Front Cover: 2006-2008 Guam CEDDERS Biennual Report University of Guam Center for Excellence in Development Disabilities Education, Research, & Service Inside cover: This Guam CEDDERS 2006-2008 Biennial Report is dedicated in memory of Kerina Oshiro, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate. Kerina was a shining star in our organization. She was a delightful, dedicated, and gifted advocate and a much-loved teacher and friend of many individuals with disabilities and their families. Kerina was a pioneer and visionary leader in the area of autism on Guam. Her passion for life and service to the community continue to inspire and her cheerful spirit remains with all of us at Guam CEDDERS, her professional family. MISSION In partnership with individuals with disabilities and their families, agencies, organizations, and service providers, Guam CEDDERS creates pathways that enhance, improve, and support the quality of life of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 Dedication 3 Mission & Table of Contents 5 - 8 Consumer Leadership & Systems Change Initiative Area 9 - 14 Health, Wellness, & Prevention Initiative Area 15 -23 Inclusive Communities Initiative Area 24 Developed Products 25 Collaborating Partners 26 Funding & Representation on Councils, Boards, & Committees 27 The CEDDERS Team The programs and enormous projects that CEDDERS is undertaking are solidly impressive. I commend all the wonderful staff and employees for their outstanding ability and immeasurable dedication in accomplishing their assigned tasks, Furthermore, I would like to suggest that we continuously monitor the services of other agencies and other, providers with the view of encouraging optimum efficiency in providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Rudy Colet, Parent Member, Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council Photo with caption: The Colet Family (L-R) Vinnie, Rod Steven, Bernadette, & Rudy. ADVISORY COUNCIL Photo with caption: 2007-08 Council Members elected new officers during the June 2008 meeting. In attendance were (Front, seated) Marlon Molinas, Vice Chairperson. (Standing, L-R) Louise Toves, Manny Cruz, Evelyn Claros, Cecilia Cruz, Chairperson, Reina Sanchez, Rudy Colet. The Advisory Council was instrumental in developing the goals and objectives in the Guam CEDDERS’ new Core Five-Year Plan and in helping to address the Tri-Agency Work Plan. List of Advisory Council Members: Evelyn Claros Parent Victor Muñoz Self - Advocate Cecilia Cruz Self - Advocate Vice Chairperson Charlene Salinas Parent Roseann Ada Executive Director Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities Reina Sanchez Social Services Supervisor, Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Katrina Celes Pieper Associate Superintendent Guam Public School System, Division of Special Education Louise Toves Assistant to the President University of Guam Manuel Cruz Executive Director Guam Developmental Disabilities Council Rebecca Santo Tomas Executive Director Guam Legal Services Corporation Bill Fuppul Self-Advocate Rudy Colet Parent Joseph Mendiola Parent Marlon Molinas Self - Advocate Herman Castro Self – Advocate Page 4 Divider page: CONSUMER LEADERSHIP & SYSTEMS CHANGE Photo of the 2007 Guam Action Plan for the Coordination of Human Services Transportation, September 2007 Page 5 CONSUMER LEADERSHIP & SYSTEMS CHANGE Guam CEDDERS, CORE Grant TRI-AGENCY WORK PLAN & DISABILITY COMMUNITY CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION Funding Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration on Developmental Disabilities The Core Grant enables Guam CEDDERS to support the core functions and to fulfill the mission to “create pathways that enhance, improve, and support the quality of life of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.” With guidance from the Advisory Council, and in collaboration with the Tri-Agency (Guam Developmental Disabilities Council and Guam Legal Services (Protection & Advocacy), and other community agencies, Guam CEDDERS promotes activities that reflect the core values of inclusion, self-determination, increased independence, productivity, and integration of individuals with developmental disabilities. Training, community services, and technical assistance, research and dissemination activities are addressed through three Initiative Areas. In addition, Guam CEDDERS facilitated the development and implementation of activities under the Tri-Agency Work Plan focusing on Community Supports & Quality Assurance, Transportation, Education; and also co-sponsored the Tri-Agency Disability Community Conference & Exposition Tri-Agency. Photos with captions: Guam’s Tri-Agency participants and Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) officials met in Honolulu for the Monitoring and Technical Assistance Review System (MTARS) on March 14-15, 2007. (Front Row, L-R) Evelyn Claros, CEDDERS Advisory Council Chairperson, Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, CEDDERS Director, Dr. Patricia Morrissey, ADD Commissioner, Faith McCormick, ADD Director, Tom Manglona, Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) Chairperson. (Back Row, L-R) June De Leon, CEDDERS Associate Director, Ophelia McLain, ADD Program Analyst, Manuel Cruz, DDC Executive Director, Dan Sommerfleck, Guam Legal Services Executive Director, & Terrie Fejarang, CEDDERS Associate Director. Frank Reyes, Guam DDC, provides a Needs Assessment Statement during “How to Use Personal Care Assistance” training. Participants and facilitators wrap up training on “How to Use Personal Care Assistance” at the DISID office. Page 6 CONSUMER LEADERSHIP & SYSTEMS CHANGE Continued FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA (FSM) STATE MONITORING & STATE PERFORMANCE PLAN Funding Source: FSM Health, Education, and Social Affairs (HESA) Technical assistance and training was provided to FSM-HESA in the development of the FSM Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) Part B State Performance Plan submitted to the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs Technical assistance was also provided in the development of a Continuous Improvement Monitoring Process. Technical assistance and training support was provided to the FSM National and State Special Education Programs in application for funds, monitoring program progress, and developing reports, including the State Performance