I TELLAI The BRIDGE
Volume 16, Issue 2 
March 24, 2014
Guam CEDDERS Newsletter 

In this Issue:
Transition to College: Breaking Down Barriers...1-2
Guam Observes 27th DD Awareness MonthÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ3
GSAT Celebrates 20 Years of Assistive TechnologyÉ..4
Portrait Series Commemorates Self-AdvocatesÉÉ..5-7
CSFEL TrainingÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ.8
GEIS Parent TrainingÉÉÉÉÉÉÉ9
Enhancing Quality ECSE PracticesÉÉÉÉÉ.9
GEIS & Preschool Site-VisitÉÉÉÉ..10
Boys Town Consultants Visit GDOE/HH ProgÉÉ..11
CNMI Policymakers Attend ELG OrientationÉÉ..12
Guam Engages Stakeholders in IDEA SPP-SSIPÉÉ..13
GDOE School Personnel Attend IEP TrainingÉÉÉ14
Parents Attend SpEd Process TrainingÉÉÉ.14
Disability & Society Course Series AdÉÉÉ...15
A Partnership to Enhance Language AccessÉÉ...16
Legal Advisor Shares Tips on Age PlanningÉÉÉ..17
Envisioning the Future: Allies in Self-AdvocacyÉÉ...17
Guam CEDDERS Ad Hoc Committee MeetsÉÉÉ.18
MSW Practicum Student: Mara San NicolasÉÉÉ.19
CEDDERS Reps Meet with UH SpEd FacultyÉÉ...19
Maximizing Resources Via Skype SessionsÉÉÉ..20
CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTSÉÉÉÉÉ20

Page 1-2 (I Tellai header; article with one photo and quote to the left of the photo)
Transition to College: Breaking Down Barriers by Maria Bontogon
Quote:  "Let nothing stop you from going to college-not even those doctors' prognosis about whatever varied physical or chronic disabilities that fill-up your medical records, nor the lack of finances. Support agencies and federal scholarships, grants and loans are available." - Maria Bontogon

(Photo) Maria Bontogon (front), going up the stairs utilizing her walking stick at UOG's School of Business and Public Administration building at the with her teacher, Diane Artero, behind her. Caption: As part of her transition plan and in preparation for the start of her college career, Maria Bontogon (foreground), works on her orientation & mobility skills at the Humanities and Social Sciences Building on the University of Guam campus. Her teacher, Diane Artero (back), facilitated this lesson that took place on January 16.

This article first appeared in the January 2014 issue of I Lina'la-ta.

Education tangibly shapes our brains and future, gives us the deepest passion which intersects with our greatest abilities, providing us an edge in the world of work and getting us to a higher standard. These reasons persuade me more to go to college, although obviously there will be hurdles to surmount given my situation and condition. Thanks to those who created and passed significant laws governing education and which critically assist people with exceptional needs to triumph over challenges. Let nothing stop you from going to college-not even those doctors' prognosis about whatever varied physical or chronic disabilities that fill-up your medical records, nor the lack of finances. Support agencies and federal scholarships, grants and loans are available.

College is a radical change from high school. IDEA 2004 and IEPs no longer apply. Instead, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 guarantee the civil rights of people with special needs in the US, which mandate programs provide auxiliary aids and services. One necessary starting point is creating a Transition Plan - a coordinated set of activities designed for students with special needs that support improved academic and functional achievement to facilitate his/her movement to postsecondary goals. Contacting Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) may also help lessen some of the challenges, depending on eligibility. From the postsecondary school, the student and parent may inquire about academic requirements, financial aid, tuition fees, health/safety procedures and policies, technology resources, housing/food safety and other student resources/programs (counseling, mentoring, social and recreational opportunities, etc.). Students with special conditions who wish to request academic adjustments such as priority registration, course load assistance, issuing notetaker/device, extended testing time, etc., from the postsecondary school's accommodation office are generally required to submit verification of disability documentation from their health provider. Upon eligibility, reasonable accommodation/services may be provided based on individual needs. 

Seeing and touching this impossible horizon is possible! How? Well...start off with passion and determination, plus some meaningful support from parents, mentors and other advocates. To get in the door and play the game, do your homework - ask, gather information, research and visit internet sites. I think a strong college path is achievable by learning to take risks, doing effective self-advocacy, gaining knowledge and understanding of civil rights laws, the college system, and adult support services.

