PS 373R PTA Meeting – Tuesday, February 14, 2012 @ 11:30 a.m.

Please join us for our February PTA meeting at our Main Site, 91 Henderson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10301 – 2nd floor Conference Room. The meeting will be on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. VALENTINE”S DAY!

Agenda:

• Parent Advocacy 1115 Waiver
• Treasurer Reports
• PTA News
• Fundraising
• Carnival Volunteers
• SIDDC Legislative Breakfast
• and more!

Please see flyer: PTA agenda mtg 2-14-12

Community Education Council Citywide District 75 Council Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Location: P723X @ P218X, 1220 Gerard Avenue (167th Street & Gerard Avenue) Bronx, NY 10452

• Gary Hecht, Superintendent District 75
• Jesse Mojica, Executive Director Division
• Ruben Diaz, Jr. Bronx Borough President
• Laura Rodriguez, Deputy Chancellor, Division of Students with Disabilities & ELL’s

Call 212-802-1548 or email d75council@schools.nyc.gov Please link to flyer: Calendar Feb 15 CEC

Citywide Council on Special Education Meeting – Thursday, February 16, 2012

Date: Thursday, February 16, 2012

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: P.S. 177Q the Robin Sue Ward School for Exceptional Children, 56-37 188th Street, Queens, NY 11365

A panel of education experts will be present to discuss what options are there for students with disabilities.

• Principal Kathleen Posa, PS 177Q
• Principal Mark Dunetz, Q301 Academy for Careers in Television and Film
• Laura Rodriguez, Deputy chancellor of Special Education and ELL’s
• Lauren Katzman, Executive Director of Special Education
• Gary Hecht,  Superintendent of District 75
• Paula Magdelene, DSWDELL
• Eric Contreras, Cluster Special Education Instructional Specialist

Questions call 718-391-8354 or email ccse@schools.nyc.gov Please see link for flyer: CCSE 2-16-12 Calendar Meeting Agenda

Staten Island Children’s Museum February Events

Join our fun-for-the-whole-family Up4Art weekend art workshops every Saturday & Sunday in February.

• Feb. 11 & 12 Valentine’s Day Monoprints for your sweetie.
• Feb. 18 & 19 Collage a Mardi Gras Mask!
• Feb. 25 & 26 Illustrate the earliest signs of spring using Watercolor Resist techniques.
• Every Story Time program this February will revolve around literature that was either written, illustrated by or features African-Americans. Hear some old favorites, like The Snowy Day, by Ezra Keats, or introduce your children to new ones, like My Nana and Me, by Irene Smalls or Please Puppy, Please!By Spike and Tonya Lee. To make sure our visitors have time for the full Children’s Museum experience – participate in workshops and explore exhibits – Story Time starts at a different time every day; call ahead to find out today’s story and time.Feraba! On Saturday, February 11, get ready to tap your toes, stomp with your feet, and feel the drums pounding right through your body…it’s Feraba! Fusing West African drumming with rhythmic tap dancing, this exciting music will get you on your feet and moving! Performance at 2 p.m. in Portia’s Playhouse, free with admission.

  Sandy Ground: On Monday, February 20, learn about the Underground Railroad and the history of Staten Island’s Sandy Ground, the oldest community established by free slaves in North America from descendants of the original settlers. Kids will love creating and decorating commemorative doorknob hangers featuring images of heroes of the Underground Railroad.
  Sandy Ground Workshops, Monday, February 20, beginning at 2 p.m. and every half hour until 4:30 p.m. in the Walk-In Workshop.
  Sessions are at 2, 3 and 4 p.m. and are free with regular museum admission.

The Staten Island Children’s Museum is located at Snug Harbor Cultural Center, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301. The Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday & closed Monday, except most school holidays. Thei

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r hours reflect the New York City Public School schedule: noon-5 p.m. when NYC Public Schools are open; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. when NYC Public Schools are closed (including weekends).
For more information, call 718-273-2060 or send additional questions to info@statenislandkids.org
Visit us on the web at www.statenislandkids.org.

Cool School Holiday & a Musical Surprise!

Monday, February 20 marks the beginning of the NYC Public Schools Mid-Winter Recess (2/20 thru 2/24), and it is also another Cool School Holiday, sponsored by Scaran. Come celebrate your Cool School Holiday with music, join Patrick at 3:30 pm for singing and music-making! Our hours are 10 am to 5 pm all week, with free admission to all on Monday the 20th!

PS 373R School & Community February 2012 Calendar

(Photo credit: Brian G. Wilson)”]

February 2012 Lock Screen Calendar Wallpaper White [iOS Retina Display

Please check out our PS 373R February 2012 Calendar:

February 2012 II

February 2012 Staten Island JCC on Manor Road Hosts the Reelabilities Film Festival Regarding the Triumphs of Individuals with Special Needs – Artwork and Presentations too – FREE!

We are especially excited to invite you to our Reelabilities Film Festival presenting films depicting the triumphs of individuals with special needs. The Film Festival will happen at the Joan and Allen Berkowitz JCC at 1466 Manor Road. Please see the flyer for more information: reel abillities flyer 2012

Please see our attached flier for more information about our upcoming film festival and feel free to forward to anyone that would be interested.

You can RSVP to Brian Faughnan at BFaughnan@sijcc.com or 718-475-5291. Attendance is free. Donations are welcome.

7:00 PM Saturday, February 11

We will be having a fruit and cheese reception followed by a showing of “Oceans Heaven” (96 min). On display will be artwork from students at Community Resources Preschool and joining us will be Jayne Smith, Director of Children’s Services, Community Resources.

1:00 PM Sunday, February 12

We will be showing “Mabul” (100 min) and hosting Elaine Hall (author, Seven Keys to Unlock Autism) who will be giving a talk at 3:00 PM. Joining us will be Dr. Eileen Hopkins, Deputy Executive Director, Eden 2 and Mary Alice Fegley, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of New York State.

7:00 PM Sunday, February 13

We will be showing “Aphasia” (40 min). Joining us will be Ellayne Ganzfried, Executive Director, National Aphasia Association and Sharon Wasserstein, Speech and Language Pathologist.

People in Staten Island – Do You Need Your GED?

Please link here to find out more about GED programs in NYC:

Find a GED Test Prep Program in NY State: http://www.acces.nysed.gov/ged/nys_map/countiesprep.html

At College of Staten Island link here: http://www.library.csi.cuny.edu/continue/gedtesting.html

At the JCC in Staten Island:

http://www.ujafedny.org/view-agency-program/view/jcc-of-staten-island-ged-program/

If you are still in High School link here:

http://www.youthsuccessnyc.org/education/resources.html#GEDnumbers

NYC DOE School Calendar for the 2011-2012 Year

• Dec. 26^th to  Jan.2^nd    –   Winter Recess (including Christmas and New Year’s Eve) Schools are closed. Students return to school on Tuesday, January 3, 2012
• Jan. 16^th  -   Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Schools are closed.)
• Feb. 20-24^th -  Midwinter Recess (including Washington’s Birthday) Schools are closed.
• April 6^th to 13^th   –   Spring Recess (including Good Friday, Easter, Passover) Schools are closed. Students return on Monday, April 16^th
• May 28^th -  Memorial Day Observed (Schools are closed.)
• June 7^th – Chancellor’s Conference Day (students will not be in attendance.)
• June 27^{th -}  Last Day for all students

MULCH FEST- Recycle Your Christmas Tree Through the NYC Parks Dept!

Recycle Your Christmas Tree on January 7 & 8!

Kick off the New Year with a green resolution and recycle your Christmas tree for free at the annual MulchFest.

On Saturday, January 7 and Sunday, January 8, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., New Yorkers can drop off their Christmas trees at one of 70 locations citywide. Approximately 30 locations are “chipping” sites, where folks can watch their tree turned into mulch, and even take a bag home. Mulch from this annual event is used by the Parks Department to nourish trees and plantings across the boroughs.

MulchFest is a collaboration between the Parks Department, the Department of Sanitation, and GreeNYC. MulchFest is supported again this year by Hot 97 and KISS FM, our radio partners for the 5th year in a row!

Please remember to remove all lights and decorations before bringing your tree to be recycled!

Visit our MulchFest page to find out where you can TreeCycle in your borough!

MulchFest
January 7 & 8
10:00am – 2:00pm
70 locations citywide
www.nyc.gov/parks

Brothers Care: Toy Giveaway & PEMG Coat Giveaway

 BROTHERS CARE INC & THERE TO CARE Present:

4^TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS

TOY GIVEAWAY

&

PEMG COAT GIVEAWAY

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DATE: MONDAY DECEMBER 19, 2011

PLACE: PS18 221 BROADWAY S.I.N.Y. 10310 Entrance on Henderson Avenue

TIME: 6:30PM-9PM

TOYS: CHILDREN AGES INFANT TO 15YRS WHILE SUPPLIES LAST!!!!

COATS ALL AGES

Christmas Carols Preformed by “B Star” & Kofi

FOR MORE INFO CONTACT:

EMAIL: BROTHERSWHOCARE@AOL.COM

FACEBOOK: BROTHERSCAREINC BROTHERS

People in Staten Island – Do You Want to Take a GED or ESL Class? Are You in Need of a Job?

Please link here to find out more about GED programs in NYC:

Find a GED Test Prep Program in NY State: http://www.acces.nysed.gov/ged/nys_map/countiesprep.html

At College of Staten Island link here: http://www.library.csi.cuny.edu/continue/gedtesting.html

At the JCC in Staten Island:

http://www.ujafedny.org/view-agency-program/view/jcc-of-staten-island-ged-program/

If you are still in High School link here:

http://www.youthsuccessnyc.org/education/resources.html#GEDnumbers

Upcoming NYC Public Library Events in Staten Island – A Summer Reading Kick-Off Celebration

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St. George Library Center – Staten Island
5 Central Avenue near Hyatt Street
Thursday, June 9, 2011 @ 2pm
FREE -A Summer Reading Kick-off Celebration. “Children Sing and Celebrate all over the World”

An interactive musical fun-fest full of children’s sing along songs from America, Africa, the Caribbean, Mexico and Asia. For all ages.

Great Kills Branch – Staten Island
56 Giffords Lane near Margaret Street
Thursday, June 9, 2011 @ 2:30pm
FREE – A Summer Reading Kick-off Celebration. “Katcha and the Devil and Other Czechoslovak Tales”

Vít Horejš performs a one-man show of Czech fairy tales (in English) replete with kings, clever village maidens, witches and spirits. His marionettes speak in dozen voices, dance, play violin, swim and fly. The program will be composed of favorite Czech fairy tales such as “Salt over Gold” (a Princess who values her father “only” as much as salt, is banished, but returns to save her father when salt disappears), “The Snow Maiden Snehurka,” (in which a childless couple find a little girl in a winter blizzard) and the Wandering Egg, a Czech variation on the Bremen Musician Story. Recommended for ages 7 to 12.

