I TELLAI The Bridge Guam CEDDERS Newsletter Volume 19, Issue 1 December 23, 2016 ADOS-2 Cohort 1 Earns Certification The Division of Special Education announces that all Cohort #1 early intervention and special education personnel, representing an interdisciplinary team, received their Western Psychological Services (WPS) Certificate of Completion for meeting all training requirements to administer, score, and interpret the ADOS-2. Yolanda Gabriel, Assistant Superintendent, Division of Special Education, stands proudly with the Cohort #1 members (pictured L-R): Gajee Parsons, Early Intervention Provider; Nicole Duenas, Speech Pathologist; Ms. Gabriel; Marita Gogue, School Psychologist; and Jessica Atoigue, Consulting Resource Teacher - Technical Assistance Provider. Cohort #1 member not shown is Tricia Taitague, Emotional Disabilities Program Coordinator. Guam CEDDERS congratulates the Guam Department of Education (GDOE), Division of Special Education Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) Cohort #1 members for completing the Western Psychological Services (WPS) continuing education activity, which included a written examination, to serve as a provider who can administer the ADOS-2. In addition to the WPS training program, GDOE provided additional support to Cohort #1 in developing the competencies to administer, score, and interpret the ADOS-2 for identifying children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Through a contract with GDOE, Division of Special Education, Guam CEDDERS partnered with University of Southern California, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (USC-CHLA) to facilitate a comprehensive Autism assessment training to enhance the capacity of GDOE Early Intervention and Special Education providers in identifying and assessing children with ASD. The training included two 5-day on-site visits and off-site consultation by USC-CHLA’s Irina Zamora, Psy.D. with Cohort #1, an interdisciplinary team comprised of GDOE Early Intervention and Special Education providers. The on-site training included detailed examples and hands-on activities on the administration, scoring, and interpretation of the ADOS-2 following the WPS DVD clinical training. The off-site consultation included individual consultation between visits with Dr. Zamora and each Cohort #1 member to ensure increased knowledge and skills in conducting comprehensive ASD assessments. The ADOS-2 allows the provider to accurately assess and diagnose ASD across age, developmental level, and language skills beginning at 12 months of age through adulthood (www.wpspublish.com). ADOS-2 is considered the “gold standard” instrument for observational assessment of ASD. In this issue: ADOS-2 Cohort 1 Earns Certification............................1-2 Pacific Partners Recognized NASDSE Conference.............2 Guam CEDDERS Provides TA on SSIP................................3 EPICS Scholars Meet Face to Face....................................4 MSAA Student Results Disseminated to Schools..............5 More Child Care Personnel Receive ASQ-3 Training..........6 Project Bisita I Familia Updates.....................................7 Guam CEDDERS Projects Participate in Outreach Event....8 Project Kariñu Stakeholder Summit...............................8 iDBSS Presented to Guam Early Learning Council............9 Guam CEDDERS at AUCD Territories Meeting....................9 Guam EHDI Meets with GMHA /Procreate & Guam EHDI..10 Guam EHDI Makes Good Progress.................................11 CNMI SSIP Technical Assistance Visit.............................12 Documents Reflect Important CLASP Milestones...........12 Guam CEDDERS Presents Books to SRCHC......................13 Parents and Students Engage in Transition Training.....13 GSAT Model Home Opens.............................................14 GCC Students attend AT Demo/Self-Advocate Checks out AT Devices.......................15 Committee Plans GSAT Conference and Fair..................15 GSAT Advisory Council General Membership Meeting.....16 GDDC Swears In New Members.....................................16 NDEAM Conference Meeting/Proclamation...................17 UOG Student Interns at Guam CEDDERS........................18 New Products.............................................................18 Guam CEDDERS Staffers Assume New Roles...................19 New Research Associate Joins Guam CEDDERS Team......19 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS..................................20 Save the Date: AT Fair and Conference..........................20 Logo: UNIVERSITY OF GUAM Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service Continued on page 2 ADOS-2 Cohort 1 (cont. from page 1) With the success of GDOE’s Cohort #1, the partnership with USC-CHLA will continue with Dr. Zamora to train a second cohort of up to 10 GDOE Early Intervention and Special Education providers to administer, score, and interpret the ADOS-2 for identifying young children as early as 12 months of age to school-age students with ASD. Dr. Zamora will conduct three on-site visits, with the first visit in January 2017, and provide individual consultation to each Cohort #2 member. In addition, Cohort #1 members will provide mentoring support to Cohort #2 members throughout the training activities. June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director, meets with USC-CHLA partners during the Annual University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) conference, on December 6th. Pictured L-R: Larry Yin, M.D., USC Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Keck School of Medicine and UCEDD Director; June De Leon; and Patrice Yasuda, Ph.D., Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, USC School of Medicine, and LEND Interdisciplinary Training Director. Pacific Partners Recognized NASDSE Conference Guam CEDDERS joins the Pacific family in congratulating our Pacific partner, the USDOE Office of Special Education Programs, for