SEPTEMBER FEATURES

 
picture of two girls with one using a wheelchair. They are looking at a white flower and the little girl standing has her arm around the shoulder of the little girl in the wheelchair.

What Is Supported Decision-Making?

Supported decision making (SDM) is a tool that allows people with disabilities to retain their decision making capacity by choosing supporters to help them make choices. The supporters agree to help the person with a disability understand, consider, and communicate decisions, giving the person with a disability the tools to make his or her own, informed, decisions. (ACLU)

Picture of fireman carrying a pole and dressed in fireman gear

Emergency Planning for Students with Disabilities

Taking an inclusive and equitable approach to emergency management planning means considering the needs of the most vulnerable populations first. Students with disabilities (SWDs) are entitled to the same emergency services as their nondisabled peers and should be considered and included during emergency management planning. (remstacenter.org)

Photo of sign showing arrows with help, support, advice, guidance written

Should I Find an Advocate or Hire an Attorney?

So you have determined that you need help navigating the Special Education system but are not quite sure what the best choice would be for you and your family. You definitely need to know what similar and different roles each play and what you should consider when deciding between the two. Visit this site for guidance to assist you in your decision.