News Archive
Enjoy news releases from the past!
December 15, 2011
Disability Scoop is a website that provides current information on research and events involving people with disabilities.
This website highlights both negative and positive things that directly involve or effect people with disabilities in the following areas:
- Education
- Politics
- Money
- Living
- Health and Behaviours
The influence of the media infiltrates the entire website as highlights and lowlights from movies, TV shows, and magazines are discussed, criticized, and celebrated. Autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and intellectual disability are given particular emphasis by Disability Scoop as specific subheadings are provided for these disabilities. Therapy, parenting, caregiving, accessibility, community, aging, relationships, research, and housing are a list of some of the topics that are explored under these subheadings. Disability Scoop is a website that works to educate people about disability, encouraging them to explore and question societal views while providing them with positive examples of individuals with disabilities fully participating and contributing to society.
For more information visit, www.disabilityscoop.com.
December 15, 2011
Shira Avni is the director of an innovative Canadian production documentary called Tying Your Own Shoes. The National Film Board released this animation documentary in 2009. In this 16-minute film, four adult artists provide some insight into their personal experiences living with Down syndrome. Petra Tolley, Matthew Brotherwood, Katherine Newton, and Daninah Cummins are the artists involved in this project. Their illustrations and segments of their interviews compose the majority of the short film.
Tying Your Own Shoes works to identify, disrupt, and break down societal stereotypes that negatively present people with Down syndrome as sick, uneducated, and unable to fully contribute to and participate in society. Director Shira chose Petra, Matthew, Katherine, and Daninah to participate in her film because they were talented artists that were very comfortable speaking about their experiences with Down syndrome. The four artists created the majority of the animation that is present in the film, demonstrating their ability and creativity as animators. Each artist unveils a unique perspective on Down syndrome, challenging the viewer to acknowledge and eliminate any stereotypes they may hold.
The title of the documentary, Tying Your Own Shoes, alludes to the notion that people with Down syndrome can tie their own shoes. That is, people with Down syndrome can think for themselves, can act independently, and can live, participate, and contribute fully to society. This documentary works to demonstrate that people with Down syndrome should not be defined by what they can not do or how they are different. Instead, people with Down syndrome should be celebrated as individuals who have an abundance of ability.
For more information visit, http://films.nfb.ca/tying-your-own-shoes/.
December 15, 2011
TAMI is an initiative that was developed in collaboration with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Ontario Division and Mood Disorders Association. TAMI stands for talking about mental illness, and the initiative has been doing just that! The main goal of TAMI is to address and diminish stereotypes and stigmas that are associated with mental health. This initiative believes that we can make a difference through education and awareness.
TAMI presentations and workshops have been held in classrooms across Ontario. The initiative is aimed at youth and is presented by people who have experienced mental health, family members of people with mental health, and health professionals. Since many youth personally experience mental health it is important that presentations like TAMI are being viewed in schools. Many students have parents and/or siblings who have a mental illness. A number of children and youth also report feelings of severe anxiety and/or depression.
Many people do not normally think of mental illness when they think about people with disabilities. However, it is important that when we think about the word disability that we do not limit our thoughts to merely physical or visible disabilities. TAMI exposes the stigmas associated with mental illness and educates students to challenge these stereotypes.
For more information visit:
http://www.camh.net/education/Resources_teachers_schools/ TAMI/index.html.
December 15, 2011
Don’t Laugh at Me is a non-fiction children’s book written by Steve Seskin and Allen Shamblin that explores difficult topics like bullying and exclusion. This book is appropriate for both elementary and secondary age students. The main focus of the story is how children feel when they are laughed at or excluded by their peers. This book is a great conversation starter and can be used to help build a lesson around important topics like fitting in, being different, and celebrating individuality.
On YouTube, there is a video that coincides with the book. Here, the illustrations from the book are used and many of the words from the story are sung by Mark Willis. The issues that are addressed in this story are valuable and should be explored by educators, parents, and students. Many students in schools experience bullying because of the way they look, act, or dress. This story and the video that accompanies it will help spark conversations and break barriers. Raising awareness and discussing bullying with students and children will help empower them to create accessible and inclusive communities. Check a local public library for a copy of this book or order it online at www.amazon.ca.
To view the YouTube video that accompanies this book visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTNVXlirF4Y.
