006-01-ECE-JS.pdf Across the nation, the movement for an increased government role in early childhood education (ECE) is gaining momentum. This perspective asks critical questions regarding cost-benefit analysis of ECE, government's role in ECE, and what is being done to improve ECE throughout Texas. For more information on Early Childhood issues, visit www.EarlyChildhoodMichigan.org
Michigan News	*top*
2007 Governor’s Recommended Budget (PDF) http://www.michigan.gov/documents/C_-_27_58866_7.pdf This document shows the amount that the governor is recommending for each department for 2007. Anti-K-16 Coalition Surfaces MIRS, February 7, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/News2-8-06.html#top Fourteen special interest groups don't think much of the so-called K-16 Coalition's drive to guarantee inflationary state funding increases for education and held a Lansing news conference Wednesday to shoot down the idea. March is Parenting Awareness Month in Michigan http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/News2-8-06.html#2 Each year, Parenting Awareness Michigan celebrates Parenting Awareness Month with a special poster selected through an annual poster contest. The 2006 PAM poster and matching bookmark with parenting tips are being printed right now and will soon be ready for distribution! MDE Seeks Sponsors for Children's Summer Food Program in Michigan http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/News2-8-06.html#3 The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) is looking for community sponsors to run summer food programs to prevent more than 300,000 children in low-income areas of Michigan from going hungry when school lunchrooms close for the summer. MDE Documents Available for Review & Comment http://www.michigan.gov/ose-eis As required by federal law, the following documents are being presented for a period of public review: The Annual State Application under Part B of the IDEA as Amended in 2004 for Federal Fiscal Year 2006 and The Annual State Application under Part C of the IDEA as Amended in 2004 for Federal Fiscal Year 2006. Input will be accepted through March 31, 2006. Timetable for New High School Curriculum in Question Gongwer News Service, February 1, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/Gongwer2-1-06.html#top While implementing stricter curriculum standards for Michigan students, particularly in the areas of math and science, doesn't seem to be a question, when the state should move forward with those requirements was the topic of concern during the House Education Committee on Wednesday. Senate Passes Mental Health Background Checks Gongwer News Service, January 31, 2006 Two bills, HB 5448 and HB 5168, requiring criminal background checks for employees at mental health facilities were passed unanimously by the Senate on Tuesday. Similar to legislation requiring background checks for workers at nursing homes and child care facilities, Senate Majority Floor Leader Bev Hammerstrom (R-Temperance) said the two bills would help provide protection for some of the most vulnerable individuals in the state. HB 5448 was amended to require reporting of an individual's arraignment on criminal charges. Some worker groups had wanted reporting delayed until a person was actually convicted, but Ms. Hammerstrom said that could mean potentially dangerous people would be working in centers that deal with the developmentally disabled. However, indictment for a crime would not be permitted to be cause for dismissing a person. Job Opportunity: Michigan Association of United Ways (MAUW) Seeks 2-1-1 Director MAUW is looking for a professional who will be responsible for enthusiastically supporting the statewide development of 2-1-1. This professional must be an organized self-starter, adept with information technologies, and have excellent speaking, writing and interpersonal skills. Candidates should have experience in health and human service management; a bachelor's degree is required, master's degree in public administration, social work or similar field preferred. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits. A letter of introduction and a resume must be submitted no later than February 22, 2006, either by mail to MAUW, 1627 Lake Lansing Road, Suite B, Lansing, MI, 48912-3789, or sent electronically to nlindman@uwmich.org. MAUW is an equal opportunity employer. Free Bulk Copies Available: Family Guide to Respite for Children in Michigan http://www.bridges4kids.org/fswg/FamilyGuideToRespite.pdf Printed copies of the booklet Family Guide to Respite for Children in Michigan (follow link above) can be ordered at NO CHARGE. Parent groups, nonprofits...let us know how many you want (in multiples of 50), your name, organization, address, and how you plan to use them. Hurry - supplies will go fast! You must be a Michigan-based organization or group to receive these booklets. Booklets are expected to be printed before Spring. Send requests to vincenttr@michigan.gov.
