I Tellai, The BRIDGE
Guam CEDDERS Newsletter 
September 13, 2013 
Volume 15, Issue 4

 In this issue: 
Guam CEDDERS Receives Core Grant Award...1-2 
CNMI PSS Opens School Year............................2-3 
CNMI EarIy Intervention Prof. Development........3 
GEIS Professional Development..........................4 
GEIS Public Awareness Products........................4 
GEIS Webinar Series on EI Topics Started..........5 
Disabilities Studies Course Piloted.......................5 
CLC in Behavioral Health.....................................6-8 
GDOE SpEd Orientation.......................................9 
School Readiness Plan Jump Starts...................10 
Tele-audiology Hosts Debrief Session ...............11 
GDOE Audiometrists Get Training......................11 
FSM Interagency Conference........................... 12-13 
Pacific VIP Scholar Awarded Scholarship..........13 
Guam EHDI Conducts Conference .................. 14-15 
Early Childhood Topics Covered at Palau TA.....16 
Project Kariñu & GSAT Briefs Now Available.....16 
Guam ELC Products Available...........................17 
Transitions: Guam CEDDERS Staff .................18 
UH MSW Grad Student Practicum....................19 
Guam CEDDERS Annual Report Available.......19 
Calendar of Upcoming Events...........................20

Pages 1-2

 Guam CEDDERS Receives Core Grant Award 
The University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service, better known as Guam CEDDERS, is pleased to announce that the organization received a “Notice of Award† in July in response to the grant application it submitted in February of this year to support its “Core† operations. Awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD), the grant award, totaling approximately $2.6 million, will provide funding support over the next five years for Guam CEDDERS to continue the important work of facilitating efforts to improve services and supports for people with disabilities and their families. 

As indicated in the application Work Plan, the goals and objectives in this cycle of the grant, which covers the period of Fiscal Year 2014-2018, are organized under eight “Core Functions† and an additional focus to address the leveraging of resources (see box on page 1). 

Biba Guam CEDDERS! Biba UOG! as Guam CEDDERS continues the journey and strives to fulfill its mission to “create pathways to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities and their families.†

Text in colored box:
 FY2014 - 2018 Core Grant Goals 
Goal 1: To increase the number of skilled Guam CEDDERS long-term trainees through pre-service preparation in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities/intellectual disabilities (DD/ID) and family members from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds as key personnel for curriculum development, course delivery, mentorship, presentations, and practicum experiences. 

Goal 2: To expand the knowledge base and maintain credentials of skilled professionals through continuing education programs in partnership with individuals with DD/ID and family members from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds as key personnel for curriculum development, course delivery, mentorship, presentations, and practicum experiences. 

Goal 3: Increase inclusion in all aspects of community life for individuals with DD/ID and their families through training that enhances the knowledge and skills of a variety of community members to minimize disparities, increase access, and enrich daily living. 

Goal 4: Increase inclusion through technical assistance and direct problem solving services that enhance the knowledge and skills of a variety of community agencies/organizations that improve their outcomes, services, management, and/or policies. 

Goal 5: Increase the quality of life for individuals with DD/ID through model services that enhance the well-being and status of individuals with disabilities. 

Goal 6: Increase inclusion in all aspects of community life for individuals with DD/ID and their families through demonstration services that test promising or exemplary services/practices. 

Goal 7: To increase the number and quality of research activities, public policy analyses, and evaluation studies that engage culturally and linguistically diverse individuals with DD/ID and their families in the design and analysis of research/evaluation that supports the expansion of knowledge, the efficacy of supports, and the development of public policy. 

Goal 8: To increase public awareness of prioritized, emerging disability issues utilizing a wide range of accessible multi-media formats to facilitate positive outcomes for individuals with DD/ID and their families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. 

Goal 9: To increase external resources to conduct and compliment the CORE functions of Guam CEDDERS.

Page 2-3
CNMI PSS Opens School Year Emphasizing “All Students First!†
“Supports for ALL Students First!† was the theme of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Public School System (CNMI PSS) Special Education (SpEd) Program Orientation session on August 27 at the World Resort in Saipan. June De Leon and June Quitugua, Guam CEDDERS staff, provided technical support during the session attended by over 100 school and special education administrators, teachers, teacher aides, and related service personnel. 

Dr. Rita Sablan, CNMI PSS Commissioner of Education, opened the session by welcoming all participants and providing encouragement and support for the start of the new school year. Presentations began with Suzanne Lizama, CNMI SpEd Director; Nora Pangelinan, CNMI SpEd Data Manager; and Laura Brown, CNMI SpEd Assistant Coordinator reporting on the PSS Individual School Data Reports and compliance issues. Ms. De Leon followed, presenting on IDEA State Determinations, Results Driven Accountability (RDA), and the Learner Characteristics Inventory (LCI) related to the CNMI SpEd Program. After lunch, Lizelle Ameriz, Special Education, Alternate Assessment Coordinator, and Ms. Quitugua, presented on accessing the National Center and State Collaborative (NCSC) instructional resources, introducing participants to two of the resources on graduated understandings. 

As a result of this orientation, there will be follow-up sessions conducted on the additional NCSC resources available for teachers of students with significant cognitive disabilities in the CNMI.

Page 2
Photo with caption:
Lizelle Ameriz, PSS Alternate Assessment Specialist, walks-through the “Goal Book† website with teachers, highlighting the features of using the app to develop IEPs, identify instructional strategies and incorporate universal design for learning (UDL) principles in the classroom instruction.


Bulleted text in colored box:
CNMI PSS Special Education: Support ALL Students First!
Purpose: To provide an opportunity for school teams to reflect on the priorities for academic programming for students with significant cognitive disabilities. 

Outcomes: As a result of the one-day professional development, school teams will have: 
• increased understanding of the Results-Driven Accountability (RDA) priority; 
• increased understanding of the learner characteristics of students requiring an alternate assessment based on alternate achievement standards (AA-AAS); and 
• increased understanding of how to access the National Center and State Collaborative (NCSC) resources for improving academic teaching and learning for students requiring an AA-AAS.