December 15, 2011
The No More Barriers video was posted by an organization in British Columbia called BC Self Advocacy Foundation. This video raises awareness about societal stereotypes that are critical of people with developmental disabilities. The purpose of this video is to address the negative stereotypes and myths that are associated with disabilities to help break down barriers that restrict people with disabilities from fully participating in and contributing to society.
The main purpose of the video is to challenge stereotypical portrayals of people with disabilities that are often seen in the media and are upheld by a large portion of society. The video addresses a number of myths and stereotypes. The idea that people with disabilities are sick, diseased, dumb, and reliant is questioned by this video. Hurtful names like stupid, idiot, and retard are quickly discussed and challenged. While No More Barriers emphasis hurtful and damaging thoughts and assumptions that individuals should not make about people with disabilities, it also provides positive alternatives celebrating the hope, dignity, freedom, education, and independence that can be the result of broken down barriers. This resource can be used to help raise awareness, inspire change, and shift conventional views about what living with a disability really means.
This video is a quick and easy watch and is a great way to get a class of students thinking about stereotypes and their effects on the individuals they classify.
To watch the video visit, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz0zU_cQbFg.
December 09, 2011
SNOW is a branch of the Inclusive Design Research Branch at OCAD University in Toronto. The focus of this branch is to promote inclusive education and learning. SNOW provides educators, parents, and students with disabilities information, training, and technologies that help support learning in and out of the classroom. SNOW also raises awareness of inclusive education and practices, highlighting the importance of accessible, inclusive, and collaborative learning environments. At the SNOW website you can find information on current research, new technologies, and assistive technologies.
This website also allows individuals to sign up for a number of workshops. These workshops are created for educators, parents, and students with disabilities and are usually free and self-paced. The workshops that are currently listed on the SNOW website are listed under the following categories:
- Autism
- Behaviour Disorders
- Developmental Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities
The workshops work to raise awareness, provide accurate information, and teach a number of useful strategies to help educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Each workshop has a unique area of focus, but they are all intended to help enrich the learning experience for students with disabilities.
To learn more information about the exciting work that is being done at SNOW visit, http://snow.idrc.ocad.ca/.
December 06, 2011
Several non-fiction children’s books that maybe helpful resources for educators, caregivers and students include the following:
Leo the Late Bloomerby Robert Kraus
This book explores the experiences of a young Tiger named Leo. Leo’s father is worried that Leo is not developing his reading, writing, and talking skills fast enough, but his mother knows that when Leo is ready he will bloom. This is a great story to help support children who are late bloomers reassuring parents, teachers, and students that we all learn at different paces.
Knots on a Counting Ropeby Bill Martin
Knots on a Counting Ropeis a story about a Native American boy named Boy-Strength-of-Blue-Horses who is blind. Boy-Strength-of-Blue-Horses asks his grandfather to recount the story of his life. This story can be used in a classroom setting to inspire students to write their own life stories. Knots on a Counting Rope offers a number of avenues for teachers and parent to discuss visual disabilities.
We’ll Paint the Octopus Red by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen
We’ll Paint the Octopus Redis a story about a little girl named Emma who anticipates the birth of her younger brother. She imagines all of the wonderful and exciting things that she is going to be able to do with her baby brother when he arrives. When Emma’s dad tells her that her brother Isaac was born with Down syndrome she worries that all of the things she has dreamed of doing with him will now be impossible. As Emma and her father discuss Isaac’s disability they realize that he is the baby they have been dreaming of and that with their support there will be nothing that Isaac can’t do because of his Down syndrome.
Check your public library or amazon.ca for these non-fiction childrens books.
December 06, 2011
Signed Stories is a free website that offers a wide variety of books interpreted online through sign language. The stories are also read out loud for hearing adults and children so this website provides educators, students, families, and caregivers with a great opportunity to enjoy books together.
The after story activities help engage students of all ages and abilities. The books are divided into the following themed categories:
- Adventure
- Baby and Toddler
- Fairytales and Folktales
- Families and Friendship
- Funny
- Open House
- Slimy Scary
You can also find research, teacher resources, and parent information on how to support children with hearing disabilities. This interactive site also teaches people how to sign a number of popular songs and carols.For more information or to enjoy the signed books visit: www.signedstories.com.