Disability News	*top*
Full Inclusion: The New Reality Show Michigan Disability Rights Coalition, Communities of Power http://www.copower.org/tools/ourvoices/ovwinter04/fullinc.htm One of the most enduring (NOT endearing) stereotypes about our community is the importance of "special" everything when it comes to people with disabilities. While the original purpose for the term "special" was to distinguish us from "pitiful," it never worked. "Special" meant isolated, less than normal, separated for their own good, in their best interest, etc. It also meant people who think they don't have a disability could avoid us because we could live our whole lives in a haven that became a disability ghetto. Device Brings High-tech to Disabled Students Todd Hollingshead, The Salt Lake Tribune, January 31, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/StlTrib1-31-06.html#top Britt Allen is an ace when it comes to zapping aliens - with his eyes. He may not have laser-beam sight like Superman, but just one glance sends the intruders to oblivion. On Monday, the 24-year-old - whose cerebral palsy has him in a wheelchair and inhibits his speech - shot down video-game aliens with perfection as he demonstrated a new eye-based technology to faculty at Oakridge School. ME Federal Judge Rules That Asperger's Syndrome is a Disability Boston Herald, January 31, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/2-06/Herald1-31-06.html#top A York County girl who suffers from Asperger's syndrome is entitled to special education services even though she completes her homework, behaves well in class and scores well on tests, a federal judge ruled. ADD Resources http://www.addresources.org The website of ADD Resources has over 100 articles written by national ADHD authorities as well as adults with ADHD. Plenty of information for parents too. 100 plus links to ADHD-related websites. Includes the National ADHD Directory with over 1000 ADHD Service Providers listed as well as a National ADHD Events Calendar. Free monthly eNews available. For more information on Disabilities, Disorders and Diseases, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Disabilities.html
Special Education Issues	*top*
Double-Dipping: Are Kids with Disabilities Barred from Title I Programs Pam Wright and Sue Heath, Wrightslaw, February 2006 http://www.wrightslaw.com/nclb/faqs/title1.doubledip.htm "I work as a speech therapist for a public school system. We have been told that students may not have Title I reading resource and special ed goals in reading because this is "double-dipping" into federal monies. Is this true?" When It's Your Own Child: A Report on Special Education From Families Who Use It Jean Johnson and Ann Duffett with Steve Farkas and Leslie Wilson, Public Agenda, June 2002 http://www.publicagenda.org/research/research_reports_details.cfm?list=17 The stigma once attached to children with disabilities is disappearing, according to parents of special education students. Majorities also give their local special education programs and teachers high marks. But parents offer mixed views on whether the right kids are getting the right services, with most saying too many special-needs children lose out because their parents aren't aware of what's available. Tips for a Successful Transition Oakland Schools, Oakland County, Michigan http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/1-06/OS.html#top Planning for the future of your child with special needs is an ongoing process. What is perhaps most difficult to consider is that the child or teen you see before you today will grow to become an adult with capabilities and needs in the areas of work, housing, personal finances, transportation, recreation, friends and the many other areas we all face as adults. Here are some beginning tips and thoughts. For more information on Special Education, IEPs and Section 504, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Rules.html
Ask the Attorney/Advocate	*top*
Bridges4Kids Exclusive: Ask the Attorney with John Brower Question: We are currently in the process of creating a 504 plan for our son, who is in first grade and has a severe peanut/nut allergy. If he comes into contact with peanuts he is at high risk for anaphylaxis. Washing hands will not work because of the residue left on the faucets. I was told by the principal at the beginning of the school year that, in order to have the children wipe their hands, we had to supply the wipes and I needed to come to school each day to pass the wipes out. Despite our efforts, he has had two contact reactions at school this year. The expense of the wipes and taking the time to come to school each day is becoming a real burden. Can the school refuse to supply the wipes and make us come in every day? Answer: Visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/AA/q48.html to see John's Answer. Visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/AA.html for dozens of John'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 19th Annual Research Conference "A System of Care for Children¹s Mental Health: Expanding the Research Base" WHEN: February 22-25, 2006 WHERE: Tampa, Florida DESCRIPTION: This annual conference is a nationally recognized forum to explore contemporary, empirical research on systems of care that promote the emotional and behavioral well-being of children and their families. This event is designed for researchers, evaluators, administrators, policy makers, advocates, and family members interested in applied practical systems-of-care research. Call for Papers Deadline is October 31,2005. