Join us for an insightful presentation for Special Education Paraprofessionals on fostering student independence while providing essential support for students with an Individual Education Program (IEP). Learn strategies to fade assistance and empower students to take control of their learning. Through core values like dignity of risk, ableism awareness, and setting high expectations, this session will explore tools and approaches to promote autonomy in the classroom and beyond. We hope you'll leave this training equipped with actionable strategies to help your students thrive in their pursuit of independence.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to balance support and independence
• Gain tools for fading assistance while maintaining student engagement
• Understand how to encourage self-determination and risk-taking in a supportive environment

Sarah Statham is the Transition Network Facilitator (TNF) for Multnomah, Washington, Columbia & Clatsop counties. Her role is to provide technical assistance and support interagency collaboration between schools and community partners in order to strengthen post-school outcomes for youth with disabilities. She holds her MEd in Secondary Special Education and has taught for over 20 years in both 18-21 programming and high school levels. She is an adjunct faculty member at Portland State University teaching Interagency Collaboration and Person-Centered-Supports. Sarah was part of the Seamless Transition Pilot Project with the state of Oregon and was awarded the Outstanding Transition Teacher of the Year in 2016 by OSTC. Sarah enjoys biking, reading as well as hiking and snowshoeing with her family and dog Sawyer.



    Kriss Rita – Transition Network Facilitator for Clackamas, Hood River, Wasco, Gilliam, and Sherman Counties.

Accommodations:
We strive to make our events accessible and inclusive to participants from all backgrounds and abilities. All virtual sessions will have automated closed captioning available. If you think you will need additional accommodations, such as an interpreter, please contact Sabine Eaton at seaton@nwresd.k12.or.us or 503-614-1351. At least two weeks' advance notice will help us to provide seamless access.

About Northwest Regional Education Service District:
Northwest Regional ESD is the largest of Oregon’s 19 education service districts. We serve students, educators, childcare providers, and families living in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, and Washington counties. Our staff members work collaboratively with school districts and other educational partners to deliver quality, cost-effective programs and services including special education, technology, professional development, school improvement, and operational support. Our vision is that every student is educated, equipped, and inspired to achieve their full potential and enrich their communities. Learn more at nwresd.org.

All event registrations require a PDNetworks account. If you have not already, follow this step-by-step guide to create your account.