(Half page photo) Maria Bontogon practicing her mobility skills at UOG's Humanities and Social Sciences building on the first floor atrium. Caption: Maria Bontogon, a high school senior, practices her Orientation and Mobility skills under the watchful eye of Diane Artero, her teacher, in the first floor atrium area of the Humanities and Social Sciences Building, University of Guam. Maria is maximizing her preparation in anticipation of her enrollment at UOG in Fall 2014.

Page 3 (Article with image)
Guam Observes 27th DD Awareness Month
March is "Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month." Since 1987, the year it was formally proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan, the goal of this initiative has been to increase community awareness of issues related to individuals with DD, with particular focus on their abilities.

Public attitudes have come a long way since 1987. Key legislation has helped facilitate this shift. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that all children are entitled to a free and appropriate public school education. This reinforced the right that school children be placed in the least restrictive educational environment and provides for access to educational opportunities formerly not available to them. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) essentially ensures that people with disabilities have equal access to the community and what it has to offer. The Developmental Disabilities (DD) Act laid the foundation for systems development and raising expectations for people with DD.

Expectations have indeed shifted. Parents of children with DD are more knowledgeable of what is available to them and their children. Assistive technology is also making a big difference; people with DD themselves are honing their self-advocacy skills and have found their voices; and the various media, from print, video, and on-line sources are portraying people with DD in a more positive light. Guam DD Awareness Month activities, including the Proclamation signing ceremony by the Governor, Assistive Technology Fair and Conference, Mass at the Cathedral Basilica, DD Council Open House, and Family Fun Day promote community engagement and provide opportunities for the general public to learn more about the abilities of people with DD.

Attitudes have changed for the better over the last two decades, but more needs to be accomplished to break down the stereotyping and misunderstanding that continues.

Scanned image of Proclamation No. 2014-016 proclaiming March 2014 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month presented to the tri-agencies, Guam Developmental Disabilities Council, University of Guam, Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research & Service (CEDDERS), and Guam Legal Services Corporation – Disability Law Center and other organizations working together.

Page 4 (Article title, 5 photos, and two paragraphs)
GSAT Celebrates 20 Years of Assistive Technology
The 20th Annual GSAT Assistive Technology (AT) Fair was held on March 1 at the Micronesia Mall. A yearly event, the goal of the Fair is to increase awareness on the availability of various AT devices and how they can help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities as well as the general public. The event was also held as part of the activities to commemorate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. 

Thirty-eight vendors participated in this year's event, including the Guam System for Assistive Technology, the Autism Community Together, Parents Empowering Parents, Guam Positive Parents Together, SinA: Self-Advocates in Action, Catholic Social Services, Client Assistance Program, Office of the Public Guardian, Depts. Of Education, Vocational Rehabilitation, Public Health & Social Services, and other service related programs.

Collage of 5 photos with captions:
Top photo:  Panoramic view of the GSAT Fair setup at the Micronesian Mall's center court. Caption: The 20th Annual Assistive Technology Fair was held at the Micronesia Mall on March 2.

(Left photo, 2nd row) Arlene Goodson, Leone Rohr, & Carol Darlow laughing with a female visitor at their table during the GSAT Fair held at the Micronesian Mall. Caption: Members of the Parents Empowering Parents (PEP) organization share a light moment with a visitor at their table.  

(Bottom left photo) Dee Palomo (facing camera), GSAT Grant Assistant, provides information on an AT device to a Fair attendee.

(Middle photo) Two children, one smiling, and looking at the photographer. Caption:  Maiana Catahay and friend take in the sights during the Fair.

(Bottom right photo)  Two men on stage holding microphones. Caption: Andrew Tydingco and Roy Ignacio provide cane tips to the audience during the Fair.

Page 5 - 7 (Title of article, short paragraph, and photos)
Portrait Series Commemorates Self-Advocates
To celebrate the "can-do" spirit of persons with developmental disabilities, Guam CEDDERS produced an eight-poster series depicting members of the Guam community. These posters, three of which are shown on pages 5-7, were featured during the 20th Annual GSAT Fair on March 1 at the Micronesia Mall and will also be on display during the 20th Annual AT Conference on March 28 at the Westin Resort Hotel.