Page 3
Photos with captions:
CNMI PSS Opens School Year 
Special education staff and teachers work together using the NCSC math resources to find the “instructional family† and learning progressions from a 6th grade math lesson plan. 

Suzanne Lizama, CNMI PSS Special Education Director, answers questions from teachers on the administration of the alternate assessment based on the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).

CNMI Early Intervention Staff Attend Two-Day Training
Elaine Eclavea, Guam CEDDERS Initiative Area Coordinator, provided on-site technical assistance and training for the CNMI Public School System Early Intervention (EI) Program on August 26-27. During the visit, she conducted presentations on Results Driven Accountability, Early Childhood Outcomes, infant reflexes, and Procedural Safeguards. Shown above are the staff of the Early Intervention Program. (L-R): Jonisa Deleon Guerrero (EI Teacher), Bea Haley (EI Teacher), Pennie Mathias (Occupational Therapist), Ann Marie Satur (Service Coordinator), Kristina Hayes (Speech/Language Teacher), Doris Itibus (Service Coordinator), Robin Lizama Palacios (Interim EI Coordinator), Severo Siasoyco (Physical Therapist), Janelle Cepeda (Data Manager), Peter Mendiola (EI Teacher).

Page 4
Photo with caption:
“Coaching Families† Addressed in EI Training
Guam CEDDERS, through a subcontract with the Department of Education, Division of Special Education - Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS), facilitated a GEIS staff professional development training on “Coaching in the Natural Learning Environment,† and “Developing High-Quality, Functional Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) Outcomes.† Elaine Eclavea, Health, Wellness, and Prevention Initiative Area Coordinator for Guam CEDDERS, facilitated the training which took place on August 20, 8:00am - 3:00pm at the Westin Guam Resort. The training focused on the different coaching techniques providers can use to support the families they serve. A team approach to coaching colleagues was also discussed. Other training features focused on how to support the development of functional outcomes during the IFSP process. This training is an ongoing process to help support the professional development for GEIS providers.


GEIS Sponsors Public Awareness Products
Over the last ten months, Guam CEDDERS has worked closely with the staff of the Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS), Division of Special Education, Guam Department of Education, to develop materials and resources aimed at increasing public awareness of early intervention services and supports. Five 30-second TV and radio spots, targeting parents to arrange for developmental screening if they have concerns about their child’s development, have been finalized and are currently being broadcast on several TV and radio stations. Several print ads designed by Guam CEDDERS staff have also been appearing in various print outlets. 

A board book, titled, Look what I Can Do! featuring local children engaging in various actions, has been delivered to GEIS for dissemination to families and at outreach activities. Other products in the works include a book on “Learning Opportunities† and short five-minute videos on the importance of early intervention and parent testimonials on early intervention services. 

All GEIS public awareness products are made possible through a contract between Guam CEDDERS and the Guam Department of Education GEIS IDEA Part C grant.

Photos with caption:
Top right: In partnership with the Guam Early Intervention System, Guam CEDDERS produced a 12-page board book, “Look what I Can Do!† featuring actions by toddlers. Bottom, (L-R): Shown here are still shots from three of the 30-second video ads publicizing the importance of early intervention services. These ads are currently being broadcast on local TV stations, with the audio from the ads being aired on four radio stations.

Page 5

GEIS Webinar Series: Early Intervention in Action 
The Department of Education - Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS), in collaboration with Guam CEDDERS, facilitated a distance learning webinar for Early Intervention service providers on August 30, at the Hyatt Regency Guam, from 1:30pm - 5:30pm. Naomi Younggren, Ph.D., an off-island early childhood consultant, conducted the training via video teleconference. Dr. Younggren has been providing professional development for GEIS providers for the past two years. 

The first webinar in a series of four focused on Authentic Assessment practices and where it fits in the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) process. The webinars will continue over the coming months addressing topics such as family interviewing practices to guide IFSP outcome selection, integrating child outcome summary and sharing information with families, and using IFSP outcomes to guide intervention and to coach families. 

The goal of the webinars is to continually improve child and family outcomes before the child transitions to preschool or other early childhood programs. 


Disabilities Studies Course Piloted 
Several Guam CEDDERS professional and support staff from multidisciplinary backgrounds took a journey into disability history and its relevance to present day issues by enrolling in a pilot offering of “Historical Perspective & Contemporary Issues of Disability,† a 1.5 Continuing Education Units (CEU) community course offered by Guam CEDDERS in June. Participants exited the experience with a new awareness of disability and the impact of previous societal structures on persons with disabilities. For all, it became clear that attitudes have been and continue to be the greater part of disability. 

Students developed a historical timeline of disability and gained personal perspectives from interviews and presentations from persons representative of a broad spectrum of disabilities. These experiences brought forth understanding of the impact of words and actions on attitudes, the positive outcomes of inclusion, and the understanding that disability is a natural part of the human experience. 

The following are excerpts from a student reflection paper: “Words are powerful representations of culture and can be used to harm and heal, but changing the words is just the beginning. … as a society we need to evolve in order to change the culture.† 

“….we must stand firm in the conviction that every human being deserves the same basic freedoms that we all enjoy as part of the human race. We need to create a new culture that is built with this conviction in mind and not only in spirit, but in action. We can build a future culture that accommodates everyone’s needs, both physically and mentally. “ 

These Guam CEDDERS staff have enriched their foundational understanding of the underpinnings of disability issues and the roads to be taken. Additional community courses to be offered this fall include “Disability Policy, Advocacy, and the Law† and “Disability and Self-Advocacy.† 

The three topical areas have been combined into a three-credit course for consideration by the University of Guam’s General Education Review Committee as meeting future general education requirements for undergraduates to address the changing social and political environment of disability.