receiving the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) Martha J. Fields Award of Excellence on September 27 during the NASDSE Awards Ceremony. This award is presented to an individual or organization that has made extraordinary contributions to the NASDSE organization, its mission and goals. OSEP was given the award for its support of services to state agencies in facilitating efforts to maximize educational outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. Ruth Ryder, Acting Director, OSEP, with Gregg Corr, Division Director, Monitoring and State Improvement Planning (MSIP), OSEP, and Larry Wexler, Division Director, Research to Practice (RTP), were in attendance to accept the award. In addition, during the NASDSE Business Meeting, two Pacific Directors were recognized for their service as Directors of Special Education. Yolanda Gabriel, Guam Special Education Director, received a five-year service recognition, and Arthur Albert, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Special Education Director, was recognized for 10 years of service. Guam CEDDERS also joins NASDSE and the Pacific family in congratulating Yolanda and Arthur for their contributions as the Special Education Director of their respective entities. Photo of Pacific family with OSEP after the NASDSE Awards Ceremony on September 27. (L-R front row): June De Leon, Associate Director, Guam CEDDERS; Yolanda Gabriel, Assistant Superintendent, Division of Special Education, Guam; Ruth Ryder, Acting Director, OSEP; and Helen Sengebau, Special Education Program Coordinator, Republic of Palau Ministry of Education. (L-R, back row): Nora Pangelinan, Data Manager, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI); Suzanne Lizama, Special Education Director, CNMI; Larry Wexler, Division Director, RTP, OSEP; Gregg Corr, Division Director, MSIP, OSEP; Miyai Keller, Data Manager, FSM; Lucille De Leon Guererro, Data Specialist, CNMI; and Arthur Albert, Chief of Special Services Division, FSM. 2 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai Guam CEDDERS Provides TA on SSIP to Regional Partners June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director, provides technical support during the Republic of Palau State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) Core Team meeting on December 15. Pictured L-R Front Row: Gwen Rengiil, Special Education Specialist; Joyce Maldangesang, Special Education Specialist; Faith Swords, Chief of Curriculum, Instruction, & Materials Development; Helen Sengebau, Special Education Coordinator; June De Leon; Lovey Alfonso, Special Education Specialist; and Bill Rechelluul, Chief of Research & Evaluation. L-R Back Row: Ray Mechol, Chief of School Management; Rosa Lynne Florendo, Assistant Principal, Koror Elementary, ROP’s SSIP Target School; Janet Orrukem, Chief of Instruction & Teacher Training; and Stephanie Ngirchoimei, Special Education Specialist. Other team members not shown include: Curriculum and Training Specialists and Elementary and Secondary School Principal Representatives. (Left photo) On October 24, Guam school teams from the four Consolidated Grant State Systemic Improvement Plan (CGSSIP) project target elementary schools discuss next steps in the improvement science process. (Right photo) Nieves Flores, Ed.D., Guam CEDDERS Consultant (standing-right), observes as one team completes activity on identification of assessment tools in their school. CNMI SSIP Core Team take a photo break during the SSIP working sessions on October 27 & 28. Pictured L-R: Yvonne Pangelinan, Associate Commissioner, Student Supports; Paulette Sablan, Principal, San Vicente Elementary; Lynette Villagomez, Associate Commissioner, Accountability; Senator Quitugua; Jackie Quitugua, Associate Commissioner, Curriculum & Instruction; Leila Yumul, Principal, Garapan Elementary; Dr. Nieves Flores, Guam CEDDERS Consultant; Suzanne Lizama, Special Education Director; Naomi Nishimura, Principal WS Reyes Elementary; and Nora Pangelinan, Data Manager. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 3 EPICS Scholars Meet Face to Face EPICS scholars who attended the on-site “Meet and Greet” included: Seated L-R: Megan Merfalen, Tatiana Perez, Lisa Eclavea, Aileen Serrano, and Camille Gonzales. Standing L-R: Joseph Mendiola, John Payne, Christina Coles, Meagan Terlaje, Gabrielle Duenas, Diane Sapida, Lillian Reyes, Cassandra Dimla, Bobbie Obillo, and Arthur Abuda. Scholars also attending the meeting via WebEx were Jasmine Advani-Guam, David Gabriel – American Samoa, and from the CNMI – Ignacio Dela Cruz, Kathy Ruszala, and Tricia Taitano. San Jose State University faculty included Dr. Wendy Quach and Dr. Gloria Weddington. Terrie Fejarang, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director, facilitated the event. (Left photo) Dr. Wendy Quach, San Jose State University faculty and EPICS Co-PI is shown at the top of this screen shot in WebEx responding to a question. Also shown are (clockwise middle left): Dr. Quach, Dr. Weddington (partially hidden), Kathy Ruzala, Tricia Taitano, and Diane Sapida. (Right photo) (L-R): Dr. Quach and Terrie Fejarang met face to face for the first time at the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) Convention held on November 15-19 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There are some that say momentum builds when you are “in the zone” and is 90% of the game. This could be said about current participants who are definitely “in the zone” with the Educating Pacific Island Clinicians in Speech Language Pathology Program, also known as the EPICS Project. The intention of the project is to educate and produce graduate level speech pathologists from the U.S.