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xMinds Logo - xMinds in teal and dark blue where the X looks like a person with an orange head; followed by the words Partnership for Extraordinary MindsImproving education for autistic students in Montgomery County, MD

Past Events

2024-20252023-2024 | 2022-2023 | 2021-2022 | 2020-2021 | 2019-2020 | 2018-2019 | 2017-2018 | 2016-2017 | 2015-2016 | 2014-2015

Visit our YouTube Channel for videos of past events

2025–2026 Program Year

November 11 and 13, 2025


Primers on MCPS Placements for Autistic Students

Event Description


Primers on MCPS Placements Playlist

Session 1 (Nov. 11) -- Preschool Placements 

MCPS PRESENTERS:

Erica Williams, Director, Department of Special Education Prekindergarten and Related Services
Mary Rose Catena, Coordinator, Preschool Education Program (PEP)
Lisa Grant, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services
Lauren McGinley, Program Specialist, Autism Services (CAPP)

    Video Recording in English


    Grabación de video en Español 


    Slideshow in English 


    Session 2 (Nov. 11) -- Secondary Placements (Middle and High School)

    OPENING REMARKS:

    Jada Langston, Director, Department of Special Education Services


    MCPS PRESENTERS:

    Sarah Kio, Coordinator, Learning and Academic Disabilities Services (LAD)
    Robin Daisey, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Connections)
    Jill DeSanto, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Connections)                         
    Alison O'Connor, Coordinator, Division of Specialized Support Services, Autism Resource Services (ARS, By Cluster)
    Dr. Megan Vaganek, Psychologist, Rock Terrace
    Lisa Korte, Instructional Specialist, Social Emotional Special Education Services (SESES) (Bridge)
    Ashley Doyle, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcome Services (ALO), Extensions, School Community-Based & Learning for Independence (LFI/SCB/Extensions)
    Kristin Rattan, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Classic Autism Services)
    Claire Lanham, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Classic Autism Services)
    Casey Siddons, Acting Principal, (Rock Terrace School)
    Patricia Cochrane, Supervisor, Transition Services


      Video Recording in English 

      Grabación de video en Español

      Slideshow in English 



      Session 3 (Nov. 13) -- Primary Placements (Elementary School)

      OPENING REMARKS: 

      Jada Langston, Director, Department of Special Education Services


      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Dr. Latonya Williams, Cross Functional Team Coordinator, Division of Specialized Support Services - Home School Model (HSM)

      Robin Daisey, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services - Connections

      Lisa Korte, Instructional Specialist, Social Emotional Special Education Services (SESES)

      Tony Spangler, Coordinator, Cross Functional Team - School Based Learning Center (SBLC)

      Kristin Ericson, Special Education Supervisor - Carl Sandburg Learning Center

      Taylor Hartman, Instructional Specialist &

      Lauren-Ashley Minor, Instructional Specialist

      Austyn Klages, Program Specialist, Autism Services - Classic Autism Services

      Dana Gillespie, Program Specialist, Autism Services - Classic Autism Services


      Video Recording in English


      Grabación de video en Español 


      Slideshow in English 


      October 15, 2025

      Unpacking an Autism Diagnosis: Understanding the "Why" and Navigating What's Next

      Event Description

      Speakers: Jen Dryer and Gabriele Nicolet, co-founders of Raising Orchid Kids

      Slideshow in English 

      Video Recording in English 


      Grabación de video en Español


      Lunchtime Reboot: Recharge and Prevent Parent Burnout 

      Event Description

      Speaker: Magüi Moreno, Certified Mindfulness Teacher, Author and Parenting Coach


      October 6 Video Recording in English 


      September 9 Video Recording in English 


      2024–2025 Program Year


      June 10, 2025

      Welcome to the Neighborhood: Autistic Voices on Community & Connection

      Event Description

      Moderator:

      Steven Isaacson, LMSW, Licensed Autistic Social Worker 


      Panelists:

      Sorrah Edwards-Thro (he/they), Graduate Student-Clinician and Researcher

      Dr. Brittany Townsend-Galloway (she/her), Assistant Supervisor, DHS, State of Maryland

      Gabrielle Zwi (they, them), Autistic Advocate, Musician, and Educator


      Slideshow in English 

      Video Recording in English 


      Grabación de video en Español



      May 31, 2025

      Transition to Adulthood Clinic

      Event Description

      Speaker: Eric Jorgensen, Director of Special Projects, First Maryland Disability Trust

      Consultants: 


      Beth Benevides, Hussman Institute 

      Beth Ann Hancock, Charting the Course

      Meghan Smallwood, HCPSS

      David Mervis, Esq., Kennedy Krieger, Project HEAL

      Nick Burton, N. Burton Consulting

      Rachel Greenberg, Life Unlimited

      Arnikka Robinson, TLC

      Lisa Lorraine, Jubilee

      Rose Ansara , SEEC

      Veronica Lawrence, SEEC

      Flor de Amelia L. Hoffman, Avanzos

      Rosemary DiPietro, CCS, MoCo DHHS

      Alisa K. Chernack, Esq.

      Slideshow in English 


      Video Recording in English 


      Lunchtime Reboot: Recharge and Prevent Parent Burnout 

      Event Description

      Speaker: Magüi Moreno, Certified Mindfulness Teacher, Author and Parenting Coach


      YouTube Playlist


      May 19 Video Recording in English 


      May 19 Slideshow in English 


      April 28 Video Recording in English 


      April 28 Slideshow in English 

      February 24 Video Recording in English 


      February 24 Slideshow in English 



      April 30, 2025


      Bridging the Divide: Controversial Conversations About Autism

      Event Description

      Speakers:  I Will Die on This Hill co-authors Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards


      Video Recording in English 


      Grabación de video en Español




      January 21, 2025


      Empowering Parents: How to Prepare for a Successful IEP Meeting

      Event Description

      Speaker: Frances Shefter, Shefter Law, P.A. 

      Slideshow in English

      Video Recording in English 

      Grabación de video en Español


      January 8, 2025


      What is PDA? Exploring the Autism Profile Everyone's Talking About

      Event Description

      Speaker: Diane Gould, LCSW, Executive Director and Founder of PDA North America

      Slideshow in English

      Video Recording in English 

      Grabación de video en Español
      Additional resources


      December 11, 2024


      Nurturing Supportive Sibling Relationships

      Event Description

      Interviewer:  Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Guiding Exceptional Parents

      Speakers:

      Video Recording in English 


      Grabación de video en Español

      Additional resources



      November 9, 2024

      xMinds Annual IEP Clinic

      Event Description 

      Presenter: Frances Shefter, Shefter Law, P.A. 

      Slideshow in English

      CONSULTANTS: 

      Susana Barrios -- Advocate, Disability Rights Maryland   

      Kim Glassman, Esq. -- Attorney at the Law Office of Brian K. Gruber,P.C.

      Anneliese Girson -- Advocate at Ascend Ed LLC

      Kris Hayden -- Education Consultant at Weinfeld Education Group

      Sheila Iseman -- SCI Educational Consultants, Inc. 

      Marcy Jackson, MA --  Educational Consultant, Weinfeld Education Group 

      Jen Ritchotte, M.Ed. --  Independent Educational Consultant, Special Kids Company

      Donna Sagona -- Director of IEP Services and Educational Consultant, Educational Resources Group of Greater Washington


      October 17, 2024

      Listening Session on MCPS Autism Services: Amplifying Parent Voices

      Event Description 

      * Due to the sensitive nature of this topic and to protect the privacy of our presenters, a recording will not be made available to the public on our YouTube Channel.


      2023–2024 Program Year

      June 18, 2024

      The Annual Autistic Self-Advocates Panel: Bullying — What We Can Tell You

      Event Description 

      MODERATOR:  Jennifer Glacel, LCSW, RPT-S, Owner and Founder, Seven Corners Psychotherapy (she/her)

      PANELISTS: Kristen Letnick, Jacob Weisman, Steven Kryspin

      Additional Resources

      * Due to the sensitive nature of this topic and to protect the privacy of our presenters, a recording will not be made available to the public on our YouTube Channel.