Port Richmond Branch – Staten Island
75 Bennett Street at Heberton Street
Thursday, June 9, 2011 @ 3:30pm
FREE – A Summer Reading Kick-off Celebration. “Criss-Crossing Border – The Panama Suitcase Show”

Jaguars prowl, monkeys howl, and a sea turtle saves a fisherman in this delightful series of tales inspired by Arm-of-the-Sea’s travels in Central America. This show portrays the kinship ties between animals and humans and between people living on opposite sides of a border. Presented by Arm of the Sea Productions in Spanish and English. For ages 4 and older.

Teddy Atlas is Principal for the Day at PS 373R

P.S. 373 in New Brighton gave back to a Staten Islander who has given so much, when boxing commentator and trainer Teddy Atlas was given the honor of Principal for the Day on Wednesday.

http://statenisland.ny1.com//Default.aspx?ArID=140185

Summer Reading Programs 2011

FREE READING PROGRAMS:

For the Borders program - read 10 books and get one free. http://www.borders.com/online/store/MediaView_doubledogdare

For the Barnes & Noble program – read 8 books and get one free. http://www.barnesandnoble.com/summerreading/index.asp

The NY Public Library program lets them create an avatar, track their reading online and earn badges online. They might also qualify for prizes from the library at the end of the summer as well.  http://www.summerreading.org/

The H.E.Buddy Summer Reading Club mails kids a free tee shirt after reading 10 books.  http://www.hebuddy.com/content/pdf/readingclub.pdf

The Scholastic Summer Challenge lets children log the number of minutes read in order to try to reach weekly goals, earn digital prizes and help set a world record.  http://www.scholastic.com/summer/

The Pottery Barn Summer Reading Challenge gives kids a free book after they read all the books on the Pottery Barn reading list.
http://www.potterybarnkids.com/customer-service/store-events.html#book-club

PBS Kids Summer Reading Community Challenge is a 6 week program with daily emailed reading tips, book recommendations, activities, etc.
http://challenges.ivillage.com/kids-summer-reading

National Amusements Theatres give free admission to kids on Wednesdays at 10 AM from July 6 – August 10 when they turn in a book report form (downloaded from their website).
http://www.nationalamusements.com/programs/bookworm.asp

TD Bank Summer Reading Program gives a $10 deposit into a Young Savers Account for kids that have read 10 books.  http://www.tdbank.com/summerreading/  

And there is a FREE TENNIS program in all 5 boroughs: http://www.nyjtl.org/files/2011-spring-community-tennis-program-brochure.pdf

Fun Summer 2011 Events for Kids on Staten Island

• GESTURE: IN PAINT and SOFTWARE – HELEN LEVIN & GOLAN LEVIN an inter-generational art exhibition July 7, 2011 – January 8, 2012 Staten Island Museum, 75 Stuyvesant Place 718-727-1135 www.statenislandmuseum.org * Mondays: 11am-5pm * Tuesday-Friday: 11am-6pm * Saturday: 10am-5pm* Sunday: 12pm-5pmThe human gesture is the basis for abstract paintings by Helen Levin and interactive computer applications by Golan Levin, her son. Vivid brushstrokes and captivating computer-based activities bridge the gap between the painter’s palette and new media.Ages 8 and up can be participate in this innovative exhibition about gestures when they get to create their own gestures with Mr. Levin’s Yellowtail and Meshy pieces (currently available as iPad apps) which are designed for touchscreen technology. A third work, Ghost Pole Propagator (GPP) a projection based work which encourages the viewer to interact with their entire body. Kids will surely go gaga for this magic piece of interactive art.Free with Museum admission ($3 adults, $2 seniors/students, Free for members, and children under 12)
• Teen Environmental Club The Club is a group for any teenager (13-18) living or going to school on Staten Island who cares about the environment.  The club was started in the spring of 2010 as a forum for teen environmentalists to come together to learn about environmental issues, collect data for Citizen Science projects, help restore Staten Island’s natural world with beach clean-ups and invasive plant workshops. Teens and parents alike will adore this program that teaches teens the importance of environmental conservation, while actually pitching in to beautify our community and earn community service hours!                                                                                                                                  Visit http://sim-teenenvironmentalclub.ning.com/for more information or call Seth Wollney (718) 483-7105  Prince’s Bay Beach Clean-up * Saturday, July 9, 9:00am-11:00amBags, gloves and light refreshments will be provided. Meet at the foot of Bayview Ave.   Crescent Beach Park * Saturday, August 6, 9:00am-11:00am Bags, gloves and light refreshments will be provided. * Meet at the end of Wiman Ave. Ft. Wadsworth Beach Clean-up * Sunday, September 18, 12:00pm-3:00pm, FREE Bags, gloves and light refreshments will be provided. Meet at the Visit Center parking area on New York Ave.
• Junior Science Club * For children ages 8-13, parents may observe. * Staten Island Museum, 75 Stuyvesant Pl.$8/$5 members Join science educator and “Mr. Discovery” Staten Island Advance columnist, Clay Wollney, once a month and become a “mad” scientist performing exciting, innovative and fun experiments! Kids will love the engaging hands on experiences while parents will relish in the opportunity to observe their children is this amazing learning environment.Jr. Science Club:  Dissection – “What’s Inside?”Dissect an earthworm, fetal pig and a bullfrog! Like DaVinci, exploring through dissection is a must for the students who want to know more.Jr. Science Club: Forensics Saturday, August 20, 10:00am–12:00pm Hold on to your hats and badges! Learn some of the science behind criminal investigations as you play the part of a forensic investigator.Jr. Science Club:  Bottle Rockets Brigade at the Fence Show at Snug Harbor! (FREE) Saturday, September  17 (Raindate: Sunday, September 18) Lessons & Blast-offs at 1, 2, & 3pm The lesson in H2O pressure will meet at the Museum’s Science Education Table in front of building A, our future home. Meet Clay Wollney & learn about the new season of Jr. Science Workshops for children ages 8–13.
• 61^st  ANNUAL FENCE SHOW (FREE) Saturday, September 17th – Raindate: Sunday, September 18th 11am-5pm, on the front lawn of Snug Harbor Cultural Center Family Fun Day www.statenislandmuseum.orgCome view, shop, and canoodle at the longest running outdoor art show in New York!  Take the whole family out for an old fashioned stroll with some very contemporary sights! View, purchase or just delight in the presence of original works by talented artists.Artists and craftsmen may sign-up to exhibit their original work.  Also: Jr. Division for young artists. Call Donna Pagano at (718) 483-7106 or download our application from the Museum’s web-site.

Open House at JCC Summer Camp for Children with Special Needs – Sunday, June 26th, Noon – 2 p.m.

The Staten Island JCC is pleased to invite parents and children to our camp open house at the Henry Kaufman Campgrounds (1131 Manor Rd.) on Sunday, June 26 from 12:00PM-2:00PM.Please keep in mind that children must be ambulatory and toilet trained for enrollment.

Fee: $330 per week

Contact: Brian Faughnan, 718-475-5200 ext 1186, BFaughnan@sijcc.com

The JCC’s Marvin’s Camp is a six week program that features
individualization while creating a socially and emotionally safe
environment. The children participate in a traditional camp setting in an
inclusive environment with additional staff supporting their needs. Located
at the Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds (1131 Manor Rd.) in Staten Island, our
program fosters success, confidence and self worth by implementing research
based strategies to engage children in exceptional socially developmental
opportunities. An exploration of social skills is the pervasive component
of our program. Through one period each day of social skills intervention
and reinforcement throughout the rest of the day’s activities, our children
are able to show recognizable growth in a very short period of time.
Marvin’s Camp features two 40 minute swim periods each day, including one
period devoted to swim instruction provided by the Lenny Krayzelburg Swim
Academy. Under the direction of four-time Olympic gold medalist, Lenny
Krayzelburg, instructors provide small group (<6 campers) aquatics
instruction daily. Our music, art, sports and nature programs allows
campers to participate in a traditional camp experience alongside their
typically developing peers. Weekly trips to locations including Sesame Place
and Keansburg Amusement Park allow our children to experience another
dimension of recreational programming. Special activities such as carnival
games and shows will also supplement their camp experience.

Brian Faughnan
Special Needs Coordinator, JCC
Tel: 718-475-5200 ext. 1186
Fax: 718-475-5207
Cell: 347-733-3476

Visiting Artists from “U R New York” Collaborate w/Students at PS 373R

On June 15, 2011 students from Mr. McNamara & Ms. Caputo’s class at the Main Site collaborated with the artists from U R New York to create an inspiring mixed media mural in Elena Seminara’s Art Room.

They took a colorful painted backdrop and covered it with silk-screened photos, drawings, and  graffiti style writing. Link to U R New York’s website here: http://www.urnewyork.com/

PS373R June 2011 Newsletter

The brand new, color version of the PS 373R Newsletter is now on-line!

Please click the link to view: PS373RJune2011Newsletter

NYC DOE Family Feedback Form – Let Your Voice be Heard

LINK HERE FOR FLYER:Family_Feedback_Form1

LINK HERE TO TAKE SURVEY: http://familyfeedback.org/

Welcome!

The Family Feedback Form, open to all NYC public school parents, will help us understand what information you want about your child/children’s education, and how you want to receive this information. This form is the first step in our effort to engage with you more consistently around our shared goal—the success of our students. I look forward to learning what you value most.

Dennis M. Walcott, Chancellor

10th Annual West Brighton Harmony Day – July 16, 2011 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

10th Annual West Brighton Harmony Day

Date: July 16, 2011

Time: 8am-6pm

Location: Corporal Thompson Park

Address: Broadway Btwn Henderson Ave & Richmond Terrace S.I. N.Y 10310

Their most notable event is West Brighton Harmony Day – a free, fun filled day including food, educational activities, and entertainment for the entire Staten Island community.

