Tuesday, November 20, 2018

News & Tips from Family Connection


Thanks for Being Rock Stars!


More than 2,300 people celebrated 97 Special Buddies at the 19th annual Columbia Buddy Walk on October 21 at Saluda Shoals Park. The event raises awareness while promoting acceptance and inclusion of those with Down syndrome.  



Take steps to ensure safe sleep for babies



Why are we still talking about this issue?
Because each year, about 3,500 infants die unexpectedly during sleep from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or accidental suffocation. The rates of accidental trauma and injuries due to unsafe sleep environments/bed-sharing is increasing. From 2010-2017 in Greenville County alone, 60 infants died due to SUID – accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. (Source: South Carolina Birth Outcomes Initiative SCDHHS 2017)
 

Blue Ribbon Schools Named

South Carolina Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman recently announced that five South Carolina schools were recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as 2018 National Blue Ribbon Schools.

The five South Carolina schools named National Blue Ribbon Schools are:
  • Beech Hill Elementary School, Dorchester County School District 2, Summerville
  • Fort Mill High School, York School District 4, Fort Mill
  • Mount Lebanon Elementary School, Anderson School District 4, Pendleton
  • Tigerville Elementary School, Greenville County School District, Taylors
  • York Preparatory Academy, South Carolina Public Charter School District, Rock Hill
“I am so proud of our schools that have been recognized nationally for their academic excellence,” said State Superintendent Molly Spearman.

IEP or 504?
Learn more about 504s

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that requires schools to serve the educational needs of eligible students with disabilities. If your child is eligible for special education services, you’ll work with a school team to develop an IEP.
 
Other students qualify for a 504 Plan. This plan ensures that a child with a disability identified under the law receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.
 

Developmental Screenings are key

Every parent wants to raise a healthy, happy child. Because children grow and learn on their own time tables, it can be hard to know if your child is behind in certain areas of development. Monitoring and being aware of your child’s progress is the best way to ensure he reaches his full potential in the early years of development and as he journeys through life.

A Developmental Screening is a brief standardized tool to help identify children at risk of a developmental disability. It is administered in the medical home or by trained providers and teachers in some day cares or early learning centers.



Ready to serve you! 
Did you know that Family Connection has Family Engagement Managers statewide who are trained and ready to provide support and resources?
 
Need help navigating the education system and seeking services or accommodations for your child? We can help!

Questions about insurance or medical care?

Our healthcare coordinators can help with insurance and Medicaid questions and applications, as well provide assistance on navigating healthcare systems, such as: Medicaid and Medicaid Waivers, TEFRA, appeals, managed care information, finding a doctor or finding a medical home.






 

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