The State Board of Education (SBOE) adopts an amendment to §74.38, concerning requirements for instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The adopted amendment implements House Bill (HB) 4375, 88th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2023, by requiring instruction in the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) in addition to instruction in CPR for students in Grades 7-12.

TAC Chapter 74.5

The SBOE adopts an amendment to 74.5, concerning the academic achievement record (AAR). It requires that completion of instruction in the use of an AED in addition to the existing requirement for instruction in CPR be indicated on a student's AAR.

*Document in the IEP if the ARD committee waives the CPR or AED requirement. Communicate this decision with the counselor for state reporting purposes.

Vocational Adjustment Class is clarified in that, although referred to as a class, this arrangement is a support program for providing special education and related services to a student who is placed on a job (paid or unpaid) with regularly scheduled direct involvement by special education personnel in the implementation of the student’s IEP. This will be used in conjunction with the student’s transition plan, as documented in the student’s IEP, and may include special education services received in Career and Technical Education (CTE) work-based learning programs.

See Volume 2 of the Back to School Updates HERE.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to commemorate the many contributions of people with disabilities to America’s workplaces and economy. The theme for NDEAM 2024 is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” The resources on the NDEAM website can help organizations -- from employers and employees, educators and youth service professionals, policymakers, associations and unions, disability-related organizations, and federal agencies— to take part in NDEAM 2024.

If you participated in-person for the TEA and SCTN created turn-around trainings (A Deep Dive Into Transition Services) OR you have taken one or more of the three TEALearn on-line courses

(Transition Assessments, Writing Appropriate Measurable Postsecondary Goals, and Coordinated Set of Activities), you are eligible to receive six hours of coaching and support. Please utilize the link below to request assistance for your LEA.

Complete the Google Form HERE.

SPEDTEX

The Special Education Information Center (SPEDTEX) provides resources and interactive features for increasing family awareness of disabilities and special education processes, with the goal of improving partnerships between schools and families.

*GREAT IDEA -Utilize this SPEDTEX link to create a flyer or handout to distribute to parents at ARD meetings.

As required by Texas Education Code §29.0113, Texas public schools must provide information about the options available through the Texas Driving with Disability initiative. Resources have been published on the TEA website to support schools in sharing information, as appropriate, including a guide for families that can be printed and shared.

Find the new resources HERE.

TWC-VR services help young adults ages 14-22 with services in preparing for life after high school. That decision can be to get some work experience. TWC-VR can help prepare students with educational opportunities for degrees or certifications. There are many services that they can help with. If you, or you know a student with a disability that wants to apply for services, visit the Start My VR Page to begin the process and get connected with a Specialized Counselor. See the links below for resources to share with your students and families.

What Comes After High School Flyer

Creating Opportunities Flyer

What to Bring To the Appointment Checklist

TWC Transition Services brochure - Spanish

TWC Transition Services brochure - English

The 18+ ESC 7 Roundtable will provide a forum for special education staff to discuss how 18+ programs and services are implemented within our region. Whether you want to learn more about the requirements for special education services beyond graduation, would like resources to support questions you have about establishing or maintaining 18+ services, or have insight into 18+ transition practices that you would like to share, this is the place to learn from and collaborate with other 18+ pioneers. We look forward to focused discussion about the challenges and best practices you are encountering in your work as a vocational professional.
Attendees will be able to participate in this webinar in their district via the Zoom link provided in the registration confirmation email.

REGISTER HERE

When?

Friday, October 25, 2024, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Where?

Virtual

Welcome to Transition Topics Tuesday, an engaging series of virtual professional development meetings crafted specifically for TEDs and Special Education Vocational Staff members. Join us for each session as we delve into highly requested and relevant transition topics, providing valuable insights and fostering professional growth. Explore key areas of interest, enhance your expertise, and connect with fellow educators in this dynamic learning experience. October's Topic: Student-Led ARDs.
Attendees will be able to participate in this webinar in their district via the Zoom link provided in the registration confirmation email.

REGISTER HERE

When?

Tuesday, October 29, 2024, 12:00 pm - 1:30 PM

Where?

Virtual

The 2024 Texas Transition Conference will be held February 19th – 21st at the Royal Sonesta Galleria in Houston, TX. Visit the hotel page for more information.

The maximum capacity for the live event is 500. A virtual option is available, and the registration rate is the same as the live event.

• Students, families & preservice teachers rate $200
• Early Registration Rate $350 (registration & payment received before 12/13/24)
• Regular Registration Rate $425 (registrations & payments received after 12/13/24)