For More Info:

Email: Brotherswhocare@aol.com

Facebook: Brotherscareinc

LINK HERE TO THE WEBSITE: http://www.brotherscareinc.com/

4th of July 2011 Events in Staten Island – Fun for your Family

Here are some fun 4th of July Events for you and your Family in Staten Island and NYC for the weekend of July 2-4, 2011:

 

• Celebrate America Concert & Fireworks Display – Saturday, July 2, 2011 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Wolfe’s Pond Park * 7 p.m. “Expression” 7:30 p.m. “Stayin’ Alive” BeeGee’s Tribute Band * 9:00 p.m. -  FIREWORKS! (Rain date for fireworks: July 3rd)
• Staten Island Yankees Game July 4th (VS. Brooklyn Cyclones) 7.p.m. POST GAME FIREWORKS Richmond County Bank Ballpark, 75 Richmond Terrace Phone 718- 720-9265 WEBSITE
• Independence Day of South Shore - Reading of the Declaration of Independence Date: Saturday, July 2, 2011 Time: 3:00 PM Venue: Conference House Park Address: Hylan Blvd and Satterlee St. Staten Island – Free! Bring a lawn chair.
• Independence Day Celebration at Historic Richmondtown – 441 Clarke Avenue, Staten Island July 03, 2011 11:00 AM – 05:00 PM Enjoy a pie-baking demonstration, bring a pie you baked to enter the Pie-baking contest, an exciting competition that pits ordinary citizens of today against expert “colonial” cooks!  Contest will be judged by volunteers.  Help to churn old-time ice-cream, participate in the Pinwheel Parade, meet patriotic villagers from the 1800s and earlier.
• Independence Day of North Shore - Reading of the Declaration of Independence Date: Sunday, July 3, 2011 Time: 3:00 PM Venue: Fort Wadsworth Address: Bay Street and School Road  Staten Island, NY 10305
• Travis Fourth of July Celebration Date: Monday, July 4, 2011 Time: 11:15 AM Venue: South Shore Band Address: 218 Johnson Avenue  Staten Island, NY 10307 Shore Band will perform marching this year. Access roads close at 11:15 A.M.
• July 4th Flag Ceremony and Parade Date: Monday, July 4, 2011 Time: 12:00 PM  Venue: P.S. 26 Address: 4108 Victory Boulevard  Staten Island, NY 10301 Starts at noon in front of P.S. 26 (4108 Victory Blvd) between Wild and Melvin Avenues. Parking for all those attending the ceremony will be available at the Showplace Center, located at 141 East Service Road.  Please note that all access roads into Travis will be closed at 11:30 a.m.

2011 New York City Youth Guide to Summer Fun – All Five Boroughs

Link Here

Published annually by DYCD, The New York City Youth Guide to Summer Fun is a broad citywide calendar of family-oriented events and resources. The vast compilation includes activities that range from the artistic to the athletic, from the literary to the musical, and can be enjoyed at indoor and outdoor locations – most for free or at low cost. The guide also includes a list of all public swimming pools and barbeque sites at public parks, as well as a comprehensive section on “Museum Deals” within the City.

NYC DOE – Free Summer Meals for All Children

Free Breakfast and Lunch – available to all children 18 years old and under every weekday. Sandwiches, Salads, Fruit, Cold Milk.

Call 311 to find an open public school, pool, or park near you.

School hours:

• Breakfast: 8:00 a.m. -9:15 a.m.

• Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.

Summer 2011 – YAI Network – Family Support Series – For Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Summer 2011 Calendar

• Friday, July 22nd, 10-12:30 p.m. Fostering Friendships between Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Typically Developing Peers Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Wednesday, July 27th, 10 -  12:30 p.m. Discussing Diagnosis with your Child Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Wednesday, August 3rd, 10-12:30 p.m. Autism and Allergies: Is there a Link? Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Monday, August 8th, 10-12:30 p.m. Stand, Stretch, Breathe: A Yoga Class for Parents with Take Home Tips for Your Child Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Monday, August 15th, 10 – 12:30 p.m. Behavior Management 101: How to Use Prompting and Fading Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Monday, September 12th, 10-12:30 -p.m. Bullying Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.
• Friday, September 16th, 10-12:30 p.m. “I Just Don’t Understand” Bring all your questions about the service system for people with developmental disabilities to an interactive Q & A session Pre-Register by calling 212-273-6182 Location: 460 West 34th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10001 Free for parents & Caregivers only – no children please.

Summer 2011 Issue of OUTDOORS IN NYC – Information on Canoeing, Hiking, Family Camping, Biking & More

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Dear Friend,

The summer issue of Outdoors in NYC is now available: click here to download it now.  As you will notice this issue is formatted differently, the programs are now separated by category.  All of the canoeing, hiking, family camping, biking programs are now on one page.  You get to select the program you are interested in and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy all summer.  So come out and enjoy the parks!

-The Urban Park Rangers

“Shine the Light on Autism Awareness” – Starlight Concert at Silver Lake Park – Thursday, July 7, 2011

Borough President James Molinaro’s Starlight Concert Series

TONIGHT – THURSDAY, JULY 7TH

“Shine the Light on Autism Awareness” 

Silver Lake Park (Forest Ave & Silver Lake Rd.)

Time: 7:45pm

Featuring the bands Parkside Symphony and Head Over Heels.

Members of the Borough President’s Committee on Autism will be in Attendance to answer questions and distribute helpful information.  Also on hand will be representatives from the GRACE Foundation, Eden II, Jewish Community Center, On Your Mark, Seton Foundation and Volunteers of America who will provide information about the services their agencies offer to the Autism community.

Concert goers should bring lawn chairs.

For more information call Joanne Nuzzo, Director of Special Events at

718-816-2133

Links to Information about Related Service Providers on the NYC Department of Education Website

CLICK HERE for information on Related Service Providers on the NYC Department of Education Website.

Need to locate an Independent Assessment, Related Service or Special Education Teacher Support Service (SETSS) Provider? Interested in working for the Department of Education as an Independent Provider? Service provider lists for both preschool and school age can be found here, as well as application forms and other documents.

http://schools.nyc.gov/Academics/SpecialEducation/ParentResources/Related+Services+Information.htm

Free Health Care Notebook Training – July 21, 2011

Free Health Care Notebook Training on July 21, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Parent to Parent of NYS/Institute for Basic Research – 1050 Forest Hill Road, Staten Island, NY 10314

Health Care Notebook:

In caring for your child with a developmental disability and/or special health care needs, you will receive information from many sources. Parent to Parent of NYS has created THE HEALTH CARE NOTEBOOK to provide an invaluable reference tool that will make keeping your child’s records easy and convenient. Using a Health Care Notebook can help you keep track of important information about your child’s health providers and health history.

Registration is required! Please call 718-494-3462 to reserve a FREE NOTEBOOK!

PS373R July 2011 Newsletter

The JULY 2011 PS 373R Newsletter is now available:

LINK HERE:

PS373RJuly2011Newsletter

“People First Grassroots Effort” – Tuesday, July 26, 2011 from 7-9 p.m.

On Tuesday, July 26, 2011, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.the Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council (S.I.D.D.C.) will be hosting a “People First Grassroots Effort” Information Session. The event will be held at the College of Staten Island/Center for the Arts (1P) at 2800 Victory Blvd., SI, NY.

The service system for individuals with Autism and developmental disabilities receiving programs and services will be drastically impacted.

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to attend this vitally important Information Session.

PLEASE MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ATTEND ON JULY 26^TH.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact 718-983-5276 or email contactsiddc@siddc.org.

Staten Island Developmental Disabilties Council, 930 Willowbrook Road, Staten Island, NY 10314

www.siddc.org 

L.E.A.N. On Us – The Law Enforcement Awareness Network

It is the mission of L.E.A.N. On Us to provide first responders with information and resources that will allow them to better serve individuals within their communities affected by hidden disabilities and mental illness.

Former Officer Carolyn Gammicchia and Officer Andrew Gammicchia are the founders of L.E.A.N. On Us

Link here for the website: http://www.leanonus.org/

Link here for a list of great resources: http://www.leanonus.org/moreresources.html

HEAP Funding Assistance for Air Conditioners – Summer 2011

• HEAP Funding Assistance For Air Conditioners
• HEAP Regular Benefit
• HEAP Emergency Benefit
• Heating Equipment Repair or Replacement

HEAP Funding Assistance For Air Conditioners

Assistance is available for low-income New Yorkers whose health issues pose a medical emergency during the summer. The cooling program is administered by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) with funding provided from the federal Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds, through the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA).

Eligibility for the program is determined by:

1. LIHEAP low-income guidelines. (For a four-person household, the maximum gross annual income to qualify is approximately $48,000.)
2. Having at least one household member who has been diagnosed with a chronic or acute medical condition which is aggravated by exposure to extreme heat situations/
3. A doctor providing written documentation (dated within the last six months) that air-conditioning assistance is critical to prevent a heat emergency.

Households that have a working air conditioner or have received one from the State in the last 10 years are not eligible.

Please contact the cooling vendor for your county for more information.

Boogie Woogie Wednesdays are Back at the Staten Island Children’s Museum

For more information go to: http://www.statenislandkids.org/calendar/july2011.html

Every Wednesday until August 24, the Staten Island Children’s Museum will have a fun variety of music for your kids!

From their website:
“Each week, children of all ages dance to the beat of music from all around the globe. Learn about Salsa, African-American Step, Jive, classical Indian, Irish Step & more! As a bonus, every Boogie Woogie Wednesday includes an extra two hours to visit the museum, from 5 to 7 pm and a free pizza snack for all (while supplies last) before we take to our outdoor dance floor (weather permitting). What a fun way to slip family time into your busy weekday schedule! Boogie Woogie Wednesdays are sponsored by Con Edison.

Wednesdays, 5 to 8 p.m. Pizza snack at 6 pm, while supplies last. Performances at 7 p.m. Free Museum admission starting at 5 p.m.”

Here’s the schedule for the remainder of the summer:

July 27—West African Feraba Dance
August 3—Chinese Ribbon Dancing
August 10—Indian Odissi Dance
August 17—Salsa!
August 26—African-American Step Dance

“100 Day Tool Kit” – Autism Speaks has a list of what to do in the first 100 days after a diagnosis of Autism

FROM AUTISM SPEAKS – 100 DAY TOOL KIT

A tool kit to assist families in getting the critical information they need in the first 100 days after an autism diagnosis.

LINK HERE: 100 DAY TOOL KIT

Learn about Autism, how it affects your family, how to get services for your child, what treatments are available and develop an action plan.

Staten Island: National Night Out Against Crime – Midland Beach, Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 5-9p.m.

From Bubbles Playhouse:

The National Night Out Against Crime has invited Bubbles Playhouse to be a guest again this year, so come and join us for a night of Fun, Fun and did I say Fun!!!!!!

All of you support me so much in everything that I do, so I am going to give back to my community and students with A night Full of “Free” Zumba, Facepainting, Balloons and so much more…….

You never know who will grace us with their presence, but I can guarantee you, its gonna be “HOT”!!!!!!!!

This  Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 5pm until 9 pm………

There will be a stage and a live DJ, sprinklers to cool off in every once in a while and the beautiful beach setting right behind us. Bring your friends, family and anyone who just wants to get out, have fun, listen to great music and Zumba the night away.

The Mayor will make an appearance and Target, Health Plus and the 120th, 122 & 123 Precincts and Councilman James Oddo are sponsoring this event, so there will be so many other wonderful activities on the boardwalk also…………

Class at Bubbles Playhouse will be cancelled for the evening….