Plan, Annual Performance Report, and Local Performance Plan. COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS (CNMI) STATE IMPROVEMENT GRANT (SIG) PART B TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Funding Source: CNMI Public School System Guam CEDDERS assisted the CNMI Public School System in developing their State Progress Plan. The Plan was based on the issues addressed in their Continuous Improvement Monitoring Plan. Training sessions and technical assistance were provided through facilitation of the evaluation processes as identified in the CNMI State Improvement Grant. Photos with captions: Senator Frank Ishizaki, Chairperson, Committee on Governmental Operations and Organizations, Mina Bente Nuebe Liheslaturan Guahan, participated in a field trip on September 4, 2007 to observe first hand the challenges of riding public transportation. Joining him on the trip were Ginger Porter, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, Evelyn Duenas, Vice President of the Transportation Commission, and Zachary Taimanglo, Legislative Staff Assistant. (Front) Ms. Duenas. (Standing, L-R) Ms. Porter, Senator Ishizaki, & Mr. Taimanglo. Members of the Transit Grievance review & Appeals Board take a break from training. Guam CEDDERS Director and Associate Director meet with collaborators and OSEP officials in Washington, D.C. Page 7 CONSUMER LEADERSHIP & SYSTEMS CHANGE Continued PROJECT DREAMS– EVALUATION & TRAINING Funding Source: Guam Parent Information Resource Center Guam CEDDERS provided technical support in the development of the application for Project DREAMS —”Dedicated to Reaching Excellence and Maintaining Success” which established the Guam Parent Information Resource Center. Guam CEDDERS continues involvement in providing technical assistance, training, and evaluation. TRANSPORTATION TASK FORCE Funding Source: Administration on Developmental Disabilities Core Grant The Guam Transportation Task Force, a community-based group, was formed to address the challenges related to transportation. With members comprised of consumers and agency representatives, Guam CEDDERS played a key role in facilitating the activities of the Task Force which produced the “Guam Public Transit System Recommendations Report” that maps out an action plan and timelines to improve the current system. PROJECT GATE (GUAM ALLIANCE FOR TRANSPORTATION EFFICIENCY) Funding Source: Guam Department of Administration The purpose of this project was to conduct a full assessment of community transportation services and develop a Territorial Action Plan for the Coordination of Human Services Transportation in an effort to coordinate transportation planning. The 2007 Guam Action Plan for the Coordination of Human Services Transportation focuses on engaging leadership across agencies and constituency groups to create a coordinated vision for transportation services for persons with disabilities, older adults, and persons with lower income. TRANSIT TRAINING PROJECT Funding Source: Kloppenberg Enterprises Responding to needs identified by the Guam Transportation Commission, Guam CEDDERS developed a series of training modules targeting bus drivers who provide paratransit and other related services. Training included sessions on passenger assistance, safety and wheelchair securement, and effective communication. Photos with captions: Jonas Macapinlac, Guam CEDDERS Media Specialist, videotapes actors during the filming of GPSS’ TV transition services ad. Transit drivers get “hands-on” training on proper wheelchair securement. Page 8 Divider page: HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION Photo of the Guam Early Learning Guidelines for Young Children Birth to 36 Months HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY TECHNICAL SUPPORT Funding Source: Guam Department of Public Health & Social Services Technical assistance was provided to the Traumatic Brain Injury Group through facilitation of monthly meetings and accessing of information and supports at the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Center. GUAM IDEA PART C TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & FACILITIES SUPPORT Funding Source: Guam Public School System Guam CEDDERS provided technical assistance and training for the Guam Public School System (GPSS), Division of Special Education in developing Guam's IDEA Part C Annual Performance Report and facilitating the reporting progress for the Guam Steering Committee, and Part C Interagency Coordinating Council. CEDDERS also assisted GPSS in implementing programs to support the prioritized Personnel Development activities and implementation of assistive technology supports for students with disabilities; developing public awareness materials for early intervention programs; and facilitating training on working with low-incidence populations. In addition, facilities support was provided to Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) and the Pediatric Evaluation and Developmental Services (PEDS) Center through the provision of office space in CEDDERS buildings. FSM EARLY INTERVENTION TRAINING & SUPPORT Funding Source: FSM Health, Education, and Social Affairs (HESA) Guam CEDDERS assisted the FSM National Government in completing the following outcomes as required by the IDEA State Performance Plan: 1) Development of an early childhood outcome system for monitoring, collecting, and reporting child outcomes for young children with disabilities and their families. 2) Increased capacity of FSM State Medical Officers, health care providers, and educators in the early identification of young children with disabilities and their families. 3) Increased knowledge and skills of the FSM National Inter-Agency Council for implementing a quality assurance system for early childhood services and supports that are based on the principle of continuous improvement. Photos with captions: (L-R) Dr. Richard W. Fee, UOG, and Brendan Murray, Cochlear Corporation, lead a discussion on Cochlear Implants. Guam CEDDERS, in partnership with NEC*TAC, provides TA to the Chuuk State Early Intervention Program. Abby Cohen, TA Specialist from the National Child Care Information Center, confers with DPHSS staff after her presentation on “Updating Child Care Standards” to the Early Childhood Care & Education Committee. Page 10 HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION Continued CHILD CARE TRAINING & TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Funding Source: Guam Department of Public Health & Social Services (DPHSS) Guam CEDDERS provided technical assistance and training in the area of child care for center-based and family home care providers. Support was provided to the centers selected as part of the Model Child Care Program which highlighted inclusive best practices. Other activities conducted in partnership with DPHSS included: 1) Training for child caregivers on using the Guam Early Guidelines for Young Children For Young Children Birth To 36 Months, social emotional development, developmentally appropriate inclusive practices. 