- affiliated Pacific Island entities to meet the critical need of students for specialized speech and language services. A major factor that makes this program possible for participants in the region is that with the exception of required on-site practica, coursework is offered via online platforms. This also is an ideal approach to accommodate the work schedules of the students, the majority who are educational professionals, and individuals in sales, database management, and behavioral health. Funded through a personnel preparation grant from the US Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) awarded to San Jose’ State University (SJSU), in collaboration with Guam CEDDERS, initial recruitment began in June 2015. With the program now entering into its 16th month, the EPICS scholars, who come from a range of undergraduate backgrounds, have completed five pre-requisite courses and are now in the process of formally applying to SJSU’s graduate program. The 15 Guam-based scholars, who comprise the majority of students in the project, met face-to-face for the first time for a “meet and greet” session on November 5 on the University of Guam campus. The other scholars from American Samoa and Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) as well as Dr. Wendy Quach, EPICS SJSU Co-Principal Investigator (PI) and Dr. Gloria Weddington, SJSU Professor Emerita, also joined in via Skype. A lively discussion took place on program-related issues. Next steps include the delivery of “Aural Rehabilitation” during the Winter Quarter. Plans are also in the works for Dr. Quach to come to Guam mid-January to provide individual advisement for the scholars. The anticipated completion date for pre-requisite classes is Summer 2018, with graduate courses starting the following semester. 4 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai MSAA Student Results Disseminated to Schools As the Pacific Assessment Consortium (PAC6) liaison to the Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) consortium, Guam CEDDERS provided technical support to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Public School System and the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) in the dissemination of their respective district, school, and individual student reports for students with significant cognitive disabilities who took the Spring 2016 MSAA – Alternate Assessment based on Alternate Achievement Standards (AA-AAS). The MSAA is a comprehensive assessment system designed to promote increasing higher academic outcomes for students with significant cognitive disabilities in preparation for a broader array of post-secondary outcomes. The MSAA is designed to measure academic content that is aligned to and derived from each state’s content standards. On October 11, Guam CEDDERS’ June De Leon co-facilitated the Spring 2016 CNMI MSAA Results & Data Interpretation three-hour session with 45 elementary and secondary school administrators and teachers, including those teachers who served as the MSAA Test Administrators for the Spring 2016 MSAA – AA-AAS on-line system. CNMI’s district, school, and individual student results were reviewed, with considerations for improving the academic curricular and instructional practices for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Ms. De Leon co-facilitated GDOE’s three-hour sessions entitled “Spring 2016 Guam MSAA Results and Data Interpretation” with 34 elementary school administrators and teachers on October 27 and 17 secondary school administrators, teachers, and consulting resource teachers (CRTs) on October 31. These sessions included a review of Guam’s district, school, and individual student results for students with significant cognitive disabilities who took the MSAA – AA-AAS, and a review of national resources for improving academic instruction for these students. The introductory activity involved having participants meet other participants and gather responses to: What do we know about students taking the MSAA and what do we want to know about students taking the MSAA? (Pictured L-R) Special Education Teachers having fun while engaged in the introductory activity include Helene Cruz, Adacao Elementary; Joann Susuico, Marcial Sablan Elementary; Patty Castro, MU Lujan Elementary; and Eleanor Quichocho (standing behind Patty), Chief Brodie Elementary. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 5 More Child Care Personnel Receive ASQ-3 Training Project Tinituhon held training for Child Care Centers on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3), on October 15 at Guam CEDDERS. Vera Blaz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, facilitated the training. On December 3, Vera Blaz, Guam CEDDERS and Project Tinituhon Training Associate, facilitated training for Child Care personnel on the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3), a developmental screening tool used to celebrate milestones and identify delays. 6 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai Project Bisita I Familia Updates From September through November 2016, Project Bisita I Familia staff and families attended several training opportunities. Project Bisita is a Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program funded by the Human Resources and Services Administration and administered on Guam by the Department of Public Health and Social Services. Home Visitors provide FREE services using strategies that support women during pregnancy and after birth by promoting the importance of prenatal care, well-baby check-ups, help parents with positive parenting skills, and provide information about child development, health, and safety. The Bisita staff must attend trainings on specific topics that are required by their home visiting model, Healthy Families America. In September, Bisita staff attended an in-depth training on early brain development as well as developmental and behavioral screening. Personnel from Project Kariñu, which focuses on early childhood mental health supports, and Guam Early Intervention System staff were also invited to attend. In October, Bisita staff attended training on the Pyramid Model Positive Solutions for Families and Parents Interacting with Infants. These