1st Poster: Photo of an adult female wearing a floral top, standing behind a male who is a wheelchair user. Caption: "It is best to try all possibilities, than not to try at all. Possibilities are endless." Lourdes Bascon Mendiola, Parent Advocate and son David.

2nd Poster: Photo of a male wearing a red shirt and blue jeans in a Gangnam Style pose crossing his wrists and right foot slightly raised, smiling. Caption: "Even if you have a disability say you have an ability." Gian Magana, Poet

3rd Poster:  Photo of a male and female standing and smiling while holding their walking sticks. Caption: "Embrace your disability and do positive things with it!" Andrew & Lynn Tydingco, SinA: Self-advocates in Action

Page 8 (Title of article, three photos with captions)
Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL) Training
Top photo: Picture of male presenter pointing to diagram on the projector screen to a female audience. Caption: Robert Corso, Ph.D (standing), facilitates training on the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning, Pre-K "Train-the-Trainer" Module on January 13, 2014. This activity is a collaborative project between the Guam Department of Education, Department of Public Health and Social Services, and Guam CEDDERS.

Bottom left photo: Photo of training participants having a group discussion. Caption: Participants from the Participants from the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI) (foreground) engage in a group discussion during the "Train-the-Trainer" CSEFEL Workshop held at the University of Guam on January 13. Clockwise starting at left: Lathania Santos, Head Start Disability Coordinator; Suzanne Lizama, Public School System Special Education Coordinator; Robin Palacios, Interim Early Intervention Program Coordinator; and Jasylene Parico, Principal, Oleai Elementary.

Bottom right photo: Photo of group working on an activity, Caption: Project Bisita I Familia and Project Karinu staff (seated at table in foreground), engage in a group discussion during the Train-the-Trainer Workshop conducted by Robert Corso, Ph.D., on January 13- 15, 2014 at the University of Guam.

Page 9 (Two photos with title and captions)
Top photo: Guam Early Intervention System Parent Training: "Understanding What Early Intervention is All About"
Photo of a group of five individuals having a discussion. Caption: Terry Naputi (center in black), Guam CEDDERS Research Associate, facilitates a group discussion with parents during the Guam Early Intervention System Parent Training Session held on January 11, 2014 at the Marriott Guam Resort and Spa. The session focused on "Understanding Child Outcomes" how children and their families benefit from early interventions. This parent training, a collaborative activity of GEIS and Guam CEDDERS, is the third in a series of four training sessions offered each year. Seven families attended the training session.

Enhancing Quality ECSE Practices: "Data Collection, Consultation and Coaching""
Dr. Naomi Younggren, an Early Childhood Consultant based in Germany, conducted a webinar on "Enhancing Quality Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Practices: Data Collection, Consultation and Coaching"" attended by GEIS and ECSE Preschool Providers & Teachers on January 10, 2014 at the University of Guam, Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero Building.


Page 10 (Title, two photos with captions, and short article.)
GEIS & Preschool Site-Visit with Naomi Younggren, PhD
The Department of Education, Division of Special Education - Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) and Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Preschool recently collaborated with Guam CEDDERS on a five-day onsite training and technical assistance with Naomi Younggren, PhD. Dr. Younggren was on Guam on February 17-21 to continue her observations, assessments, and training for the Preschool and GEIS providers to help them build their capacity and skills to serve Guam's children and their families.

Dr. Younggren also facilitated a Parent Night session for parents with children in Preschool or GEIS on February 20. The focus of the parent night was to help mothers and fathers understand their child's natural learning opportunities and to take advantage of those moments to teach their child. Dr. Younggren's training and technical assistance for GEIS and Preschool over the past few years have been an invaluable resource in helping to build upon the skills of the Early Intervention and Preschool providers, which in turn provides better services for Guam's children and their families. She has been working with GEIS & Preschool for the past three years in the area of authentic assessment, functional outcome development, and family centered practices.

Photos with captions:
(Top photo) A group shot of the presenter and participants outside the building. Caption: Naomi Younggren, PhD. (center) with Preschool providers. Dr. Younggren was on Guam from February 17-21, to provide training and technical assistance for Preschool providers (shown in picture) and GEIS providers (not shown). Dr. Younggren participated in home visits, classroom visits, and provided a training session on February 18 at the Guam Systems for Assistive Technology conference room.