2) Training for parents on positive parenting skills based on the ALONG Parent Curriculum. 3) Publication of Nene News, a quarterly newsletter which focuses on caregiver best practices. 4) Early childhood public awareness posters and brochure series. 5) Development, publication, and dissemination of the Guam Early Learning Guidelines for Young Children Birth to 36 Months. 6) Technical assistance to the Early Childhood Care and Education Committee on establishing guidelines on professional standards. REGIONAL IDEA PART C TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Funding Source: National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NEC*TAC), University of North Carolina Technical assistance and training was provided to early childhood agencies and service providers in Guam, Palau, and the CNMI through collaboration with NEC*TAC. STATE EARLY LEARNING MINI-GRANT Funding Source: National Governors’ Association At the request of the Governor of Guam, Guam CEDDERS facilitated the development of a Mini-Grant application on Early Learning that was submitted to and approved for funding by the National Governors’ Association. This project provided support toward the establishment of the Governor’s Early Learning Council, which is tasked to assist in the coordination of policy development targeting services and supports for Guam’s young children. Photos with captions: Participants engage in an activity during the All Learning Opportunities Nurture Growth (ALONG) Curriculum training. Center-based child caregivers listen intently to the points covered during training on “Developmentally Appropriate Practices.” Page 11 HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION Continued PROJECT FO’NA: GRADUATE PROGRAM IN SPEECH PATHOLOGY Funding Source: U.S. Department of Education Project Fo'na is a four year grant funded project from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Services. Guam CEDDERS, in partnership with San Jose State University (SJSU) facilitates this project which offers coursework leading to a Master's Degree in Speech and Language from SJSU. SJSU faculty travel to Guam to offer courses during the summers and offer a combination of on-site and on-line courses throughout the academic year. Divided into two groups, students completed externships during Summer 2007 and Summer 2008. The following were the SJSU courses offered during the period between July 2007 through June 2008: EDAU 277 Aural Rehab Practicum EDSP 278 Externship EDSP 250 Voice Disorders EDSP 256A Current Topics: Autism EDSP 277 Child/Group/AR Practicum EDSP 256B Current Topics: Cleft Palate EDSP 298 Comprehensive Examination EDSP 256C Current Topics: AAC EDSP 277 Child/Group/AR Practicum PROJECT TINITUHON (MATERNAL CHILD HEALTH-STATE EARLY CHILDHOOD COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEMS GRANT) Funding Source: Guam Department of Public Health & Social Services (DPHSS) Project Tinituhon is grant funded through a contract with the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services. Goals addressed during this period included: 1) Development of a plan to establish an Early Childhood Comprehensive System that supports families and communities in their development of children that are healthy and ready to learn at school entry. 2) Families and children with special health care needs will have access to health insurance and medical homes. 3) Children at risk for the development of mental health problems will have available to them mental health and social development services that will develop the necessary pathways to facilitate entrance of at risk children into appropriate child development and mental health delivery systems. 4) Children ages birth to age 5 will have early care and education services that support early learning, health, and development of social competence. 5) Parents of children ages birth through five will have available to them a comprehensive parent education and family support service in the community. Photos with captions: Project Fo’na participants completed a Praxis preparation course conducted by Dr. Kay Payne, CCC-SLP, visiting Howard University professor. Carmelita Connelley (standing) addresses participants during training on the importance of social and emotional development of young children under 5 years of age. Page 12 HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION Continued PROJECT I FAMAGU’ON-TA (OUR CHILDREN) CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE SYSTEM OF CARE TRAINING PLAN & FAMILY PARTICIPATION PROJECT Funding Source: Guam Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Guam CEDDERS developed a comprehensive plan for incorporating the system of care values and principles into interdisciplinary training curricula for higher education and/or community based training as part of the sustainability plan for Guam's system of care for children and youth with serious emotional disturbance. Evaluation activities/services were facilitated by Guam CEDDERS involving the development and implementation of strategies to increase and maintain family involvement. This included recruitment and retention of families into the national child and family outcome and services experience studies and local studies. PROJECT I FAMAGU’ON-TA (OUR CHILDREN) CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE EVALUATION PROJECT Funding Source: Guam Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Evaluation activities for the six-year Child Mental Health Initiative Project, I Famagu’on-ta (Our Children), continued during this reporting period. Efforts focused on the refinement of the core evaluation component which generated descriptive information and outcomes for children with serious emotional disturbances (SED) and their families, as