Announcement:
For Product and Calendar updates visit us at: www.guamcedders.org


Page 6-7

Towards Cultural and Linguistic Competence in Behavioral Health
Three key events promoting cultural and linguistic competence, particularly in the area of behavioral health, took place this past June. Co-sponsors to these events included Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (GBHWC), Project Tinituhon, Project Kariñu’s Training and Technical Assistance/ Cultural and Linguistic Competence (CLC)/Evaluation components under Guam CEDDERS Projects Kariñu & Bisita, through the Bureau of Family Health and Nursing Services’ (BFHNS); Live Healthy Guam, and Office of Minority Health Program under the Bureau of Community Health Services of the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS). 

Event 1. Dr. Ida, National Director of the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA) from Colorado and Janet Soohoo, MSW from Seattle and a consultant for NAAPIMHA, provided “Training for Interpreters in Behavioral Health,† on June 10 through 12, at the Guam Marriott Resort & Spa in Tumon, Guam. They covered the following topics: roles, responsibilities, ethics, models, types, and stages of interpreting, including the impact of culture on interpreting, and understanding behavioral health terminology and conditions. This three-day training was a follow-up to the January 2012 “Mental Health Curriculum Training for Interpreters† conducted by Dr. Ida. 

A total of 28 individuals representing Chamorro, Filipino, Chuukese, Chinese, Korean, Yapese, and Kosraen cultural groups received certificates of completion after participating in the three-day training. Participants included a self-employed interpreter, as well as interpreters and bilingual employees of Government of Guam agencies, such as I Famagu’on-ta/ GBHWC, Bureau of Social Services Administration (BOSSA) and Project Kariñu/DPHSS, Special Education/Guam Department of Education (GDOE), Superior Court of Guam, as well as private, non-profit organizations including Catholic Social Services and the Stepping Stone Project. 
Participants viewed videos of simulated interpretation sessions and also engaged in role play to practice skills in interpreting, especially during mental health status examinations. Feedback from written evaluations showed that two highly favored exercises were the role plays and the group work in translating Mental Health words and conditions in the island’s threshold languages. This activity was preceded by a review and discussion of Mental Health conditions and concepts by the trainers. Trainees were organized into language-specific workgroups to collectively define and describe mental health concepts using appropriate and accurate terminology in their languages devoid of jargon or bias. 

On the second day of the training, Elizabeth Barrett- Anderson, Retired Superior Court Judge, paid the group a surprise visit to meet the trainers and learn a little of what was being taught, as well as to express support for the purpose of the training. The judge, who has spearheaded the improvement of interpreter services for the court, spoke of the training implemented for court interpreters and the revamping of wages to properly compensate interpreters for their services. She also described the court’s efforts to partner with the Guam Community College to sustain training for court interpreters locally. Referring to the island-wide need for trained interpreters, Judge Barrett-Anderson also spoke about the importance of more collaboration to address interpreter services in three key areas: judicial services, medical services, and behavioral health. 

Event 2. It is clear that behavioral health words are not easily translated into Pacific Island languages, as well as in some of the languages of Asian countries. Recognizing the diversity of cultures and languages on Guam, Project Kariñu launched the second CLC event: a two-day “Cultural Conversations on Family, Wellness and Child Development,† held at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort on June 4 and June 18. About 34 individuals from diverse ethnicities, languages, gender, ages, and backgrounds came together to “converse† about ten concepts pertinent to Early Childhood Mental Health: family, parenting, nurturing, health, wellness, illness, mental illness and the “helper’s role† (as in the Chamorro “ayudante† role), and “other† (an open category). 

Small groups of Chamorros, Filipinos, Palauans, Chuukese, Yapese, Pohnpeians, Koreans, and State-siders were formed. There was also one Japanese-speaking participant who paired up with a Chinese speaking participant to share what they knew of their culture, and one individual from Kosrae, who worked on defining the concepts in his language. Some of the participants are considered cultural experts, brokers, linguists, and/or cultural leaders in their communities. But there were also participants who came as “experts† based simply on their personal and “lived† experiences as a father, mother, auntie, uncle, son, or daughter, representing the particular culture of their upbringing. Organizations represented in these forums included University of Guam students, recent graduates, and faculty members who teach Chamorro, or Asian Studies courses (Filipino, Chinese) and/or faculty who coordinate University -affiliated programs; mental health professionals, including I Famagu’on-ta staff, educators and one-to-one aides from the Guam Department of Education, parents and young adults from different cultural groups. Government of Guam retirees, self-employed interpreters, representatives, and island leaders from the Federated States of Micronesia, as well as from some of the Pacific Island community associations, and non-profit organizations such as Sanctuary Inc., and Catholic Social Services were also in attendance. 

The groups were assigned a facilitator and note-taker to record responses. Group responses are presently being compiled and will be used by Project Kariñu to develop language access products, such as a multicultural pictorial depiction of the “concepts† and a Glossary of Mental Health Terminology with cross-cultural contextual information in the languages used in Guam. These products will be used for continued promotion of multi-cultural competence on Guam especially among service providers and interpreters.

Feedback from those who participated in the Cultural Conversations activity was overwhelmingly positive. Participants appreciated the opportunity to pause, reflect, share, and listen to each other’s perspectives, including listening to the views of others who come from different cultures as well as from their own backyards and villages. Individuals repeatedly echoed the newfound awareness of the richness and intricacies not only of their own respective cultures, but a growing and somehow belated awareness of the multicultural richness in our island because of our Micronesian and Asian community neighbors. There was a sense of sacredness emanating from people expressing their pride in their heritage and their respect for the “learnings† that was going on.  

It did seem like a “privileged experience† to be able to tell each other about what matters most in our homes and to hear about what is important in theirs. Participants commented on the apparent changes or diminishing influence of certain values or cultural practices among families who have immigrated to Guam, especially between the young and the older members of a culture. Beyond the “Language Access Products† envisioned as outcomes for these conversations, a genuinely, inspiring outcome was the sense of community that participants expressed about the experience. Once the “products† are completed, participants will be contacted to share in the dissemination of products as contributors. 