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For registration information visit http://rtckids.fmhi.usf.edu. Nonverbal Learning Disorders Association's 10th Annual NLDA Symposium “A Decade of Progress in NLD” WHEN: March 10-11, 2006 WHERE: South San Francisco Conference Center, San Francisco, CA DESCRIPTION: At our 2-day event for parents and professionals, noted expert in learning disabilities, Rick Lavoie, plus over 30 nationally- and internationally-known speakers will present on the many interrelated aspects of Nonverbal Learning Disorders. Parents and professionals (MD, RN, SLP, OT, MFT, LCSW, psychologists, educators) will receive vital information on NLD, with special emphasis on the latest research and effective strategies to help individuals of all ages with NLD. Continuing education, ongoing poster session, exhibitors, and bookstore will be available. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information on registration, schedule, speakers, and program, visit www.NLDline.com, www.NLDA.org, or email NLDAsymposium2006@excite.com. National ADA Symposium & Expo WHEN: April 10-12, 2006 WHERE: America's Center, Downtown St. Louis, MO DESCRIPTION: The National ADA Symposium is the most comprehensive conference available on the Americans with Disabilities Act and other disability-related laws. The National ADA Symposium features an extensive session schedule with tracks in architecture, government, education, employment, and more. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, contact Eric Stockton, Symposium coordinator, ada@missouri.edu. Further information can be found at www.adaproject.org. YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network 27th Annual International Conference “Pathways to Success in Developmental and Learning Disabilities: Innovative Programs, Strategies and Policies that Work” WHEN: May 1-5, 2006 WHERE: Crowne Plaza Manhattan Hotel, 1605 Broadway, New York City, NY DESCRIPTION: The five-day conference will feature more than 300 prominent speakers from throughout the United States and abroad. More than 150 seminars and workshops will focus on key issues, including: Autism, Health Care, Early Childhood, Special Education, Advocacy, Workforce Issues, Residential Services, Sexuality and Social Skills, and many more. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more conference information, visit www.yai.org/pid or contact Dalia Sztulwark at dsztulwark@yai.org, 212-273-6193 or 212-629-4113 (fax). On-line registration begins in March at http://www.yai.org. Nova Scotia Conference on Learning Disabilities WHEN: May 12 & 13, 2006 WHERE: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada DESCRIPTION: Featuring a full-day keynote address by Dr. Edward Hallowell, co-author of 'Driven to Distraction' and 'Delivered from Distraction' and half-day presentations by: Professor Mahesh Sharma of Cambridge College on Mathematics Education; Jonathan Jones of Success Oriented Achievement Realized (SOAR) which features success oriented, high adventure programs for LD, ADHD and ADD young men and women on Success Attributes; Dr. Jack Fletcher of the University of Texas - Houston Health Science Centre on Reading Disabilities; and Dr. Maggie Mamen a Clinical Psychologist from Ottawa, Ontario on Nonverbal Learning Disabilities. For more information, you can download the conference brochure from http://ldans.nsnet.org. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact the Conference Coordinator Susan Clarke at 902-423-2850 or sclarke.ldans@ns.sympatico.ca for more details. Caring Communities "World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo" WHEN: May 19-21, 2006 WHERE: Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, MD DESCRIPTION: New to the Expo this year, we are adding an extra day to enjoy the exhibits, featuring SUNDAY as IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES AUTISM DAY! Pathfinders for Autism, the sponsoring organization will work with Caring Communities to plan this incredible day which will highlight an autism pavilion of support resources, targeted autism-related augmentative communication/assistive technology exhibitors, autism-related workshops and more! All Within the existing World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information or to register, contact Caring Communities at 1-866-227-4644 or visit http://www.caringcommunities.org/. 18^th Annual Postsecondary Disability Training Institute WHEN: June 6-9 & 10, 2006 WHERE: Wyndham Hotel & Conference Center, Burlington, Vermont DESCRIPTION: The objective of this Training Institute is to assist concerned professionals to meet the unique needs of college students with disabilities. COST: Cost is $365 per person if registered by May 1, 2006. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://vm.uconn.edu/~wwwcped/06pti.htm or email Carrol Waite at carrol.waite@uconn.edu.