      May 14, 2024

      Virtual Vigilance: Safeguarding Autistic Students from Cyberbullying

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Chad Rose, Ph.D.

      Video Recordings in English 

      Slideshow in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Additional Resources


      April 24, 2024

      My Autistic Child is Being Bullied: What Can I Do?

      Event Description 

      PRESENTERS: Christine Waanders, Ph.D. and Ashley VanCleef, Esq.

      Video Recording in English 

      Waanders' Slides in English

      VanCleef's Slides in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Additional Resources


      March 19, 2024

      What I've Learned About Bullying: Autistic Self-Advocate Stephen Shore Speaks Out

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Dr. Stephen Shore, Clinical Associate Professor of Special Education at Adelphi University, autistic self-advocate, author, and speaker.

      Video Recording in English 

      Slideshow in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Additional Resources


      February 20 and 22, 2024

      2024 Primers on MCPS Placements for Autistic Students

      Event Description

      Primers on MCPS Placements Playlist

      Session 1 (Feb. 20) -- Preschool Placements 

      OPENING REMARKS:

      Amy Cropp, Director, MCPS Division of Prekindergarten, Special Programs, and Related Services

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Mary Rose Catena, Coordinator, Preschool Education Program (PEP)

      Susan Mason, instructional specialist, MCPS Autism Services (CAPP)

      Video Recording in English

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 


      Session 2 (Feb. 20) -- Secondary Placements (Middle and High School)

      OPENING REMARKS:

      Kia Middleton-Murphy, Acting Director, Dept. of Special Education Service

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Cynthia Webb, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (LAD)

      Lora Johnson, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (LAD)

      Robin Daisey, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Autism Connections)

      Claire Lanham, Program Specialist, Autism Services (ARS)

      Sandi Ives, Supervisor, Social Emotional Special Education Services (Bridge)

      Anne Marie Tagliaferri, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcome Services (Extensions, SCB, LFI)

      Samantha Dunbar, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Classic Autism)

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español



      Session 3 (Feb. 22) -- Primary Placements (Elementary School)

      OPENING REMARKS: 

      Kristin Secan, Supervisor, Services for Students with Autism 

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Kathryn Bettis, Instructional Specialist (Home School Model)

      Dr. Haley Biddanda, School Psychologist Autism Unit (Autism Connections)

      Dr. Sandi Ives, Supervisor (Social Emotional Special Education Services - SESES)

      Kelly Jiron, Area Supervisor, Department of Special Education (School-Based Learning Centers)

      Melissa Grant, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Darnestown Learning Center)

      Beth Lacoursiere, Principal, Carl Sandburg Learning Center (Carl Sandburg Learning Center)

      Anne Marie Tagliaferri, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcome Services (ALO, Extensions, School-Community Based & Learning for Independence)

      Lisa Grant, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Classic Autism)

      Brandi Bechtold, Program Specialist, Autism Services  (Classic Autism)

      Anne Marie Tagliaferri, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcomes Services, (Extensions) 

      Video Recording in English

      Slide Show in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 



      January 23, 2024

      Restraint and Seclusion: What Parents of Autistic Children Should Know

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Guy Stephens, Founder and Executive Director, Alliance Against Seclusion & Restraint

      Video Recording in English 

      Slideshow in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Additional Resources

      December 5, 2023

      Is This Autism? A Framework for Understanding

      Event Description 

      PRESENTERS: Sarah Wayland, Ph.D. and Jamell White, Ph.D., LCSW-C 

      Video Recordings in English 

      Slideshow in English

      Grabación de video en Español 


      December 4, 2023

      Stress on the Spectrum

      Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee


      PRESENTER: Jenny Mai Phan, Ph.D.