Event 3. On June 13-14, a different, yet very relevant twist to cultural and linguistic competence took place at the Guam Marriott Resort & Spa with 59 participants. Dr. Ida and Ms. Soohoo switched gears from training interpreters to strengthening the general workforce by teaching participants skills and competencies to make positive changes in their lives, and the lives of others as community “wellness coaches.† A “wellness coach† is someone who serves as part of a whole health team, and who is able to help individuals and small groups to develop whole health goals and specific action steps to improve their overall health. The curriculum “Attaining Whole Health: Balancing the Mind, Body and Spirit† was developed by the trainers as part of a collaborative effort between NAAPIMHA and its federal and national partners, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health initiative for funding the curricula and SAMHSA and its National Network to Eliminate Disparities (NNED). Underlying the implementation of “Wellness Coaches† is the goal of improving health outcomes for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. 

About 35 of the participants already serve as “health coaches† for many departments of the Government of Guam’s Wellness Programs. An additional 24 participants are program coordinators or service providers such as nurses, social workers, wrap coordinators, school aides, service coordinators, outreach workers, and family partners who provide direct services to children and families on Guam.

Day One of the training began with an overview of the relationship between physical health and mental health and why it is important to pay attention to both in developing healthy life styles. The three life domains of body, mind, and spirit affecting overall health were reviewed. On Day Two, participants learned how to identify personal health goals and develop realistic action plans to achieve their goals, as well as how to help others to achieve their respective health goals. The event concluded with the group making recommendations related to implementing whole health strategies in the workplace. (See text in colored box, Page 8.)  

One outcome that has already occurred was shared by Pinki Lujan, one of the participants who administers the Wellness Program under Calvo’s SelectCare Health Insurance. Ms. Lujan reported that she successfully used the Wellness Coach curriculum to augment wellness training efforts for recruits in the GPD Police Academy. Referring to the integration of behavioral with physical health, Ms. Lujan shared that the “Whole Health† curriculum “provided the missing piece† needed to strengthen existing local wellness programs.

Page 7
Highlighted quotes:
“Group responses are presently being compiled and will be used by Project Kariñu to develop language access products.†

“There was a sense of sacredness emanating from people expressing their pride in their heritage and their respect for the “learnings† that was going on.†

Photos (2) with a caption:
A summary of points made during the “Cultural Conversations on Family, Wellness, and Child Development† held on June 4 and June 18 are made during the group sharing segment of the activity. Left Photo: Bruce Kim reports out for the Korean group. Right Photo: Yoichi Rengiil summarizes the comments from the Palauan work group.

Page 8
Photo with caption:
Peter Onedera, Chamorro language expert, summarized the discussions that centered on ten concepts related to Early Childhood Mental Health: family, parenting, nurturing, health, wellness, illness, mental illness, and the “helper’s† role.

Bulleted text in colored box:
Wellness Action Plan Recommendations
1. That Government of Guam Health Coaches be afforded opportunities during monthly meetings to discuss efforts at implementing “Wellness Coach† approaches and/or the Wellness Coach Curriculum, including discussions about what supports they need to be able to more successfully function as Health Coaches; 
2. That participants form small support networks for themselves at their places of employment or in their communities (even one-on-one supports) to facilitate attainment of the health goals they established during the training period; 
3. That some mechanism for long distance mentoring or technical assistance be explored for reinforcing wellness coach efforts; 
4. To provide some level of follow up to find out how participants fared in attempting eight weeks of providing whole health support for each other.

Page 9
Guam SpEd Personnel Celebrate the Opening of School Year
SPEDTACULAR! On August 16, Guam Division of Special Education celebrated the opening of school year 2013-2014 during the Division Orientation Session, “Principles of Support: Challenging the Status Quo,† at the Guam Marriott Resort & Spa. With over 150 early intervention, preschool, and school-age direct and support service personnel, Yolanda Gabriel, Assistant Superintendent for the Division, opened the session with a “Mission Possible† mantra to set the stage for continued focus on improving educational results and functional outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities in the new school year. The session included various activities that engaged Division personnel in reflections of what was, what is, and what will be. Starting with a video comprised of interviews from Division personnel sharing their thoughts on last year’s accomplishments, the activities led to challenging the status quo by reflecting on the Department’s vision, how the Division’s mission and goals align with the vision, how effective communication skills are essential teaming traits, and how each person is critical to “why,† “what,† and “how† they provide supports are important for children with disabilities and their families. 

SPEDTACULAR! Guam’s State Performance Plan (SPP) compliance and results trend data were also reviewed with a focus on the results indicators and the anticipated NEW SPP and the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs’ Results-Driven Accountability (RDA). Activities on leadership and teaming principles of support then challenged each Unit to make a change – a small change – in what they do in support of children with disabilities and their families. Matt Cutt’s 30-Day Challenge video described how committing to small changes lead to sustainable changes. This led into each Unit crafting their 30-day commitment statement to a change action beginning August 19, the first school day for Guam’s public schools. 

SPEDTACULAR! means sharing the bright spots, highlights, and doing something good for kids. The Division’s orientation session started the school year with energy and a resurgence of commitment to improving educational results and functional outcomes for children with disabilities! The session was supported by Guam CEDDERS through a contract with the Department’s IDEA Part B and Part C grants.

Photos with captions:
Top photo:
Over 150 Division of Special Education personnel participated in the August 16 half-day Orientation Session to open school year 2013-2014.

Bottom photo:
OT-PT-AT-LES! What does it stand for? Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), Assistive Technology (AT), and Leisure Education Service (LES) personnel show their team smile after creating their 30-day challenge at the end of the August 16 session. Sitting (L-R): Rosaline Taitingfong, OT; Jack Larimer, AT; Lisa Rebanio, LES; and Maggie Uson, LES. Standing (L-R): Mary Taimanglo, OT Assistant; Christine Rosario, AT; Jonathan Guerrero, PT, and Terese Crisostomo, Related Services Supervisor/Special Projects Program Coordinator.

