January 9, 2006	Volume 5, Number 1

Parents in Partnership 2006 conferences set

Parents in Partnership (PIP), a group of parents and other caregivers who meet to explore changing and improving the delivery of education and services to children with disabilities, has set its schedule for 2006. Participation is funded by a DPI Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Discretionary Grant through the Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative, and there is no cost to participants. All participating families must attend all five sessions. One motel room per family is provided for the overnight stay. A Friday evening dinner, breakfast and lunch on Saturday will also be provided for each participant. A stipend is available to all families to help cover a portion of child care and travel expenses.

PIP parents choose aspects of their community where they would like to see change. Activities can include involvement in a school district’s special education plan, providing information on family issues, talking to other families, or representing the family perspective at a meeting or on a committee.

PIP families meet to share their stories, challenges, joys, and triumphs in raising their children; learn about community and statewide resources for children with special needs; explore issues around health, education, policy making, legislation, inclusion, family well-being, and reauthorization of IDEA; develop further communication, leadership, advocacy and collaboration skills; improve the partnerships between the many professionals they interact with on behalf of their children; work on family or community projects; increase their knowledge, skills, and ability to support their children and family; and become part of a network of parents of children with disabilities who are knowledgeable about education, health, and social issues, are active in their communities, and support each other.

Sessions are scheduled for January 27-28, March 3-4, March 31-April 1, April 28-29, and May 19-20. The sessions will be facilitated by John Shaw, Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities, and Dr. Craig Fiedler, UW Oshkosh. All sessions will begin at 4:00 p.m. Friday and end by 4:00 p.m. Saturday. For additional information, call John Shaw at 608-266-7707.

Last updated on 1/9/2006