(Bottom photo) Participants inside a room having discussions with the trainer at their table.  Caption: Dr. Younggren (center facing camera) interacts with GEIS providers during a training session in February participated in home visits and facilitated a training session on February 21, 2014 at the University of Guam campus. 

Page 11 (Title, two photos with captions)
Boys Town Consultants Visit GDOE Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program
Top photo of Female presenter pointing towards the back of the room. Caption: Cathy Carotta, Ed.D., CCC-SLP (standing), Early Childhood Consultant with The Center for Childhood Deafness at Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, was on Guam with two other Boys Town consultants providing training and technical assistance for Department of Education teachers and staff. The training took place on December 16, 2013, from 8:00am - 3:00pm, at the University of Guam. A follow-up webinar was held on February 28, 2014.


(Bottom photo) Male presenter talking to participants. Caption: Jeff Simmons, MA, CCC-A (standing), Katie Brennan, MS, CCC-SLP (sitting on left), and Cathy Carotta, Ed.D., CCC-SLP (sitting in background) Early Childhood Consultants with The Center for Childhood Deafness at Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, facilitated a Parent's Night for parents with a child with a hearing impairment. The Parent Night was held on December 12, 2013 from 5:30pm -7:30pm, at the University of Guam.

Page 12 (Title, three photos, and article)
CNMI Policymakers Attend ELG Orientation
Twenty participants, representing various early childhood serving agencies, attended a Focus Group Meeting on January 24, 2014, to provide input on the first draft of the CNMI Early Learning Guidelines, Birth to 36 Months. 

The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) Program of the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs (DCCA), initiated the meeting that included staff from the Public School System, Head Start, Early Intervention Program, Department of Public Health, Home Visiting Program, Early Childhood Comprehensive System, Northern Marianas College, and the following Child Care Centers: Loving Hands, Smart Start, Sunrise, and Green Meadow. The meeting took place from 9am to 3pm at the Saipan Pacific Islands Club.

To keep the community informed of this important initiative, the CNMI CDDF staff and Guam CEDDERS hosted a "Policy Maker Orientation Session" on February 21. Officials from the Office of the Governor, Office of the Washington Representative, and two members of the CNMI House of Representatives attended this session, in addition to representatives from the Public School System elementary and secondary schools, Department of Public Health, and center-based and family care providers. The purpose and reasoning behind the ELG updates were provided as well as considerations relevant to building a well-coordinated comprehensive system addressing early childhood issues.

Follow up focus group sessions and training for child care providers are scheduled for March, April, and May. These activities are facilitated by Guam CEDDERS through a contract with the CNMI CCDF Program, DCCA.

(Top photo) Participants who attended the meeting posing for a group shot. Caption: Front row (L-R): Annette Calvo, Vice Principal, Rota High School; Bona Angeles, Green Meadow Child Care Center; Cathy Tamondong, Sunrise Child Care Center; Albina Paman, Smart Start Center; Maxine Pangelinan, ECCS Coordinator; Christine Hofschneider, Office of the Congressional Delegate; Cherrie Lovejoy, Northern Marianas College; Dhez Javier, Loving Hands Center; Jackie Quitugua, Associate Commissioner, PSS. Second row (L-R): Leilani Marciano, Child Care Licensing; Roselle Teregeyo, CCDF; Congressman Roman Benavente; Yuline Cruz, H.O.M.E. Visiting Program; Maribel Loste, CCDF Administrator; Esther Fleming, SAA Governor's Office; Lorna Manahane, Head Start; Joseph Benavente, PSS; Bobbie Pangelinan, Head Start; Priscilla Dela Cruz, Relative Care Provider Family Home.

(2nd photo) Group of women reviewing handouts given and having a discussion. Caption: Foreground (L-R): Jocelyn Hornilla, Lorna Manahane. Across: Yuline Cruz and Genevieve Guerrero focus their discussion on the Cognitive Development section of the draft CNMI ELG, Birth to 36 Months.

(3rd photo) Close up shot of four female participants holding a discussion. Caption: (L-R): Milagros Merjilla, Leilani Marciano, Ann Marie Satur, and Bobbie Pangelinan discuss the text in the draft Language Development and Communication Section of the draft CNMI Early Learning Guidelines, Birth to 36 Months. Not shown: Jackie Quitugua.