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 Promoting Positive Parent-Infant Relationships: Understanding the Implications of Attachment Attachment Disorganization and Disorders of Attachment WHEN: Friday, February 17, 2006 from 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. Understanding and Assessing Cry Problems in Early Infancy WHEN: Friday, May 5, 2006 from 9:00 - 4:00 WHERE: DeVos Children's Hospital, East Auditorium, 100 Michigan Street, Grand Rapids, MI COST: $20.00 for each session (including lunch) FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.kentisd.org/earlyon Training for Parents, Students and Staff: Making Special Education Work for You WHEN/WHERE: Sessions will take place in Detroit, Michigan at various locations. February 22, 2006 at Latino Family Services; March 11, 2006 (2 sessions) at The ARC Detroit; March 27, 2006 (2 sessions) at Lenox Center; April 12, 2006 at Sacred Heart Seminary; April 29, 2006 (2 sessions) at The ARC Detroit; and on May 10, 2006 at Mt. Zion Head Start. DESCRIPTION: An individualized education program (IEP) is required by federal and state law for every student eligible for special education. The IEP is the cornerstone of the IDEA. The IEP identifies the educational programs and services which are needed to achieve an appropriate education. The training will help parents understand the IEP process and empower parents with knowledge to be effective advocates for their children. To download the flyer with additional information, click here (PDF). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact MPAS at 1-800-414-3956 to R.S.V.P. attendance. Please mention any accessibility accommodations you may need. Statewide Graduation Requirement Hearings DESCRIPTION: The Senate will be holding statewide hearings about the proposed graduation requirements. The public is invited to all statewide hearings. To view the recommended High School Graduation Requirements, click here. DATES/TIMES/LOCATIONS: February 16, 2006, Midland County Educational Service Agency, 3917 Jefferson, Midland; 10:30 AM, February 20, 2006, Kalamazoo RESA, 1819 East Millham Road, Kalamazoo; 10:00 AM, March 3, 2006, Macomb ISD, 44001 Garfield Road, Clinton Township; 3:00 PM, March 3, 2006, Port Huron High School, 2215 Court Street, Port Huron "Hearts 4 Kids" 29th Annual Benefit Party WHEN: Saturday, February 11, 2006 from 7:00 pm until Midnight WHERE: Jack’s Waterfront Restaurant, 24214 Jefferson, St. Clair Shores, MI DESCRIPTION: Strolling Hor d’oeuvres Buffet will be served with Wine, Beer & Refreshments; Entertainment by The Brothers Righteous; Silent Auction and Raffles FOR MORE INFORMATION: Tickets are $30.00 per person and can be obtained by contacting the Foundation for Exceptional Children at (313) 885-8660. Upcoming Detroit CHADD Meeting WHEN: February 14, 2006 from 5:00 – 6:00 pm WHERE: Metropolitan United Methodist Church, 8000 Woodward Ave, Detroit 48202 (Located N. of W Grand Blvd between Marston and Chandler St.) FOR MORE INFORMATION: or more information please call 313-333-5310. To inquire about CHADD Meetings or Programs call 313-421-5962 (Temp), email: detroitchadd@yahoo.com, or visit http://www.chaddonline.org/chapters/Chadd20U.html. "Asperger's and Employment" Conference WHEN: February 14, 2006 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. WHERE: DeCarlos Convention Center, 6015 East 10 Mile Rd., Warren, Michigan SPONSORS: This event is sponsored jointly by The Metro Detroit Rehabilitation Agency, the Autism Society of Michigan and the Autism Society of America, Oakland County Chapter. DESCRIPTION: Featuring international speaker Gail Hawkins. Gail is an innovative consultant and practitioner, a frequent guest speaker, and author of How to Find Work that Works for People with Asperger Syndrome. Sally Burton Hoyle of the Autism Society of Michigan will present on "Understanding Autism and Asperger's Syndrome: Psycho-social Aspects, prevalence and scope of need for services related to transition and employment". Nick Dubin will begin the conference, presenting on "My personal Experience as an Individual With Asperger's Syndrome". AUDIENCE: Self advocates, parents, agency and school professionals encouraged to attend. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Find more information or register online with a credit card at http://www.asaoakland.org. MICHIGAN STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING WHEN: February 14, 2006 WHERE: Meetings usually start at 9:00 a.m. and are usually held on the 4th floor of the Hannah Building in Lansing. Contact the State Board of Education Office (517) 373-3900, for meeting location and time. HOSTED BY: The Michigan State Board of Education DESCRIPTION: State Board of Education meetings are open to the public. Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the meeting should contact Mrs. Eileen F. Hamilton, State Board Executive, at (517) 373-3900 (voice) or (517) 373-4035 (TDD) one week in advance to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call Mrs. Eileen Hamilton (Administrative Secretary, State Board of Education) at: (517) 373-3900 (voice), (517) 373-4035 (TDD), or email: hamiltone@michigan.gov. Macomb/St. Clair Chapter/ASA: Home-Based Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) WHEN: February 16, 2006 from 7:00-9:00pm WHERE: St. Ephrem's Social Hall (Macomb County), 17 Mile & Dodge Park, Sterling Heights Krista Kennedy, MS, LLP & Gina E. Truesdell-Todd, MS, LLP from Behavioral Building Blocks will present this free workshop. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For further information, contact Paula Bellhorn at 810-357-1679 or pbellhorn1979@hotmail.com. Promoting Positive Parent-Infant Relationships: Understanding the Implications of Attachment (Series) WHERE: DeVos Children's Hospital, East Auditorium, 100 Michigan Street, Grand Rapids, MI COST: Cost is $20.00 for each session (including lunch). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Register online at www.kentisd.org/earlyon for one or both of the following sessions: "Attachment Disorganization and Disorders of Attachment" (February 17, 2006), and "Understanding and Assessing Cry Problems in Early Infancy" (May 5, 2006). The First Annual Virtual Diversity Job Expo WHEN: February 20 – March 3, 2006 WHERE: At your nearest computer DESCRIPTION: The Oakland County Employment Diversity Council, whose focus is improving diversity in the workplace, announces that it is co-hosting a Virtual Diversity Job Expo with Oakland County Michigan Workforce Development Board, Automation Alley, Baker College of Auburn Hills and Oakland County Human Resources Department to be held online, February 20 – March 3. At the virtual job expo, job seekers can find out about hiring companies, see available positions, and apply for those positions online. This virtual job fair brings added value to exhibiting companies as well, offering them the convenience of developing their own virtual booth from the comfort of their office to be seen by a diverse pool of candidates. This event is free for job seekers! As an added convenience, beginning February 27, employers and job seekers will be able to connect with each other through virtual information sessions and virtual private interviews online. This will give them the one-on-one interaction that is preferred for an interview while avoiding unnecessary traveling and time conflicts. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information on how to participate visit www.ocedcvirtualdiversityjobexpo.org. 6^th Annual UCP Detroit Red Wing Alumni Charity Hockey Game & Banquet WHEN: Saturday, March 18, 2006 (doors open at 4:00 PM) WHERE: St. Mary's Athletic Center, 3535 Indian Trail, Orchard Lake, Michigan 48324 DESCRIPTION: Great family event featuring the UCP Pucksters vs. Red Wing Alumni; opportunities for autographs. Advanced tickets needed for the banquet. COST: Admission is between $10 - $100 per person. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit http://www.ucpdetroit.org for more info or call 248-557-5070. Mental Health Needs in Child Welfare Address the Needs of Children & Families WHEN: March 23-24, 2006 WHERE: Kellogg Conference Center, East Lansing, MI FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information please contact Deborah Jensen, Children’s Charter at (517) 482-7533. "Take a Look at Me" Profile Workshop WHEN: Choose a session: Thursday, March 23, 2006 from 8:30am - 11:30am, Thursday, March 23, 2006 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm, or Friday, March 24, 2006 from 8:30am - 11:30am WHERE: Kent Transition Center, 1800 Leffingwell, NE, Grand Rapids, MI DESCRIPTION: Highlights of the portfolio process: Actively involves individuals, family members, and care providers; Promotes a positive view of the child; Builds on what a child “can do” and “enjoys doing”; Identifies natural learning opportunities; Builds supports based on strengths, hopes, and dreams; Allows for families from a wide range of cultures to share their child’s strengths, hopes, and dreams with others in the community; Provides valuable input to the Individualized Family Service Plan; Assists in helping family members and providers develop outcomes that are based on child participation and engagement. Participants will receive a portfolio as part of the training. Additional copies will be available. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To download the PDF flyer, click here. To register, click here. Michigan Early Hearing Conference for Audiologists, Interventionists and Parents WHEN: Monday, March 27, 2006 WHERE: Sheraton Hotel, Lansing, Michigan DESCRIPTION: The ultimate purpose of this conference is to improve hearing health care service delivery for the 0-3 year old population and their families. Goals: To provide practical information used at the onset of early audiological intervention for infants with hearing loss. To increase the skill and knowledge base of childhood specialists who work with families of young children with hearing loss. To provide an opportunity for parents to learn about early intervention services. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Register online at http://www.mphi.eductrng.net. 2006 Governor's Education Summit "Rigor, Relevance and Relationships: Reinventing High Schools" WHEN: March 27, 2006 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. WHERE: The Lansing Center, 333 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan DESCRIPTION: Attend the 2006 Governor's Education Summit and learn how to prepare high school students for the workplace and college. Come and discover ways to reinvent your high school's curriculum and build a strong foundation for students so they have the skills they need to be successful in the 21st century economy. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://www.masb.org/page.cfm/873.
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