December 06, 2011
With an emphasis being placed on bullying awareness, the ‘Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” resource provides educators, parents, and students with information and testimonials surrounding bullying and children with disabilities. This resource can be viewed online and extensively unveils the reality of bullying for children.
Walk A Mile In Their Shoes provides first hand experiences from parents and children, and information on potential targets, statistics, warning signs, cyber bullying, teachable moments, the law, anti-bullying programs, and a call to action. This 65 page resource provides parents and children with strategies on how to prevent, address, and stop bullying. For more information please visit: www.tinyurl.com/ability-bullying.
November 25, 2011
‘I am who I am’ is a student driven initiative that was created by a number of schools in Pickering. The initiative strives to raise awareness, working collaboratively to create school communities that celebrate individuality and promote equitable treatment and inclusion of all staff, students, and community members. ‘I am who I am’ supports the notion that all students have the right to learn in an inclusive, safe, and caring learning environment.
This character based program includes:
- Each student is unique
- Each student is valued
- Each student is welcomed
- Each student is supported
- We are better together
- Appreciating each other for who we are
This initiative was launched on Monday, November 14th 2011 with a campaign of awareness. In this campaign bracelets and t-shirts were sold to raise money.
‘I am who I am’ was initiated by a group of inspired students in memory of Mitchell Wilson to honour and support his memory.
Congratulations to the students and Pickering school communities that are involved in this exciting campaign. Continue leading the way, promoting inclusion and celebrating difference!
To learn more visit: http://www.dunbarton.ddsbschools.ca/images/stories/PDFs/Letter_to_include_in_Newsletters.pdf
November 11, 2011
The Hospital for Sick Children and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital have collaborated to develop a “Teasing and Bullying Guidebook” for children and youth with facial differences. .
Topics featured in the guidebook include:
- What is a Facial Difference
- The Difference between Teasing and Bullying
- Warning Signs
- Strategies for Coping with Bullying
- What Parents Can Do
- What a Child Can Do
- Role Playing
- Special Circumstances
- Resources
To access this Guidebook visit www.hollandbloorview.ca
November 11, 2011
The Canadian Stuttering Association (CSA) and the Stuttering Foundation are non-profit organizations who are committed to promoting awareness of stuttering and provide a range of resources and support to people who stutter and their families.
The Canadian Stuttering Association (CSA) was established in 1991. The primary objective of this organization is to create a community where people can be accepted for who and what they are and realize that they are not alone. The website of CSA at www.stutter.cafeatures articles, research and links to support groups.
Since its inception in 1947, the Stuttering Foundation has provided services, referrals and supports research into the cause of stuttering. Their website features tips for Educators to help teachers of students who stutter. For more information visit: www.stutteringhelp.org.
November 11, 2011
The Rick Hansen Foundation sponsors a Schools in Motion program designed to promote more accessible and inclusive communities. This program has a number of excellent teacher educational resources including:
Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Educational Resources (Grades K-12):
Build Excitement for and celebrate the Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary with the help of these lesson plans and videos focusing on: Difference Makers, Mapping and Accessibility.
Rick Hansen Lesson Plans (Grade 4-8):
The eight teacher-developed lesson plans are applicable to a range of subject areas (math, science, social studies, physical education, language arts and personal planning) and come with ancillary materials and teaching tips (also suitable for at-home instruction).
Life Skills Program (Grades K-12):
These easy-to-teach lesson plans promote six essential life skills: Understanding Oneself, Accessing and Using Information, Solving Problems and Making Decisions, Living With and initiating Change, Setting Goals, and Making and Enacting Plans.
Resource Books:
Five inspiring and educational books about Rick Hansen's life and work.
For further information on the Schools in Motion Program, visit www.rickhansen.com.
October 28, 2011
Augumentative Communication Community Partnerships Canada (ACCPC) recently conducted a national survey on the access requirements of people with speech and language disabilities. An outcome of this project was the development of an online resource for businesses and organizations communicating with people who have speech or language disabilities.
This resource addresses the following topic areas:
- Communicating with a person who has a speech or language disability.
- Accessible meetings or public events.
- Communicating over the telephone.
- Providing accessible print, text and e-communications.
