Parent Resource and Information Center

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THE PORTSMOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOLS PARENT RESOURCE AND INFORMATION CENTER (PRIC) WAS ESTABLISHED TO ASSIST PARENTS OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN IN BECOMING EFFECTIVE PARTNERS IN THE PLANNING OF A FREE AND APPROPRIATE EDUCATION TO QUALIFYING STUDENTS OF THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND RELATED SERVICES.

WHAT DOES THE PRIC DO?
THE PRIC OFFERS A VARIETY OF SUPPORT AND TRAINING TO THE PARENTS OF QUALIFYING STUDENT(S) FROM BIRTH TO 22-YEARS-OLD TO ENSURE EACH CHILD RECEIVES A FREE AND APPROPRIATE PUBLIC EDUCATION IN THE LEAST RESTRICTIVE ENVIRONMENT.  ADDITIONALLY, THE PRIC OFFERS ASSISTANCE IN BRIDGING THE GAP TO A POSITIVE AND APPROPRIATE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE BETWEEN STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, THEIR PARENTS, EDUCATORS AND STAFF MEMBERS WITHIN THE DIVISION AND COMMUNITY.

THE PRIC ALSO OFFERS FREE MONTHLY INFORMATIONAL TRAINING SESSIONS.  DURING EACH INFORMATIVE TRAINING SESSION, OTHER HELPFUL RESOURCES ARE MADE AVAILABLE TO ALL PARENTS, EDUCATORS AND SUPPORTING STAFF MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE. PARENTS, EDUCATORS, AND SUPPORTING STAFF MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND THESE INFORMATIONAL TRAINING SESSIONS. IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO ATTEND, YOU MAY SCHEDULE AN INDIVIDUAL CONSULTATION WITH THE PARENT RESOURCE SPECIALIST.

THE CENTER IS STAFFED BY A PARENT RESOURCE SPECIALIST WHO WORKS WITHIN THE GUIDELINES SET BY THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, DIVISION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION AND STUDENT SERVICES, THE SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE, AND OTHER OUTSIDE SOURCES WHEN APPROPRIATE IN PROVIDING THE BEST SERVICES AND SUPPORT TO ALL OF PORTSMOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOLS STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS.

THE PRIC PROVIDES:

  • TRAINING FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABLING CONDITIONS.
  • ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS RELATED TO SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS FOR ELIGIBLE STUDENTS FROM PRESCHOOL THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL AND POST GRADUATION.
  • COMMUNITY SERVICES AND REFERRAL INFORMATION TO MEET INDIVIDUAL NEEDS OF STUDENTS RECIEVING SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES (I.E. HEALTH, VOCATIONAL, ETC.).
  • A PARENT-TO-PARENT NETWORK.
  • WORKSHOPS TO HELP PARENTS UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF THEIR CHILDREN AND PARTICIPATE IN THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS AND FOR TEACHERS SO THEY CAN BE BETTER PARTNERS WITH PARENTS. 

10 REASONS TO CONTACT THE PRIC:

  1. GET HELP IN UNDERSTANDING THE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROCESS
  2. LEARN ABOUT YOUR RIGHTS WITH REGARD TO IDEA (INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT)
  3. REGISTRATION ASSISTANCE FOR UPCOMING PROGRAMS
  4. OFFER SUGGESTIONS OF PROGRAMS THAT YOU WOULD BE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING
  5. FOR INFORMATION REGARDING LOCAL ACTIVITIES AND SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
  6. CHECK OUT A BOOK OR VIDEO FROM PRIC’S LENDING LIBRARY
  7. FIND SUPPORT WHILE RAISING A CHILD WITH DISABILITIES
  8. LEARN THE IMPORTANCE OF ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD WITH DISABILITIES
  9. LEARN TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE
  10. CONNECT WITH OTHER PARENTS
THE PARENT RESOURCE AND INFORMATION CENTER IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE INFORMATION AND WORKSHOPS TO ANYONE WHO HAS A STUDENT IN SPECIAL EDUCATION OR  TO ANYONE WHO HAS A STUDENT RECEIVING RELATED SERVICES.

