Student Services Connection
November, 2024
With the holidays drawing near, I wanted to take a moment to show my gratitude for the families we serve here in the Special Services department. I am particularly thankful for our staff members who work so very hard to support and serve our students on a daily basis with the utmost care. The commitment, compassion, and expertise of our staff bring about an inclusive caring environment for the students. Together, as one team with a shared purpose, we continue to change the lives of our learners, and for that, we are most grateful.
In this edition, you’ll find a variety of resources, and expert tips, designed to empower you and your family. Additionally, we will highlight community events and workshops that are tailored to your needs, ensuring that you feel equipped and supported every step of the way.
We understand that the holiday season can bring a mix of excitement and challenges. Our goal is to provide guidance and encouragement, ensuring that you and your children can make the most of this special time.
Thank you for being an invaluable part of our community.
In Partnership,
Audra Holdorf, Ed.S
The Birmingham Public Schools’ Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is comprised of parents of children with disabilities. The PAC meets monthly with the Director of the Student Support Services Department and Special Education Supervisors to discuss, advise, and collaborate on district initiatives and legislative policies.
The first half of our each PAC meeting is dedicated to parents having conference time with the supervisors and director on questions related to their child's IEP, as an opportunity for our department to offer support.
Friends of Different Learners is an independent organization of parents, staff, and community members dedicated to maximizing the potential of Birmingham Public School students with different abilities. In the past and throughout the year, FRIENDS offers its members and the community services and programs. (read more here) The FRIENDS website is linked on the Special Services website with information on how to become a member.
Friends of Different Learns provide an opportunity for Special Services Staff Recognition, for any Special Services staff in Birmingham Public Schools.
Birmingham Public Schools Recognized our School Psychologists on November 11-15, 2024, and we are grateful for their important work and contribution to our department!
The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) uses this week to celebrate the important work school psychologists do in service to students, families, schools, and communities. In helping to create safe, healthy, and supportive environments, school psychologists promote students’ success academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. Each year NASP selects a theme for the week with this year’s theme being “Spark Discovery.” In keeping with this theme, school psychologists seek out new ideas, effect change, and expand horizons for children and youth.
Our Birmingham Adult Transition Program has been busy increasing employment-based vocational learning options for our students. Students at the BATP participate in work- based training but also have increased opportunities within our community and county. One of our Adult Transition Program teacher, Ms. Kubus took her students to sell their micro business to Oakland Schools. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive that three of the ATP classes will be selling their items in the month of December at the Educational Administration Building (dates to be posted on social media) as well as attending school Bazars!
Scholarships and Camperships
The Michigan Foundation for Exceptional Children provides scholarships to support post-secondary educational/training opportunities when students are no longer eligible for special education (and Section 504) programs and services provided by public education (i.e., graduation or reaching 26 years of age).
MCEC awards camperships to students with an active IEP, in need of financial support, and is intended to assist children who otherwise would not have an opportunity for a summer camp experience.
Exceptional Parent Award
This award is given by the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children to honor parents of students with exceptionalities. The Nominee/Candidate:
- Should have a child that is currently receiving or has received special education services.
- Should demonstrate outstanding contributions to the growth of their child through effective home/school collaboration.
- Examples of personal effort should illustrate the benefits of parental support toward achieving quality education for the child with exceptionalities.
The application is available, click here!
Holiday Party - Open for registration!
The OU Cares annual Holiday Party is open for registration! This event will fill up, act fast to secure a spot! Teens and adults with autism, over the age of 15, are welcome.
The party will be held on Saturday, December 14th from 1:00-4:00 PM in the Oakland Center Banquet Rooms on the campus of Oakland University. The cost is $15.00 per person.
The registration for this link can be completed by clicking on the below link:
2024 Holiday Party for Teens and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Saturday, December 14, 2024 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Oakland Center Banquet Room A Ages 15 and older
Kick Start 2025
Kick Start 2025, a event for individuals of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10 at Royal Oak Mahany/Meininger Community Center, 3500 Marais in Royal Oak. The event will include music, dancing and pizza (served until 6:45 p.m.). Cost is $8/person (participants and caregivers). Preregistration with payment required by Friday, Jan. 3. Call 248-858-0916 to register. Call 248-221-8040 for program questions.
Seasonal Program- Indoor Soccer at Oakland University
Indoor Soccer Participants will learn to play the game of soccer through simple drills and small games. Goals include strengthening motor skills, following directions, cooperative interaction with peers, and having fun in a supportive environment. Siblings or peer buddies are invited to register for this program!
Midvale Preschool Team Presents at Oakland Schools
Birmingham Public Schools Special Education Preschool Team presented on Play-Based Assessment for early childhood evaluations at Oakland Schools Early Childhood Conference. Their hard work and dedication to the youngest students we serve in our school buildings has reduced the disproportionality of children being serviced in self- contained preschool classrooms and they are a model for our county!
School Extra Curriculars for Students with IEPs
Extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports are open to all students, including those with IEPs. If your child requires paraprofessional support as outlined in their IEP to participate in a club, activity, or sport, please contact your child’s case manager. They will assist in completing the Special Services form to initiate the process for providing paraprofessional support, ensuring your child has equitable access to these opportunities.
We have students engaging in after school activities from Robotics clubs, to dances to sports!
Autastic Athletic Fitness (8-13 years)
Class#: 20620
Tuesdays: January 7, 14, 21 and February 4, 11 No class January 28
Times: 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Location: Greenfield Elementary Gymnasium
Instructor: Andrew Ackner, Autastic Athletics
Tuition: $225.00
Learn the fundamentals of movement, and fitness to get the body moving the right way! Aside from the health benefits, good fitness is very helpful in developing self-regulation, executive functioning, and social thinking skills in autistic individuals. Learn how to get a good work out and move the body in functional, athletic ways, from a trainer on the Spectrum who gets the struggle of being the last kid picked in gym class, and what it's like to struggle with kinesthetic awareness more than the typical child, and can help show how it's done and break it down in the autistic person's language! Children must be able to participate independently with minimal assistance from the instructor, if increased assistance is needed, please provide the documentation from your child’s IEP.
CHAMPIONS: SPECIAL NEEDS KARATE (Ages 16 and older)
Join us for “Champions: Special Needs Karate,” an inclusive class designed for adults with special needs! Come join us to celebrate the potential in every individual through fun and engaging martial arts activities that promote confidence, social skills, and physical fitness.
Martial arts help build both mental and physical strength. In our class, participants will enjoy:
• Confidence Building: Learning new techniques fosters self-esteem and a sense of achievement.
• Social Interaction: Our supportive environment encourages friendships and teamwork.
• Physical Fitness: Fun exercises enhance coordination, balance, and overall health.
• Focus and Discipline: Structured activities promote concentration in an enjoyable way.
• Stress Relief: Martial arts provide a positive outlet for energy and emotions.
Our experienced instructors cater to individual strengths, ensuring a fun and encouraging atmosphere where everyone can thrive!
Class meets at PKSA Karate, Bloomfield Hills.
REGISTER FOR THESE CLASSES AT www.communityed.net
#20482
Dates: 1/8/2025 – 2/12/2025
# of Sessions: 6
Wed 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Fee: $50
#20483
Dates: 2/19/2025 - 4/2/2025
# of Sessions: 6 No class 3/26/2025
Wed 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Fee: $50
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