- Creating accessible forms and other writing supports
People with speech or language disabilities offer a range of helpful tips for people who work in businesses organizations:
- Do not ignore us. Speak directly to us, not to the person who may be with us.
- Do not underestimate our abilities.
- Assume we understand, unless you are told otherwise.
- Give us extra time to communicate.
- Ask how we communicate “Yes/No”.
- Follow any instructions we give you to help you communicate with us.
- Tell us if you don’t understand.
Ask if we need accommodations to:
- Contact you by telephone.
- Read and handle your printed materials.
- Use your website and social media.
- Complete forms and sign documents.
For more information on this online resource and other information visit the website of Augmentative Communication Community Partnerships Canada at www.communication-access.org.
October 28, 2011
The Inclusive Schools Network (ISN) is a web-based resource for families, schools and communities that promote inclusive educational practices. The mission of the ISN is “to encourage and empower people to design and implement effective inclusive schools by sharing insights and best practices by providing opportunities for connection”
There is a wide range of resources featured on this website addressing the following topics.
- Inclusion for diverse learners
- Involvement of families in your inclusive school
- Student self-determination
- Transition to high school
- Ways to integrate technology
- Ideas to encourage peers to work together
- Inclusion and why it works
For further information on the Inclusive School Network visit http://inclusiveschools.org.
October 28, 2011
Bullying Tool Kits and resources and links to other anti-bullying websites for teachers and parents of children with special needs are featured on the Abilitypath website.
AbilityPath is an online hub for parents of children with special needs and professionals to learn, connect and live a more balanced life - through all phases of a child's growth and development. The website combines social networking features with expert content from a team of educators, parents, therapists and medical professionals. AbilityPath.org was created by Community Gatepath, a nonprofit with over 90 years of experience serving families and children with special needs.
AbilityPath mission is to build a community that brings together professionals and parents of children with special needs from around the globe to learn, share and strengthen the process of supporting the ongoing healthy development of children and youth with special needs and disabilities. AbilityPath’s community blogs, forums, events and groups allow parents to connect and share experiences and stories, providing an outlet of support and encouragement throughout their parenting journey.
There is a wide range of information that can be found on this website. Of particular interest may be the section on bullying and children with special needs. The following resources on this topic include:
Parent Tool Kits and Resources:
- Signs that your child with special needs may be a victim of a bully
- Ten tips to protect your child with special needs online
- Social skills and helping your child with special needs make friends
- Five steps parents can take to protect their child with special needs from bullies
Teacher Tool Kits and Resources:
- Teacher Tool Kit: Bullying in the Classroom
- The Teachable Moment: Opportunities in the Classroom to Educate
Cyberbullying Resources:
- Ten tips to protect your child with special needs online
- Cyber-bullying Research Center
- e-buddies.org
- Safetyweb.com
For further information visit Abilitypath at www.abilitypath.org.
October 11, 2011
Dr. Gary Bunch is a leading expert on inclusive learning. His article titled “Thoughts as a New School Year Approaches” featured on the Abilities Canada website provides something to think about for educators, parents and policy-makers. Dr. Bunch cites Canadian and International research findings and trends regarding education for students with disabilities that provides a unique perspective on the direction of special education in Canada.
The Abilities Canada website has helpful information related to arts, travel, health, family life, technology, learning, work and social policy. One of the highlights of this website is the Access Guide Canada. This resource provides travel and vacation information for people who have a disability. The Access Guide is easy to use and provides current information.
For further information on Abilities Canada and Abilities Magazine visit: www.abilities.ca.
September 28, 2011
A research project on Inclusive Education conducted by Principal Investigator, Dr. Vianne Timmons, University of Regina in Saskatchewan, Canada and co-authored with Maryann Wagner of the University of Toronto in Toronto, Canada explored the association between inclusive education practices and general health of children with disabilities. This research was funded by a contribution from the Canadian Council on Learning.
