SCHEDULE: 

1. Keynote: Secondary Transition Discussion with CT State Agencies 

  Description: School-age students, who have been found eligible for special education services, are entitled to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  The process and requirements for accessing adult and community services are different from public education.  Strong partnerships between the family, school, and agencies are critical to a student’s successful transition from school to adult life.  This session will assist families in understanding and navigating the secondary transition planning process.  Discussion will include a review of federal and state requirements, as well as an overview of tools, resources, and professional learning opportunities related to secondary transition.  An opportunity to learn more about CT state agencies, hear about new initiatives, and have the opportunity to ask these state agency representatives questions.

   2. Panelists:

• Cathleen A. Calway, Autism Support and Resource Specialist, Department of Social Services (DSS), Division of Health, Community Options Unit
• Ian Card, Level Up Counselor, Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS)
• Lisa Farrell, Benefits Specialist, Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), Connect to Work Project
• Ebony Johnson, Lead Workforce Specialist – CareerHub, The WorkPlace
• Richard Martinez, Benefits Specialist, Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), Connect to Work Project
• MaryEllen McGarry, Benefits Specialist, Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), Connect to Work Project
• Karen Quesnel, RETAIN-CT Project Manager, Connecticut Department of Labor (DOL), Office of Workforce Competitiveness
• Cynthia Scott, Benefits Specialist, Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), Connect to Work Project
• Brian K. Smith, Assistant Regional Director – West Region, Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Individual and Family Support Division
• Alycia M. Trakas, Education Consultant, Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), Bureau of Special Education

     3. Breakout Sessions: Participants will take part in 2 breakout sessions that you decide on the day of the event, no need to pick now!  Topics will include:

• Recreation: Building Recreation Opportunities — Mary Jo Archambault, CTRS, EdD
• IEP Transition Planning — Nicholas Gelbar, PhD BCBA-D NCSP
• Vocational Services – Peter Gerhardt, ED.D
• Transition to College – Fred Volkmar, M.D.

    4. Family Panel:  Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center will provide a panel of families who will share their experience and answer questions.