Learning Disabilities

  Course Description:  This course will focus on how with the number of students with learning disabilities on the rise, how a solution had to be found.   As educators, we are confronted with the challenges of educating all students, even the ones with numerous learning delays and/or disabilities. Educators will discuss different ways in which they are required to find lessons in which to meet the needs of all learners. This course will explore co-teaching strategies that will enhance student learning. We will also investigate various learning strategies that meet the needs of students with various learning needs.  This course is a must for all educators levels K-12.

  Instructor: Gayle Meinkes-Lumia – gaylelumia@yahoo.com (3 Credits/45 Hours) – In-Service Credit Course Description: In order for true learning to occur, safety must be at the forefront. Ensuring an environment that is emotionally manageable for our learners requires a deep investigation of the ways in which students operate on many levels. This course will provide the opportunities for participants to instruct their students on the ways in which to understand and manage their emotions in order to be successful in every class. Participants will learn the seven strategies in which to manage emotions for their learners, including: identifying and reducing triggers, tuning into physical symptoms, relay your own personal story, engage in positive self-talk, make appropriate choices, look for positive emotions, seek out help whenever possible. In the end, our learners will be able to soar to new heights. **A must for K-12 educators in all disciplines!!

As a parent, teacher or caregiver, the subject of sexual development and sexuality in children, adolescents and teens will eventually become a reality to deal with. As human beings we are all sexual beings with physical and emotional needs. These feelings begin from the day we are born. Sexuality includes self-image and self worth, interpersonal relationships, emotional and physical needs. Regardless of ability or disability, sexuality is a natural part of being human. As a parent, teacher or caregiver, it is our responsibility to teach those in our care the responsibilities and consequences of various behaviors related to sexuality. Teaching takes on many variables that determine how and what we teach. We must take into account; family and religious beliefs, cultural factors, developmental abilities and disabilities, and society norms. In this course we will explore sexual development and it’s effects on emotions and physical behavior in the student population beginning from birth to young adult. The course will address human development and sexuality with a focus on students with developmental disabilities. Finally, when caring for or working with children and/or students, you must be aware of the child’s readiness to be able to learn about such subjects. In addition, any teaching must be done in conjunction with parental knowledge and consent. One must also use discretion to determine what is appropriate for that child based on their age and maturity level. This course is intended to offer information, it is not intended to be used as a lesson plan or behavioral intervention plan. Parents and teachers should consult with their helping professionals, and other family supports when addressing sexuality with their children and/or students. ON-LINE (3 Credits – 45 Hours) In-service Credit only

Diving deeper than Wh questioning techniques, this course will provide teachers of all grade levels strategies to increase student engagement by incorporating various questioning strategies into their daily lessons. How to differentiate questions to engage all learners, including ELLs, G &T and Students with Disabilities will be examined.

An increasing amount of students are diagnosed with speech and language disorders. These disorders can affect a student’s ability to learn and socialize within the school setting. In this course you will learn the terms articulation disorder, fluency, apraxia, voice disorder, and selective mutism and how these disorders present in the classroom. You will learn strategies to use when working with speech impaired students. In addition, you will have an understanding of the impact these disorders have on the social and emotional well-being of our students. This class is part 1 of 2 classes. Both classes can be taken independently of each other. Recommended for ALL Educators! ON-LINE (3 credits/45 hours) in-service only

Course Description: This course will focus on how to support the struggling learners we all have in our classrooms.  Educators will share strategies that work in all areas of reading, writing, listening and speaking to bring those learners up to par with the rest of the class. Strategies will be explored on how to lift up those students who struggle.  Students will feel supported satisfied with their improvements.  Teachers will walk away with a plethora of great lessons and techniques.  This course is a must for all teachers of all disciplines grades K-12.