training sessions focused on social emotional development and positive parenting techniques. Nine Bisita parents attended a family training on Positive Solutions for families. Of the nine participants, four were fathers. Bisita staff also attended an online course on Challenges in Home Visiting: Substance Abuse. The course helped staff to become more familiar with substance abuse and techniques for working with families who have these type of issues. Bisita staff also hosted a Family Fun Day in October. The theme was Halloween and families came decked out in costumes. Families were able to interact with one another, take family photos, play games, and learn how to make slime. In November, Bisita staff attended an online course on Domestic Violence. The course helped staff with recognizing signs of domestic violence and strategies to use with families who are in such situations. The course also offered techniques for self-care for staff who encounter families in domestic violence situations. These activities were facilitated by Guam CEDDERS through a contract with the Department of Public Health and Social Services which administers Project Bisita, Guam’s Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. (Left photo) Project Bisita sponsored a “Bisita Family Day” on October 24 at the Pacific Star Resort Hotel. A musical chair scavenger hunt and face painting were a couple of activities available to parents and children during this fun-filled day. (Right photo) Nine parents from Project Bisita I Familia attended training on the Pyramid Model Positive Solutions for Families, Making a Connection and Making Things Happen, on Tuesday October 11 at the Pacific Star Hotel. Training was facilitated by Vera Blaz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate. Project Bisita held a Domestic Violence webinar on November 4 at Guam CEDDERS. Project Bisita and Kariñu staff members were in attendance. Vera Blaz, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, facilitated the webinar. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 7 Guam CEDDERS Projects Participate in Outreach Event (Left photo) Vera Blaz, CEDDERS Training Associate (left) shares information on the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) with parents of young children to determine the developmental status of their child across five developmental areas: communication, gross motor, problem solving, fine motor, and personal-social during the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair at the Micronesia Mall on October 29. (Right photo) Christina Jung, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate (seated at right), Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate (seated partially hidden), and Brittany Hipple, UOG Practicum Student (seated in the background), provide information on the milestones of hearing and speech in early development to mothers during the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair on October 29 at the Micronesia Mall. Project Kariñu Holds Stakeholder Summit On September 30, the Department of Public Health and Social Services, Project Kariñu, and the University of Guam CEDDERS held a Stakeholder Summit at the Westin Resort Guam to celebrate Project Kariñu’s successes over the last seven years. During the summit, participants reviewed and validated evaluation findings, and discussed the next steps as federal funding for Project Kariñu came to an end on September 30. 8 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai iDBSS Procedures Presented to Guam Early Learning Council Vera Blaz, Project Tinituhon Project Coordinator (third from left), presents the latest draft of the islandwide Developmental and Behavioral Screening System (iDBSS) standard operating procedures for endorsement by council members during the Guam Early Learning Council quarterly meeting on November 1 at the Governor’s Complex in Adelup. (L-R) Diana Calvo, Eloise Sanchez, Vera Blaz, Margarita Gay, and Linda Rodriguez. Guam CEDDERS Participates in AUCD Territories Meeting The Association of University Centers on Developmental Disabilities (AUCD) facilitated the third annual meeting with the University Centers on Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) leadership from the five U.S. Territories including American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands on December 7 in Washington, D.C. In addition to program updates, officials from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Services Resources Administration joined in the meeting to discuss strategies to address concerns relating to the Zika virus. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 9 Guam EHDI Meets with GMHA Personnel (Left photo) On November 10, Avelina “Bing” Opena (right), Guam Memorial Hospital Authority (GMHA) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nursing Supervisor, met with Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate and Guam Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI) Project Coordinator (left), on the progress of the hearing screenings conducted in the NICU. Further discussion focused on newborn hearing screening system sustainability. (Right photo) On November 10, Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate and Guam EHDI Project Coordinator, shares ideas with Renee Veksler, Guam Memorial Hospital (GMHA) Health Educator and Acting Program Coordinator of the Education Department, on future prenatal classes, EHDI services offered to expecting mothers, and system sustainability. Appearing in the photo are (L-R) Christina Jung, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate; Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate; and Renee Veksler, Guam Memorial Hospital (GMHA) Health Educator and Acting Program Coordinator of the Education Department. Procreate and Guam EHDI Promote the Importance of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Procreate, a specialty shop that caters to parents of newborns, recently developed a partnership with the Guam EHDI Project to promote the importance of Early Hearing Detection and Intervention to their loyal customers. Customers will be provided with Guam EHDI brochures which emphasize the importance of early hearing screening and intervention services. Shown above are (L-R): Elisa Arevalo, Procreate store owner; Tanya Robinson, Procreate store manager; and Marie Wusstig, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate and Guam EHDI Project Coordinator. 