Researchers from across Canada engaged in an analysis of Statistics Canada data to test the hypothesis that where educational services are organized to ensure inclusion, parents are more likely to report that their children are in good health and that their children are doing better in school.The key findings of the research initiative as stated in the report summary shares some interesting conclusions with respect to the value of inclusive educationl strategies.“Because education is legislated provincially, students with disabilities across Canada are placed in more or less robust inclusive settings. Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick have the highest percentage of their students in the high-inclusive grouping (approximately 50% or half of the students with disabilities). Most of the other provinces, including Ontario, which has the largest student population with disabilities, have only one-third (approximately) of their students in the most robust inclusive settings.The analysis of data revealed that parents were more likely to report that their children with disabilities are in better general health, progress very well/well at school, interact very well/well with their peers, and more frequently look forward to going to school in higher inclusive educational settings than in mid-range or lower inclusion settings. This positive association was consistent, regardless of severity and type of disability.”To read the full research document visit the Canadian Council on Learning website: www.ccl-cca.ca
September 28, 2011
The Center for Inclusive Education/Canadian Research Centre on Inclusive Education is a national headquarters for researchers in Inclusive Education at universities all across Canada. By researching and disseminating findings, the centre aims to empower teachers and others with the knowledge they need to be effective with all students.
Research areas include instructional techniques, policy and practice, professional education and social inclusion.Specific research activities are described and specific findings are summarized and recommended findings are featured on the website.For more information on the Centre for Inclusive Education/Canadian Research Centre on Inclusive Education, visit: www.edu.uwo.ca/Inclusive_Education/.
September 28, 2011
The book "Exploring Inclusive Educational Practices through Professional Inquiry" edited by Gordon L. Porter and Déirdre Smith is an excellent resource for educators and aspiring teachers. The case-study approach featured in this publication contributes to a better understanding of the reality experienced by students and their families. Inclusive education practices that are rooted in experience knowledge are a component of each case-study.
This book will be of interest to parents, teachers, school principals and education specialists who is committed to making inclusive education happen everywhere, every day.This publication is available in paperback, hardcover, and e-book. For further information visit Sense Publishers at www.sensepublishers.comor Amazon at www.amazon.com.
September 28, 2011
Thames Valley Children’s Centre is showcasing an AAC and Autism: Research to Practice Workshop featuring presenter Dr. Joanne Cafiero. The date of the workshop is Tuesday, November 15, 2011 from 9:00 am – 4:30 pm at the Helenic Community Centre in London, Ontario.
The presentation will include evidence-based practices and the practical applications of AAC will be illuminated in case studies. A case study approach is used to present scientifically validated methodologies as detailed in the National Research Council’s report, Educating Children with Autism (2001). The presentation includes science, tools, strategies and outcomes measurement necessary for practitioners to apply the principles and practices in their homes, classrooms, communities and therapy environments. Dr. Joanne Cafiero's work is based on the strong belief in the benefit of meaningful contextually based instruction for individuals with autism. Her work with autistic children and individuals dates back to the mid 80’s when she trained and worked at Bittersweet Farms Autistic Community in Whitehouse, Ohio. Later, she taught adolescents with autism in the Montgomery County, Maryland Public School System where she developed and implemented a program for non-verbal children using state of the art communication technology. In 1995, Joanne was awarded a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction and family counseling in the area of Autism for her research in natural language strategies for preschoolers with autism using a parent training model. Joanne was appointed to the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Educational Interventions for Children with Autism. Her current research focuses on how children with severe communication impairments and autism learn language, which models of instruction are most effective and how to take this information from research and practice.The registration fee is $225.00 for an individual and $50.00 for a student. The deadline for registration is November 1, 2011. For registration information contact Carrie Connell at Email: register@tvcc.on.caor telephone (519) 685-8700, ext. 53367.
September 28, 2011
The Inclusive Design Research Centre (IDRC) at OCAD University is a research and development centre that provides design that is inclusive of the full range of diversity.
The IDRC provides a wealth of information on adaptive technology and is linked to a related site, SNOW (Special Needs Opportunity Windows) which is also an excellent resource for online information.In addition to research development and resources, IDRC offers various education and consultation approaches including Accessibility Training for Corporations and formal website accessibility evaluation.For further information visit the website of the Inclusive Design Research Centre at http://idrc.ocad.caand the related website of SNOW at http://snow.idrc.ocad.ca.
September 19, 2011
Together We Rock! and the students of the Communication Sciences and Disorders Program at the University of Wisconsin linked by video conference recently. John Draper presented to the participants in this program and then responded to their questions. Dr. Shelley Lund, Associate Professor, facilitated this learning opportunity.