Page 10
School Readiness Plan Jumps into Action 
Project Tinituhon, Guam’s Early Childhood Comprehensive System (ECCS); the Guam Early Learning Council (GELC), and the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) co-facilitated the Brigance K-1 Assessment Workshop attended by 86 Kindergarten teachers in the island-wide public and private schools on July 31 and August 1. Teachers were required to attend one of the half-day sessions that focused on early childhood development, specifically focusing on the importance of using developmentally appropriate practices in the classroom, as well as the use of the Brigance K-1 Assessment. 

Using this assessment will allow kindergarten teachers to obtain information on the school readiness of each kindergarten student. The assessment includes physical, social, emotional, language, and cognitive areas of development. The assessment results will determine how the Kindergarten teacher will plan a developmentally appropriate learning environment based on each child’s learning needs. 

Teachers had the opportunity to look through the assessment manuals and watch a previously recorded video of a local 5-year-old being screened using the Kindergarten assessment tool. All teachers in attendance received a Brigance assessment kit, which included the assessment manual, Kindergarten data score sheets, and First Grade data score sheets. Project Tinituhon and the GELC provided kits to the island’s private schools while the public school kits were funded through the Improving Student Learning and Achievement (ISLA) Grant. 

Teachers began using the Brigance K-1 assessment at the beginning of this school year. Data from participating schools will be aggregated and analyzed. A comparison will be made at the end of the school year after teachers conduct the post-assessment using the first grade assessment.

Photos with captions:
Left and Right Photos: Kindergarten teachers pair up to discuss their experiences teaching five-year olds attending school for the first time.

Essie Oliva, Kindergarten teacher at B.P. Carbullido Elementary, shares reflections from her group’s discussion. 

Kindergarten teachers from L.B. Johnson Elementary School review the Brigance-K1 Assessment manual.

Page 11
Photo with captions:
Teleaudiology Project Conducts Final Debrief Session
A debrief session was held on August 1st at the University of Guam Dean Circle to close out the 19-month Teleaudiology Pilot Project that started in November 2011 and ended in June 2013. The Teleaudiology Project was the result of collaboration between Guam CEDDERS and the Bill Daniels Center for Children’s Hearing, Children’s Hospital - Colorado, with assistance from the Guam Department of Education, Guam Early Intervention System and Audiology Department. The Teleaudiology Project was initiated due to the lack of a pediatric audiologist to service very young children on Guam. Participants shown from left are: Margaret Blaz, Ph.D, CCC-SLP, Vicky Ritter, David Zieber, CCC-A, Bobbie Maguadog, Laurie Sotto, Dr. Sue Dreith, CCC-A (consultant), Dr. Deborah Hayes, CCC-A (consultant), Joseph Mendiola, Ron Nochefranca, and Renee Koffend, Au.D., CCC-A.


DOE Audiometrists Train On New Hearing Screening Equipment
Three Guam Department of Education (GDOE) audiometrists participated in a two-day training workshop conducted by the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Project on the use of the Audx Pro DPOAE and Natus Algo 3i AABR hearing screening equipment on June 25-26. Training included hands-on practice in preparing infants and young children for the hearing screening and proper use of each screening device. The overall purpose of the training was to assist DOE personnel in achieving competence in the use of these hearing screening tools and to reduce loss to follow-up for hearing screening, evaluation and early intervention services of infants and young children.

Photo with caption:
GDOE audiometrists engage in hands-on training using audiometric screeners. Shown from left: Ron Nochefranca, Bobbie Maguadog, Vicky Ritter, Guam CEDDERS trainer, and Laurie Sotto.

Page 12
Guam CEDDERS Presents at FSM Interagency Leadership Conference
Elaine Eclavea, June De Leon, and Vera Blaz presented at the 2013 FSM Inter-Agency Leadership Conference, “Count Us In: Promoting and Strengthening Interagency Collaboration and Empowering Persons with Disabilities in the FSM,† which took place from August 12-16, in Pohnpei, FSM. On the first day of the conference, Ms. Blaz facilitated a breakout session entitled “Language and Communication,† with parents and providers working in education and health fields. Participants learned about the importance of language from birth, recommendations for how to promote language development, and examples of modeling good language. Ms. Eclavea and Ms. De Leon facilitated a session on “Early Intervention: System Within Systems.† This session focused on how serving young children and their families is the responsibility of many agencies and service providers. Participants learned about “systems thinking† and strategies to promote collaboration, cross-systems work, and shared governance. 

On August 13, the second day of the conference, Ms. Eclavea presented the keynote address, “What is FSM-EHDI and Why Interagency Collaboration is Important.† Conference participants learned about the national perspective around newborn hearing screening, latest research on the impact of early identification of young children with hearing loss, and components of a robust EHDI program. In the afternoon during a breakout session, Ms. Eclavea and Ms. De Leon presented, “The Guam EHDI Tele-audiology Pilot: What FSM Can Do.† They talked about the creation and operation of a tele-practice in audiology service for infant diagnostic hearing evaluations and explained how tele-practice fits into the Guam EHDI Program. Participants also learned about how tele-practice improves early identification of infants with hearing loss, and the technical challenges encountered during testing. The presentation also focused on suggestions for mechanisms to develop and sustain a tele-practice in audiology service in other communities. 

On Wednesday, August 14, Ms. Blaz presented “Playing and Learning† during a breakout session. Participants learned about the importance of play in learning and child development. They also learned about the benefits of play for children, how parents benefit from their child’s play, and how children are empowered by playing. 

The next day, Ms. Eclavea presented, “Integrating Early Childhood Outcomes into the IEP Process,† during the morning plenary session. During the afternoon breakout sessions, she presented, “How Can the Early Childhood Outcomes Measurement Help Parents Understand Their Child’s Progress?† Ms. Blaz led participants in an activity that had parents talking about the things they love most about their children, which brought together the three early childhood outcomes. Ms. Eclavea also presented to service providers in a second afternoon breakout session on the same topic. 

On Friday, August 16, Ms. Eclavea presented, “Using the Outcomes in Developing IEPs for a Child with a Disability,† which was a continuation of the second breakout session from the previous day. 

