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TRAINING AND EVENTS
FOR 2024-2025Click here for our events calendar.
Note that some events on this page are not posted to the calendar with registration open until approximately 30 to 45 days in advance.This list is in active development throughout the year, with updates and additional training opportunities.
The latest update was on February 3, 2025.
Select a link below to jump to disability-specific training opportunities.
Autism Training and Resource Center
Recorded Trainings All Programs
AUTISM TRAINING AND RESOURCE CENTER
REGION-WIDE AUTISM TRAINING EVENTS
Conducting Autism Evaluations and Determining Eligibility
October 16, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonWe also offer an autism evaluation series broken into eight parts. Scroll down for more information.
Supporting Students with Complex Behavioral Needs: An Overview of Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment (PFA-SBT)
This is a daylong introduction to Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment (PFA SBT)
October 18, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonCreating Inclusive Classrooms and Combating Ableism for Autistic Learners:
A Conversation with a Neurodivergent Individual
October 30, 2024
8:30 AM to 10:00 AM
Format: VirtualAutism in Schools - Video Modeling: An Evidence-Based Practice
December 11, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonSupporting Students with Complex Behavioral Needs:
A Workshop for Practical Functional Assessment and Skill-Based Treatment (PFA-SBT)
March 5, 2025
8:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Format: In-PersonDifferentiating Autism from other Eligibility Categories: Understanding Conditions that Mimic and Co-Occur with Autism
Date TBD
Format: Virtual, Half-Day (AM)
Training Opportunities via STAR and OrPATS for 2024-2025!
Autism Evaluation and
Eligibility Determination SeriesDATES
10.30.24 • 11.13.24 • 12.4.24 • 12.18.24 • 1.8.25 • 1.22.25 • 2.5.25 • 2.19.25TIME
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
(some sessions may run longer)FORMAT
VirtualCLICK LINK BELOW TO JOIN!
PRE-REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED.DESCRIPTION
In each session, we focus on a specific component of the evaluation and eligibility determination process. Each session will include a presentation of best practice guidance, followed by an opportunity for participants to ask technical questions, discuss specific issues, and problem-solve.
As always, we ask participants to refrain from using actual student names or disclosing any other personally identifiable information protected under FERPA.
These sessions are open to all Oregon public school and early childhood educators and staff. You are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions.
SESSION LIST
Session 1 - October 30, 2024
Overview of the ASD Evaluation Process and Eligibility Criteria, Key Tenets
Overview of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) evaluations and eligibility determination process. Review of core features (social communication, restricted-repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities) and the seven domains. Contrasting medical diagnosis versus educational eligibility under IDEA. Describe the required assessments and criteria for eligibility. Exploring the referral process and obtaining consent to evaluate. Key tenets of evaluation best practices.Session 2 - November 13, 2024
Gathering the Developmental History, Parent Interview and Required Health Information
How to gather the required Developmental History and conduct the Parent/Caregiver Interview to explore early developmental and current behavioral characteristics of autism. Gathering the required Medical or Health Assessment information, as well as the hearing and vision screenings.Session 3 - December 4, 2024 (2.5 hours)
Social Communication Assessment for SLPs
Review of requirements associated with the Social Communication Assessment completed by SLPs (functional receptive and expressive language, pragmatics in natural contexts with peers, social understanding). We will discuss a variety of assessment procedures, selected based on the age and presentation of each child or youth (e.g., verbally fluent versus non-speaking). While intended for SLPs, all school-based professionals are welcome!Session 4 - December 18, 2024
Conducting Unstructured and Structured Observations
Guidance on completing the required unstructured observations across settings and during peer interaction. Explore how to conduct structured observations (i.e. direct interactions). Discuss developmentally appropriate activities and elicitation techniques that assist the evaluator in assessing the presence or absence of behavioral characteristics associated with autism.Session 5 - January 8, 2025
Review of Standardized Autism Identification Tools: Selection and Appropriate Use
Review of Standardized Autism Identification Tools that are valid and reliable, exploring strengths and limitations of each - and the appropriate use of these tools relative to other assessment components. Explore Additional Assessments and standardized instruments (e.g., cognitive, adaptive, emotional/behavioral) that assist in determining adverse impact and instructional needs.Session 6 - January 22, 2025
Report Writing and Reviewing Results with Parents & Team
Guidance on report writing with templates and examples. Developing a profile of the child or youth, relative to developmental expectations. Meaningfully capturing strengths and abilities. Suggestions for guiding parents and caregivers through the evaluation and eligibility.Session 7 - February 5, 2025
Facilitating Eligibility Determination Meetings and Navigating Complexity
Conducting an eligibility determination meeting, going through the eligibility criteria, and arriving at a team-based conclusion. Tips for navigating disagreements, understanding procedural safeguards, and parent rights (e.g., to request an independent education evaluation/IEE). Culturally Responsive Practices in autism evaluations.Session 8 - February 19, 2025
Differentiating Autism in Girls
Understanding key differences in assessing autism in girls.Please send any questions to Darthea Park at dpark@pps.net
GUEST SPEAKERS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Please check back. We are in the process of scheduling guest presenters for 2024-2025.