      Video Recordings in English 

      Slideshow


      November 28, December 5, December 12

      The Holiday Survival Guide for Parents

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Magüi Moreno, certified mindfulness teacher and autism mom

      Video Recordings in English - Session 1, November 28

      Video Recordings in English - Session 2, December 5

      Video Recordings in English - Session 3, December 12 

      November 4, 2023

      Annual IEP Clinic

      Event Description 

      The Parts of an IEP Explained

      PRESENTER: Donna Sagona, education consultant

      Slides


      I Disagree with the IEP Team: What Are My Options?

      PRESENTER:  Kimberly Glassman, Esq., education attorney

      Slides



      October 25, 2023

      How to Get the Most From Your Child's Neuropsych Evaluation

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Dr. David O. Black, Director and Co-Founder, Center for Assessment and Treatment (CAAT)

      Video Recordings in English 

      Slideshow in English

      Grabación de video en Español 


      2022–2023 Program Year

      June 8, 2023

      Autistic Authors Panel: Inspiration for Summer Reading

      Event Description 

      PRESENTER: Meera Trehan,author of The View from the Very Best House in Town, a Junior Library Guild Gold Selection

      PANELISTS:  Find the six author/panelists' information at our event description

      Tiffany Hammond, Sally J. Pla, Mike Jung, Ivelisse Housman, Lyn Miller–Lachmann, and Sarah Kapit

      Video Recordings in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 


      ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:



      May 23, 2023

      Autistic Self Advocates Panel: A Discussion of Starting Careers

      Event Description -- Co-Hosted by xMinds and Howard County Autism Society

      MODERATOR: Zosia Zaks, M.Ed., C.R.C. (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor)

      PANELISTS: 

      Abraham Sanchez, who works at Pete Pappas and Sons, a produce grower and distributor in Jessup, MD.

      Kiana Fok, who works for Abato, Rubenstein and Abato, P.A., a Baltimore law firm specializing in labor and employee benefits.

      Abigail Alexis, an artist who works part time at a grocery store.

      Video Recordings in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 


      May 16, 2023

      Restorative Justice in MCPS

      Event Description -- Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee

      PRESENTERS: Floyd Branch III, MCPS Restorative Justice, Instruction Specialist

      Video Recordings in English 

      Slideshow in English


      April 18, 2023

      How to Write SMART IEP Goals

      Event Description

      PRESENTERS: Stacy Ganz Kahn and Donna Sagona, educational consultants and advocates, directors of Educational Resources Group of Greater Washington

      Video Recording in English 

      Slideshow in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español


      March 15, 2023

      Understanding Neurodiversity-Affirming Care

      Event Description 

      PRESENTERS: 

       Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD., Director and Co-Founder of the SOAR Program for psychotherapy and testing at WBMA

      Emily “Max” Lamm, MA  Resident in Counseling at the SOAR Program for psychotherapy and testing at WBMA

      Laura Morlok, LCPC, LPC, RPT-S Founder of Playful Therapy Connections  

      Video Recording in English 

      Slideshow in English

      Grabación de video en Español


      March 7, 2023

      Understanding Your Student's IEP, Section by Section

      Event Description

      PRESENTERS: Stacy Ganz Kahn and Donna Sagona, educational consultants and advocates, directors of Educational Resources Group of Greater Washington

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English 

      Grabación de video en Español

      Diapositivas en Español 



      February 22, 2023

      Update on the Maryland Autism Waiver

      Event Description -- Co-hosted by Howard County Autism Society and xMinds

      PRESENTERS: 

      Sheri Weissman, LCSW, C-ASWCM, The Coordinating Center, Autism Waiver Service Coordinator, Howard and Harford County Daniel Hammond, Autism Waiver Coordinator, Montgomery County Public Schools

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español --viniendo pronto


      February 13, 2023

      Navigating Cultural Bias With a Child on the Autism Spectrum

      Event Description -- Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee

      PRESENTER: Dr. Joette James, Ph.D., ABPP-CN, Clinical Neuropsychologist, Stixrud Group

