Recognizing the 25th Anniversary of the Olmstead Decision

To properly recognize the anniversary, NJ Ombudsman for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities, Paul Aronsohn, penned and excellent op-ed appearing in northjersey.com on June 11. It begins:

"This month marks the 25th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s “Olmstead” decision — a case that was a watershed moment in the lives of Americans with disabilities.

To some, the 6-3 decision meant an end to the forced, “unjustified institutionalization” of people with disabilities. To some, it meant that and a whole lot more. It was about dignity. It was about civil and human rights. It was about personal choice – about acknowledging that people with disabilities — like all people everywhere — should be able to choose “where” and “how” to live their lives.

Taken together, the Olmstead decision was a long-overdue affirmation by the nation’s highest court that people with disabilities matter. What they need matters. What they want matters. What they say matters."

To read all of Mr. Aronsohn's impactful op-ed, click here.

Make a Lasting Impression - The SPAN Tree of Gratitude

The SPAN Parent Advocacy Network invites our friends, parents, partners, and affiliated organizations to take part in a unique opportunity to be featured on our stunning Tree of Gratitude, which will grace the entryway of our new office. By participating, you will establish a tangible connection with us and play a vital role in shaping the future of our organization.

We encourage you, along with your friends and colleagues, to consider this special opportunity to make a lasting and impactful contribution. Your placement on our beautiful tree will serve as a symbol of your involvement in the SPAN community.

Furthermore, your generous donation to our campaign will enable us to

continue offering invaluable resources to parents and professionals across

New Jersey and beyond. Join us in celebrating your support and commitment to our mission.

Our tree will be unveiled during a scheduled Open House on September 18, which you will hear more about shortly.

To learn more about the SPAN Tree of Gratitude and how you can take part, click here.

Upcoming Events

SPAN offers a variety of learning opportunities for families and the professionals who work with them.

Highlighted Event This Week

Using PBIS In School

Tuesday, July 2, 7 - 8PM

Online

Children do not lose their constitutional rights when they walk through the schoolhouse door. This workshop summarizes the rights of children with and without disabilities in the area of discipline. What can administrators do? What are the limits on their authority? What are some alternatives to out-of-school suspension? When and before whom must a suspension or expulsion hearing be held?

This workshop provides an overview of a cycle of failure that often results for students with behavioral challenges. The focus is on intervention with students who exhibit challenging behaviors (e.g. aggression, self-injury, tantrums). An emphasis on educational strategies helps students learn alternate behaviors that can lead to long-term change. Information on due process rights of children in the discipline process is also provided.

To register, click here.

See all of SPAN's upcoming events with details and registration links here 

Para recibir la edición en Español de este boletín semanalmente en su correo electrónico