Wordle

Is Prensky's idea of partnering realistic?  Could a teacher (particularly one faced with high-stakes testing, pressure to achieve AYP, etc.) realistically set up his/her curriculum and instruction to use this approach daily?  Why or why not?  What could you do as a school leader to foster the partnering approach?

Yes, I do believe Prensky’s idea of partnering is realistic in the classroom, despite high- stakes testing and AYP requirements.  Engineering the classroom, introducing 21^st century technology and individualized teaching strategies and achieving state standard requirements is possible. Using technology and other “new” strategies are to be used to enhance the curriculum, enhance teaching.  Getting students (and teachers) excited about learning with improve AYP.

Unfortunately, the pressure to succeed has increased so rapidly, it will take a group of leaders to help reshape the governments thinking.  As I mentioned before, countries like Finland were in a similar position as the U.S.  They had high- stake testing, but they also had very high suicide rates among their adolescent population.  The pressure that was on students was overwhelming and the government had to come to the realization, no one was actually learning.

Again, I do believe in Prensky’s ideas of partnering and I do believe students can still reach state standards with an increase in individualized teaching, but it will take more than the four of us in the Boston group to convince those in charge.  A strong school leader who has our same mind set is needed in order to make these changes.  If a strong leader can make these changes and have the data to prove its success, then hopefully changes can be made nationally.  Massachusetts has always been the leader in education and special education.  Our standards go beyond the national requirements.  If Massachusetts, like Finland can come to realization that standardized testing and memorization is not the proper way to make successful citizen, then perhaps the nation will follow.  For Finland, there is a very high respect for educators, something we do not have here.  I say, use Finland as an example; they are about the size of Massachusetts and they score at the top of the world as Massachusetts does when looked at separately from the U.S.  If you fail as a school leader by incorporating Prensky’s ideas in your schools, you would likely lose your job.  But, how could you fail if the whole purpose is heightening school learning and motivating students?  Increasing your investment in educating students can never be a failure.

Age 15- 17

There are a few steps involved in transitioning before your child turns 18.  This where things start to get confusing and filling out paperwork seems endless.  But, accomplishing these steps one at a time will ensure your child is ready for the adult world (even though you're probably not ready!).

Continue revising the TPF (Transitioning Planning Form) form, making sure the IEP Team includes opportunities to participate in community based learning, work and home- based activities.
The IEP should continue to focus on your child's individual needs and his/ her's vision for the future.  What programs and activities are available for your child; job coach, life skills activities, community outings.

During this time, look into your family's and child's eligibility for Social Security Income, MassHealth Insurance and Adult Agencies.  There are different eligibility requirements when your child turns 18.
This is also the time to file a Chapter 688 Referral Form.  If your child will graduate High School at age 18 with a diploma, the Chapter 688 form is to be filed at age 16.  If your child is transitioning at age 22, file at age 18.  Check out the blog on Chapter 688 for help.

High School and Transitioning at Age 14

Thinking of your child now as an adolescent heading into high school is a scary thought in of its own and now I am telling you to start preparing for your child's 22nd birthday?  Think how fast elementary and middle school went by and both of those transitions were scary too, but everyone survived.  We begin the transitioning process at 14 to not be overwhelmed, to take one step at a time and help your child have a successful high school experience.  Now is the time to think of your goals and vision for your child. Now is the time to talk with the IEP Team to discuss what programs are available for your child and how they are going to help your family in the transitioning process.

The first steps for transitioning is understanding your rights as a parent.  Transitioning is part of the IEP process, transitioning documents will now be incorporated during your child's yearly IEP meeting.

Where to begin...

At the age of 22, students who have been participating in special education programs will no longer be eligible for services under IDEA guidelines.  It is a scary and often daunting task preparing families and students to transfer to adult services.  This blog is to provide families and professionals a timeline of steps to a successful transition.