2. All children have limitless potential Children throughout the world hunger for and deserve the right to be educated to reach their full potential. Many times differences in learning are assumed to be an inability to learn, or even a result of one’s state in life. Children with learning challenges are not offered the special opportunities they need to be productive and contributing members of their society.
4. Through education and the recognition of their potential, they’ve made great contributions… Bruce Willis and Tom Cruise, both with reading problems, entertain millions Einstein, who had trouble with simple tasks and had symptoms of Aspergers, helped explain time and matter Helen Keller, deaf and blind, but with so much to say Thomas Edison, father of 100s of inventions, struggled to read and failed many times before the light bulb came on Steven Hawkings, confined to a wheelchair, solves the problems of the universe.
6. Learning challenges include… Intellectual challenges Specific learning disabilities Autism spectrum disorders Physical challenges Emotional and behavioral challenges
7. These challenges can be overcome! Effective assessment strategies Identifying patterns of strength and weakness Service delivery options Alternative instructional strategies Adaptive materials Overcoming stereotypes
8. Teachers can reach and teach each child! Keys to success: Professional development Instructional strategies Classroom organization and management Classroom climate Inclusive classrooms Coaching and mentoring New teachers Veteran teachers Professional learning communities of teachers Teacher support groups Learning and supporting colleagues
9. And the benefits? A world-class education in the 21st century means helping each child reach his or her potential for productive life and work. Breaking down barriers and discounting stereotypes supports the value and dignity of every child and is the mark of a nation that is a model for others. For more information on training and consulting on the education of students with learning and behavioral challenges, contact: Nancy Driscoll, MA School Psychologist edpriority1@aol.com LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/nancy-driscoll/14/488/b85 Raleigh/Durham, NC, USA