Any questions, Call 718-447-7779 or email bubblesplayhouse@mac.com

Location: 

Midland Beach Turtle Circle @ Father Capadanno Boulevard and Jefferson Avenue

There will also be: Giveaways * Free Photo ID for Children * Emergency Vehicle for the Children to Explore * Free Rides for Kids * Food & Refreshments

In case of bad weather, event will be cancelled………with no raindate…

Safety Tips for Parents and Kids

Please take a moment to learn how to protect your children’s safety.

How do parents balance fear and freedom and foster independence without overprotecting children? The best answer is that they should make decisions they feel work for their family. They should think about their own comfort level as well as the child’s age, maturity, and cognitive ability.

Whatever the family’s decision, parents should begin to talk to children at a young age about safety and keeping away from danger. It is important to approach the subject in a non-threatening way so children are not fearful of potentially dangerous situations or people in general. Rather, the goal is to teach them to be able to recognize when something may be wrong and to talk to parents when something is bothering them. The key is to help children feel empowered and to encourage them to develop and trust their intuition.

Safety tips for parents

· Talk to your children about the rules pertaining to strangers. Let them know a stranger or predator looks just like any other person and will use any number of ways to lure a child. Remember, the vast number of children who are victimized know their assailants.

· Know the common predator lures: pretending to look for a lost pet; asking the child for directions; giving or promising candy and/or money if the child will go to their car; and threatening to hurt family members if the child does not comply.

· Use a special code word that only the child knows to convey a message should someone other than a parent ask a child to accompany them anywhere. If the special code word is ever compromised, simply agree to a new word with your child.

· Never label clothing, backpacks, or other personal items with your child’s name. A predator will use this information to try to gain your child’s trust.

· Give your children instructions on what to do if they get separated from you in a public place. Tell them to first find a mother with children or go to a check-out counter or information desk or approach a police officer.

· Make sure that your child knows his or her full name, address, and phone number and how to contact you. They also need to know how to dial 911 and make collect calls.

· Know where your children are at all times, and keep a list of their friends’ names, addresses, and phone numbers.

· Trust your own instincts – if you don’t feel good about a person, keep your child away from that person.

· Continue to rehearse and “role play” to make the learning permanent so your child can react properly when under pressure.

· Before letting children walk without an adult, walk the route with them, pointing out landmarks and make sure they know it forward and backward.

Safety tips for children

· Do not get into any car unless your parents personally tell you to. You should not go near a car to talk to the people inside.

· Adults should not be asking children for help, for directions, or to look for a “lost puppy,” or telling you that your mother or father is in trouble and that they will take you to them.

· Quickly get away from anyone who tries to take you somewhere. Yell or scream: “This person is not my father (or mother).”

· Use the “buddy system” and never go places alone.

· Always ask your parents’ permission to leave the yard/play area or school or to go to someone’s home.

· People should not ask you to keep a special secret. If they do, tell your parents or teacher.

· You have the right to say “No” to someone who tries to take you somewhere against your will, touch you, or who makes you feel uncomfortable in any way.

· No one should touch you on the parts of the body covered by your bathing suit. Your body is special and private.

· Do not hitchhike or try to get a ride with people unless your parents have told you it’s ok.

· If walking without a trusted adult, always go home the same way and never take short-cuts.

St. George Waterfront Festival in Staten Island – Saturday, August 6, 2011

Discover Staten Island as we celebrate its 350th Birthday!

FREE outdoor fun, including:

•  On-Stage Musical Entertainment
•  Fun activities for the WHOLE FAMILY
• Local Artists Showcase
•  See a variety of Macy’s Parade Balloons up close, and bring your camera to take photos!
• Visit representatives from Staten Island’s Cultural Attractions as they showcase their venues

// Watch the exciting PIZZA EATING CONTEST! \\

 Also enjoy:

• Shopping along the St. George Esplanade

•  Tasting “The BEST of Staten Island” at various food vendors

• After all that fun, end the night with a BANG with the FREE FIREWORKS SHOW!  Fireworks start at 9pm! 

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

• Art Exhibit on Ferry Terminal Promenade/with music
• Cultural Organizations
• Ethnic Food Vendors
• Craft and retail vendors
• Plant/flower market – Fred Ariemma

ACTIVITIES

• Macy’s Balloons
• Stage Entertainment
• Pizza Eating Contest (next to stage)
• Loom Weaving -Kente Clothe Weavers from Ghana
• Historic Richmondtown Re-enactment
• NYC Fire Department
• Face Painting
• Sand Art
• Balloon Sculpting
• “Living history presentations” at the Si350 table Meet and Greet:
• 1:30 George Washington
• 2:00 Cornelius Vanderbilt
• 2:30 Civil War Recruiter
• 3:00 Civil War Wife
• 3:30 Butter Churning (Farmer’s Wife)
• 4:00 Lighthouse Keeper

STAGE ENTERTAINMENT

• 1:00-1:45 p.m. – Band: Bob Wright & Harbortown (Songs about Staten Island)
• 2:00 -:2:15 p.m. – Century Dance Complex (dancers & drummers)
• 2:30-2:45 p.m. – David Suarez & Viktor Payan (Mexican Folk Singers)
• 3:00-4:00 p.m. – Country Music Sensation “Loren”
• 4:30-5:00 p.m. – Red Storm Drummers
• 5:30-6:00 p.m. – Pizza Eating Contest
• 6:30-7:30 p.m. – Band: “A Sound Affair”
• 8:00-9:00 p.m. – Band: “Silas Knight”
• 9:00 p.m. Fireworks

FOR MORE INFO: www.statenislandusa.com   |  www.visitstatenisland.com

Citywide Council on Special Education Meeting – Thursday, August 11, 2011

The next Citywide Council on Special Education meeting is on Thursday, August 11, 2011 at Tweed Courthouse, 2nd Floor, 52 Chambers Street, NY, NY 10007.

At 6:00 p.m. the public is invited to sign in to speak. The working meeting starts at 6:15 p.m. with at review of CCSE by-laws and budget resolutions. The public meeting starts at 6:50 p.m.

Last Day of Summer School – Monday August 15, 2011

Please be informed that the last day of Summer School is Monday, August 15th. It will be a full day of school.

Students return to school on Thursday, September 8, 2011. Please make note of these dates on your calendar. Have a happy and safe summer break!

2011 State ELA and Math Test Results in ARIS Parent Link

Starting August 17, 2011, log in to ARIS Parent Link at www.ARISParentLink.org to view your child’s 2011 New York State ELA and math test results for grades 3-8.

Visit an ARIS Parent Link Access Station if you need your username and password:

Friday, August 26, 2011 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in STATEN ISLAND at the New Dorp Library, 309 New Dorp Lane, Staten Island, NY 10306 Telephone: 718-351-2977. Interpretation services will be available at each station.

What do I need to bring to request my ARIS Parent Link username and password? Please note that because ARIS Parent Link contains confidential student information, parents and guardians will need to provide a photo ID to receive login information. Passwords will only be given if a parent is indicated as primary guardian on a student’s record.

Where can I find more information?

• Call 311
• If you are a parent/guardian of a student at PS 373R you may call Kirsten Rorke, Parent Coordinator at 347-563-5281
• Go to http://schools.nyc.gov/Offices/OFEA/State+Test+Flyer.htm

Link here for 2011 Grades 3-8 State ELA and Math Test Results Frequently Asked Questions: FAQsforNYSTestrelease_FINAL_080811

The Staten Island Borough President’s Committee on Autism Night with the Staten Island Yankees – Sunday, August 14, 2011

Image via Wikipedia

Autism Night with the Staten Island Yankees on Sunday, August 14, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at the Richmond County Bank Ballpark

RESERVE YOUR TICKETS BY CALLING 718-313-1302

2 convenient ticket options:

• $13.00 per ticket includes:

1. FREE limited edition Staten Island Yankees cap for each person
2. All kids 12 & under can run the bass for FREE after the game
3. FREE PlayBall Program for each person

• $20.00 per ticket includes:

1. Everything listed above
2. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken sandwiches, popcorn, soda & water

LINK HERE FOR FLYER: SI Yankees Autism Night

Dog Days of Summer at the S.I. Children’s Museum – Cooking Classes

Image via Wikipedia

From the S.I. Children’s Museum website: http://www.statenislandkids.org/index.html

 

Sirius, the “dog star,” is the brightest star in the night sky. Part of the constellation Canis Major, or Big Dog, Sirius rises and set with the sun during late July/early August every year. Because Sirius shines so brightly, Ancient Egyptians and Romans believed it was responsible for the hot summer by adding its own heat to the heat of the sun. While we now know this is not true, the name Dog Days of Summer stuck, and is how we still refer to the hottest part of summer.

Come enjoy these Dog Days every Friday at 2, 3 & 4 pm during our Kidz Cook workshops. Every Friday’s recipe is related to dogs, and wait until you see how good they can taste!

August 5-German Shepherd Chocolate Cake, August 12-French Poodle Tarts, August 19-Chow Chow Mein,
August 26-Neapolitan Mastiff Pizza

To get into the mood, why don’t you try making a “Lassi Come Home” – an Indian Yogurt Shake – in your own kitchen?
Ingredients:
1 cup of plain yogurt, stirred to a loose, smooth consistency
2 cups of mango pulp (or any other seasonal fruit that has been mashed.
1 cup of milk (whole or low fat)
Sugar or honey to taste (optional)
Directions:
1. Put all ingredients in a shaker or jar with a lid and shake until everything is mixed together. If you have a blender, just add all ingredients (and ice chips, if you want) and pulse until well-mixed.
2. Serve.

The Citywide District 75 Council Calendar Meeting – OPT Busing Update

The Citywide District 75 Council

OPT Busing Update Report CD75C – Busing Survey Report will be Officially Released

• Has your child been late for school or arrived home late due to new bus routes, or added students?
• Are elementary students still riding with High School students?
• This summer did your child have a working air conditioner on their bus?
• When you call OPT are you confused and still have unresolved busing issue?

If the answer is “YES” come out and let your voice be heard!!

PUBLIC FORUM

The Citywide District 75 Council Calendar Meeting

• Date:  Wednesday,  September 21, 2011
• School Location:  Petrides – 715 Ocean Terrace, Building B, Staten Island, NY 10301
• Telephone: 718-556-0511

Translations Services (Spanish) will be provided for the audience.

Servicios de traducción (español) se presentará para el público.

The public is requested to keep its questions and comments to under two minutes.

All meetings are held at wheelchair accessible sites

 

New Guide Offers Road Map To IEP Process

New Guide Offers Road Map To IEP Process

By Michelle Diament

August 23, 2011

A new guide released Tuesday provides parents with a step-by-step look at how to obtain special education services from their school district.

The 26-page download from Autism Speaks offers a broad overview of the legal rights of parents and students with disabilities and walks through the process of forming an individualized education program or IEP.

The guide was prepared by attorneys at Goodwin Procter for the autism advocacy group, but is written in layman’s terms, using bullet points and flow charts for clarity.