Page 13 (Title, article, and two photos)
Guam Engages Stakeholders In The IDEA SPP-SSIP Development 
In February 2015, all states and entities will be submitting their Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) State Performance Plan (SPP) for Special Education (Part B) and Early Intervention (Part C). This new round of SPPs includes the development of a State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) that must be a comprehensive, multi-year, ambitious yet achievable, sustainable plan focused on improving results for children with disabilities. The basis for this plan is a detailed data and infrastructure analysis for the development of strategies to increase the entity's capacity to structure and lead meaningful change. Different from previous year's reporting of improvement strategies by individual SPP indicators, the SSIP requires the entity to focus improvement in a targeted area that will likely impact and influence how the system will demonstrate improved results for children with disabilities. 

On January 31, Guam Department of Education, Division of Special Education (GDOE-SpEd), continued its SPP-SSIP orientation and development with over 100 Division personnel. Through a contract with GDOE-SpEd, Guam CEDDERS' Dr. Nieves Flores and June De Leon facilitated the January 31 session, "Guam's New State Performance Plan-State Systemic Improvement Plan (SPP-SSIP)," with Division personnel providing early intervention, preschool, and school-age services. The session was held on the University of Guam campus and represented one in a series of presentations conducted with various stakeholders invested in improving outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities. The session included a review of the SSIP components and engaged Division personnel in various data analysis exercises using Guam reported early childhood outcomes and achievement and least restrictive environment (LRE) data.

Two photos:
(Top photo) Six females having a table discussion. Caption: June De Leon, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director (facing camera), facilitates a small group discussion on the root cause data analysis utilizing early childhood outcomes data during the January 31 session with early intervention and preschool personnel 

(Bottom photo) Female presenter (standing) having a discussion with five participants consisting of two males and three females. Caption: Dr. Nieves Flores, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate (standing), facilitates a small group discussion on identifying actions for inferences made after analyzing achievement and Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) data with special education personnel during the January 31 session.

Page 14 (Three photos with captions)
(Top photo) Seven participants holding up signs with the following words:  Identification, Evaluation, Eligibility, IEP, LRE Placement, Annual, Re-evaluation, while Nieves Flores, presenter, speaks. Caption: School personnel line up the steps of the special education process during training for secondary school IEP teams on February 13 facilitated by Dr. Nieves Flores, Guam CEDDERS Training Associate, at the University of Guam Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero School of Business and Public Administration. 

(Bottom left photo)
Parents Attend SpEd Process Training 
(Panoramic view of room) Caption: Parents brainstorm what they know and what they want to know about the special education process at a training held on February 1, 2014, at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa.

(Bottom right photo) Close up photo of a table with one male and two females writing. Caption: Parents engaged in a "Scavenger Hunt" activity as a way to explore the contents of a binder of resources disseminated at the "Overview of the Special Education Process" training for parents held on Feb. 1, 2014 at the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa.

Page 15 (Full page Announcement)

Disability & Society Course Series

COURSES: 
Disability and Self-Advocacy
Instructor: Ginger Porter, M.Ed.
Email: ginger.porter@guamcedders.org
Dates: Tuesday/Thursday; April 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17 & 22
Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Location: GSAT, House 19 Dean's Circle, University of Guam
CEUs:  1.5 (Applicable to Social Work Certification Requirements for Continuing Education Units) 
Cost: $35 

Disability Policy, Advocacy, and the Law
Instructor: Ginger Porter, M.Ed. 
Email: ginger.porter@guamcedders.org 
Dates: Tuesday/Thursday; May 1, 6 , 8, 13, 15, 20 & 22. 
Time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm Location: GSAT, House 19, Dean's Circle, University of Guam 
CEUs: 1.5 (Applicable to Social Work Certification Requirements for Continuing Education Units)
 Cost: $35

If you wish to sign up for any of these courses please contact the instructor via email.

 These courses were developed by the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (Guam CEDDERS) and receive 100% funding support from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Grant No. 90DD0014-01-00. The University of Guam is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Provider.