INFORMATION SESSIONS ARE HOSTED AT THE CENTER AND IN INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL BUILDINGS. TOPICS INCLUDE UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF SPECIAL EDUCATION, COOPERATION AMONG STAFF AND FAMILIES, BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION, THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN HELPING THEIR CHILDREN THROUGH THEIR SCHOOL YEARS, AND OTHER TOPICS APPLICABLE TO STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES. TAKE HOME MATERIALS, PAMPHLETS AND INFORMATION SHEETS ARE AVAILABLE BY CONTACTING OUR PRIC.


THE PRIC IS LOCATED INSIDE S.H. CLARKE ACADEMY AT 2801 TURNPIKE RD, RM2, PORTSMOUTH, VA 23707. IT IS OPEN TUESDAYS FROM 9 A.M. TO 3:30 P.M., WEDNESDAYS FROM 9 A.M. TO 5:30 P.M., AND THURSDAYS FROM 9 A.M. TO 3:30 P.M. (OR BY APPOINTMENT)

IF YOU HAVE ANY IDEAS FOR PROGRAMS THAT THE PRIC CAN OFFER OR KNOW OF ANYONE THAT MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN FACILITATING A PROGRAM, PLEASE CONTACT FAITH MITCHELL, PARENT RESOURCE SPECIALIST, AT 757-393-8792 EXT. 46273 OR [email protected].



 

 

PEATC Logo
The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) builds positive futures for Virginia’s children by working collaboratively with families, schools and communities in order to improve opportunities for excellence in education and success in school and community life. Our special focus is children with disabilities.

PEATC TRAINING:


This workshop will help you learn the steps of the special education process. Attendees will gain a basic understanding of IDEA’s 2004 language on high expectations and become more familiar with their role as parents in the development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). You will also have the opportunity to learn some practical strategies for participating effectively in IEP meetings.

These virtual webinars will be presented on Zoom. They will not be recorded.
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Special Education Workshop Series - Winter 2024

PEATC presents this virtual workshop series for parents and professionals who want to learn more about special education in Virginia. Register once to attend some or all of the informative workshops!

February 7: Anatomy of an IEP
February 21: Measurable IEP Goals
March 6: How To Talk So Schools Will Listen (And Listen So Schools Will Talk)
March 20: Dispute Resolution Options in Virginia


Each workshop will start at 6:30 p.m. and will last approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
These webinars will be presented via Zoom. They will not be recorded.
Disability Benefits: Social Security and VA Medicaid Waivers
February 13, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Families of children with disabilities need to have an understanding of government benefits available to them as part of planning a future for their loved one. These benefits can help supplement a person’s income, qualify a person for extra help, and help them receive healthcare and community supports. Navigating the world of disability benefits can be tricky, time-consuming, and overwhelming. This workshop will help make that process easier. Join us as we discuss in clear language: what are Social Security benefits, what are Virginia’s Medicaid Waivers, who is eligible, and how do I apply?


Presented by PEATC in partnership with Culpeper County Public Schools.
This virtual workshop will be presented on Zoom. It will not be recorded.
Onward to Preschool: Taking the Big Step from Early Intervention!
February 13, 2024 | 6:30 p.m.

Attention superhero families in Early Intervention (EI)! Get ready for “The Big Step,” where we guide you through the exciting transition from EI to Preschool and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) services. 🚀

Join our power-packed webinar to discover the keys to successful transition planning, what to expect on this epic journey, and invaluable tips for a triumphant leap forward. Dive into the roles of parents, service coordinators, and educators in ensuring a smooth transition for your little superhero.

Don’t miss this chance to make your toddler’s journey from EI to Preschool legendary! 💪

Presented by PEATC in partnership with Henrico County Public Schools Family and Community Engagement.
This webinar will be presented on Zoom. It will not be recorded.