10 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai Guam EHDI Makes Good Progress Towards Systems Sustainability This last quarter was a very busy period for the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Project. Two new staff members, Marie Wusstig, Training Associate, and Christina Jung, Research Associate, hit the ground running on October 1. As the current funding period for Guam EHDI on Project Rikohi, is coming to an end on March 31, 2017, the EHDI team was given another opportunity to develop an application for the next cycle of funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resource Services Administration (HRSA) that was submitted on October 14. The new grant proposal focuses on increasing health professional’s engagement within and knowledge of the EHDI system, improving access to early intervention services and language acquisition, and improving family engagement, partnership, and leadership within the EHDI programs and systems. The EHDI team has been meeting with personnel from Guam Memorial Hospital Authority (GMHA) and the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) to discuss the transitioning of the Guam EHDI program orientation for expectant parents and the continuation of special outpatient hearing screenings from Guam EHDI staff to in house program staff. In addition, the Guam EHDI 3rd Quarterly Advisory Committee Meeting was held on Tuesday, December 13 and was well attended. Discussions highlighted data for the last quarter and updates on the status of infants and toddlers considered as “Lost to Follow Up” (LTF). The meeting was highly interactive as recommendations and opinions from the Committee were noted. Progress on system sustainability was noted and applauded as well. The Guam EHDI Advisory Committee held its quarterly meeting on December 13. Attending were: (Front Row, Left to Right) Pamela Sablan, Unit Supervisor NICU GRMC; Julia Flores; Joyce Tejeresas, Parent, Co-Chairperson; Renee Koffend, Aud., CCC-A, Guam CEDDERS Audiologist Consultant; Margarita Gay, Chairperson, Project Bisita I Familia Project Director; Valerie Meno, Head Nurse, Guam Memorial Hospital Authority (GMHA) Labor & Delivery; Bing Opena, Head Nurse, GMHA Nursery; and Ruth Sabangan, Head Nurse, GMHA NICU. (Back Row, Left to Right) Marivic Guiao, Head Nurse, GMHA OB Ward; Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero, Guam Champion Pediatrician; Glenda Leon Guerrero, Maternal Child Nurse Manager, Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC); Lina Leon Guerrero, Manager, Sagua Mañagu; Camille Glory, Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC); Terrie Fejarang, Project Coordinator, Guam EHDI; Britney Babauta, Unit Secretary Labor & Delivery, GRMC; Jenika Ballesta, Research Associate, Guam CEDDERS; Christina Jung, Research Associate, Guam CEDDERS; Lt. Kyle Shepard, Audiologist, United States Naval Hospital Guam; LeeAnn Santos, Speech-Language Pathologist EDIS; Edmund Cruz, Program Coordinator Parent Agency Network; JJ Mendiola, Interoperability Data Manager, Guam EHDI; and Marie Wusstig, Training Associate, Guam EHDI. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 11 CNMI SSIP Technical Assistance Visit (Left photo) On October 27, Elaine Eclavea, Guam CEDDERS Consultant, provided training and technical assistance on family coaching and strategies for documenting progress monitoring with the CNMI Part C State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) Core Team. The team also reviewed the child outcome data of the Part C SSIP – State Identified Measurable Results (SiMR). (Right photo) On October 28, Ms. Eclavea, Guam CEDDERS Consultant, conducted a presentation with the Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) staff on the early childhood outcomes measurement process. In addition, ECSE staff had the opportunity to review the child outcome data with specific data on length of service, age at entry, and types of disabilities that will be used to analyze and report on the Annual Performance Report Part B Indicator 7. Documents Reflect Important CLASP Milestones (Front row, left to right) Tisha Flores, DYA; Dorothy Manglona, GCC; and Kirsten Rosario, GCC. (Back row, left to right) Alex Silverio, DPHSS-GOMH; Ignacio Guerrero, GBHWC; Leilani Duenas, GCC-AHEC; Mariles Benavente, UOG CEDDERS-Project Kariñu; Maria Perez, GMHA; and Peter Alexis Ada, DYA. Members of CLASP (Culture and Language Access Services Partners) hold up documents reflecting key accomplishments reached by the CLASP coalition, which was formed in 2013 to promote awareness about Language Access Services. Among the documents shown are: a) a copy of the Executive Order signed by the governor requiring all government entities including boards andcommissions to develop Language Access Plans to address the language needs of its organizations as required by federal mandates and Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) Standards in Health and Health Care; b) a copy of “Beyond Mandates: Language Access Services in Guam,” a publication by Guam CEDDERS outlining the significance of LAS as a strategy to address disparities in services. The publication also documents local efforts to address language equity across the system of services on Guam; and, c) the PEACE Council packet with a cover letter from the Council that will be disseminated to all organizations informing them of the Executive Order and the resources available to help comply with the Executive Order. The next quarterly CLASP meeting will be held in February 2017. Please call 735-2489 for more information about CLASP and/or about Executive Order No. 2015-015. 