John’s presentation was titled “Finding My Voice” and focused on his journey as a person who is non-verbal and an augmentative communication user. He also shared with students the importance of believing in possibilities and working together to enable a person who has communication challenges to live a full and fulfilled life.
For further information on the Masters of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee visit: http://www.graduateschool.uwm.edu/students/prospective/areas-of-study/communication-sciences-disorders/
September 16, 2011
The Augmentative Communication Team in Kingston, Ontario is sponsoring a one day symposium on Monday, October 24, 2011 from 9:00-4:30 pm at the Kingston Olympic Harbour.
Key note presenters are Brenda Fossett and John Draper. Brenda Fossett is a professor at the University of British Columbia and has extensive experience working with children who use alternative and augmentative communication. Brenda’s presentation will focus on the application of augmentative communication in inclusive classroom settings and practical strategies to promote student participation and learning.
John Draper will draw on his personal experiences as a former student and encourage audience participation to make the vision of an accessible and inclusive school community a reality.
The registration fee for educators and other professionals is $65.00 prior to September 28, 2011 and $86.00 after this date. The registration fee for students, clients and caregivers is $25.00. Lunch is provided. The deadline for registration is October 14, 2011.
For further information about the symposium contact Lynn Guindon at guindonl@hdh.kari.netor telephone (613) 544-3400, Ext 3173.
September 08, 2011
A new book titled “Transition Strategies for Adolescents and Young Adults Who Use AAC” edited by David McNaughton is now available from Brookes Publishing.
This resource will be of interest to educators, professionals and students who are AAC users and their families. The unique format of the book incorporates research-based strategies with the practical experiences of young adults who use AAC.
In the chapter, “Making School Matter: Supporting Meaningful Secondary Experiences for Adolescents Who Use AAC”, author Erik Carter incorporates the perspective of John Draper on the topics of relevance, vigor and relationships for quality secondary school experiences for augmentative communication users.
For further information on this publication visit www.brookspublishing.com.
September 02, 2011
As an augmentative communication user, John Draper knows that many people are unsure how to communicate with him. The following helpful tips for communication with a person who is non-verbal were published by Sarah Blackstone in Augmentative Communication News (reprinted with permission).
- Introduce yourself.
- Talk directly to the person, not to others who might also be there.
- Ask the individual to show you how his/her communication system works. Check for any written instructions near the communication system.
- Be patient as the individual makes a message. It might take a while. If you are in a hurry, tell them honestly and reschedule a time to meet later.
- Don’t feel you have to keep talking all the time. Relax and get into this slow rhythm of exchanging information.
- Don’t finish sentences/words for the person unless they inform you that it is ok with them.
- Pay attention to facial expressions and gestures. This will help you understand the total message.
- Interact at eye level if possible (e.g. sit in a chair if the person is in a wheelchair).
- Be honest. If you don’t understand, admit it. Ask the person to try again.
- You can ask “yes/no questions” to confirm what the person tried to ask or say.
Augmentative Communication News is a quarterly news report that features up-to-date international news related to augmentative and alternative communication. Information is organized in meaningful, easy to read categories:
- For Consumer
- Equipment
- University and Research
- Clinical News
For further information on Augmentative Communication News visit www.augcominc.com
August 03, 2011
John Draper will be sharing his journey as an augmentative communication user with the students of the Communication Disorders Assistant (CDA) Program of Georgian College in early August 2011. The CDA Program prepares college or university graduates to work as support professionals to qualified Speech-Language Pathologists and/or Audiologists in a variety of treatment settings. The academic courses are complimented by field practice opportunities.
John looks forward to visiting with his colleague Marian Bolhaar who is on the Faculty of the CDA Program and the students in her course.
Best wishes to the students of the CDA program in their efforts to support the communication needs of people to find their voice.
For more information on the Communication Disorders Assistant (CDA) Program of Georgian College, please visit www.georgianc.on.ca/programs/CODA/outline/.
July 06, 2011
The College Educator Development Program (CEDP) is a collaborative initiative of the Western Region Colleges – Conestoga, Fanshawe, Lambton, Mohawk, Niagara and St. Clair. CEDP is a three-phase faculty development program that takes place over three years. The first phase offers essentials on teaching in a college setting including practical, hands-on application of theory and networking opportunities.