Page 16 (Title of article with two photos at the bottom of the page)
CLASP: A Partnership to Enhance Language Access Services on Guam 
Culture and Language Access Service Partners, CLASP, is a newly formed coalition of individuals and organizations who have agreed to formalize their networking efforts so as to more systematically work together to improve Language Access Services (LAS) in Guam. Member organizations include representatives from the Judiciary of Guam, the Guam Legislature, Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (Prevention and Training Branch and I Famagu'on-ta), Department of Public Health and Social Services (Guam Office of Minority Health and Project Karinu), Guam Memorial Hospital, Guam Community College, University of Guam (CEDDERS and School of Nursing), Guam Police Department, and Guam Department of Education. Individual representatives include interpreters from various cultures and language groups, including sign language interpreters. 

On December 3, 2013, the Governor's PEACE Council for prevention and early intervention voted to endorse the work of CLASP and further, adopted CLASP as a PEACE Council subcommittee, stating that "CLASP's mission is aligned with that of the PEACE program efforts towards culturally and linguistically competent approaches to prevent suicide and substance abuse on the island and promote positive mental health and wellness." 

Prompting the work of CLASP is the recognition that disparities exist for individuals with limited English proficiency or who have other cultural or language issues that make it difficult to obtain timely, fair, and appropriate services from many sectors of the community, in particular, medical and behavioral health, judicial and legal, education, and general public welfare settings. A second compelling motive for the coalition has been the awareness of federal mandates that protect one's rights to access services by all individuals regardless of backgrounds or limitations. About 250 community representatives attended a one day Public Forum sponsored by CLASP, on "Access to Language Equality" on January 21, 2014, followed by two additional days of training for interpreters at the Westin Resort Guam on January 22-23, 2014. Featured speakers also included Retired Honorable Judge Elizabeth Barrett-Anderson, who has been a champion in addressing the issues of disparities in the Judiciary. Through her leadership, the Judiciary has established a Language Access Service Plan, hired a Language Assistance Program Manager for the courts, and has been providing training for court interpreters. A second featured speaker was Dr. Margaret Hattori-Uchima, Interim Director of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences and the current Chairperson for the Homeless Coalition. Dr. Uchima spoke of the health disparities that result when consumers lack the language to communicate with service providers and the resulting health problems that can occur when individuals are ill-informed, discriminated, or disregarded entirely. Dr. Uchima also spoke of the huge financial and personal costs to society when health disparities are not addressed. The Forum also featured a panel of speakers that included Dr. Mary Okada, President of the Guam Community College, who verbalized a commitment to work with CLASP in establishing a training and certification program for interpreters at the College. 

Anyone interested in joining CLASP should call Mariles Benavente, CLC Coordinator for Project Karinu at 735-2497.

(Bottom left photo) Female participant standing and holding microphone with the audience around her. (Bottom right photo) Participants looking forward. Caption for both photos: The attendance of the one day public forum on "Access to Language Equity" underscores the importance of this critical need on Guam.

Page 17 (Two articles with title and photos)

Legal Advisor Shares Tips on Comprehensive Planning 
Planning is a topic most families engage in on a daily basis. We plan for the activities for tomorrow, the activities for next week, and even next month. For families with children with disabilities, a big planning activity is centered on educational goals and objectives and the whole Individualized Educational Plan process. For an even longer term, Person Centered Planning is a framework used to look at a whole life approach for individuals with disabilities. 

To assist in the planning process, the Guam Tri-Agency, in collaboration with the Office of the Public Guardian, sponsored a lecture on February 26 that integrated the legal, medical, life, and resource planning for persons with disabilities and their families. Katherine Campbell, J.D., LLM, conducted the presentation titled, "Comprehensive Age Planning for Individuals with Disabilities and their Families: Information Needed to Make Informed Decisions." 

A major emphasis of the information provided by Attorney Campbell was simply to get organized. As basic as this may seem, it does take some effort to collect, for example, medical information. Tips were given on how to facilitate better doctor appointments, organize medication information, medical history, equipment, and supplies on hand. Being able to access key documents and having a communication policy, such as identifying the point of contact and lead spokesperson for a person with a disability, having documents relating to the authorization and consent to treat a minor, as well as medical records release and authorization for disclosure of protected health information were covered. Other planning resources were provided. 