“The IEP process can be daunting, overwhelming and highly frustrating for parents who are trying to ensure their child is getting the appropriate educational opportunities,” said Lisa Goring, vice president of family services at Autism Speaks. “We hope this guide will give families an effective road map that prepares them to make informed decisions and advocate for their child as effectively as possible.”

Though produced by Autism Speaks, most of the information included in the guide is applicable to all students that qualify for special education, irrespective of their diagnosis.

LINK HERE FOR FULL GUIDE: IEPin fo.

Welcome from the new PS 373R PTA President

Welcome from the President of the Parents’ Association

Welcome to the P.S. 373R PTA, and your PTA. We are here to work together for all of our children.  Families need to be connected to others in order to raise their children in communities to ensure their children are safe and healthy.  Our schools need parents and families to engage in conversation and collaboration to discover where and how they can be involved in their child’s education.  Our local PTA units need to be connected to their community so they will be able to provide opportunities and share the information for the benefit of our schools, families and children.  We can make a difference.

The PTA meetings are held on the Third Tuesday of every month during the school year.  The first meeting will be on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Main Site, 91 Henderson Avenue (Corner of Lafayette & Henderson).

As a parent of P.S. 373R, you are automatically a member of the Parents’ Association.  Our purpose is to enhance communication between the Schools. We know that when parents are involved with their child’s education the child is more likely to succeed in life.   PTA is an abundant resource for programs and ideas to involve parents.

Our goals this year are to:

• To provide opportunities for every family to participate in P.S. 373R Actives.
• To provide ways for P.S. 373R families to join in support of their children’s school.
• To Support for each other an advocate for students, parents and the community;
• To raise funds for “Teachers Wish List” the annual Carnival.

 PTA Activities:

School Spirit Fridays: We are also encouraging all students and staff to show their school Spirit and wear our school logo shirts on Fridays.  We will be selling School Spirit Shirts throughout the year.

Leadership teams:  School Leadership Teams (SLT) brings together parents, administrators, and teachers to create the school’s education plan and write its budget… SLT members can also create special opportunities for their school.

Holiday Fair:  This annual event is a student favorite, a successful fundraiser and community outreach. The School is selling variety of gift items for the holidays. You can also volunteer to help with setup, cleanup and cashiering at the Holiday Fair.

We are engaged through advocacy, communication, community collaboration, conviction, diversity, fiscal responsibility, membership and passion.  The passion of PTA volunteers – that every child experiences success in school – is what makes a difference in the lives of children every day.

Please enjoy these next few years.  You won’t believe how quickly they will go by and how much your child will mature and learn.  Before you realize it, they will be graduating from one of the finest institutions in the country.  All of us on the PTA look forward to meeting you at P.S. 373R. Working together we can make a difference for every child.

Please contact your PTA President Maritza Sabato at 718-494-9146 or Cell 917-299-0114 and email: maritza.pta@aitny.com if you have questions or concerns.

LINK TO LETTER with PTA CONTACT FORM: Welcome Letter

Family Support & Transition Resource Fair – Saturday, October 22, 2011

FAMILY SUPPORT AND TRANSITION RESOURCE FAIR

FREE ADMISSION

Saturday, October 22, 2011

10:00am-1:00pm

Jerome Parker Campus

100 Essex Drive

Staten Island, NY

Browse and meet with representatives from over 50 agency providers and community organizations.  Speak with agencies that provide services for children, teens and adults.  Learn more about after school transition programs, recreation, camp and service eligibility.

Continental Breakfast will be served.

FREE CHILDCARE AVAILABLE (PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED)

For more information or to register for child care contact the SIDDC office at

718-983-5276 or  contactsiddc@siddc.org

YAI Workshop: “Social Thinking Across the Home and School Day: The ILAUGH Model of Social Cognition”

The YAI NETWORK is pleased to present:

A Full-Day Autism Workshop on Social Thinking with

Michelle Garcia Winner

“Social Thinking Across The Home and School Day:  The ILAUGH Model of Social Cognition” 

This full day workshop is being held on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at the McGraw Hill Auditorium located at 1221 Avenue of the Americas in New York City.

For a complete workshop description and to register online, please visit our Autism Conference Website. Please note: Seating is limited; there will be no on-site registration.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions. We hope to see you October 11th!
Best Regards,

Abbe Wittenberg
Conference Planner
YAI Network
Abbe.Wittenberg@yai.org

Citywide Council on Special Education Meeting September 15, 2011 at 6 p.m. at Petrides Complex

Citywide Council on Special Education

CALENDAR MEETING AGENDA

Date:               Thursday, September 15, 2011

Time:              6:00 p.m.

Location:        PS 166Q
33-09 35^th Avenue

Long Island City, NY  11106

5:30 PM -Public is invited to sign in to speak

Public Meeting 6:00 PM

1.                  Call to Order and Roll Call

2.                  Approval of Meeting Minutes

3.                  President’s Report

4.                  Resolutions – Amendments to the CCSE By-Laws & Filling Vacancies

5.                  Teaching Strategies, Common Core Standards & Universal Design – Presentation by the NYCDOE’s Division of Students with Disabilities Leadership Team

PUBLIC FORUM

The Public is asked to keep comments to a minimum of three minutes

Upcoming Meeting Announcements:  Next CCSE Calendar Meeting/Topic:   Thursday, October 20, 2011 – TBD Bronx, NY;  Topic:  TBD

MEETING DATE & TIME IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE.  

INTERESTED PARTIES REQUESTING TRANSLATION SERVICES SHOULD CONFIRM By calling the CCSE Office at 718-391-8354

All meetings are held at wheelchair accessible sites.

Please Join Us for the First PS 373R PTA Meeting of the 2011-2012 School Year!

PTA meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month during the school year.  Our first meeting will be on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 10 a.m. at the Main Site, 91 Henderson Avenue (Corner of Lafayette & Henderson).

Special Olympics Soccer League – Staten Island’s Special League for Special Kids!

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Special Olympics + S.I. Youth Soccer League = Special Olympics Soccer League

 

The Special Olympics Soccer League will be starting the Fall Soccer Season at Miller field. The league is open to any athlete with an intellectual/developmental disability. No previous experience playing soccer is needed. Unified (peer) partners assist athletes, develop skills and play games. Coaches experienced with Special Olympics and the S.I. Youth Soccer League conduct all sessions.

• WHO:  Special needs children ages 6-16

• WHAT: Soccer League games and skills training clinic

• WHERE: Miller Field, New DOrp Field B2 (near end of parking lot directly after New Dorp High School)

• WHEN: Saturdays 2:30 to 4:00 p.m.

• DATES:  September 17th, October 1st, 15th, 22nd, 29th, November 5th

• ATTIRE: Sneakers/cleats, shorts/sweats, shin guards (Bring water)

• REQUIRE: A Special Olympics Medical Form signed by pediatrician (good for 3 years) LINK: Medical+and+Consent+Form

• COST: FREE!

• LINK FOR OFFICIAL FLYER: Soccerflyer9-2011

• For more information contact Chris Rooney at CRooneycmr@aol.com

STATEN ISLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCIL GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING

STATEN ISLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCIL
GENERAL COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 23, 2011

ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND!

TOPICS: UPDATE ON 1115 WAIVER & GRASSROOTS EFFORT

STATEN ISLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY COUNCIL GENERAL MEETING

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2011 @ 9:30 AM

The meeting will be held at the Elizabeth Connelly Center

930 Willowbrook Road, building 41A, Bubble Room

RSVP: Angela Edwards @ contactsiddc@siddc.org

The meeting room is open @ 9:00 am for coffee & light breakfast.

Staten Island Developmental Disabilities Council

Elizabeth Connelly Center
930 Willowbrook Road Building 41A
Staten Island, NY 10314
718-983-5276

PS 373R PTA Proposed Budget for the 2011-2012 School Year

We had a terrific September PS 373R PTA meeting at our Main Site on Tuesday, September 20th! If you couldn’t make it you may call President Maritza Sabato for an update on all the PTA news. Her cell is 917-299-0114 and her email is maritza.pta@aitny.com – We welcome you!

Please go to the link for the PS 373R PTA Proposed Budget for 2011-2012: Proposed Budget PS 373R 2011-2011

RANDALL’S ISLAND GOLF & SPORTS CENTER FALL FESTIVAL – October 6 – 9, 2011

Image via Wikipedia

 

 

 

RANDALL’S ISLAND GOLF & SPORTS CENTER FALL FESTIVAL

 

 

On October 6, 7, 8 & 9^th  RI Golf and Sports Center will be hosting a Fall Festival complete with a pumpkin patch, pony rides, hay rides, haunted mini golf, batting cages, gaga, a pumpkin, Halloween characters, carnival games , plus much more. Each child will go home with a pumpkin.

The Festival is available for groups, schools or individual families.

Admission price for the activities is $9 per person (teachers and paraprofessionals will receive free admission).

Festival hours: 10am to 5pm

Parking: FREE

For more info or to reserve a class trip, contact Kelley Brooke at 212-427-5689 or email her at Kelley@randallsislandgolf.com

See the facility at www.randallsislandgolf.com

Randall’s Island Golf Center is considered NYC’s most beautiful, spacious golf center in NYC. The 25 acre facility, overlooking the East River and uptown Manhattan, features 78 hitting stalls on two levels, grass tees, a 320 yard grass landing area, a 36 hole landscaped miniature golf course, a short game area, batting cages, a patio restaurant, a WiFi patio lounge and a special events tent. The facility also has extra activities such as volleyball, badminton, bocce ball, horse shoes, bongo ball and dodge ball. The golf center is the perfect spot within Manhattan to entertain camps and schools for a fraction of the cost that local competitors charge.

NYC Public Schools Receive Progress Reports – PS 373R Gets an “A”!

CHANCELLOR WALCOTT RELEASES 2011 PROGRESS REPORTS FOR SCHOOLS SERVING STUDENTS IN GRADES K-8

As Part of Mayor’s Young Men’s Initiative, Schools Are Held Accountable for Progress Made by Black and Latino Males

Schools Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott today released the 2011 Elementary and Middle School Progress Reports, given to 1,219 schools serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. The reports award letter grades to schools based on student progress, performance, and student attendance, as well as feedback from parents, students, and teachers about their schools. As in previous years, schools received additional credit for progress made with students with disabilities and English Language Learners. This year, new measures recognize schools making exemplary gains with academically struggling black and Latino males in the lowest third citywide. Reports also include new information about how middle schools are preparing students for success in high school, college and careers.

“Every year these reports have helped drive progress in our schools, so it’s important we set the right goals for success,” said Chancellor Walcott. “By acknowledging progress in schools that help struggling students, we can keep more students on track during elementary and middle school.”