REGIONWIDE AUTISM
PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITYRegionwide Autism PLC meetings are held on second Mondays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The purpose of the Regionwide Autism PLC is to foster collegiality among educational professionals specialized in supporting children and youth on the autism spectrum, to share information and resources, and to participate in professional development.
If you play a specialized role in your district leading or providing autism and behavioral services (e.g., autism specialist, BCBA, inclusion specialist) and would like to be included in the Regionwide Autism PLC? Email Darthea Park at dpark@pps.net.
Autism PLC Meeting Dates for 2024-2025
- October 14, 2024
- November 12, 2024
- December 9, 2024
- January 13, 2025
- February 10, 2025
- March 10, 2025
- April 14, 2025
- May 12, 2025
BLIND AND LOW VISION (BLV)
What to Expect When You Have a Student who is Blind or Low Vision in Your Classroom
September 18, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonWorking with Students who are Blind or Low Vision as a Paraeducator in the Classroom
September 25, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonTeaching Students with Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI)
October 2, 2024
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Format: In-PersonPE is for Everyone: Adaptations for Students with Complex Needs
Presented by: Columbia Regional Inclusive Services & NW Association for Blind Athletes (NWABA)
January 29, 2025
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Format: In-Person
DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING (DHH)
DHH Play Group!
Who is this for?
Children and families birth-to-age five, Deaf and Hard of HearingWhat time does it occur?
10:00 AM to 11:15 AMWhere is Play Group?
At our Wilcox Elementary School building, offices for Columbia Regional Inclusive Services (CRIS)
833 NE 74th Avenue
Portland, OR 97213What are the dates?
- September 20, 2024
- October 18, 2024
- November 15, 2024
- January 17, 2025
- February 21, 2025
- March 21, 2025
- April 18, 2025
- May 16, 2025
Please contact Jennifer Goshman with any questions.
2024-25 Oregon DeafBlind Project
Oregon Cohort 1: Open Hands, Open Access (OHOA) DeafBlind Learning Modules
2024-25 School Year - Fall Schedule
Asynchronous 24/7 and Synchronous 1x a month 4-5:30 PMMaking Meaningful Mobility Routines-A Team Approach: Students who have Complex Needs including DeafBlind
A Three-Part Series Featuring Amy Parker, EdD, COMS
November 6, November 13, November 20, 2024
2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Format: VirtualAn Introduction to Haptic Communication: Haptics, You Laugh, DeafBlind Feel the Claws!!