Connecting the Dots: Transition to Adulthood Edition
February 15, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wilson Workforce Rehabilitation Center (WWRC) has a long history of helping people with disabilities in Virginia to enter and remain in the workforce. Offering a wide range of programs, WWRC offers training, supported work readiness, internships, counseling, independent living skills, job search, and job placement. Join us as we have Alison Shaner, WWRC's Director of Programs, help participants in Connecting the Dots when it comes to WWRC in transitioning from high school to adulthood.

This webinar will be presented on Zoom. It will not be recorded.

Anatomy of an IEP
February 22, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

*IN-PERSON EVENT* 
Prince Edward County Middle School
35 Eagle Drive, Middle School Room 151
Farmville, VA 23901


We’re breaking down the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and how each section builds on the other to develop an effective IEP. We’ll discuss the parts of the IEP, the why of each section, and how it all comes together. You will learn practical tips to help create an IEP that supports your student’s access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE).

Presented by PEATC in partnership with Prince Edward County Public Schools
The Power of Family Engagement in Early Childhood
February 22, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

*IN-PERSON EVENT* 
Colonial Heights High School Tech Center
3451 Conduit Road, Colonial Heights, VA 23834 
Dinner & on-site child care will be provided. 


Building positive relationships between schools and families supports our children’s learning and development. Strong home-school connections create a more positive experience and help our children improve their relationships, health, and school success leading to more positive long-term outcomes.

By taking an active role in the early years, schools and parents can help ensure our children have the support they need to develop to their full potential.In this interactive workshop, we are discussing what “family engagement” means to us and learning how both parents and professionals share in the responsibility for the success of all children including children with disabilities.

Turning 18 in Virginia: What Individuals with Disabilities Need to Consider
February 28, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

*IN-PERSON EVENT* 
Westside Elementary School Auditorium
800 W Main Street, Smithfield, VA 23430


Turning 18 is a big deal. An 18-year-old is legally considered an adult in Virginia and can make legal, financial, medical, and educational decisions in their life. For some individuals with disabilities, this will not be an issue. Others may need support. This workshop will share basic information about things that need to be considered as your loved one turns 18.

Presented by PEATC In partnership with Isle of Wight County Schools
Check out our website calendar to see even more upcoming workshops!
PEATC & VDOE TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
Attention, SEAC Members and Advisors!

PEATC in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education is pleased to offer SEAC trainings aimed at helping SEAC members understand the role of the local Special Education Advisory Committee in Virginia and to build a more efficient and effective advisory committee.

Choose your preferred upcoming session type:
Self-Paced Online Course: February 1, 2024 - February 29, 2024 (OPEN NOW! Register and jump right into the course)
Live Zoom Training: March 16, 2024 (registration coming soon)

January 19, 2024 - February 23, 2024
OPEN NOW! Register and jump right into the course!

Early Childhood Academy (ECA) is a FREE self-paced online course for families of young children (birth through age six) with disabilities or developmental delays. Learn practical information to help get your child off to a great start and set a foundation for lifelong learning! Early childhood is a critical time of developmental growth; early learning helps our children develop the skills necessary to be successful in school and life.
A certificate of completion for 6 hours will be provided for all who complete the training.

I-E-P University. Presented by PEATC in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)

February 5, 2024 - February 26, 2024

Join us for IEP University (IEPU), a FREE self-paced online course designed to help provide families and professionals with accurate and useful information around IEP development and meetings. IEPU provides easy-to-understand guidance on the special education process, the IEP document, and ways to develop collaborative relationships among schools and families. IEPU targets practical strategies aimed at helping future IEP meetings be more positive, productive, and collaborative for everyone involved. 
A certificate of completion for 6 hours will be provided for all who complete the training.

February 5, 2024 - February 26, 2024

Families of children receiving special education services find themselves in a world filled with complicated policies, confusing acronyms and terms, and piles of paperwork. Often families find themselves looking for information and background knowledge to help them better support their children through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. The Building Strong Parent Advocates course provides information to help families build a solid foundation to understand the special education process while empowering them to be their child’s best advocate. 
This is a FREE self-paced course. 
A certificate of completion for 6 hours will be provided for all who complete the training.