During the course of the week, Dr. Velma Sablan, Guam and FSM EHDI Evaluator, coordinated the evaluation process for each day. Dr. Sablan reported the number of participants in attendance daily as well as how many evaluations were completed and returned each day.

For more photos, go to page 13

Photo with caption:
(L-R): Stanley Micky, FSM EHDI; Dr. Velma Sablan, FSM EHDI Evaluator; Dr. Linda Flynn-Wilson, Consultant; Arthur Albert, FSM Special Education Program; Vera Blaz, Elaine Eclavea, and June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS; and Dionis Saimon, FSM EHDI.

Page 13
Pacific VIP Scholar Awarded Blasch Scholarship
On behalf of the Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Division of the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER), the 2013 Blasch Scholarship committee is pleased to introduce this year’s winners. Each year, two students enrolled in AER approved O&M programs are awarded $1,000 scholarships in memory of Don Blasch. Mr. Blasch was for many years the chairperson of the Department of Blind Rehabilitation (now Blindness and Low Vision Studies) at Western Michigan University. He was a pioneer in the visual impairment profession and this scholarship is a reminder of his extraordinary accomplishments during O&M’s formative years. 

The recipients this year are Sigalu Epenesa, an O&M/ Teacher for Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) student at the University of Massachusetts, Boston (UMASS-Boston), and Faye Miller, who attends Salus University. Sigalu graduated from Western Oregon University and now participates in the Pacific Vision Instruction Project (Pacific VIP) administered by Guam CEDDERS in partnership with faculty from UMASS-Boston for the delivery of the Master’s level O&M/TVI training program. She expects to complete her program in 2014. Sigalu currently works as a resource specialist in an elementary school in American Samoa, and has almost 20 years of experience as a teacher. Currently she supervises nine teachers and has numerous administrative responsibilities at her school. 

In her essay about her work in O&M, Sigalu notes that there are few university educated professionals who can work effectively with students with blindness and low vision in the Pacific Islands. She notes her own limitations as an effective teacher prior to enrolling in the UMASS-Boston training program. UMASS-Boston Professor Laura Bozeman notes that Sigalu is a thoughtful student who excels in her coursework and her practice experiences. Her enthusiasm and dedication to the field are outstanding, and she will make an important contribution to the lives of children and youth on American Samoa through her work in O&M. Bob McCulley, another of Sigalu’s professors at UMASS-Boston, celebrates Sigalu’s leadership in special education in the Pacific Islands, and notes that she has become a leader among her cohort of students. He notes her willingness to work hard, her vibrant personality, and her kindness as traits that will serve her well as she works to meet the needs of students with visual impairments.

Photo with caption:
Pacific VIP celebrates with Sigalu Epenesa (pictured above) on her achievement as a recipient of one of two annual Blasch Scholarships awarded by the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Article contributed by Laura Bozeman, Ph.D., UMASS-Boston Vision Studies Program Director/Faculty.


FSM Leadership Conference …continued from page 12
Photos (2) with captions:
Parents of children with disabilities talk about their experiences navigating through systems to obtain services for their children. 

Participants commemorate the leadership conference by engaging in traditional welcoming ceremonies during the FSM Leadership Conference.

Page 14-15
Guam EHDI Conference Draws Parents & Service Providers
The Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Project recently held its first conference on August 29-30. The two-day conference, themed “Pioneering in the Pacific,† was a chance for regional EHDI, Special Education, Early Intervention, and Department of Health programs to garner information on strategies and successful approaches used by Guam EHDI over the past five years. 

The first day of the conference was held at the University of Guam, Guam System for Assistive Technology conference room. The agenda for the day focused on the pilot teleaudiology project initiated by the collaboration between Guam EHDI and The Children’s Hospital - Colorado. Regional participants from Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services administrators had the opportunity to observe a live demonstration of teleaudiology, and then receive detailed information on how it works and what is needed to implement successful diagnostic audiological evaluations via teleaudiology. 

On August 30, the conference reconvened at the Hyatt Regency Guam. The agenda for the second day of the conference centered on strategies implemented by Guam EHDI to increase the percentage of infants receiving a hearing screening prior to discharge from a birthing site by 1 month of age, diagnosed for hearing loss by 3 months of age, and receiving early intervention services by 3 months of age. Additionally, Guam EHDI staff facilitated a parent panel, which allowed parents of children with a hearing loss to share their story on how they found out, how they were assisted with services, and recommendations they would give to new parents of children with a hearing loss. Guam EHDI also facilitated a sibling panel during the conference. The sibling panel allowed the sibling of a person with a hearing loss to share how their relationship was affected, if at all, by this condition, and tips they would give to other siblings of children with a hearing loss. Overviews on the components of a robust EHDI program such as medical home, early intervention, and assistive technology were presented by Dr. Yolanda Carrera, Pediatrician and member of Guam’s Interagency Coordinating Council, Patricia Mantanona, Guam Part C Coordinator, and Dr. Renee Koffend, Guam Audiologist. 

Forty participants gained a wealth of information on issues challenging many regional EHDI projects during this event. The Guam EHDI project plans to host a bi-annual conference with more regional collaboration and participation.

Page 14
Photo with caption:
Several service providers and agency representatives attended Day One of the First Annual Guam EHDI Conference held at the GSAT Center, University of Guam. L-R: Pat Mantanona, Elaine Eclavea, Margarita Gay, Dr. Suzanne Sison, Dr. Yolanda Carrera, Diana Santos, Joannie De Leon Guerrero, Dr. Margaret Blaz, Erica Acfalle, Joyce Flores, Vicky Ritter, and Joseph Mendiola.

Image of Guam EHDI Report
Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) Program staff recently produced a “Progress Report† Brief, summarizing program services and outcomes covering the January - December 2012 reporting period. For a copy of the Brief, please send a request to Vicky Ritter, program coordinator, at vicky.ritter@guamcedders.org or go to the Guam CEDDERS website at www.guamcedders.org.

Page 15
Photos with captions:
Parents, family members, and service providers attended the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Conference held at the Guam Hyatt Hotel on August 30.