12 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai Guam CEDDERS Presents Books to Southern Health Clinic On November 9, Jenika Ballesta (left) and Coleen Dela Cruz (not pictured), Guam CEDDERS staff, presented books to Dr. Weare, M.D. (right) at the Southern Region Community Health Center (SRCHC) as part of the Reach Out and Read Program. Parents and Students Engage in Transition Training Nieves Flores, Ed.D., Guam CEDDERS Consultant (standing), works with parents and students in grades 8th through 10th on identifying services needed to transition high school to post-secondary environments. Parents and their children in grades 8th through 10th complete an exercise during the parent transition training held at UOG. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 13 GSAT Model Home Opens As we grow older our demand for physical accommodations change. Many individuals, especially the aging population prefer to remain in their homes rather than being placed in nursing homes. In June 2015, the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Demonstrations Center opened its doors to a more interactive showroom to showcase a Model Home specifically designed for this population and individuals with special needs to live independently in their own home. The layout displays appliances that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other smart gadgets that can be activated at the touch of a button. Upon entering the living room, you can control the lighting from the Caseta Wireless Dimmer Switch by a mobile application called Lutron. Lighting controlled by the dimmer switches have varying intensity and can be used for safety and comfort. In the living room area, you will also find a mobility chair that helps you recline and stand with the aid of a couch cane. These two functions are controlled by a button that is attached to the chair, and makes it easy for an individual to be transferred from a wheelchair to the mobility chair. Adjacent is a side table with anamplification phone that announces a person calling and the numbers being dialed. This is ideal for individuals with visual impairments or have hearing impairments. A robotic vacuum cleaner, called the Roomba helps perform cleaning functions that are nearly impossible for a person who has mobility challenges. The kitchen area includes an ADA compliant refrigerator. The thermostat controls are below 54 inches, can be operable with one hand and requires less then 5lbs to activate. The appliance is positioned where the doors swing back fully at a 180 degree angle. Beside the refrigerator is a sink that provides ample space for a person in a wheelchair to approach and use a lever design faucet. The electric range, on the left side of the sink, features front mounted controls that are within reach and eliminates the risk of burns. The ADA requires maximum high forward reach for controls and operating mechanisms to be within 48” maximum and low forward reach of 15.” Also featured in the model home is an adjustable bed that can be elevated, lowered, and includes a massage function. This can benefit individuals who are experiencing back pain, sciatica, or arthritis. Controlled by a wireless remote, the adjustable bed makes it easier to get into and out of bed. Near the bed is a powered Hoyer Lift that helps transport a person who is unable to walk into bed or in the bathroom. On the bedside table is an Alertmaster that alerts you of incoming calls, if someone is at the door, or if motion is detected. It comes with a bed shaker or can be customized to include accessory options, like a motion sensor, audio transmitter, and personal signalers. A low dresser is best for individuals who use wheelchairs for easy access. On top of the dresser is a hairdryer holder for individuals who have limited use of their arms and hands. The adjustable desk is also recommended for a person in a wheelchair as it provides ample knee space, with height and tilt adjustable features. In this generation of advance technology, independent living is within reach through smart gadgets in assistive technology. Homes with smart appliances and furniture are becoming a trend internationally for convenience and easy living. Independence and safety can greatly be achieved through a fully automated home. Before we know it, we will be living like the Jetsons. GSAT Demo Center and Model Home Features. Requests for a demonstration can be made by calling GSAT staff at 735-2490 (v), 735 -2491 (v and TTY), or visit the GSAT website at www.gsatcedders.org. 14 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai GCC Students attend AT Demonstration Leah Abelon, GSAT Center Coordinator, conducted an Assistive Technology demonstration on November 9, for 32 students enrolled in American Sign Language Classes at Guam Community College taught by Jude Ogo and Kirsten Bamba. Students shown here are (L-R) Peejay Bout and Lawrence Hadley, checking out the Smartview Graduate. Self-Advocate Checks out AT Devices Pamela Aflleje (above) recently visited the GSAT Center to learn about various assistive technology devices available to individuals with visual impairments. She expressed appreciation to learn about the multitudes of AT options to assist in activities of daily living. Committee Plans GSAT Conference and Fair On November 15, GSAT Conference and Fair Planning Committee held its second meeting to discuss the upcoming conference and fair. In attendance were (Clockwise from top left), Ben Servino, DISID/DVR,DSS Director; Mary Kidd, GSAT Consultant; Evangelis Babauta, ASL Interpreter; Leah Abelon, GSAT Center Coordinator; Josie Cortez, Member; Evelyn Duenas, Member; Jennifer Vicente, Guam Legal Services Corporation – Disability Law Center (GLSC-DLC) Representative; Barbara Johnson, Vice-Chairperson; and Raymond Sayas, Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (GDDC) Representative. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 15 GSAT Advisory Council General Membership Meeting The Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Advisory Council held its General Membership meeting and elected new officers on October 18. (L-R, sitting) Tom Manglona, Member; Barbara Johnson, Vice-Chairperson; Rudy Ignacio, Chairperson; and Lou Mesa, Secretary. (L-R, standing) Christina Jung, Guam CEDDERS; Paula Ulloa, GDOE Representative; Dawn Maka, Member-at-Large; Evelyn Manibusan, DISID/DVR,DSS Representative; Ray Sayas, GDDC Representative; Leah Abelon, GSAT Center Coordinator; Jennifer Vicente, GLSC-DLC Representative; Naomi Sanchez, GLSC-DLC Representative, Mary Kidd, GSAT Consultant. Also attending were Terrie Fejarang, Guam CEDDERS; and Evangelis Babauta, Sign Language Interpreter. Initial planning for the 2017 Annual Assistive Technology Conference & Fair will begin on November 3. GDDC Swears In New Members On November 17, Joseph Mendiola, Guam CEDDERS Interoperability Data Manager (back row, far left), was sworn in as a new member of the Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (GDDC). The ceremony was held at the Lieutenant Governor’s office and conducted by Acting Governor Ray Tenorio. Mr. Mendiola was appointed for a four-year term by the Governor to the Council and will be representing Guam CEDDERS. 16 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Proclamation Signing & Conference On October 14, Lieutenant Governor Ray Tenorio signed a proclamation, declaring October “National Disability Employment Awareness Month.” The national theme this year is “#InclusionWorks.” The Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities Division of Vocational Rehabilitation hosted the NDEAM Conference at Hotel Nikko Guam on October 21, 2016. Other training opportunities and workshops were also scheduled to take place during the month. Guam CEDDERS provided a copy of the University of South Florida’s “Training Curriculum: Disability Awareness for Law Enforcement” to Airport Police Personnel during the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Conference held at the Hotel Nikko Guam on Friday, October 21. Shown above are (L-R): Christina Jung, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate; Kenneth Quenga, Airport Police Officer; and Pete Camacho, A.B. Won Pat International Airport Authority Planning Coordinator. December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 17 UOG Student Interns at Guam CEDDERS Photo: Brittany Hipple, University of Guam Student Hafa adai. My name is Brittany Hipple and I am currently a senior undergraduate student studying both Psychology and Sociology at the University of Guam (UOG). I have done two internships so far with the University of Guam, all of which had an emphasis on social supports. My first internship I was placed at ALEE Women and Children’s Shelter. I was able to work with women who were victims of family domestic violence or sexual assault and with children and adolescents who were victims of abuse or neglect. For my second internship, I was placed in the Guam Department of Education, Student Support Services Division. My primary task at this internship was working closely with students under Section 504 services, which essentially accommodated students with disabilities or with physical impairments. For my final semester, I chose Guam CEDDERS as I believe it aligns with my interests in social support services and programs aimed at bettering the quality of life of others. Throughout the duration of my internship I worked closely with the Guam Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (GEHDI) program under the guidance of Ms. Terrie Fejarang and Mr. Joseph Mendiola. I was given the task of updating GEHDI’s Standard Operating Procedures and throughout this process I was able to learn about the hearing screening procedures done throughout the birthing sites here for Guam’s infants. I was also able to work briefly with Guam System of Assistive Technology (GSAT) under Ms. Leah Abelon regarding assistive technology tools that are available to individuals with disabilities here on Guam through helping her update GSAT’s inventory database. Furthermore, I was given the opportunity to attend meetings and outreach events that gave me more exposure outside of the Guam CEDDERS office. In closing, my internship has been an insightful experience and I feel that I have a better understanding of the services provided to those with disabilities here on Guam. Although my internship lasted only a month, I feel more confident and have a basic understanding of the services that I was exposed to during my time here, which is applicable to my interest in pursuing a career directed at social services. I am glad I chose Guam CEDDERS as my final internship here at the University of Guam and will use the experience I have gained in my future endeavors. Thank you CEDDERS for having me! New Products Cover page: Project KariñuFinal Evaluation Report Image: New Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) Website 18 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai Guam CEDDERS Staffers Assume New Roles (L-R) Leah Abelon, Research Associate; and Marie Wusstig, Training Associate. Two Guam CEDDERS personnel recently assumed new roles in the organization. Leah Abelon, B.A., formerly the Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Center Assistant for five years, was promoted to a Research Associate and is in charge of facilitating the day to day operations of the GSAT Center. Marie Wusstig, M.Ed., formerly a part time Family Interviewer on the Project Kariñu Evaluation Team, moved into a Training Associate position and is responsible for the day to day operations for the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) Project supported through a Health Services Resource Administration (HRSA) grant. Congratulations