February 12, 2024 - April 8, 2024

Join us for Transition University! This FREE 5-session self-paced online course focuses on providing parent-friendly transition information to help make transition planning easier. This course is designed for parents/caregivers of elementary, middle, or high school students that receive special education services, and the professionals that support them. The goal is to share factual information on transition services and to help make the transition from school services to the adult services world less confusing. 
A certificate of completion for 7.5 hours will be provided for all who complete the training.

Learn About More Trainings
PEATC LATINO
Grupo de Chat para Padres: Únete a nuestro nuevo GRUPO DE CHAT mediante la aplicación de WhatsApp y podrás mantenerte al tanto de todo lo que PEATC Latino está haciendo.

Entra al GRUPOhttps://bit.ly/3TyoZwW
Serie de Educación Especial
PEATC presenta esta serie de talleres virtuales para padres y profesionales que desean aprender más sobre la educación especial en Virginia.

¡Regístrese una vez para asistir a algunos o todos los talleres informativos! ¡Aquellos que asistan a todas o más de tres talleres, podrán participar de una rifa y ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $50!

Martes, Febrero 6: De la Referencia a la Eligibilidad
Jueves, Febrero 22: Anatomía de un IEP
Martes, Marzo 5: Dentro y Fuera de las Reuniones del IEP
Jueves, Marzo 14: Diez Cosas que Debe Saber Sobre un IEP
Martes, Abril 16: ¡Su Voz Vale!

Cada taller comenzará a las 6:30 p.m. y tendrá una duración aproximada de 1 a 1.5 horas. Estas sesiones no serán grabadas.
¿Es su hijo víctima de acoso escolar?
12 de Febrero, 2024 | 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Este taller ofrece estrategias de intervención para padres de niños con discapacidades que pueden ser víctima de acoso escolar. Los participantes aprenderán cómo identificar y prevenir el acoso, hablar con sus hijos sobre el acoso y cómo obtener ayuda de profesionales cuando sea necesario.

Este taller virtual se presentará vía Zoom. No será grabado.
Cumpliendo 18 años en Virginia: lo que las personas con discapacidades deben considerar
16 de Febrero, 2024 | 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

*ESTE EVENTO ES PRECENSIAL.*
3158 Golansky Blvd, Suite 202
Woodbridge, Virginia 22192

Cumplir 18 años es un gran paso. Un joven de 18 años se considera legalmente un adulto en Virginia y puede tomar decisiones legales, financieras, médicas y educativas en su vida. Para algunas personas con discapacidades, esto no será un problema. Otros pueden necesitar apoyo. Este taller compartirá información básica sobre las cosas que deben tenerse en cuenta cuando su ser querido cumpla los 18 años.


PEATC en colaboración con las Grupo de Apoyo para Padres Fe y Esperanza
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 Please visit www.peatc.org/events for more information and to register!
COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION:

elementary student wearing headphones working with their teacherelementary student wearing headphones working with their teacherSpecial Education

Special Education includes designed instructional and related services delivered at no cost to the parent that adapts the curriculum, materials or instruction for students identified as having educational or physical disabilities under federal law and tailored to the individual student's needs and learning style and provided in a general education or special education classroom, home, hospital, separate school or other setting.

    four happy students standing in lineStudent Services

    VDOE and the commonwealth’s public schools work in partnership to support and improve teaching and learning through a variety of programs and activities promoting the safety and well being of students. 



    The Virginia Family Guide to Special Education.pdf



     

     

    ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

    Virginia Family Special Education Connection
    https://vafamilysped.org/

    Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired
    Blind Design flyer

    You have the opportunity to participate in an immersive design workshop at Virginia Tech which will be led by faculty and students of the School of Architecture + Design.  

    Even if architecture is not your career goal, consider joining us for this unique experience.  There are only 15 slots available so there is an application and selection process for this workshop.  If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, use the link below to complete the application by Friday, March 1, 2024 and make sure to select Blind Design. 

    If you have any questions, please contact Kathy Malone of the Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired at the phone number or email listed below. 

    Phone: 276-642-7301 
    Email: kathy.malone@dbvi.virginia.gov

    Register Now

     

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