DESCRIPTION: Migrant families receiving special education services often navigate complex systems while facing language access needs, mobility, and cultural differences. Research on family engagement and systems alignment shows that intentional communication and coordinated supports are critical to improving both family experience and staff effectiveness. This interactive session is grounded in regional Migrant Education Program (MEP) experience supporting districts, educators, special education serving staff, and families. Rather than focusing on IEP development or instructional practices, the session centers on how systems and communication practices shape the special education experience for migrant families.
Participants will engage in guided reflection and discussion to identify common breakdown points and explore practical, low-lift strategies that strengthen communication, build trust, and support educators and families without adding to existing workloads.
DESCRIPTION: In this session you will learn about alternative ways to reengage youth in our valley. You will be able to understand the structure of our Open Doors program and what a GED can do for students.
OBJECTIVES: Explain the purpose and structure of the Open Doors 105 Consortium, including eligibility requirements, referral processes, and how the program supports fully disengaged youth ages 16–21. Describe how strengths-based, trauma-informed practices and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills are embedded in instruction, case management, and relationship-building to support student reengagement and persistence. Identify the flexible academic and career pathways available to students, including GED completion, workforce training, apprenticeships, college preparation, and reentry into comprehensive or alternative high schools. Understand the role of case management and cross-agency partnerships in providing wraparound services that address academic, social-emotional, and basic needs to improve student outcomes.
DESRIPTION: This session introduces educators to the core strategies of Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools and how they can be used to intentionally build inclusive school communities. Educators will leave with actionable ideas and next steps tailored to different building levels, empowering them to create meaningful, sustainable inclusion in their schools.
OUTCOMES: Educators will leave with a clear understanding of Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools (UCS) strategies and how to implement them within their school community. Participants will gain insight into how social inclusion benefits all students Educators will receive practical, tangible examples of inclusive practices they can apply at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as well as schoolwide and community-based opportunities.
