Course: Volunteer Training
Introduction
This module will help parents understand the philosophy of IN*SOURCE and the role of a Parent Support Volunteer. It also provides an introduction to resource materials for volunteers and communication skills that are critical for successful advocacy.
Special Education - Past and Present
Throughout history people with physical and mental disabilities have been a target of discrimination. This module reviews how society’s treatment of people with disabilities has evolved, moving towards integration in education and the workplace. Laws that impact special education are also covered. This module concludes with an explanation of the special education process.
Six Principles of IDEA
The six principles of the Individual with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) are the basic rights of students with disabilities and their parents. This module introduces the six principles of IDEA that will be recurrent themes throughout the training. Understanding these principles will enable volunteers to identify the root cause of concerns that parents bring and help in identifying potential solutions.
Using Article 7
It is important for parents and advocates to be familiar with Indiana’s special education law, Article 7. This short video provides an explanation of how Article 7 is organized and how to use it as a reference.
Pre-referral Services
If a student is struggling to learn it does not necessarily mean the student has a disability. Pre-Referral services are available to all students and typically happen before a child is referred for a special education evaluation. This module explains pre-referral services and how they differ from special education. It also covers RTI, and what to do if a student doesn’t improve.
Procedural Safeguards
Procedural Safeguards are protections that are woven throughout the special education process. It is vital that parents and advocates understand these rules and procedures, which define and protect student and parent rights in the special education process. This module provides an explanation of the safeguards and timelines including written notice, access to records, confidentiality, written consent, resolution of disagreements, and parent participation.
Special Education in Indiana
Parents and advocates who understand the special education process and the specific order that must be followed will be better prepared to make the process work and to get the supports their student needs. The purpose of this module is to understand the process as it pertains to Indiana specifically, taking an in-depth look at each step in the progression.
Section 504
Section 504 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Students who might not qualify for special education services may be covered by Section 504. This module explains Section 504 as it applies to schools including referral, evaluation, eligibility, and accommodations.
Transitioning into Adult Life
Planning for your student’s transition from school to adult life should be a part of the IEP process from the beginning. This session will help you to understand the transition IEP process and the options that may need to be considered. In addition, it covers the importance of involving the student in decision-making, discusses the Rehabilitation Act and Vocational Rehabilitation Services and provides information about guardianship and other issues as you and your student plan for the transition to adulthood.
Discipline
This training will focus on school discipline. The discipline provisions of Article 7 are complex. When a student with a disability breaks school rules, the student may be disciplined the same as a student without a disability. However, a student with a disability has more protection in certain situations. The discipline provisions of Article 7 provide direction to both parents and schools on how to balance and access educational services while maintaining an orderly and safe learning environment.