well as, information on systems outcomes as the result of project activities, which will contribute to the main study components of the National Evaluation criteria. As part of this project, the first I Famagu’on-ta Guam System of Care Evaluation Brief was published to highlight the outcome data and impact of the project on the lives of 38 youth with SED and 53 caregivers who enrolled in the longitudinal research study and who have received services for at least one year. The Brief was disseminated to families, policymakers, and service providers. Image of I Famaguo’on-ta (Our Children) Guam System of Care Evaluation Brief Photos with captions: Jennifer Rosario Cruz, R.N., GMHA Acting Administrator of Nursing, and Dr. San Nicolas, Guam CEDDERS Director, discuss the merits of the Guam EHDI program. Dr. Michael Kimbarow, SJSU faculty, lectures on the latest research on Traumatic Brain Injury. Page 13 HEALTH, WELLNESS, & PREVENTION Continued GUAM EARLY HEARING DETECTION AND INTERVENTION HEARING SCREENING & FOLLOW UP Funding Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Heath Resources & Services Administration The Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Project continued the facilitation of hearing assessment of newborn infants at the hospital and birthing center and provided referrals for follow up to the local Pediatric Evaluation and Developmental Services Center. The long-term outcomes for identified children with hearing loss are improved as a result of early identification and intervention. CDC-GUAM EARLY HEARING DETECTION AND INTERVENTION PROJECT –TRACKING & SURVEILLANCE Funding Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guam CEDDERS continued the facilitation of tracking and surveillance of infants identified during the newborn hearing screening process on Guam through a Continuation Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Data collected is included in the national database established by the University of Maine. Table of Guam Newborn Hearing Screening 2002-2007 Births: • Year 2002-3222 • Year 2003-2926 • Year 2004-3018 • Year 2005-2814 • Year 2006-2998 • Year 2007-3007 Screened prior to discharge: Year 2002-228 Year 2003-2820 Year 2004-2989 Year 2005-2803 Year 2006-2948 Year 2007-2971 Photos with captions: A Guam Team attended the 2007 Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EDHI) National Conference held in Utah. Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, Guam CEDDERS Director, provides an overview of the Guam EHDI Project to the GMHA Board Members. Page 14 Divider page: INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION PROGRAM NETWORK (PEPNET) FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE DEAF/HARD OF HEARING Funding Source: California State University, Northridge Guam CEDDERS began the process of obtaining demographics and conducting training needs assessments for personnel who work with youth and adults who are deaf/hard of hearing within the Pacific Basin including the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The results of the assessments will assist in the determination of training priorities. COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS (CNMI) IDEA PART B TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROJECT Funding Source: CNMI Public School System On-site technical assistance and training support was provided to Public School System administrators and Special Education State Advisory Panel (SESAP) members for the development and implementation of the Commonwealth’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) State Performance Plan submitted to the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs. Support was also provided to Special Education personnel on monitoring procedures for services made available to children and youth with disabilities ages 3-21. PROJECT MENHALOM (WISDOM): CHARACTER EDUCATION PROGRAM Funding Source: Guam Public School System (GPSS) Guam CEDDERS entered into a subcontract with GPSS to assist in the development of the implementation plan for Project Menhalom, the school system’s character education program. Guam CEDDERS provided technical assistance and training for GPSS faculty and staff of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) that will be implemented in all of the island’s middle schools and has taken the lead in conducting the project evaluation. Photos with captions: Senators Judith Won Pat (R) &Tina Muna-Barnes (Center) listen to Paulina Torres’ concerns, while Dan Cobb looks on, during the 2008 Tri-Agency Consumer Disability Conference held on March 8. Tri-Agency Directors speak with K57 Radio “The Big Show” about upcoming activities. Page 16 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAM TRAINING Funding Source: San Diego State University Interwork Institute Technical assistance and training was provided to Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRPs) on Guam through support from the San Diego State University Foundation, in collaboration with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Activities included the offering of a distance education/on-line course for CRPs. PROJECT HÅTSA (TO RAISE), TEACHER QUALITY ENHANCEMENT Funding Source: Guam Public School System Guam CEDDERS, in partnership with the Guam Public School System, administered Project Håtsa, GPSS’ structured framework to develop and implement education reform focusing on teacher certification, teacher preparation, professional growth, supervision, and evaluation, through systemic change guided by a broad cross-section of community stakeholders. Håtsa is a Chamorro word meaning “to raise” or “to build.” With the overall goal to increase student achievement through raising teacher standards, six project goals are organized into three Focus Areas: Stakeholder Involvement: Policy & Curriculum Alignment: 1)Improve the quality of teacher preparation at the University of Guam; 2) Develop and implement high-quality alternate routes for initial teacher certification designed for individuals that already have a degree; 3) Ensure continuous progress enhancing teacher quality by promoting ongoing stakeholder involvement through structured opportunities for dialogue. Mentoring and Professional Growth: 1)Increase teacher retention by providing systemic mentor training and induction to support from trained mentors and revision of professional growth requirements; 2) Re-design