mDS Newsletter - September 2022
It's hard to believe that summer is over and almost everyone in the United States is already back at school. We hope you enjoyed participating in the 'Race for Research' fundraiser. Just in case you weren't able to 'race', there is still time to participate and raise funds for IMDA research: https://www.charityfootprints.com/IMDSAracingforresearch/. Plus, don't forget to save the date for our 2023 Research Retreat in San Diego July 20-23. Registration and more details will be shared on our website over the next few months.
In this issue, we'll introduce you to self advocate Lia Rane and how she's raised money for IMDSA through her love of modeling. We'll share some research on the importance of inclusion in public school settings to the well being of individuals born with mDS, and strategies for dealing with the special ed teacher shortage across the nation, plus a short primer on Individual Education Plans (IEP) and the federal laws that state schools are required to provide. If you are self advocate and want to share your story with the IMDSA community, or If you have news to share in our quarterly newsletter drop me an email at margaret.hamburger@gmail.com.
Meet Lia Rane
Lia Rane is a 17 year old self advocate born with Mosaic Down Syndrome. She dreams of becoming a model, singer or actress because she wants to share her talents with the world. Learn how she promotes her modeling to raise funds for IMDSA research and awareness of people born with mDs.
It's Never Too Late to Race for Research
We know how busy life can get. If you weren't able to participate in our 'Race for Research' over the summer, you can still make a donation to IMDSA. Please consider creating a fundraising page to share with family and friends. Your donations for research makes a difference in the lives of someone you love with mDs. Together we raised $5,866. Congratulations to our winning teams. Our top team winner is Stevi Clark. You've won a FREE Family weekend registration to a future Research & Retreat Weekend! Swag bags go to team Christine Dardia and team Danielle Martin.
Save the Date for our next Research Retreat in San Diego, CA on July 17-30
Our next Research Retreat will be held in San Deigo, CA, July 17-30. Over the next few months we will be posting more details about our agenda and how to register. Stay Tuned!
Why IMDSA Research Makes a Difference
Did you know that a large percent of the medical community has never even heard of mosaic Down syndrome? While the NIH budget for Down Syndrome research has increased significantly since 2019, its still a minuscule part of their overall budget and there is no specific research dedicated to mDs. IMDSA's mission is to raise funds for mDs research. Learn about our current research projects and consider how you can participate and raise money to support mDs research.
Inclusive Education Settings Really Do Make a Difference
We know almost intuitively that inclusive education is better for kids with mDs, but do you know what contributes to effective inclusion in the general education classroom? The practices that have been shown to be most effective for students with all forms of Down syndrome are the same things that benefit all students.
Learn the practices that are most effective for all students
Nationwide Special Ed Teacher Shortage May Impact Your Child's 2022/23 School Year
In 2021, the Office of Special Education Programs estimated an 8% national shortage of special education teachers. Do you have a special education teacher shortage in your district? If so, what is your public school district doing to address it? What strategies are you using to deal with it?
IEP law and the Federal Statutes that Ensure Services for your Child in Your State's Public School
Understanding IEP Law and the Federal Statutes that cover special education is your responsibility and important to ensure services for your child in your state's public school. IEP law is complex and always changing. Your rights as a parent are called procedural safeguards and are outlined in the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Unfortunately, they are often handed to you at the IEP meeting.
What are the Parents’ Rights in Special Education?
Parents have the right to ensure that their child receives a free, public education that meets their unique needs. Remember, special education teachers want to help your child. Working with a team of qualified educational specialists and teachers is the best way to develop a plan that works for everyone.