“This year’s reports make clear that principals should be focusing their attention on preparing students for success after high school, and on helping struggling students beat the odds,” said Chief Academic Officer Shael Polakow-Suransky. “We have re-designed the reports to give educators and families access to clearer, more useful information about their schools.”

For the second straight year, the Progress Reports control for New York State’s continued changes to its exams in grades 3-8 by comparing elementary and middle schools to one another to determine grades, rather than setting target scores like the high school Progress Reports. The City also increased the percentage of schools receiving D and F grades, from five percent last year, to 10 percent this year. This year, the top 25 percent of schools received an A, 35 percent received a B, 30 percent received a C, 7 percent received a D, and the bottom 3 percent received an F. This year’s results for elementary, middle, K-8, early childhood, and select District 75 schools include:

• 298 schools received an A, 411 received a B, 354 received a C, 79 received a D, and 32 received an F. 45 new schools and schools in phase out received reports with no grade.
• Grades remained stable across the city and for individual schools, as 88 percent of schools did not change more than one grade from 2010; 99 percent of schools were within two grades.
• Queens was the highest performing borough and District 26 was the highest performing district.
• Charter schools earned a higher percentage of As, and had a higher average percentile rank than district schools, led by the 56% of charter middle schools that earned an A.

To help address persistent disparities in performance among black and Latino male students, in August Mayor Bloomberg announced new accountability measures as part of his citywide Young Men’s Initiative.  This year, the Progress Report awards additional credit to schools making significant gains with black and Latino males whose prior performance is within the lowest third citywide. Also for the first time, additional credit is awarded to schools that are moving students with disabilities to more inclusive settings.

As the City begins to align its curriculum and teaching with the new Common Core State Standards, it will focus more on whether teachers are asking students to defend arguments, solve complex problems, and perform real experiments—tasks that involve critical thinking and higher-order skills. To evaluate those deeper learning outcomes necessary for success in high school and beyond, middle school Progress Reports now measure the percentage of students who earned a passing grade in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies core academic courses, as well as the percentage of 8th graders who earned high school credit in accelerated courses. Schools will be held accountable for these outcomes on the Progress Report next year.

After gathering feedback from families and school communities, the Department of Education this year redesigned the Progress Report layout to provide a better explanation of its methodology, and make the results clearer and more useful to schools and the public.

Progress Reports for elementary, middle, K-8, early childhood, and select District 75 schools are now available on the Department of Education’s web site, along with Progress Report Overviews, designed to explain highlights of each school’s report to families. Progress Reports for high schools will be released in October.

Progress Report Methodology

The Progress Report measures students’ year-to-year progress, compares the school to other schools with similar students, and rewards success in moving all children forward, especially those with the greatest needs. The Progress Report is designed to differentiate among schools in a way that provides educators with performance data, supports parents in choosing schools, and informs DOE school intervention and support decisions.

The methodology takes into account the different challenges schools face so that the evaluations are a reflection of what the school contributes to the student, not what the student brings to the school.

Progress Reports give each school an overall letter grade based on three categories: student progress (60 percent), student performance (25 percent), and school environment (15 percent). The student progress component measures how well schools are helping students improve from one year to the next. The student performance component measures student proficiency in reading and math. The school environment component compiles the results of surveys taken by parents, students, and teachers at each school last spring, as well as student attendance rates.  Schools can also earn additional credit by achieving exemplary gains with high-need students.

Seventy-five percent of a school’s Progress Report score comes from comparing the school’s results to the 40 or so other schools in the City that serve the most similar student populations. The remaining 25 percent of a school’s score is based on a comparison with all schools citywide that serve the same grade levels.

The Progress Report is one of several measures that make up the City’s accountability system for schools. The Quality Review consists of an observation conducted by an experienced educator, evaluating how well a school is organized to educate its students. The annual School Survey, which factors in to the Progress Report, received responses from over 960,000 parents, students, and teachers about the academic expectations, communications, level of engagement, and degree of safety and respect at their schools.

Learn more about the Progress Report at: http://schools.nyc.gov/ProgressReport. Information about other aspects of the City’s accountability system is available at: http://schools.nyc.gov/accountability.

NYC Parks: The Fall Issue of Outdoors in NYC is Now Available!

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The fall issue of Outdoors in New York City is now available; click here to download it now.

This issue has fun for the whole family, such as Halloween festivals, plenty of arts and crafts and more. We’ve also partnered with Open House New York so you can take a behind the scenes tour of places like the Little Red Lighthouse, The Arsenal and more.

There are also opportunities for everyone to get involved and help keep NYC clean and green. You can volunteer to plant a few trees at the MillionTrees NYC Fall planting day or help clean up the Long Island sound waterfont at one of our coastal clean-ups.

Come and enjoy the outdoors with us!

 -The Urban Park Rangers

Stand Together for Autism Services on Staten Island – Sunday, October 16, 2011 at Petrides

On Sunday, October 16^th, Borough President James P. Molinaro will be holding his second annual “Stand Together for Autism Services on Staten Island” event at the Michael J. Petrides School, 715 Ocean Terrace in the school auditorium, beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Our goal is to fill the auditorium with Staten Island families, friends and caregivers of those living with autism to join us as we hold a Community Information Open House and call on government to do more to help the autism community.

Staten Island has one of the highest rates of autism in New York State.  In that vein, Borough President Molinaro continues to hold this event to let Staten Island’s autism community know that they do not stand alone in their fight for services they need and deserve.  Should you have any questions regarding the above or about the event, please call Joanne Nuzzo, Director of Special Events at (718) 816-2133.

Link Here: StandTogether_Flyer_FINAL

PS 373R PTA October 18, 2011 Meeting

PS 373R PTA October 2011 Meeting

October 18, 2011 – Tuesday, *11:30 a.m. at PS 373R Main Site – 91 Henderson Avenue, Staten Island, NY (Corner of Lafayette and Henderson)

*Please note the time change.

AMC Sensory Friendly Films for Families Affected by Autism

In partnership with The Autism Society, AMC Theatres is bringing AMC Sensory
Friendly Films to families affected by autism on a monthly basis in select
communities. Please follow this link to see the schedule of movies and the
locations of the theatres: http://www.amctheatres.com/SFF/

Image via Wikipedia

. While there
are no AMC Theatres on Staten Island, there are several in New York City and
in New Jersey.

 

PS 373R Parent Teacher Conference Schedules

Parent Teacher Conferences November 2011	Date & Afternoon hours	Evening hours
Main/Mini	Thursday, Nov. 3rd 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.	5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
PS 65	Tuesday, Nov. 15th 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.	5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
PS 58	Tuesday, Nov. 15th 12:35 – 2:35 p.m.	6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
PS 861	Thursday, Nov. 17th 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.	6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Petrides	Thursday, Nov. 17th 12:50 – 2:50 p.m.	5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
PS 22	Tuesday, Nov. 15th 12:35 – 2:35 p.m.	6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

The People First Waiver – OPWDD Service System Reform – Statewide Video Conference November 9, 2011

Dear OPWDD Stakeholder:

The People First Waiver is OPWDD’s vehicle for service system reform and improvement. It is embodied in this year’s Comprehensive Plan (the 5.07 Plan), which has just been released for review. OPWDD invites you to comment on the draft plan and the waiver initiative at a statewide videoconference hearing that will take place in 13 locations around the state on November 9.

In addition, OPWDD is hosting a series of five informational briefings on the new People First Waiver in early November. These will occur at locations across the state and will provide an update on OPWDD’s development of the new waiver by Commissioner Burke or a staff member from the 1115 Waiver Unit. These briefings also will provide time for you to ask questions. Advanced registration is required.

To view the draft plan and sign up to give testimony at the November 9 hearing, or to register to attend a People First Waiver briefing near you, please visit www.opwdd.ny.gov/2011_waiver/index.jsp.

Copies of the registration forms are attached and can be sent via fax to 518-402-4325.

OPWDD will continue to provide similar opportunities for dialogue and information exchange in the future. As always, if you are not able to attend a session in person, you are encouraged to contact us via email at People.First@opwdd.ny.gov or by phone at 1-866-946-9733 or (TTY) 1-866-933-4889 to let us know your thoughts.

Sincerely,

Courtney Burke

Commissioner

Lives Worth Living – PBS Documentary about Fred Fay and the Disability Rights Movement

People with disabilities are one of the largest minorities in the United States. But for most of American history, they occupied a sub-class of millions without access to everyday things most citizens take for granted: schools, apartment buildings, public transportation, and more. Some were forcibly sterilized under state laws. Others were committed to horrifying institutions where they were left and forgotten.

After World War II, however, things began to change, thanks to a small group of determined people with an unwavering determination to live their lives like anyone else, and to liberate all disabled Americans of the limitations their government refused to accommodate.

Lives Worth Living traces the development of consciousness of these pioneers who realized that in order to change the world they needed to work together. Through demonstrations and inside legislative battles, the disability rights community secured equal civil rights for all people with disabilities. Thanks to their efforts, tens of millions of people’s lives have been changed.

This film is an oral history, told by the movement’s mythical heroes themselves, and illustrated through the use of rare archival footage. The story features Fred Fay, who suffered a spinal cord injury at age 17 in 1961, and simply refused to be relegated to life’s sidelines just because he couldn’t walk. He fought tirelessly for decades for equal rights, access, and opportunity for the disabled, including advocating for programs allowing the disabled to live independently. (Fred died August 20, 2011; the film is dedicated to him.) Also featured is Ed Roberts, who founded the independent living movement in Berkeley and is also considered a father of the disability rights movement.

Echoing footage of Martin Luther King marching in Selma, we see protestors climb from wheelchairs and drag themselves courageously up courthouse steps; we watch as quadriplegic activists maneuver their chairs in front of public buses that are not equipped to accommodate them.

The film ends with the dramatic battle for the Americans with Disabilities Act, one of the most important pieces of civil rights legislation in America’s history. The thousands of individuals who came together to change attitudes and laws demonstrated the power of humanity, cooperation, and self-determination, and what can be accomplished against seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

LINK:  http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/lives-worth-living/

SIDDC Technology Summit at the JCC – Friday, November 4, 2011

Attached is a pdf file/brochure for a “Technology’ Summit”  on
Friday, November 4, 2011 at the JCC. SIDDC_Tech Brochure
Registration begins at 8:00 am and the conference will end by 2:15.
This summit consist of three inspiring workshops.  It is designed to encourage parents and persons who provide services to individuals that struggle with communication, literacy, cognition and learning to incorporate technology across all settings.  Prior knowledge of technology is helpful but not necessary.  Attendees will learn valuable information and knowledge on how to enhance the quality of life of all people with developmental disabilities by using simple technology tools and applications.

Register today at the low cost of $35. per person and learn how
technology can change lives!