Leah and Marie on your new jobs and responsibilities! New Research Associate Joins Guam CEDDERS Team Christina (Tina ) Jung, B.S., joined the Guam CEDDERS Team as a Research Associate on October 1, 2016. She is currently assigned to facilitate hearing screening and follow up activities under the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) grant. Tina is also assisting in facilitating the alternative loan programs under the GSAT Center. Welcome Aboard, Tina! Logo: University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS) Newsletter Guam CEDDERS Office of Graduate Studies,Sponsored Programs, & Research University of Guam 303 University Drive Mangilao, Guam 96913 Phone: (671) 735.2480/1 Fax: (671) 734.5709 TTY: (671) 734.6531 Email: heidi.sannicolas@guamcedders.org I Tellai is a quarterly publication of Guam CEDDERS. Director: Heidi San Nicolas, Ph.D. Editors: Terrie Fejarang, & June De Leon Layout & Design: Sherry Guerrero This issue of I Tellai was made possible by contributions from the following Guam CEDDERS staff members/consultant: Leah Abelon, Jenika Ballesta, Mariles Benavente, Vera Blaz, Bonnie Brandt, June De Leon, Terrie Fejarang, Sherry Guerrero, Christina Jung, Joseph Mendiola, Keith Villaluna, and Marie Wusstig. Alternative formats (e.g. Braille, large print, or audiotapes) of I Tellai will be made available upon request. Please contact Coleen Dela Cruz at (671) 735.2477 (v), (671) 735.6531 (TTY), or (671) 734.5709 (fax) for more information. The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai 19 CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service DEC 16 Dec 1 GSAT Conference and Fair Planning Committee Meeting, 3:30pm-5:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 3 Project Tinituhon: ASQ-3 Training for Child Care Centers, 9:00am-12:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 5 Part C Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE) Meeting, 8:00am-12:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 5-6 Skype Sessions with Irina Zamora with ADOS-2 Cohort 2, 9:00am-12:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 6-7 CNMI Technical Assistance Visit Dec 13 Guam Early Hearing Detection & Intervention (EHDI) Advisory Committee Meeting, 11:00am-3:00pm, Dusit Thani Guam Dec 14 Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (GDDC) General Membership Meeting, 11:00am-2:00pm, Hilton Guam Resort & Spa Dec 14 Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council Meeting, 3:30pm-5:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 14-15 Palau Technical Assistance Visit Dec 15 State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) Training, 12:00pm-4:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Dec 17 Part B Stakeholder Meeting, 9:00am-12:00pm, Chief Brodie Elementary School Dec 19-21 CNMI Part B Meeting, 8:00am-5:00pm, Guam CEDDERS, House 18, UOG Dec 19-20 CNMI Part C Meeting, 8:00am-5:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG JAN 17 Jan 9-13 ADOS Cohort 2 Training with Irina Zamora, 8:00am-4:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 9 Part C Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC) Meeting, 4:00pm-6:00pm, University of Guam, School of Education Jan 10 GSAT Advisory Council Executive Meeting, 3:00pm-4:30pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 11 Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) School-wide Information System (SWIS) Training, 12:00pm-4:00pm, UOG, Computer Center Rm. 107A/107B Jan 16-19 Site Visit by Dr. Wendy Quach, CCC-SLP, EPICS Project Director Jan 16 Guam-based EPICS Scholars Meeting with Dr. Wendy Quach, 9:00am-11:00am, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 16 EPICS Scholars Individual Meetings with Dr. Quach, 1:00pm-5:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 17 SSIP Training with the Four Pilot Schools, 8:00am-4:00pm, Guam Hilton Resort & Spa Jan 17 SLP Presentation for GDOE, 1:00pm-3:00pm, Chief Brodie Elementary School Jan 18 Meeting with Dr. Quach and DOE Speech Language Pathologists Jan 19 Meeting with Saipan-based EPICS Scholars Jan 21 ASQ-3 Training, 9:00am-12:00pm, Infant of Prague Catholic School Jan 24 GSAT Advisory Council General Membership Meeting, 3:30pm-5:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 25 Guam Early Learning Council Quarterly Meeting, 8:00am-12:00pm, Governor’s Office, Large Conference Room Jan 25 Pacific Island Microcredit Institute (PIMI) Loan Review Committee Meeting, 12:00pm-1:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 27 LTSAE Meeting, 8:00am-11:30am, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Jan 27 Part C Training, 12:00pm-3:00pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG FEB-MAR 17 Feb 12 EPICS Meeting, 1:30pm-3:30pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG Feb 22 Vision Instruction Webinar by Donna McNear: Focus on Assistive Technology, 8:00am Feb 24 LTSAE Meeting, 8:00am-5:00pm, School of Business and Public Administration Room 129, UOG Mar 8 Guam Developmental Disabilities Council (GDDC) General Membership Meeting, 11:00am-2:00pm, TBA Mar 10 Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council Meeting, 4:00pm-5:00pm, The Westin Resort Guam Mar 12 Educating Pacific Island Clinicians in Speech-Language Pathology (EPICS) Meeting, 1:30pm-3:30pm, GSAT, House 19, Dean Circle, UOG For more information on any of these events, please call 735-2479 or visit www.guamcedders.org Save the Date March 4 The Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) Planning Committee has scheduled the 2017 GSAT Fair for March 4, 2017 and the GSAT Conference for March 10, 2017. AT Fair 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Micronesia Mall, Center Court March 10 AT Conference 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Westin Resort Guam. For more information, please contact Leah Abelon at 735-2490 or visit the GSAT website at www.gsatcedders.org. 20 December 2016 Guam CEDDERS Newsletter I Tellai