professional growth (re-certification) requirements to increase retention of highly qualified teachers. Leadership in Teacher Supervision and Evaluation: 1) Implement a standards-based Professional Teacher Evaluation (PTEP) through standards-based supervision of teachers. Photos with captions: Roberta Abaday, a JFK High School teacher, became the first teacher from Guam to earn National Board of Professional Teacher Standards (NBPTS) Certification. The Project Håtsa Joint Leadership/Stakeholder Group held its last meeting of the school year on May 27, 2008. Untalan Middle School teacher, Juvy Gao-ay Cariño, demonstrates the use of a handheld computer purchased through Project Håtsa’s Mini-Grant Program. Page 17 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued GENERAL SUPERVISION ENHANCEMENT GRANT (GSEG) PAC 6; INDIVIDUAL GSEG STATE GRANTS; AND THE PACIFIC PROJECT SERVING AMERICAN SAMOA, COMMONWEALTH NORTHERN MARIANAS ISLANDS, FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA, GUAM, REPUBLIC OF PALAU, & THE REPUBLIC OF THE MARSHALL ISLANDS Funding: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs GSEG Pacific Assessment Consortium (PAC 6) The Pacific Assessment Consortium Project (PAC6), was the initial planning project designed for alternate assessment targeted for the Pacific Basin entities of American Samoa, the CNMI, FSM, Guam, Palau, and the Marshall Islands. PAC6 facilitated the development, enhancement, or redesign of a comprehensive system of state assessments (including state alternate assessment), standards, and instructional supports. Components included: 1) alternate assessments aligned with State content standards, and as appropriate, modified achievement standards; 2) effective and appropriate accommodations that are consistent with daily instruction; 3) guidance to support IEP team decisions regarding student assessment; 4) professional development activities for both special education and regular education teachers; and 5) information for parents. The Pacific Assessment Consortium: Individual Jurisdiction Implementation Projects Six individual implementation grants were awarded to CEDDERS to provide technical assistance in the implementation of jurisdiction-specific alternate assessment plans. Components for each of the jurisdictions, were as follows: 1) development and implementation of accommodation guidelines and appropriate training materials. 2) Development of an evaluation system for the implementation of the developed accommodation guidelines and training materials to determine the effectiveness of ensuring participation and performance of students with disabilities in the State assessment system. 3) Improvement upon the implementation of high quality alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards (AA-AAS). 4) Development of an evaluation system for the implementation of the high quality AA-AAS to determine the effectiveness of the participation and performance of the very limited group of students with the most significant cognitive disabilities in the alternate assessment component of the State assessment system. 5) Establishment of a mechanism for ongoing communication and technical support, including accurately measuring and reporting the participation and performance of students with disabilities in each entity’s State assessment system. Photos with captions: Senator Frank Ishizaki (back to camera) meets with Deaf consumers during the 2008 Tri-Agency Consumer Disability Conference held on March 8. Jackie Quitugua, Susan Lizama, Mike Terlaje, and Joseph Mendiola meet on CIMAP Project issues in November 2007. Page 18 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued THE PACIFIC PROJECT The PACIFIC Project, Pacific Assessment Consortium (PAC6) Implementing Fully Innovative Change, facilitates the continued collaborative commitment of the six (6) Pacific Basin entities to build regional and local capacity for the development and full implementation of high-quality alternate assessments based on alternate academic achievement standards that yield accurate reporting and analysis of participation and performance data of students with significant cognitive disabilities in each entity's inclusive assessment system. The overall Project outcome is to improve local capacity for reporting and analyzing participation and performance data of students with significant cognitive disabilities on alternate assessments based on alternate academic achievement standards to inform critical changes in assessment, curriculum, and instruction. Goals under this project are: 1) To establish a system of regional and local technical supports, through the development of Jurisdiction Implementation Teams, for the full implementation of alternate assessments based on alternate academic achievement standards appropriate to each entity's inclusive assessment system. 2) To fully implement high-quality alternate assessments based on alternate academic achievement standards using universal design principles, to the extent possible, that measure the achievement of students with the most significant cognitive disabilities based on alternate academic achievement standards that align with each jurisdiction's academic content standards. 3) To develop training modules complemented with locally produced media clips that provide the "who, what, why, and how" for IEP teams to determine which students should be assessed based on alternate academic achievement standards and provide training and coaching for the Jurisdiction Implementation Teams on the developed training modules. 4) To establish local mechanisms for monitoring and supporting the reporting and use of participation and performance data for students with significant cognitive disabilities on alternate assessments based on alternate academic achievement standards for informing critical curriculum and instructional changes. 