Self-Determination: Tips for Including Students in their Education and Transition Planning

AN INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING AND SUPPORTING SELF-DETERMINATION SKILLS FOR STUDENTS WITH AUTISM

This webinar will introduce participants to the fundamental concepts of Self-Determination for students with autism and related disabilities. We will discuss how to teach these concepts, Power-Standards for IEP goals, how to include students in the IEP process, and other strategies for supporting students with developing their self-determination skills. The presenter will be accompanied by student members of a self-determination club. Self-advocates are encouraged to participate.

Deborah Hammer has worked professionally for over two decades on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families. Ms. Hammer is currently employed by Arlington Public Schools as an Autism Specialist, where she provides training and support to school staff, parents, and students. She also frequently presents at national and international conferences, including Autism Society of America, Council for Exceptional Children, and the National Autism Conference. She was the recipient the Eileen Crawford Award for Educators in 2017 and has twice been a recipient of the Arc of Northern Virginia’s Educational Leadership Award. As co-chair of the Northern Virginia Transition Coalition, she helps organize Future Quest, a regional college and career fair for students with disabilities. She serves as secretary of the Fairfax Area Disability Services Board and is the founder and facilitator of a social club for young adults with autism and related disabilities, Cool Aspies and advisor to a student self-determination club.