(L-R): Vicky Ritter, Guam EHDI coordinator, and panel facilitator, listens to Ann Marie Cruz, Trisha Suzuki, Joyce Flores, and Joe Mendiola, parents of children with hearing impairment who shared their experiences, challenges and successes as mothers and fathers of children with hearing impairments during a panel discussion


Page 16
Early Childhood Topics Covered During Palau Training
Elaine Eclavea, Guam CEDDERS Health, Wellness, and Prevention Initiative Area Coordinator, conducted a two-day training with the staff of the Palau Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and Head Start Programs. Information and strategies for “Integrating Early Childhood Outcomes into the IEP Process† were addressed during the training held on July 3-4. In addition to the training, technical assistance was provided to the ECSE staff on Early Childhood Transition - “Early Childhood Outcomes to School Readiness;† Early Childhood Child Study Team; and Revision of the ECSE Early Childhood Outcomes Measurement procedures.


Project Kariñu Evaluation and GSAT Briefs Now Available
As part of the organization’s research and information dissemination core functions, Guam CEDDERS recently produced two documents that provide information on projects important to the island community. The Project Kariñu Evaluation Report- August 2013 (left) summarizes data collected as part of the evaluation process for program activities. The Guam System for Assistive Technology Summary Report - September 2013 (right) provides details on the various activities facilitated by the AT project including its demonstration services and loan programs. To view these reports, please go to the Guam CEDDERS website at www.guamcedders.org or send a request to margaret.johnson@guamcedders.org.

Page 17
Guam Early Learning Council Products Now Available 
The Guam Early Learning Council (GELC), through funding by the State Advisory Council (SAC) Grant, recently finalized two key policy documents: The Guam School Readiness Plan and the Guam Early Childhood State Plan – 2013. 

The Guam School Readiness Plan was developed over a period of two years to gather information on island kindergarten programs, and to use that information to make recommendations to promote school readiness. Representatives from early childhood serving agencies, both public and private, participated in the development of the plan. Initial efforts to implement recommendations of the Plan have already taken place, with training of kindergarten teachers in July and August on the use of the Brigance K-1 as an entry and exit assessment instrument. 

The Guam Early Childhood State Plan – 2013 was also a collaborative effort by the GELC that was one year in the making. The Plan includes benchmarks to help track system-wide progress and drive coordinated activities in the areas of Health; Mental Health and Social-Emotional Development; Early Childhood Care and Education; Parent Education and Family Support; and System Sustainability. 

The SAC grant also provided support for the development and printing of two resources for parents and their young children. Respect is a 24-page book that presents the concept of respect through a “local lens.† Examples of how respect can be communicated are featured, utilizing island activities, environments, and cultural values. The book is intended to be a “conversation starter† for parents to use when discussing this important principle. 

The Guam Early Learning Council’s Parent Activity Tips for Children Birth to 8 Years is the second parent resource supported by the SAC grant that was recently released. This 72- page booklet provides numerous activities for parents to try to foster the growth and development of their young children. Also included are recommendations for iPad apps and websites to access more information on developmentally appropriate activities for their children. 

To access these resources, visit the Council’s website at www.guamelc.org or send an email request to Terry Naputi, Guam CEDDERS Research Associate at terry.naputi@guamcedders.org.

Page 18
Transitions: Guam CEDDERS Welcomes, Congratulates, Bids Adios to Staff
Guam CEDDERS welcomed the addition of several new staff members and applauded the promotion of one of our current employees. Marie Wusstig, M.Ed., joined the organization in August as a Family Interviewer for Project Kariñu’s Evaluation Program. Marie brings a wealth of experience to the organization, having worked as a teacher in the Guam Department of Education and more recently as a parent training facilitator for the Guam Parent Information Resource Center. 

Marie replaces Julia Muya who resigned in July to return to her native home in Kenya. Julia was with the Project Kariñu Evaluation team for approximately three years. 

Charlita Harper, M.Ed, is another welcomed addition to the Guam CEDDERS team. “Charli† has over 30 years experience in the field of early childhood special education, having spent many years working as a speech clinician and as a teacher in the Special Education Preschool Program. With her background in early childhood education, she is currently assigned to facilitate training and technical assistance for Project Kariñu. 

After spending almost two years fulfilling the responsibilities as the Guam Early Learning Council Assistant, Terry Naputi was promoted in August to the position of Research Associate. Terry is now assigned to Project Tinituhon, Guam’s State Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems Grant. 

Vittoria Umagat and Richard Duenas, both University of Guam undergraduate students, joined the Guam CEDDERS staff during the Spring 2013 Semester, assuming the role of Student Office Assistants. These students play a vital role in providing supports during the multitudes of activities and assistance in ensuring that the organization’s administrative responsibilities are carried out. 

Welcome and congratulations to Marie, Charli, Terry, Vittoria, and Richard. Best of Luck to Julia!

Photos of Staff:
Marie Wusstig; Charlita Harper; Terry Naputi; Julia Muya; Richard Duenas; Vittoria Umagat

Page 19
UH MSW Graduate Student Assigned to Guam CEDDERS for Practicum
Bonita O. Blas, a recent graduate of the University of Guam baccalaureate program in Social Work, will be completing a year-long practicum placement with Guam CEDDERS to fulfill her practicum requirements as a graduate student in the University of Hawaii (UH) Masters in Social Work Program. She has been assigned to work primarily under the tutelage of Mariles Benavente, LCSW, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate in charge of facilitating the Cultural and Linguistic Competence requirements of Project Kariñu, Guam’s Early Childhood Mental Health Project administered by the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services. 

Ms. Blas was accepted into the UH accelerated Masters in Social Work program, with an anticipated May 2014 completion date. 

Welcome aboard, Bonita!

Photo:
Bonita Blas


Guam CEDDERS Annual Report Now Available
To view the 2013 Guam CEDDERS Annual Report, visit our website at www.guamcedders.org.