5) To enhance the mechanism for ongoing communication and information dissemination within and among the Project Partners, Project Leadership Team, and Jurisdiction Implementation Teams to ensure sustainable and effective strategies for enhancing regional and local technical support beyond the project period. Photos with captions: The PAC6 American Samoa Leadership Assessment Team met with June Quitugua from Guam CEDDERS in March 2008. The FSM LAT work on developing their Performance Level Descriptors during the PAC6 Regional Assessment Institute in Pohnpei July 2007. Page 19 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued Photo of the PACIFIC ASSESSMENT CONSORTIUM (PAC6) REGIONAL ASSESSMENT INSTITUTE JULY 16-21, 2007 Eighty-six participants, including 10 from American Samoa, 7 from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas, 41 from the Federated States of Micronesia, 5 from Guam, 12 from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and 11 from the Republic of Palau, attended the Regional Assessment Institute held in Pohnpei, FSM on July 16-21, 2007. POHNPEI STATE DEPT. OF EDUCATION, SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM - CURRICULUM MODIFICATIONS, LOCAL PERFORMANCE PLAN, & SPECIAL EDUCATION HANDBOOK TRAINING Funding Source: Pohnpei State Department of Education Training and technical assistance was provided to Pohnpei State Special Education Program personnel on curriculum modification, the Special Education Handbook Training, State Performance Planning, and Eligibility training. Photo with caption: Over 60 teachers & administrators from the Palau Ministry of Education attended the PAC6 Project on-site follow-up training conducted on March 2007 by Guam CEDDERS Jay Quitugua and WRRC’s Caroline MaGee. Page 20 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued PACIFIC CONSORTIUM FOR INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS ACCESSIBILITY PROJECT (CIMAP) Funding Source: U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs The CIMAP Project was established to address the common and unique of Pacific island entities in implementing a system that meets the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standards (NIMAS) and the National Instructional Materials Accessibility Center (NIMAC) requirements. The overall outcome of Pacific CIMAP is to implement and/or enhance each entity's system for providing timely educational materials in appropriate accessible formats for students with disabilities who are eligible for services under Part B IDEA. Goals include: 1) To increase understanding and implementation of the NIMAS and NIMAC requirements through the development of Jurisdiction Implementation Teams to serve as the local cadre for technical support. 2) To create/enhance each jurisdiction's system to address the NIMAS and NIMAC requirements, as appropriate, as well as to meet the accessibility requirements of Section 614 of IDEA that addresses children with disabilities who do not meet the NIMAC eligibility requirements, but who need accessible versions of educational materials. 3) To increase the knowledge and skills of the local IEP teams for determining how student needs for accessible materials will be identified and how the need for NIMAC materials will be documented. 4) To develop and/or enhance each jurisdiction's data management and tracking systems for managing NIMAS files and providing educational materials in appropriate accessible formats. 5) To develop the capacity of the Pacific Basin to provide accessible materials for students with visual disabilities and other print disabilities through centralized coordination with Federal technical assistance providers, as well as vendors. The overall outcome of Pacific CIMAP is to implement and/or enhance each entity's system for providing timely educational materials in appropriate accessible formats for students with disabilities who are eligible for services under Part B IDEA. GUAM IDEA PART B TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Funding Source: Guam Public School System Guam CEDDERS provided technical assistance and training for the Guam Public School System (GPSS), Division of Special Education in developing Guam's IDEA Parts B Annual Performance Reports and facilitating the reporting progress for the Guam Steering Committee, Part B Advisory Panel. CEDDERS also assisted GPSS in implementing programs to support the prioritized Personnel Development activities and implementation of assistive technology supports for students with disabilities; developing public awareness materials for special education; and facilitating training for personnel working with low-incidence populations. Photos with captions: Mike Burdge and Jean Clayton, consultants from the University of Kentucky, met with the CNMI Leadership Assessment Team in May 2008. Page 21 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued GUAM SYSTEM FOR ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY PROJECT (GSAT) Funding Source: National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation and Research (NIDRR) GSAT promoted public awareness and provided technical assistance and training in the area of assistive technology. The GSAT Center serves as the only assistive technology resource center for Guam and the Western Pacific. It houses a major collection of AT devices which allows consumers and the general public to access equipment which promotes independence and productivity. Project activities included facilitating the Annual Assistive Technology Conference and Fair; coordinating the establishment of a Telehealth Assessment Room; training using specialized software and equipment; coordinating an Assistive Technology Short-Term Loan and Recycling Programs; coordinating the use of its training facility by various community programs. GSAT also serves as a major community resource for information on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Staff members are often called upon to perform ADA assessments on facilities and services. GET GUAM TELEWORKING (GGT) ACCESS TO TELEWORK FUND PROGRAM Funding Source: National Institute on Disabilities Rehabilitation & Research (NIDRR) Funding support was secured through a grant award from the National Institute on Disabilities Rehabilitation & Research to establish this program that offers affordable financial loans to help individuals with disabilities purchase equipment to enable them to telework. Telework is defined as “paid employment that is regularly performed at a place other than the employer’s office or place of business, such as a worker’s home or a Telework center. Collaborative partnerships were formed with the University of Guam’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the Bank of Guam in the creation of a GGT Micro-Credit Board. with the majority membership of individuals with disabilities. Technical assistance was provided to the SBDC to assist them in working with individuals with