Presented by Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths & Adults
February 11, 2025
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Format: VirtualClick here for more information about the Oregon DeafBlind Project
Questions? Contact Darlene Daniels at ddaniels@pps.net
ORTHOPEDIC IMPAIRMENT
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY, AUGMENTATIVE & ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION
Funding Speech Generating Devices in Oregon
Hosted by Community Vision AT Lab and Columbia Regional Inclusive Services
October 2, 2024
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Format: VirtualSETT Framework: A Student-Centered, Collaborative Team Approach to AC/AT Tools and Strategies
October 23, 2024
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Format: In-PersonAdapted Play for Students with Complex Motor and Communication Needs
DATE TBD
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Format: In-Person
Assessing and Goal Development for Students at the Earliest Developmental Levels of Communication: The Communication Matrix and Related Assessment
DATE TBD
Format: In-PersonFundamentals of Promoting Access for Students with CMN
DATE TBD
Format: In-Person
Guest Presenters and Special Projects
Comprehensive Emergent Literacy for All: Unlocking Reading and Writing for Students with Extensive Support Needs
A Virtual Six-Part Series Featuring
Gretchen Hanser, Ph.D., OTR/L and Caroline Musselwhite, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
SESSION 1
January 23, 2025 ● Getting Started with Comprehensive Literacy for ALL: ALL Means ALL Students-Regardless of Their Disability!SESSION 2
February 6, 2025 ● Shared Reading and AAC: Supporting Language and LiteracySESSION 3
February 27, 2025 ● Shared Writing: From Simple 1 Lesson Activities to the 5 Lesson Framework of Predictable Chart WritingSESSION 4
March 13, 2025 ● Alphabet Knowledge and Phonological Awareness Instruction Without the Drill!SESSION 5
April 3, 2025 ● Time for Independent Reading: Finding the Right Book with the Right Access Method!SESSION 6
April 24, 2025 ● Get Ready, Get Set, Write! Getting Emergent Writing on the Radar for Students with CCN & Physical Disabilities, Including CVISAVE THE DATE!
May 8, 2025 ● Pulling it All Together: Making Comprehensive Literacy Happen for All!
An In-Person Daylong Event (Registration opens March 3)
REGIONWIDE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY PLC
The AT PLC emphasizes support for students with complex communication and motor needs with low incidence disabilities, with a focus on access (e.g., ability switches, adapted toys, accessing computers and devices) and AAC. SLPs, special education teachers, OTs, and others with specialized expertise and interest in this area are welcome to attend!
AT PLC Meeting Dates for 2024-2025
- September 26, 2024
- November 7, 2024
- January 16, 2025
- March 6, 2025
- April 17, 2025
- May 29, 2025
Would you like to join the AT PLC or have other questions? Contact Ruth McKee.
AT & AAC TRAINING TOPICS AVAILABLE PER DISTRICT REQUEST
Did you know that districts in our region may request custom trainings specifically for their staff?
The following list represents topics that we can focus upon, combine, or customize based upon staff interests and needs. To request a workshop, contact Darthea Park at dpark@pps.net or contact any member of the OI team.
Assessment of Children with Complex Communication Needs: Assessing children with Complex Communication Needs for eligibility and program planning purposes can be challenging. In this training, we will review state eligibility requirements and share assessment tools and strategies that school districts have found helpful in this process.
Communication Partner Training: Successful communication is dependent not only on the augmentative communication tools available but also on communication strategies. This training will teach partner skills, in addition to student skills, that are critical to allow students to develop effective communication.
Partner Assisted Scanning: Partner assisted scanning is a way for communication "partners" to "assist" students by listing or "scanning" through possible choices. It is an especially valuable strategy for those who have severe motor challenges and limited functional vision.
AAC Implementation Ideas and How to Get Started: May be customized to emphasize different age groups (EI/ECSE, School-Aged). This training will focus on providing educators and therapists working in early intervention or in school-aged settings with evidence-based techniques for teaching and implementing AAC. Topics will include incorporating the use of core vocabulary for motivating activities and also for communication for academic tasks (Science experiments, etc.).
No tech and light tech AAC Ideas: Have you wondered why, in this fast-paced world of technology, no tech or light technology tools should be considered? Confused about all the names for these tools (PODD, PAS, PECS, PCS, Pixon). This training offers an overview of how to create and use individualized no tech or light tech tools to enhance your students’ communication, and it reinforces how vital these tools are.
