Event Description
Special Factors, Present Levels, & Accessible Assessments
This session builds on the foundational content covered in Introduction to Special Education Processes and takes a deeper look at key components that contribute to a meaningful, legally compliant IEP. We’ll focus on accurately identifying and documenting Special Factors, developing clear and comprehensive Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP), and considering how best to organize PLAAFP information within the IEP. Participants will also review how to appropriately document district and statewide assessment accessibility supports. This training provides clear guidance, practical tools, and time to reflect and collaborate with peers. This session does not have any prerequisites and will not be recorded.
Topics Include:
✅ Special Factors: Identification & Documentation
✅ Present Levels of Academic Achievement & Functional Performance (PLAAFP)
✅ Organizational Considerations for the PLAAFP
✅ Assessment Accessibility Supports: District & Statewide
You’ll Also Get:
- Examples and opportunities for practice
- Access to resource links and templates
- Time for questions and group discussions
Make this a full-day event by registering for our follow-up 'IEP Support: Work Session' from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
(Separate registration is required; please see the PDNetworks Calendar)
Date: Thursday, February 5
Start: 8:30 am
End: 12:00 pm
Location:
This event is virtual on Zoom. A link will be accessible immediately upon registration.
Who Should Attend:
K-12 Special Education Teachers, Specialists, Case Managers, Related Services Providers, or any other licensed/administrative staff supporting the IEP process.
*This event is reserved for school staff working in Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, & Washington Counties*
Outside of our region, but looking for training on this topic? Contact your regional RTAP.
Instructors:
Malory Turner serves as the Special Education Professional Learning Coach, Traumatic Brain Injury Liaison, and Regional Technical Assistance Provider at NWRESD. She collaborates with educators, specialists, and district leaders to provide high-quality professional learning and technical assistance focused on special education processes and IEP development. Malory was recognized with the Noel Connall Instruction and Professional Development Award from the Oregon Education Association for her instrumental role in developing and delivering exceptional special education training and resources. She holds a Master’s in Special Education from Pacific University and brings nearly a decade of experience as an inclusion assistant, special educator, and mentor teacher supporting students with disabilities across a range of settings.
Jennifer South, OTR/L, ATP, NWRESD Assistive Technology Specialist, began her occupational therapy career in 1993 working in a variety of clinical settings. In 2003, she joined the team at Northwest Regional ESD working with school aged children, and in 2010 her role expanded to include assistive technology. Since that time, Jennifer has studied extensively on the provision of assistive technology in the school setting, and has presented on a variety of AT topics for school districts, advocacy groups and conferences. Jennifer has been a guest lecturer at George Fox, Lewis and Clark and Pacific Universities. She is a member of the Oregon Technology Access Program’s Professional Learning Team, and currently serves on the Oregon Accessibility Panel, a group which serves to advise on accessibility supports with respect to the inclusion of students with disabilities in statewide assessment. Jennifer is passionate about educating school teams, future educators, and therapists regarding assistive technology so that students may have equitable access and experience success in their education.
Subeligible Event:
Do you require substitute reimbursement to attend this event?
Learn More: NWRESD K-12 Special Education: Subeligible Events FAQ
Learn about how your voice drives NREN programs: nwresd.org/ren
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 need an American Sign Language interpreter, please contact ASLinterpreterrequests@nwresd.k12.or.us. If you need any other/additional accommodations, 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.
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