Acknowledgement:
University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS) Newsletter 

Guam CEDDERS 
Office of Academic & Student Affairs, University of Guam, UOG Station, Mangilao, Guam 96923 
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, & Ginger Porter 
Layout & Design: Sean Lizama 

This issue of I Tellai was made possible by contributions from the following Guam CEDDERS staff members: Mariles Benavente, Vera Blaz, Elaine Eclavea, June De Leon, Terrie Fejarang, Nieves Flores, Ed.D., Jeff Pinaula, Ginger Porter, June Quitugua, and Vicky Ritter. Special contribution by Laura Bozeman, Ph.D., UMASS-Boston. 

Alternative formats (e.g. Braille, large print, or audio tapes) of I Tellai will be made available upon request. 
Please contact Margaret Johnson at (671) 735?2477 (v), (671) 735?6531 (TTY), or (671) 734?5709 (fax) for more information.

Produced with 100% funding support from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Grant No. 90DD0014-01-00.

Page 20
Calendar of Upcoming Events
Sep13
• Sep 4 Interagency Coordinating Council (ICC) Primary Referral Orientation, “Health Care Providers†, Marriott Resort & Spa, 5:00-8:00pm. 
• Sep 4 Project Tinituhon - Social Emotional & Mental Health Strategic Management Team Meeting. 10am - 12 noon, UOG School of Business and Public Administration, Room 129. 
• Sep 6 Preschool Webinar with Naomi Younggren, Ph.D., 1:30-5:30pm. 
• Sep 6 WIC Outreach Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 9:00-11:00am, Northern Regional Public Health Clinic, Dededo. 
• Sep 9-13 Visit by Gail ImObersteg, Esq., Hearing Officer Training, School IEP Team Training, Parent Session, Private School Session. 
• Sep 10-13 Palau On-Site visit by May Camacho, CCC-SLP, Speech Consultant. 
• Sep 10 Early Learning Council Quarterly Meeting, 9am - 12 noon, UOG School of Business and Public Administration, Room 129. 
• Sep 10 McREL Training, “Setting Up a Database†, 3:00-5:00pm, School of Business & Public Administration, Room 129. 
• Sep 11 Guam Part B/C Parent Session on “Legal Issues† with Gail ImObersteg, 5:30pm-8pm, UOG, SBPA, Rm. 129. 
• Sep 19 Parent Workshop, “Apps for Autism,† a workshop for parents with children on the Autism Spectrum, members of ACT, service providers working with children on the Autism Spectrum, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle, 5:30-7:30 pm. 
• Sep 20 WIC Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 1:30-3:30pm, Southern Public Health, Inarajan. 
• Sep 24-26 CNMI On-Site Visit, Advisory, and School Administrative meetings. 
• Sep 26 McREL Training, “Inter-Rater Reliability†, Upi Elementary School, Yigo, 1:00pm - 5:00pm. 
• Sep 27 ICC Primary Referral Orientation, “Child Care Providers†, Marriott Resort & Spa, 5:00pm-8:00pm. 
• Sep 28 Employment for Youth with Developmental Disabilities Conference, 8am-5pm, UOG Leon Guerrero Building. 
• Sep 30-Oct 1 Palau On-Site visit by Donna McNear, Vision Impairment Consultant.

Oct-Dec 13
• Oct 4 Webinar with Naomi Younggren, Ph.D., 1:30-5:30pm. 
• Oct 4 WIC Outreach Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 9:00-11:00am, Northern Regional Public Health Clinic, Dededo. 
• Oct 5 GEIS Parent Training, “Early Childhood Outcomes†, Marriott Resort & Spa, 8:00am-12 Noon. 
• Oct 5 Community Transportation Association Passenger Service & Safety (CTAA PASS) Recertification Training, 8:30-10:30am, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle. 
• Oct 8 GSAT Advisory Council Executive Committee Meeting, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle, 3:00-4:00pm. 
• Oct 9 GEIS & Preschool Webinar with BoysTown Consultants. For more information call 735-2438. 
• Oct 15 White Cane Safety Day Proclamation Signing, 10:30am, Governor’s Conference Room, Adelup. 
• Oct 15 GSAT Advisory Council General Membership Meeting, 3:30-5:00pm. 
• Oct 15-18 Palau On-Site Visit: Advisory meeting and CORE Team Working Sessions. 
• Oct 17 Parent Workshop, “Reading and Writing Supports through Solo 6,† a workshop for parents with children who struggle with reading and writing, members of ACT, service providers working with children who need reading and writing supports, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle, 5:30-7:30 pm. 
• Oct 17 GSAT GOAL-AT/GGT Sub-board General Membership Meeting, 12:00-1:30 pm. 
• Oct 18 WIC Outreach Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 1:30-3:30pm, Southern Public Health, Inarajan. 
• Oct 19 Senior Transportation Wheelchair Training, 8:30-10:30am, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle. 
• Oct 26 Senior Transportation Wheelchair Training, 8:30-10:30am, GSAT Training Center, House 19 Dean’s Circle. 
• Nov 1 WIC Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 9:00-11:00am, Northern Regional Public Health Clinic, Dededo. 
• Nov 4-8 Tentatively Site Visit training with Karen Kirk, Ph.D. 
• Nov 15 Preschool Webinar with Naomi Younggren, Ph.D., 1:30-5:30pm. 
• Nov 15 Tentatively WIC Outreach Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 1:30-3:30pm, Southern Public Health, Inarajan. 
• Dec 4 GEIS & Preschool Webinar with Boys Town Consultants. 
• Dec 6 WIC Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 9:00-11:00am, Northern Regional Public Health Clinic, Dededo. 
• Dec 10-16 Boys Town Site Visit, 8:00am-3:00pm. 
• Dec 13 GEIS Webinar with Naomi Younggren, Ph.D., 1:30-3:30pm. 
• Dec 20 (Tentative) WIC Immunization Outreach Clinic, Free Hearing Screening, 1:30-3:30pm, Southern Public Health, Inarajan. 

For more information on any of these events, please call 735-2477 or visit www.guamcedders.org