disabilities seeking telework. Other activities included publication of the program, collaboration with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Client Assistance Program, and assisting recipients in developing skills in the use of computers and related technology. Photos with captions: Jim Frechterman, Mike Terlaje, Donna McNear, & June De Leon facilitate the CIMAP Leadership Team meeting on February 19, 2008. Joseph Mendiola, CEDDERS staff, demonstrates an assistive technology device to a consumer during the 2007 GSAT AT Fair. Page 22 INCLUSIVE COMMUNITIES Continued Guam Options for Alternative Loans Assistive Technology (GOAL-AT) Funding Source: National Institute on Disability Rehabilitation and Research (NIDRR) The GOAL-AT Program was established to provide funding support to implement alternative financing mechanisms for assistive technology to assist individuals with disabilities maximize their independence and participation in our community. Given that Guam is not entitled to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and funding caps for Medicaid preclude the provision of waivers, this much-needed project established a program to finance alternatives to the traditional payment options of public assistance and self-financing for equipment and services. Activities over the past two years focused on establishing a Board, drafting policies and procedures, and selecting a lending institution to administer the fund. Twenty-five GOAL-AT loans were approved as of June 2008. Photos with captions: Bill Fuppul (left) took advantage of the Get Guam Teleworking (GGT) Loan Program to set up his translating business in his home. Through the support of GGT, he was able to purchase a laptop computer and printer. The GOAL-AT Loan Program provided the opportunity for 25 consumers to acquire assistive technology to help them in their daily living. Linda Leon Guerrero (center) purchased a motorized scooter, while Catherine McDonald used her loan to purchase hearing aids. The PAC6 “Executive Chefs” kept the fires hot and were “cooking” up a storm during the Palau Institute held on January 7-11, 2008. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), U.S.DOE, conducted the first on-site verification/monitoring visit to the Federated States of Micronesia. Page 23 DEVELOPED PRODUCTS Core • I Tellai Quarterly Newsletters • I Linala-ta Consumer Newsletters • 2006 Annual Report • 2007/2008 Biennial Report • Guam CEDDERS Brochure Guam EHDI • “Can My Baby Hear” Informational Brochure • “What Do You Do Next” Informational Brochure • Hearing Screening Awareness Advertisement • Hearing & Speech Development Brochure • Hearing & Speech Milestone Poster • FAQs for Healthcare Professionals Handbook In Collaboration with the Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse • Project I Famagu’on-ta Our Children) Information Brochure • I Famagu’on-ta Guam System of Care Evaluation Brief • 2007 Guam’s System of Care Comprehensive Training Plan In Collaboration with Department of Public Health and Social Services • Nene News Quarterly Newsletters • “Gross Motor IS NOT GROSS!” Video • Project Tinituhon Brief, Poster, & Brochure GATE Project • 2007 Guam Action Plan for the Coordination of Human Services Transportation In Collaboration with Guam Public School System • Project Håtsa Informational Brochure & Posters • Project Håtsa Highlights Newsletters • Project Håtsa 2006-2007 Annual Report PDN Supplement Insert • Project Håtsa 2007-2008 Annual Report PDN Supplement Insert • Project Håtsa Mentor & Pilot Program Brochures • Project Håtsa Mentor Toolkit • Directory of Services • GEIS Family Guidebook • Child Find 30 Second Video Ad • Special Education Transition Services 30 Second Video Ad GSAT Products • Guam Option for Alternative Loans—Assistive Technology (GOAL-AT) Brochure • Get Guam Teleworking (GGT) Brochure • GSAT Brochure • GOAL-AT Brochure • Quick ADA Guide Bookmark • In’s and Out’s of Assistive Technology • Visitability Brochure • Words with Dignity PAC6 Products • Pacific Basin Self Assessment Tool for American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Marshall Islands, & Palau Page 24 COLLABORATING PARTNERS Collaborating Universities 1) California State University, Northridge – Post Secondary Education Program Network for Students & Adults who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing 2) University of Kentucky - National Alternate Assessment Center; Center on Inclusive Large Scale Standards & Assessments 3) University of Minnesota - Natl Center on Educational Outcomes, Institute on Community Integration 4) Kapiolani Community College - Gallaudet University Outreach Center 5) University of New Hampshire - Center on Disability Studies 6) University of Oregon - Western Regional Resource Center 7) University of California, Santa Cruz - New Teacher Center 8) San Jose State University 9) Vanderbilt University - Center on Social Emotional Development & Early Learning 10) University of Hawaii - Ctr on Disability Studies; Leadership in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities 11) University of Vermont – Center on Disability and Community Inclusion 12) Utah State University- National Center on Hearing Assessment & Management 13) University of Maine, Center for Community Inclusion & Disabilities Studies 14) University of New Mexico - Center for Disability and Development 15) University of Delaware, Center for Disabilities Studies 16) Dartmouth University Medical School 17) University of Colorado, Boulder 18) University of Illinois, Chicago - Monarch Center 19) San Diego State University, Interwork Institute 20) Howard University 21) Virginia Commonwealth University 22) University of North Carolina — Frank Porter Graham Institute, National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center 23) Guam Community College Other Collaborators 1) American Academy of Pediatrics 2) Center for Applied Special Technology 3) Center for Teacher Quality, Washington, D.C. 4) Beneficient Technology 5) Council for Chief State School Officers 6) Health Systems Research, Inc. 7) Community Transportation Assoc of America 8) Kapiolani Women’s & Children’s Hospital 9) Natl Board for Professional Teacher Standards 10) Interstate New Tchr Assessment & Support Consortium 11) Natl Infant & Toddler Child Care Initiative @ Zero to Three 12) Mid-Continent Research for Education & Learning, CO 13) Natl Association for the Education