Student Environment Tasks Tools (SETT): Framework for Identifying and Implementing Assistive Technology Interventions: The SETT Framework is a tool that helps teams gather and organize information that can be used to guide collaborative decisions about services that foster the educational success of students with disabilities. Participants will learn why considering the Student, Environment and Tasks are just as important as considering the features of the Tools. Individuals will learn a team-based, approach to implement AT and AAC tools and strategies.
Aided Language Stimulation and Core Vocabulary: AAC is not just about tools, it's about using effective strategies and techniques to teach communicative competence. Very few students begin communicating immediately when a tool is presented to them, they need to be taught how to use the tool. This training focuses on one of the most important strategies for teaching students to communicate using AAC tools, Aided Language Stimulation. The Importance of modeling core vocabulary within authentic and motivating strategies will also be discussed.
Programming and Use of Specific AAC Apps (Proloquo2go, LAMP, GoTalk Now, TouchChat, etc.): With all of the AAC apps that are available now, it can be challenging to keep up with how to go about programming the app so that it can be individualized for a particular student. This training is ideal for Speech & Language Pathologists that may not be familiar with a specific app and would like to learn more about how to program the device for their student.
Mastering the Art of Switch Assessment and Switch Access: Switches help people with disabilities access a range of equipment and technology. The aim of a switch assessment is to determine which switch, movement and switch position is the most appropriate for the student. This involves a process of trial and error, trying a range of switches, movements and positions to determine which combination provides the most successful method of access to an activity for the user.
iPads: Switch it up!: This provides a hands-on class with iPads provided by CRIS that covers an array of apps that are specifically designed with built in switch access as well as switch access within iOS.
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (TBI)
The Oregon Center on Brain Injury Research and Training (CBIRT) in partnership with Regional Inclusive Services offers TBI professional development opportunities for school-based and early childhood professionals via the CBIRT events page.
You can also access a treasure trove of recorded TBI presentations via this CBIRT link providing access to recorded webinars featuring experts in the field of brain injury.
Oregon Traumatic Brain Injury Educational Team Webinar Schedule 2024 – 2025
The following are offered by CBIRT in collaboration with Oregon Regional Services
Current Management for Youth with Concussion
September 13, 2024
8:00 to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Sara Chrisman, MD, Seattle Children's HospitalNew Member Training
October 18, 2024
8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Speakers: Chris Ives, MA, Sarah Knudsen, MS, CCC-SLP, Malory Turner, MAT, Melaney Grenz, MA, CCC-SLPReturn to Learn at the College Level and High School Level
October 25, 2024
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speakers: Steven Broglio, PhD and Allyssa Memmini, PhDCaregiving: Navigating Provider Relationships and First Responder Interactions
November 1, 2024
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Speakers: Various SpeakersThe Relationship Between Cognitive-Linguistic Performance and Sleep and Anxiety in Young Adults with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
November 15, 2024
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Rocio Norman, PhD, UTHSC2024: Sports Related Concussion Update
December 13, 2024
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Ryan Rockwood, President of The Oregon Athletic Trainers’ Society (OATS)School-Based Supports for Students with Brain Injuries
January 24, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Susan Davies, Ed. DSchool Based Athletic Trainer Challenges
January 31, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Sam Johnson, PhD, ATC, CSCSAdvancing Brain Health: Innovations in Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches to Measurement, Enhancement, and Scalability
February 14, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Lori Cook, PhD, Center for Brain HealthSupporting First Responders and Justice Involved Persons
February 21, 2025
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Speakers: Various SpeakersOverview of Executive Functions as Methods to Manage Challenges following Concussion or Brain Injury
February 28, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: McKay Sohlberg, PhDStrategies for Challenging Behaviors
May 9, 2025
8:00 AM to 9:00 AM
Speaker: Amy Yillik, DEd, Culture of Care program with High Desert ESD
RECORDED TRAININGS - ALL PROGRAMSAUTISM
Autism Inclusive Practices Series (2023-2024) Preschool to Early Elementary
Autism Inclusive Practices Series (2023-2024) Upper Elementary, Middle and High School
ORTHOPEDIC IMPAIRMENT
DEAFBLIND
Coming Soon
BLIND AND LOW VISION
Coming Soon