This year’s program will be held at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario from August 15-18, 2011. The opening keynote address will be given by Max Valiquette who is a leading expert on youth culture. Dr. Idahlynn Karre and John Draper are plenary speakers. Dr. Karre will address the topic “Engaging Learners in Collaborative Classrooms”. John Draper, the other plenary speaker will share his insights on “Building Inclusive and Accessible Colleges”. These sessions are complimented by an array of workshops and networking opportunities.
Congratulations to the Steering Committee of: Kathryn Brillinger (Conestoga College), Kathy Bouma (Fanshawe College), Audrey Sloat (Lambton College), Roberta Burke (Mohawk College) and Valerie Grabove (Niagara College).
Together You Rock!
July 06, 2011
Norman G. Powers Public School of the Durham District School Board was awarded the Together We Rock! Leadership Award 2011 at their school assembly on June 28, 2011. Sue Simeson, Principal accepted the Leadership Award and a cheque for $1,000.00 from John Draper, Founder of Together We Rock!
A panel of judges reviewed the applications received and determined the winner based on the ability of the applicant to inspire participation within their school and make a positive difference to build a more accessible and inclusive community.
Norman G. Powers Public School completed the Understanding Diversity and Disability learning component of the Together We Rock! School Leadership Program. The school hosted an “Abilities Awareness Day” designed to promote acceptance and reduce stereotypes associated with people with disabilities. Over 650 students, teachers, school staff and volunteers, school community council representatives and community partner organizations participated in a range of interactive learning activities and presentations. Feedback received from participants indicated that awareness and understanding of the need for inclusion increased.
Doug Crichton, Superintendent of Special Education congratulated the students, teachers and parents of Norman G. Powers Public School on their accomplishment on behalf of the Durham District School Board.
Norman G. Powers Public School, You Rock! Congratulations!
June 08, 2011
Heritage College is one of 48 cégeps (collèges dèenseignement general et professional) in the province of Quebec. Since its inception in 1969, Heritage College, located in Gatineau Quebec, has demonstrated its commitment to achieving success through adverse and innovative, community-driven learning experiences. Heritage College provides pre-university and a wide range of career-orientated studies.
The convocation ceremony for the graduates of Heritage College will take place on Friday, June 10, 2011 at the Museum of Civilization in Hull Quebec. John Draper is privileged to give the convocation address.
For more information on Heritage College visit www.cegep-heritage.qc.ca
Congratulations to the class of 2011!
June 07, 2011
The Together We Rock! Advisory Team is pleased to announce that Norman G. Powers Public School in Oshawa is the recipient of the Together We Rock! Leadership Award 2011. The Together We Rock! Leadership Award recognizes the efforts of a school to promote accessibility, inclusion, sense of community and/or understanding of diversity and disability.
Norman G. Powers Public School hosted an Abilities Day that was organized by a leadership team of 50 students, teachers, parents, community partners and volunteers. The entire school of 650 students participated in this initiative. The goals of the Abilities Day was to reduce stereotypes by increasing awareness and understanding of people with disabilities; celebrate differences and encourage students to reflect on their own values and opinions related to inclusion. Through learning opportunities and interactive activities the school community achieved its goals.
The Together We Rock! Leadership Award and $1,000.00 bursary will be presented to the school community at Norman G. Powers School on Tuesday, June 28, 2011.
For further information on the Together We Rock! Leadership Award contact John Draper by email: jdraper@togetherwerock.com.
To congratulate Norman G. Powers Public School contact Sue Simeson, Principal by email: simeson_sue@durham.edu.on.ca.
Congratulations Norman G. Powers Public School - You Rock!
June 07, 2011
The ICE Canada conference is an event created by and for individuals, who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and their families, was held in Toronto from June 3 – 5 2011. This conference is the only event of its kind is Canada and was designed to bring the community of people who use AAC together to share ideas and learn from each other.
“Breaking the ICE” conference was previously known as the “ICE” conference where ICE referred to Independence, Community and Empowerment. The name change is intended to better reflect the importance of community in breaking down barriers and attaining these important goals.The ICE Conference program featured presentations, town hall meetings, group discussions and exhibits. John Draper was honoured to be the keynote presenter at this conference. Congratulations to the committed group of volunteers who organized this event.You Rock!