      Moderated by Daria Hall, xMinds Board Member

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español

      Diapositivas en Español 


      February 7 and 9, 2023

      Primers on MCPS Placements for Autistic Students

      Event Description

      Session 1 (Feb. 7) -- Preschool Placements 

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Mary Rose Catena, Coordinator, Preschool Education Program (PEP)

      Lisa Grant, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (CAPP)

      Video Recording in English

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español 

      Session 2 (Feb. 7) -- Secondary Placements (Middle and High School)

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Cynthia Webb, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (LAD)

      Lora Johnson, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (LAD)

      Robin Daisey, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Asperger Connections/ARS)

      Claire Lanham, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Asperger Connections/ARS)

      Sandi Ives, Supervisor, Social Emotional Special Education Services (Bridge)

      Anne Marie Tagliaferri, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcome Services (Extensions, SCB, LFI)

      Domenick Fabii, Instructional Specialist, Autism Services (Secondary Autism)

      Mark Custer, Program Specialist,Autism Services (Secondary Autism)

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español

      Diapositivas en Español 


      Session 3 (Feb. 9) -- Primary Placements (Elementary School)

      MCPS PRESENTERS:

      Kelly Jiron, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (Home School Model, School-Based Learning Centers)

      Dr. Melissa Brunson, Area Supervisor, Dept. of Special Education Services (Home School Model)

      Sarah Melchior, Psychologist, Autism Services (Asperger Connections)

      Phil Lynch, Director of the Department of Special Education Services (substituting for Sandi Ives, on SESES)

      Melissa Grant, Autism Spectrum Disorders Services (Darnestown Learning Center)

      Beth Lacoursiere, Principal, Carl Sandburg Learning Center (Carl Sandburg Learning Center)

      Anne Marie Tagliaferri, Supervisor, Alternate Learning Outcome Services (LFI)

      Kathleen Greenberg, Department of Special Education Services (SCB)

      Lauren McGinley, Program Specialist, Autism Services (Autism Program)

      Brandi Bechtold, Program Specialist, Autism Services  (Autism Program)

      Taylor Hartman, Department of Special Education (Extensions)

      Video Recording in English

      Slide Show in English 

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español 




      January 13, 2023

      Lunch and Learn on Executive Functioning Challenges for ASD Students

      Event Description

      PRESENTERS: 

      Marci SkigenFounder of Enhance EFS

      Rachel Sushner, M.Ed.

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español



      January 10, 2023

      Special Education Basics Series --  Understanding IEPs v. 504 Plans v. Service Plans and Accommodations v. Modifications: What Supports are Right for Your Child?

      Event Description

      PRESENTERS:

      Marci Skigen, Founder of Enhance EFS

      Rachel Sushner, M.Ed. 

      Naomi Rubinstein, M.Ed. Naomi Rubinstein, LLC.

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español




      December 6, 2022

      Special Education Basics Series --  Testing, Assessment, and Understanding

      Event Description

      PRESENTER: Dr. Rebecca Resnik, Rebecca Resnik & Associates, LLC

      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español




      November 1, 2022

      Special Education Basics Series --  Navigating Special Education for Autistic Students in Maryland

      Event Description

      PRESENTER: Monica Martinez


      Video Recording in English 

      Slide Show in English

      Grabación de video en Español 

      Diapositivas en Español



      October 8, 2022

      xMinds Annual IEP Clinic with Parent/Student Panels on MCPS Placements

      Event Description 

      CONSULTANTS:

      Monica Martinez

      Sumaiya Olatunde -- H2D Counseling 

      Kimberly Glassman, Esq. --  Law Office of Brian K. Gruber, P.C.

      Susana Barrios (Spanish speaking) --  Disability Rights Maryland

      Sheila Iseman -- SCI Educational Consultants

      Lizette Hoffman -- Avanzos Educational and Behavioral Service


      Panel discussions were not recorded. 