of Young Children 14) Natl Instructional Materials Accessibility Standards, TA Center 15) United We Ride Program, Easter Seals 16) Natl Child Care Information and TA Center 17) Natl Instruction Materials Accessibility Center 18) Natl Staff Development Council 19) Natl Center for SpEd Accountability & Monitoring 20) Rehabilitation Engineers of North America 21) MacroInternational, Inc. 22) Pacific Resources for Education & Learning 23) Assoc for Persons in Supported Employment 24) Teaching Strategies, Inc. Guam Collaborating Partners 1) 50 Licensed Private Day Care Centers 2) Agency for Human Resources Development 3) Catholic Social Services 4) Guam Legal Services Corporation Disability Law Center 5) Parents Reaching Out for Children Experiencing Emotional Disabilities (PROCEED) 6) Dept of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities 7) Guam Developmental Disabilities Council 8) Dept of Administration 9) Guam Medical Society 10) Guam Legislature 11) Dept of Labor 12) Guam Memorial Hospital Authority 13) Guam Public School System 14) Dept of Mental Health & Substance Abuse 15) Head Start 16) Guam Identifies Families’ Terrific Strengths 17) Dept of Public Health & Social Services 18) Office of the Governor 19) Guam Child Care Development Association 20) Dept. of Public Works 21) Parent Information Resource Center (PIRC) 22) Guam Small Business Development Center 23) Dept of Youth Affairs 24) Sanctuary, Inc. 25) Guam Housing & Urban Renewal Authority 26) Guam Early Learning Council 27) Sagua Mañagu Birthing Center 28) Guma’ Mami, Inc. 29) Guam Salvation Army 30) Superior Court of Guam 31) Mayors’ Council 32) Guam Community College 33) KGTF/TV 12 34) Dept of Defense Educational Activity 35) Guam Interagency Coordinating Council 36) Educational Developmental Intervention Services, U.S. Naval Hospital, 37) Guam People Reaching Out for Advocacy (PROA) Page 25 FUNDING Pie charts: FY2006/2007 July 1, 2006 – June 30, 2007 $7,024,005 Local Agencies: 51%, $3,553,460 Regional: 6%, $443,827 Federal: 42%, $2,950,425 Other: 1%, $76, 293 FY2007/2008 July 1, 2007-June 30, 2008 $10,628,468 Local Agencies: 40%, $4,211,058 Regional: 4%, $383,493 Federal: 56%, $6,008,917 Other: .005%, $25,000 Guam CEDDERS Representation on Councils, Boards, Committees 1) Advocates for Persons with Disabilities 2) Project Success Advisory Council, SDSU 3) Guam Community College Education Dept 4) Advisory Council Guam Advisory Panel for Students with Disabilities 5) Governor’s Guam Early Learning Council 6) Civilian Military Task Force Education Committee 7) Guam Coalition Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence 8) Guam Homeless Coalition 9) Guam Developmental Disabilities Council 10) Head Start Advisory Council, Health Committee 11) Guam System of Care Council 12) Guam Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC) 13) Guam Transportation Commission 14) Placement Review Team (DMHSA & DISID Court Injunction) 15) Guam Tri-Agency Council 16) Pacific Islands Micro Credit Institute 17) Life Teen Youth Ministry 18) Traumatic Brain Injury Consortium 19) San Dimas Religious Education Committee 20) Dept of Labor Workforce Development Committee 21) UOG School of Education, Dean Search Committee 22) UOG Board of Regents Nominating Council 23) UOG UET: Unibetsidåt Eksalente Team 24) UOG Administrative Council 25) UOG Federal Partnerships Committee 26) UOG IISTF Institutional Integrity Sustainability Task Force 27) UOG WASC Institutional Committee 28) UOG WASC Land Grant Subcommittee Chair Photo with caption: Guam CEDDERS Staff, May 2008 Page 26 The CEDDERS Team Teaching, Research, Outreach, & Administrative Staff Heidi San Nicolas, PhD, Director & Professor Maria Luisa D. Benavente, ACSW, Training Associate/Evaluator, CMHI Initiative Patricia Bennett, Project Håtsa Program Coordinator Elizabeth Borja, MBA, Research Associate Bonnie Brandt, MEd, Lead Evaluator, CMHI Rosemarie B. Camacho, MA, Training Associate Celine Carbullido, MA, Training Associate Carmelita Ogo Connelley, Training Associate Lydia Cooper, Research Associate June De Leon, MEd, Associate Director Elaine Eclavea, MEd, Health, Wellness, & Prevention Initiative Area Coordinator Terrie Fejarang, MEd, Associate Director Nieves Flores, EdD, Community Services & Training Core Faculty, Associate Professor, Project Håtsa Director Emma Gillan, BA, Research Associate Asuncion Guerrero, MEd, Training Associate Gayle Hendricks, PhD, Project Håtsa Program Coordinator Mary Kidd, MEd, Training Associate Brenda Leon Guerrero, MEd, Administrator/Consumer Leadership & Systems Change Initiative Area Coordinator Vince Leon Guerrero, MSW, Project Håtsa Evaluator Jonas Macapinlac, MBA, Media Specialist Joseph Mendiola, BA, Data Coordinator +Kerina Oshiro, MA/MPH, Training Associate Ginger Porter, MEd, Training Associate June Quitugua, MEd, Inclusive Communities Initiative Area Coordinator Victoria Ritter, BA, GEHDI Screening Technician/GEHDI Velma Sablan, PhD, Research & Dissemination Core Faculty, Associate Professor/Project Fo’na Director Mike Terlaje, BS, Assistive Technology Specialist Keith Villaluna, BBA, Data Coordinator Aline Yamashita, PhD, Project Håtsa Program Coordinator Support Staff Stacia Borja, Office Technician Jessica L. Camacho, Interviewer Dolores Cruz ,Grant Budget Specialist Greg Dirige, Office Technician Elizabeth Ficke, Center Assistant Indira Kazuma, Office Technician Margaret Johnson, AS, Data & Developed Products Assistant Ruth Leon Guerrero, Office Technician Lolita Leon Guerrero, Interviewer Jef Limtiaco, Grant Assistant Cecile Olandez, Center Specialist Krystal Perez, Office Technician Dolores Palomo, AT Center Assistant Thilani Peredo, Office Technician Candice Perry, Center Assistant Elaine Roberto, Interviewer Charlene Salinas, Office Technician June Timpe, Grant Assistant Marie Sgambelluri, Office Technician Student Office Assistants/Graduate Assistant Gabrielle Angoco Travis Brown David Camacho Patrick Carlos Luana Concepcion Gabby Fejeran Allyson Iseke (Graduate) Alan Jamison Jordan Jugo Ekolu Leon Guerrero Ed Poppe Nathan Taimanglo The University of Guam is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider. Page 27 Back Cover Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (Guam CEDDERS) University of Guam Office of Academic and Student Affairs UOG Station, Mangilao, Guam 96923 Phone: 671.735.2480 TTY/TDD: 671.734.6531 Fax: 671.734.5709 www.guamcedders.org