The 48 lecture attendees represented a range of community, including persons with disabilities, family members, senior citizens medical and social service providers, lawyers and paralegals, and members of the public. As one professional stated in the evaluation, the relevancy of the topic was appreciated as "often times we fail to think about the topic until when things start to get complicated." And as one individual with a disability put it, "lots of information for (the) future and will help (us) get readyÉ" 

(Top photo) Panoramic view of room with presenter and audience. Caption: Katherine A. Campbell, J.D., LLM (standing at left) shares a range of medical and legal tips to address planning issues for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her presentation took place at the Jesus and Eugenia Leon Guerrero Building on February 26.

Envisioning the Future: Allies in Self-Advocacy 
The Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD) recently released a video production entitled, "Envisioning the Future: Allies in Self Advocacy." This film production summarizes a series of self-advocacy summits and leadership gatherings held in each of the 56 states and territories. As stated in the "Allies in Self-Advocacy Website," the goal was to learn what each state was doing around self-advocacy, help each state develop and present a state plan to strengthen their activities around this area, and develop national policy recommendations for AIDD and its partnering organizations. Overall, the purpose was to strengthen and enhance self-advocacy efforts in the states and nationally." 

The video may be viewed at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrSjL1f1LFE

(Bottom photo) Snapshot of video clip of Lynn Tydingco speaking and SiñA members standing around her with the following text: challenges: getting grants.

Page 18 (Article title, two photos with captions, and article)
Guam CEDDERS Ad Hoc Committee Meets
In addition to meeting on a quarterly basis, the Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council is also meeting on an ad hoc basis to provide input on specific topics and initiatives. The Ad Hoc Committee this past February 4th met to focus on providing guidance as we develop the design of the new Guam CEDDERS website, slated for launching by June of this year. Input was also sought on a Self-Advocate poster series (see posters on page 5-7), a current video project, and topics to feature in upcoming issues of I Lina'a-ta, the quarterly Tri-Agency newsletter featuring self-advocates and their activities.

(Top photo) Panoramic view of meeting room with three males and six females. Caption: Members of the Guam CEDDERS Advisory Council Ad Hoc Committee met on February 4 to discuss the updating of the Guam CEDDERS website. Participants included (clockwise, starting at left bottom): Gian Magana, Elaine Faculo-Gogue, Ginger Porter (partially hidden), Terrie Fejarang, Tom Manglona (partially hidden), Keith Villaluna, Erlinda Tydingco, Maria Bontogon, Ana Kilroy, Ben Servino, and Hank Parker.

(Bottom photo) Three females sitting at a table. Middle person with an assistive technology device plance on the table in front of her. Caption: L-R): Erlinda Tydingco, Maria Bontogon, and Ana Kilroy listen in during the Ad Hoc Committee discussion on website revisions.

Page 19 (Two photos with captions and titles, Newsletter Acknowledgement)
Guam CEDDERS Reps Meet with UH Special Education Faculty
(Top photo) Group shot of six women standing. Caption: Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, Guam CEDDERS Director, along with Associate Directors June De Leon and Terrie Fejarang, met with University of Hawaii, Manoa Special Education Department faculty on December 9, 2013, to discuss upcoming grant partnership opportunities in the areas of autism education and educational leadership. L-R: Front Row: Dr. Jenny Wells, June De Leon, Dr. Patricia Sheehy. Back Row: Dr. Heidi San Nicolas, Dr. Mary Jo Noonan, and Terrie Fejarang.

(Bottom photo) Female smiling. Caption:  Mara San Nicolas recently started her practicum placement with Guam CEDDERS under the tutelage of Maria Louise Benavente, MSW, ACSW, IMFT. A University of Guam BSW alum, Mara has been a social worker for 12 years, assigned to Child Protective Services, Department of Public Health and Social Services and has experience working as a Program Coordinator at Guma' Mami. Mara is currently focusing her practicum experience on systems development, particularly within the infant mental health arena. She is a full-time student of the University of New England and expects to graduate Summer 2016. Welcome, Mara!

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, June De Leon, Terrie Fejarang, Nieves Flores, Ed.D., Jeff Pinaula, Ginger Porter, and guest contributor, Maria Bontogon. 

