RMU Trees Network Ringing in the New Year Newsletter

RMU Trees Network

Ringing in the New Year 2023 Newsletter

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Parent Q&A Meeting - THIS MONDAY

Monday, January 9 7PM-8PM

Start 2023 off with us! Come learn and discuss the curriculum that your child is learning in school. We will be facilitating discussions around curriculum for children with disabilities. Curriculum can include PA Standards, functional standards, specialized programs, and adaptations. The aim of this parent group meeting is to provide information and to connect parents who are facing similar experiences. Parent attendance and participation provides information to us to effectively prepare and plan resources to support parents. The meeting will be hosted virtually by Dr. Vicki Donne, Trees Network Director and Mrs. Deanna Hiltz, Trees Network Outreach Specialist. Parents can register for the meeting by contacting Vicki Donne at donne@rmu.edu or Deanna Hiltz at hiltzd@rmu.edu, 412-397-5465, or by registering at https://forms.gle/HUoKL5omxjzwZLNT7 Upon registration, registrants will be sent a Google Meets calendar invite.

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Virtual Book Club

Starting Tuesday, January 17 from 6PM-7PM

We will be reading this remarkable story about a girl who was born with no arms. She meets a friend when her family moves and together they learn about facing their worst fears despite disabilities and challenges. Our goal of our first book club is to get children and young adults together virtually to establish connections, friendships, and comradery. Sign up by emailing Deanna Hiltz at hiltzd@rmu.edu

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Resources for Parents and Educators

The Network provides resources for parents and teachers. We created a web site with various resources and previous newsletters that can be read and viewed at https://www.rmu.edu/academics/provost/trees. Also, in each newsletter we try to provide links to resources of topics discussed in our parent meetings and workshops as well as other information that may be helpful to families, schools, and the community.

Standards Aligned System (SAS) is a “comprehensive, researched-based resource to improve student achievement. SAS identifies six elements that impact student achievement: Standards, Assessments, Curriculum Framework, Instruction, Materials & Resources, and Safe and Supportive Schools. Schools and educators across Pennsylvania are supported in their efforts to implement SAS.” SAS - Pennsylvania Department of Education Standards Aligned System - SAS (pdesas.org)

Demonstration of Standards Aligned System (SAS) video Pennsylvania Department of Education Standards Aligned System (SAS)

A Day In Our Shoes - This includes 100 functional life skills to promote independence. 100 Functional Life Skills IEP Goals | Independent Functioning (adayinourshoes.com)

WrightsLaw keeps up-to-date information about special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities. https://www.wrightslaw.com/

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About the Trees Network

The RMU Trees Network provides services and training to enhance the support for children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities and their families through professional preparation of teachers, continued professional development of teachers and service providers, and direct services to children and families. As part of our outreach to families, we host a parent support group, informational workshops, and other educational opportunities. In addition, family members are encouraged to contact the Trees Network for information, advocacy, referrals, and resources. We welcome partnerships with other educational institutions, nonprofits and community service organizations!

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RMU Trees Network Contact

6001 University Boulevard

Nicholson 4th floor

Moon Township, PA 15108

Vicki Donne, RMU Trees Network Director, University Professor, Education Department, SNEHS

donne@rmu.edu

Deanna Hiltz, RMU Trees Network Outreach Specialist

hiltzd@rmu.edu

412-397-5465

https://www.rmu.edu/academics/provost/trees

https://www.facebook.com/RMUtrees/