May 16, 2011
Norman G. Powers Elementary School is hosting Abilities Days on May 17-18, 2011. This student-lead initiative provides an unique opportunity for the school community to celebrate the abilities of students, families, educators and staff. The theme of the day is "Let's Walk a Mile Together."
The Abilities Days feature a variety of interactive activities for students to learn about the different abilities of people. Classrooms rotate through the learning stations. Various presentations by community organizations are also a feature of this exciting program. John Draper is the keynote presenter for the Junior and Intermediate (grades 4-8) division.For more information visit the school website atwww.ngpowers.ddsbschools.ca
May 15, 2011
The "Building an Accessible and Inclusive School Community" video of Together We Rock! is now posted on YouTube. This four minute multimedia production focuses on the message of
celebrating diversity, promoting inclusion and accessibility andmaking a difference through leadership.To view this video click on YouTube at the bottom of this website page.
April 12, 2011
A recent article by Kristian Partington of Axiom News focused on the media’s role in promoting inclusive communities.
"Media has 'Massive Role' to Play in Creating Inclusive Society: Advocate" included the perspectives of John Draper, who stated that “media and journalists must ensure they demonstrate leadership in promoting positive images of people with disabilities.” The complete article is available at http://www.axiomnews.ca/node/1234 For more information on Axiom News and its efforts to achieve the goals of “engaging strengths” and “catalyzing change,” visit www.axiomnews.ca
April 12, 2011
Eagle Ridge Public School in Ajax, in conjunction with the school’s Parent Partnership Committee, is sponsoring a Celebrating Our Differences Everywhere evening on April 13, 2011 at 6:45 pm.
This event is designed to highlight some of the school’s Equity, Diversity, Character and Inclusive Education initiatives. The program will feature class performances, and musical celebrations by the Bell Choir and Boom Whacker Club. John Draper will be the keynote speaker at this exciting event. Doors open at 6:30 pm. For further information contact Gary Lew at lew_gary@durham.edu.on.ca. Congratulations, Eagle Ridge Public School, on this great initiative!
April 12, 2011
Dan Habib's new 58-minute documentary film, Including Samuel, available on DVD, examines the educational and social inclusion of youth with disabilities.
The film portrays the efforts of Habib and his family to include nine-year-old family member Samuel in all facets of their lives. Including Samuel also features four other families with varied inclusion experiences, plus interviews with teachers, parents and disability rights experts.For more information on this resource, visit www.includingsamuel.com
March 24, 2011
Since its inception, Durham Lifelong Learning has been committed to promoting personal growth through the provision of continuous learning opportunities for its more than 400 members.
On March 22, John Draper was honoured to be a guest presenter as part of the organization's spring lecture series. He appreciated the hospitality of Gord MacLean, Communications Chair, and Brenda and Bill Peel, Speakers Committee members (featured in the photograph). For more information on Durham Lifelong Learning, visit http://durhamlifelearn.org
March 17, 2011
Augementative Communication Community Partnerships CANADA (ACCPC) has recently published a new booklet entitled "Communication Access: Guidelines and Resources on Communicating with People who have Communication Disabilities."
The booklet was developed with funding from the Accessibility Directorate of Ontario. Topics in the booklet include:
- The Right to Communicate
- Communication Disabilities
- Communicating in Different Ways
- Communication Barriers
- General Tips for Providing Communication Access
- Communicating with a Person who has a Communication Disability
To obtain an electronic copy, go to www.mcss.gov.on.ca
Direct link to Communication Access Booklet (PDF)
To obtain a print copy, go to www.serviceontario.ca
or call 1-800-668-9938 (toll-free)
ACCPC is a non-profit organization that undertakes social innovation projects to promote awareness, justice, enhanced quality of life and community participation for people who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
March 10, 2011
Numerous post-secondary institutions offer a Communicative Disorders Assistant (CDA) program. In recent months, the Together We Rock! presentation entitled “Finding My Voice” has been presented to CDA classes at several community colleges.
This presentation focuses on John’s journey as an augmentative communication user and identifies considerations for professionals in their efforts to support individuals who use alternative and/or augmentative communication methods. The audience participants have an opportunity to have a dialogue using an alphabet and word communication board.
To return to the What's New at Together We Rock! please click here.