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 Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Grant No. 90DD0014-01-00. 
The University of Guam is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Page 20 (Calendar text with photo at the bottom of the page)

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS

Mar 2014
Mar 1 GSAT Assistive Technology Fair, 10am-2pm, Micronesian Mall Center Court. 
Mar 6 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 10am -12 Noon, Block 2, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 10 Culture and Language Access Service Partners (CLASP) Strategic Planning Meeting, 8am - 5pm. 
Mar 10 Skype Consultation Call with Guam VI Program Personnel, 8:30 - 10am, House 17 Dean's Circle. 
Mar 10 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 10am -12pm, Block 2, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 10-12 CSEFEL "Training-of-Trainers", 8am-5pm. 
Mar 11 Guam Early Learning Council Meeting. 
Mar 13 Early Childhood Leadership Meeting w/ Dr. Robert Corso. 
Mar 13 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 3pm-5pm, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 14 GEIS Webinar with Naomi Younggren, Ph.D, 1:30-5:30pm, UOG SBPA Bldg, Room 131. 
Mar 14-16 LEND Trainee Symposium, Honolulu, HI. 
Mar 15 Guam Early Intervention System Parent Training, "Transition", 8am-12pm, Guam Marriott Resort & Spa. 
Mar 17 2nd Quarterly Guam EHDI Advisory Meeting, Monday, 11:30am-1pm. 
Mar 17 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 3pm-5pm, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 18 Alternate Assessments Based on Alternate Achievement Standards (AA-AAS) Training, School of Business & Public Administration Building, 8am - 5pm. 
Mar 18 Parent Training Series, Sinajana Mayor's Office, 5:30pm-7:30pm, Parents with Children with Disabilities. (Must have attended Feb. 1, 2014 training and previous Parent Series Training). 
Mar 20 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 3pm-5pm, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 24 & 27 Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Training, 8am - 3:30pm, Sheraton Laguna Guam. 
Mar 24 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, "Know Yourself, Know What You Need, Know How to Get It" Lifelong Lessons, 3pm-5pm, Simon Sanchez High School (SSHS). 
Mar 25 Project Tinituhon CCHC/Policies and Procedures Workgroup meeting, Tuesday, 2pm, Guam CEDDERS House 22/23 Conference Room. 
Mar 26 Culture and Language Access Service Partners (CLASP) Strategic Planning Meeting, 8am - 5pm, Guam Marriott Resort & Spa. 
Mar 28 2014 Annual GSAT Conference, 8am-4pm, Westin Resort Guam, Somnak Ballroom. 
Mar 28 CNMI Early Learning Guidelines Focus Group Meeting, 9am-4:30pm, PIC Saipan, Napu Room. 
Apr 1-30 Child Abuse Prevention Month 

Apr-May 2014
Apr 4 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, Time To Be Determined (TBD), Location: GCC. 
Apr 5 Early Childhood Parent Conference, 8am-4pm, UOG SBPA Building. 
Apr 5 Autism Awareness Fair, 10am-2pm, Agana Shopping Center. 
Apr 6-12 Week of the Young Child 
Apr 11 Self-Advocacy Series Workshop for Youth, Time To Be Determined (TBD), Location: UOG. 
Apr 25 CNMI ELG 3-5 Years Focus Group Meeting, Saipan. 
Apr 26 Early Childhood Caregiver Training on CNMI Early Learning Guidelines (ELG) Infant/Toddler, Saipan. 
May 1-31 Child Mental Health Awareness Month 
May 13 CNMI ELG 3-5 Focus Group Meeting Saipan.

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

(Bottom photo) Panoramic view of room with six participants and flat screen TV with Donna McNear, consultant on the screen. Title: Maximizing Resources Via Skype Sessions
Caption: As part of the continuing support to the Guam DOE Part B Vision Impairments Program, Donna McNear, VI Educational Consultant, facilitated another Skype session with VI Program staff on January 14. Clockwise: Paula Ulloa, VI School Program Consultant; June Quitugua, Guam CEDDERS Initiative Area Coordinator/Pacific VIP Program Coordinator; Mara San Nicolas, MSW Practicum Student; Terrie Fejarang, Guam CEDDERS Associate Director/Guam DOE Part B TA Facilitator; Darlene Taimanglo and Diane Artero, VI Program Itinerant Teachers/Pacific VIP Scholars.