Parker's Post

Autism Workshop

We know that the incidence of Autism seems to be increasing. We read articles in newspapers and magazines and see television programs about Autism. Many parents want to know as much as they can learn about the Autism Spectrum Disorders.

A great opportunity is being offered to parents and educators in the Cobb County District.  There will be an Autism Workshop offered on Saturday, February 23, 2008. Childcare is being offered, but you will need to call and pre-register for this service

Where: Kell High School, 4770 Lee Waters Road, Marietta, GA

When: Saturday, February 23, 2008   8:30am-12:30pm

Childcare registration: Judith Steuber 770 529-0046

                                   Ijeoma Ajoku 770 529-0046

*Judith and Ijeoma are our Cobb County Special Education Parent Mentors

I hope to see you there!

            

Vocational Education Assessment

     Every year our eighth grade students, who receive special education support, are required to take a vocational assessment. A letter has been sent home to let parents know that this assessment will take place in late October or early November.

    This assessment is mandated by IDEIA in order to gain knowledge about our students' interests and possible strengths for career planning. This asssessment is not used to determine placement decisions for high school classes.  Rather, the results, which will be returned in approximately a month, will assist parents and teachers in helping the student understand his interests and strengths in relation to transition and possible career choices. The results will be discussed with parents. This is very helpful information which is easy to understand in a chart format.

     Should you have questions or concerns, please contact me or your child's caseload manager. The caseload manager's name is on the letter which has been sent home.

October General Information

     Parents are accessing our Mabry teacher blogs to assist their children with forgotten or unclear homework assignments. This is the one area - homework - that our sixth grade students seem to have the most difficult time with in their adjustment to middle school. Please continue to ask your child for his agenda to see if he/she is diligent in writing down assignments.

     We are in the midst of COGAT/IOWA testing with our eighth graders. Attendance is good and so very important during this critical time. Of course, good nutrition and lots of rest will be advantageous for anyone who is doing any kind of testing.

     Towards the end of October, our eighth grade students will also be taking the Career Planning Survey. The results of this survey will help in the career and educational planning.  We expect the results before IEP time in early winter and spring. Any student, who has an IEP is required to take this vocational assessment. Assessment information will be shared with parents and students. Such results will be valuable in facililtating career exploration and counseling.  You will receive a letter from me regarding the dates of testing.