For information email Chairpersons:

Barbara D’Amora    Squeaksam@aol.com
Diane Peruggia      DPeruggia@aol.com

……Or call 718.983.5276

Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc. Presents: Special Camp Fair

Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc.

presents

Special Camp Fair 2012

Saturday January 28, 2012 from 11AM-3PM

Location: Church of St. Paul the Apostle
(Columbus Ave. and W. 60th St. entrance)

Sign Language and Spanish provided

FREE!!!!

Receive a free copy of Camps 2011-2012

Learn about summer options for children with disabilities!

212-677-4650 ext. 20 or ext. 34

www.resourcesnyc.org

Staten Island Weekend Events November 5 & 6, 2011

Image via Wikipedia

• The Cat in the Hat Storytime, Saturday, Nov 5 at 10:30am Barnes and Noble 2245 Richmond Avenue T. 718-982-6983 Meet everyone’s favorite, the Cat in the Hat. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with his many adventures and other Dr. Seuss favorites are read.
• Svetlana Shmulyian & Friends, Saturday, Nov 5 at 2pm, Richmondtown Library, 200 Clarke Ave • Adults • Free • 718-668-0413 Join in for an afternoon of classical music and original jazz compositions played by Svetlana Shmulyian trio.
• First Annual Pregnancy Through Preschool Expo, Sunday, Nov 6 from Noon-5pm, Staten Island Hilton Garden Hotel, 1100 South Ave • All Ages • Free • 347-500-6038 BirthRightNow@gmail.com
• Representatives from Birth Right Now Doula and Childbirth Education Company, 3D/4D imaging, cloth diapers, educational toys, local hospitals, midwives, OB/GYNs, preschools, classes, services and much more. Activites, free gift bags for first 100 attendees. Raffle prizes, too.

Parent to Parent New York, Inc. November 2011 Schedule

• Workshop: The “New” IEP Document – Monday, November 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Institute for Basic Research (IBR), 1050 forest Hill Road, Staten Island. Be informed on what has changed! Learn how the new IEP improves Educational Guidelines for parents and professionals. There is an emphasis on the importance of parent participation in writing the new IEP document. 718-494-4872
• Aspergers Support Group – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wed., November 16th Institute for Basic Research (IBR), 1050 forest Hill Road, Staten Island 718-494-4872

• Mothers Support Group – 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wed., November 9th Institute for Basic Research (IBR), 1050 forest Hill Road, Staten Island 718-494-4872
• Fathers Support Group – 7p.m. to 9p.m. Wednesday, November 9th, Page Plaza Diner, 75 Page Avenue in Tottenville 718-494-4872
• Sibling Support Group – 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, November 18th, RSVP required, Please call (718)494-4872
• Mothers Support Group Breakfast - Wednesday, November 30th 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The mothers support group will be held at the On Your Mark Cafe, 639 Forest Avenue RSVP required by November 23rd, (718)494-4872

Webinar: Technology Transforms the Autism Classroom

Please link here for an informative webinar by Barbara Joseph and Leslie Schect on how Technology Transforms the Autism Classroom:

http://www.techlearning.com/article/Technology-Transforms-the-Autism-Classroom/51859

“As the rate of children being diagnosed with autism continues to climb, the challenges inherent in meeting the individual needs of each child become more difficult. Educators find themselves getting squeezed tighter and more painfully between a rock (mandates) and a hard place (dwindling resources). Technology plays an essential role in engagement, education, and opening doors to a wider world of experiences for children on the Autism Spectrum. Join us as we discuss how technology can transform the autism classroom. A look at research, hardware, software, apps and more as we shape the future through innovative technology for the child with autism.”

 

Gov. Andrew Cuomo Signs Law Requiring Insurance Providers to Offer Coverage for Autism

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs law requiring insurance providers to offer coverage for autism

Image via Wikipedia

Syracuse, NY — Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo today signed a law that will require health insurance providers to offer coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder.

Under the new law, health insurance companies will be required to provide coverage for treatment of autism spectrum disorders, though coverage may be subject to deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance consistent with those imposed on other benefits.

Supporters say that will include routine toddler screenings, behavioral health treatments,
speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy.

“This bill will help thousands of families across New York who struggle to obtain proper care for loved ones affected by autism spectrum disorder,” Cuomo said. “When it comes to autism, early diagnosis and treatment is essential, and it is inexcusable that financial constraints would stand in the way of a brighter future for those affected by this disorder.”

Previously, state law only required that insurance coverage not exclude the diagnosis and treatment of autism disorder. While some health insurers provide limited coverage for ASD treatment, such as vitamins or occupational therapy, most do not offer coverage for treatments that are deemed not medically necessary.

Families had little choice but to pay out-of-pocket for the necessary treatment, with costs sometimes more than $50,000 per year.

Cuomo says the new law has a coverage cap per person of about $45,000 per year.

New York is the 29th state to require health insurance coverage for conditions relating to autism spectrum disorder. As with other states, this legislation caps the cost of services per year. The law takes effect one year after its enactment on Nov. 1, 2012 and applies to insurance policies issued or renewed after that date.

Autism spectrum disorders are a group of complex, pervasive developmental brain conditions that are often characterized by difficulties in social interaction, impairments in communication, and repetitive patterns of behavior. ASDs occur in approximately one in every 110 children in all racial, ethnic and social groups, and studies suggest that it is four times more likely to occur in boys than girls.

In New York, approximately 30,000 individuals under the age of 19 have been identified with an ASD.

Brothers Care, Inc. Present: Third Annual Turkey Giveaway

ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2011 BROTHERS CARE, INC. PRESENT THEIR THIRD ANNUAL TURKEY GIVEAWAY!

(While Supplies Last)

PLACE: THE COFFEE HOUSE

ADDRESS: 1031 CASTLETON AVENUE, STATEN ISLAND, NY 10310

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: BROTHERSWHOCARE@AOL.COM

THANKSGIVING TURKEY GIVEAWAY

Tuesday November 22, 2011 from 6pm-9pm Brothers Care Inc will be hosting our 3rd Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway at The Coffee House 1031 Castleton Avenue S.I. N.Y. 10310

CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY

Monday December 22, 2011 from 6pm-9pm Brothers Care Inc will be hosting out 4th Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway for children ages infant to 15yrs old at P.S. 18 221 Broadway S.I. N.Y. 10310 entrance on Henderson Avenue

Music For Autism Series at the JCC: Aurista Music Group on Sunday, November 20, 2011 at 1p.m.

On Sunday, Nov. 20 at 1:00 PM the Bernikow JCC (1466 Manor Rd.) will host the Aurista Chamber Music Group as part of our Music for Autism series. All families and children are invited to join us for this free one-hour concert. We hope that you and your children may have the opportunity to engage in this rich interactive experience.

LINK TO THE FLYER: Music For Autism

To RSVP please go to: RSVP Link

Staten Island: 6th Annual Christmas Party for Special Needs Children – Saturday, December 10, 2011

On Saturday, December 10, 2011 (Noon until 4:00 p.m.)  David J. Flynn, DDS and the Staten Island Bikers Association present the 6th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN! Free toys and pizza! Santa Claus! Live D.J.!

Location: New Dorp Moravian Church, 2205 Richmond Road

R.S.V.P. to (917) 699-7119 – You MUST register to attend!

 

Day Habilitation Program at JCC (ages 21-28)

Our JCC of Staten Island is inviting interested consumers to find out more
about our Day Habilitation program for young adults with developmental
disabilities (ages 21-28). Running each Tues. and Thurs, participants are
picked up between 7:45 AM and 8:45 AM for a day of vocational activities and
supports in the morning followed by activities in the afternoon consisting
of swimming, exercising in our fitness facilities or enjoying other
amenities at our community center. Consumers are driven home after 3:30 PM.

For additional information, please contact Brian Faughnan at
BFaughnan@sijcc.com or 718-475-5200 ext. 1186.

GRACE Foundation Program and Services for Children with ASD

GRACEful Glee – Performing Arts Program

Location: 264 Watchogue Road

Mondays 6:00pm to 7:30pm

Ages: 11to 17

Please call Julie Larsen at 718-983-3800 for additional information on this Program.

 

CLUB L.I.F.E. (Learning, Independence, Fun, Empower)

Location:  264 Watchogue Road

Friday Nights 6:00pm-9:00pm

This is a socialization program for teens and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  Participants will plan a weekly schedule of activities under the supervision of trained staff. Activities include but are not limited to social interaction with peers, on site movies, video games, seasonal activities, community service and daily living skills.

 

MEDICAID SERVICE COORDINATION – The Grace Foundation provides Medicaid Service Coordination.  Medicaid Service Coordination is a Medicaid State Plan service provided by the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) which assists persons with developmental disabilities and mental retardation in gaining access to necessary services and supports appropriate to the needs of the individual.  For assistance and further information please contact Dawn Beacham at 718-983-3800.

 

PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS -  REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. The next meeting will be November 22nd, 2011.  Meetings are held at 264 Watchogue Road. Please call the Grace Office at 718-983-3800 to register.  See attached flyer for dates.

SOCIAL SKILLS CLASSES

FOR INFORMATION ON THE SOCIAL SKILLS CLASSES PLEASE CALL

JULIE LARSEN AT 718-983-3800.

 

RECREATION PROGRAMS:  For additional information or to register for any of the recreation programs, please contact Julie Larsen, Program Coordinator at 718-983-3800.

 

BOWLING 

AT SHOWPLACE located at 141 East Service Road -off Victory Blvd.

Sundays, 10:00am – 11:30am.

 

GYM PROGRAM - Saturdays

Saturdays. P.S. 55, 54 Osborn Street, Staten Island.

Please call Julie Larsen at 718-983-3800 for further information.

Session 1 -   9:15am-11:15pm

Session 2 - 11:30am-  1:30pm

 

LITTLE LEAGUE- Sundays

Great Kills Little League, Greaves Avenue

10:00am-12:00pm

 

SWIMMING – Saturdays

Elizabeth Connelly Center Therapeutic Pool

930 Willowbrook Road

Medical form is required from the Elizabeth Connelly Center pool.

Please call Julie Larsen at 718-983-3800 for further information.

Mark Your Calendars for RCSN’s 27^th Annual Special Camp Fair
Saturday January 28!

Winter is the time to think about summer camp! Most camps open registration in the winter, and space and financial assistance is limited. Attending RCSN’s Special Camp Fair is one of the best ways you can ensure a positive and productive summer for your child. Parents can meet experts from over 60 summer programs serving children and youth with special needs at RCSN’s free Annual Special Camp Fair on Saturday, January 28, 2012 (11AM-3PM, Church of St. Paul the Apostle, Columbus and West 60^th Avenue, Manhattan).

The Fair features day camps (New York City) and sleepaway camps (Tri-State area). The Fair also offers information on travel programs, remedial education programs, volunteer and job opportunities, and early childhood programs. Spanish and sign language interpreters will be available.

Visitors to the Fair will receive a free copy of RCSN’s Camps 2011-12 Directory. Parents can register for the special Camp Fair prize drawing. Camps and programs register here.

NEW IEP Diploma Information for Parents of Children in Alternate Assessment NYC DOE Programs

Your Child’s Best Champion

Parents: Your Voice is Needed to Help Shape New Graduation Requirements for Youth With Special Needs in NY State!

The New York State Education Department has proposed to eliminate the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Diploma. The IEP diploma is not a standards-based diploma, and is not recognized as equivalent to a regular high school diploma. A student who exits school with an IEP diploma is likely to be significantly limited in his/her post-secondary education opportunities, employability, and earning potential. Elimination of the IEP diploma provides the opportunity to create a more meaningful graduation requirement for youth with an IEP.

The proposed Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential would replace the IEP Diploma and would be available beginning in the 2013-14 school year for students with significant cognitive disabilities who have taken the NYS Alternate Assessment, and who are not eligible for a regular diploma.

The NY State Education Department has requested comments from organizations and parents on this transition. The time to submit your comments is between now and November 21! (Link below)

Here is a summary of RCSN’s view on the development process of a new graduation requirement:

The elimination of the IEP Diploma affords an opportunity to create a more meaningful credential that could drive curriculum development. In our view, discussion of the proposed Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential should take place in the context of all the diploma options available, and needs to be part of a continually expanding array of options.

There are several issues we would like to have addressed as the state moves forward:

• Concerted, ongoing outreach to parents on the options available and the implications of this transition must be a central part of the development and rollout of a new credential

• We are concerned that the appropriate time and staff development be provided so that the new credential will be individualized to each student

• If the in-depth skills assessment is to be used to drive curriculum development, it needs to be integrated into a student’s transition planning process, preferably as early as Middle School

• In order for the credential to meaningful, the higher education and business communities must understand its value; therefore consistent outreach to these communities should be built into its implementation

• Students identified for this credential should have access to the general curriculum

For the full text of RCSN’s comments, click here.

To write your own comments, click here.

RCSN Comments on the Proposed OPWDD Five Year Plan

RCSN Comments on the Proposed OPWDD Five Year Plan

The New York State Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) has put forth a Five Year Plan that will change how crucial services are delivered and funded. These changes will have a significant impact on families with children with disabilities. As a parent organization, RCSN recognizes that families are the primary providers of support for the vast majority of individuals with disabilities. Therefore, the successful implementation of the Five Year Plan and person-centered and directed services depends on the informed partnership of families.

We believe that this transition is a new and important opportunity to ensure that people with developmental disabilities in New York receive support that is truly individualized and person-centered. However, we urge OPWDD to maintain its commitment to the most vulnerable people in our community by assuring that the promise of choice and control does not come at the expense of the families who most need support. Last week RCSN joined other advocates and concerned parents to weigh in on proposed changes.

For the full text of RCSN’s testimony, click here…

PS 373R PTA November MEETING

PS 373R PTA MEETING

Tuesday, November 22nd @ 11:30 A.M.

Location: PS 58 Site– ADL Room

77 Marsh Avenue (Park behind the Macy’s at the S.I. Mall)

LINK TO: PTA Flyer NOV 2011

 

Letter from the NYC DOE Chancellor: Possible Yellow Bus Strike

Please see the attached letter from  Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott regarding the possible strike of yellow buses:

LINK: Parents Bus Transportation Chancellor Letter_English

Sensory Integration Workshop: “Teaching Children to Self Regulate Through a Sensory Diet”

Circle of Friends will be hosting a workshop given by Scott Mathews on Sensory Integration entitled: “Teaching Children to Self Regulate Through a Sensory Diet”.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at PS 37 Main Site at 15 Fairfield Street, Staten Island, NY

 

COOKSHOP for Families at PS 373R – a FREE Nutrition Program!

CookShop for Families – Join our program!

What is CookShop for Families?

A series of 6 free monthly cooking and nutrition workshops for parents and guardians! CookShop for Families is the adult version of the CookShop Classroom program being taught to students at your school. At each workshop participants will prepare a recipe, learn nutritional tips and discuss money-saving techniques to help your family eat well on a limitied budget. Each month participants will receive ingredients to cook simple and delicious recipes at home with your families.

Who should join the program?

Parents and guardians of children at PS 373R Robert Randall School. NO COOKING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED!

Why participate?

Workshops are a perfect place to build cooking skills, learn from other parents and bring home fun and easy recipes to make with your children.

How do I sign up?

Call Kirsten Rorke at 718-816-8897 press “1″ then “3″ or email at krorke@schools.nyc.gov

www.foodbanknyc.org/cookshopforfamilies

United Nations: International Day of Persons with Disabilities – December 3, 2011

International Day of Persons with Disabilities, December 3, 2011

Theme for 2011: “Together for a better world for all: Including persons with disabilities in development”

http://www.un.org/disabilities/default.asp?id=1561#text

Conference Room 2 (NLB), United Nations Headquarters, New York Programme:

10.00 to 10.30 a.m. Opening ceremony

Ms. Asha Rose Migrio, Deputy Secretary-General, the Ambassadors of the
Philippines, Sweden and Tanzania to the United Nations, and other
representatives of Government and civil society will participate in the
opening. The opening will a musical performance by students from the New
York Institute for Special Education.

(See link for the rest of the schedule.)

Autism Speaks Launches “Visual Supports” Tool Kit

AUTISM SPEAKS LAUNCHES “VISUAL SUPPORTS” TOOL KIT

Provides Valuable Instruction to Parents and Providers to Improve Daily Communication When Your Child with Autism Has Limited Verbal Skills

NEW YORK, N.Y. (December 1, 2011) – Autism Speaks, North America’s largest autism science and advocacy organization today released the Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder tool kit providing valuable guidance to parents, families and providers about how to utilize pictures, photographs and other visual supports to improve communication for children, adolescents and adults who struggle with understanding or using language.  For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), not only can visual supports greatly facilitate routine communication and improve language comprehension, visual supports are also useful in explaining social interactions, daily transitions from one activity to another and can facilitate adaptation to new situations for children and adolescents with ASD. The guide is particularly helpful if a child or adolescent on the spectrum has difficulty understanding social cues, has trouble following spoken instructions, or is anxious or acts out when presented with surprising or unfamiliar situations. Families who use visual supports have reported decreases in challenging behaviors and increased compliance and independence.

“Expressive and receptive language skills are a common problem for children and adolescents on the autism spectrum,” says Dan Coury, M.D., medical director of Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network (ATN). “We’ve found that non-verbal communication methods such as visual supports improve their communication skills, and this guide can be particularly helpful for families navigating their daily routines.”

 

Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder was developed by clinicians and families at the Vanderbilt ATN site to provide step-by-step instructions for parents, caregivers, teachers and other professionals who may be unfamiliar with visual supports or who would like to use them more effectively.

“The goal of the ‘Visual Supports’ tool kit is to empower families with effective strategies to create less stressful and smoother routine communication between a child with autism and their families or practitioners,” said Autism Speaks Vice President of Clinical Programs Clara Lajonchere, Ph.D.

 

Visual supports can help children and adolescents with ASD who may not understand social cues as they interact with others in daily activities and may not grasp social expectations such as how to start a conversation or how to respond when others make social approaches.  Children with ASD often find it difficult to understand and follow spoken instructions and may not be able to express well what they want or need. Visuals can help parents communicate what they expect and allow a child to express his or her wants and needs which in turn decreases frustration and may help decrease problem behaviors that result from difficulty communicating. Children with ASD are also often anxious or act out when their routines change or they are in unfamiliar situations ranging from a visit to a relative to undergoing a medical procedure. Visuals can help them understand what to expect and will happen next, and help to reduce anxiety allowing them to pay attention to important details and cope with a change in routine.

 

Visual Supports and Autism Spectrum Disorder is the newest in a series of ATN tool kits available for free download on the Autism Speaks website. It was prepared by the Vanderbilt Autism Treatment Network site at Vanderbilt University and the Vanderbilt Kennedy Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders (TRIAD) with support from Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities and the Autism Society of Middle Tennessee.

The ATN tool kits were inspired by the success of the popular Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit for newly-diagnosed families. Additional ATN tool kits developed to help parents and medical professionals who work with children and adolescents with ASD include Should My Child Take Medicine for Challenging Behavior? and Take the Work Out of Blood Work. More tool kits are in development. A list of these tool kits can be found at www.autismspeaks.org/atn.

News to Use! Disabilities and Chronic Health Conditions at www.Disability.gov

The Disabilities & Chronic Health Conditions section provides information and resources about specific disabilities and health conditions including physical, developmental, intellectual disabilities as well as mental health and substance abuse disorders, mobility and sensory impairments, medical conditions and disorders.

• Chronic Health Conditions
• Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities
• Mental Health & Substance Abuse Disorders
• Physical Disabilities & Mobility Impairments
• Sensory

CEC: The Citywide District 75 Council Meeting

CEC: The Citywide District 75 Council Presents:

A Holiday Celebration with a Special Performance from: GLR Dance Studio, Inc.

Performances: The Lioness Hunt and Smile

Scheduled before the performance: Calendar (Public) Meeting

Followed by the Working (Business) Meeting

Date: Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location: 721 Q, John F. Kennedy, Jr. School – 57-12 94th Street, Elmhurst, Queens

Don’t Forget about the PS 373R Holiday Fair! December 14th and 15th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DON’T FORGET TO SEND IN YOUR CHILD’S CASH ENVELOPE TO SHOP AND BUY RAFFLE TIX! All items are under $10.00. Raffle tickets are $2.00 per chance, 3 for $5.00, and 7 for $10.00. Raffles include a DS, toys, arts & crafts, books, games and much more! Every child has been entered for the chance to win a bike!

Wednesday, December 14th

• 9:00 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. – Leitner, L. Raiola, L. Puglisi,

• 9:20 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. – Bartolomeo, T. Esposito, Sleap

• 9:45 a.m. to 11 a.m.—P58 and P.S. 65

• 11a.m. to 11:25 a.m. – Brassfield, Dogery,

• 11:25 to 11:40 a.m. – Break

• 11:40 to 12 noon -  Vivaldi, Bates

• 12:30 to 12:50 p.m. – Martin, C. Caputo

• 12:50 to 1:20 p.m. – Roche

• 1:20 to 1:40 p.m. – Panteli,  Mr. Mac

Thursday, December 15th

• 9:00 a.m. to 9:25 a.m. – Rizzi, Glennerster, Komininski

• 9:20 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. – Knight, Johnny, Hansen, Pillarella

• 9:45 a.m. to 11 a.m.—Petrides and P861

• 11 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. – Leston, Mr. K

• 11:20 to 11:40 a.m.— Break

• 11:40a.m. to 12 noon – Gunderson,  Dieal, Dickerson

• 12:30 to 12:50 p.m. – Cunningham, DiMeo