      2021–2022 Program Year


      May 24, 2022

      Autistic Self-Advocates Panel: A Discussion of Social Lives

      Presenters:  Joel Carver, Heather Weiss, and Justin Valenti

      Video Recording in English

      Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description 


      April 26, 2022

      Gender Diversity and Autism


      Presenter:  Zosia Zaks, M.Ed., C.R.C. (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor)

       Video Recording  in English

      Video Recording in Spanish

      Event Description 

      Slide Show

      List of Academic Studies provided by Zosia Zaks

      Additional Resources 



      April 6, 2022

      Lunchtime Workshop: What Are My Options for the Transition Year After High School?


      Presenter:  Judith Bass,  Certified Educational Planner and founder of Bass Educational Services

      Video recording in English

       Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description 

      Slide Show 


      March 15, 2022

      What Successful Inclusion of Nonspeakers Looks Like: Two Real Life Examples


      Presenters:  D.J. Savarese, Lisa Vallado, and Tracy Harder

        Video recording in English

       Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description 


      January 19, 2022

      Disability Is Not a Dirty Word


      Presenter:  Julia Bascom, Executive Director, Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)

      Video recording in English

       Video recording in Spanish

      Power Point Slideshow

      Event Description 

      Recommended Resources Raised During Webinar


      November 16, 2021

      Supporting Re-Entry to School for Autistic Students: A Trauma-Informed Approach


      Moderator: Kim Pinckney-Lewis

      Presenters:  Alondra Anderson, Eric Rossen, Maxwell Schneider

      Video recording in English

       Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description

      Resources on this topic


      October 28, 2021

      Screening of "This Is Not About Me | A story about growing up non-speaking" & Interview With Jordyn Zimmerman, star of the documentary film


      Presenters:  Jordyn Zimmerman, Maria Ott, and Gordy Baylinson

      Video recording in English

      Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description



      October 25, 2021

      Q&A on Compensatory Education with Kim Glassman, Esq.


      Presenter:  Kimberly Glassman, Esq.

      Video recording in English

      Video recording in Spanish

      Event Description



      September 18, 2021

      xMinds Annual IEP Clinic with Keynote Address on Compensatory Educational Services


      Presenter:  Kimberly Glassman, Esq.

      Slides:  xMinds IEP Clinic -- 9-18-21 Glassman.pdf

      Video recording in English

       Video recording in Spanish

      Consultants:

      Monica Martinez

      Jennifer Fisher, Weinfeld Education Group

      Event Description 




      2020-2021 Program Year


      May 19, 2021

      Autistic Self-Advocates Panel: What We Want Parents and Educators to Understand


      Presenters:  Ben McGann, Tiffany Modeste, Allie Sayre, and Zosia Zaks

      Moderator:  Scott Robertson

      English Video 

      Spanish Video 

      Event Description -- includes bios of presenters and moderator



      April 24, 2021

      Navigating Special Education for Autistic Students in Maryland


      Presenters:  Monica Martinez, Special Education Advocate (English);  Gicel Martinez and Rosa Lily from Parents' Place MD (Spanish)

      Monica Martinez Video Recording in English:  English Video

      Monica Martinez Video Recording interpreted in Spanish: Spanish Video 

      PPMD's Video recording in Spanish:  Spanish PPMD Video 

      Monica Martinez slides in English and in Spanish

      Parents' Place of MD's slides in Spanish

      Event Description for English


      March 10, 2021

      Understanding Behavior:  What are Autistic Children Communicating?


      Presenters:  Sarah Wayland, Ph.D. and Kimberly Clairy, OT and autistic self-advocate with husband William Miller

      Video  recording  

      Spanish Video

      Slides:  Wayland and Clairy Slides

      Slides in Spanish available upon request

      Event Description


      February 27, 2021

      xMinds Open House for Parents of Black Autistic Children

      Video recording  

      Event Description 



      January 13, 2021

      Does Your Education Team Presume Competence in Your Autistic Student?


      Autistic Self-Advocate Panelists:  Lisa Vallado, Gordy Baylinson, Terra Vance

      Autistic Allies Panelists:  Lisa Mihalich Quinn, Amy Allnutt

      Video  recording 

      Slides: Lisa Mihalich Quinn slides ;  TerraVanceslides  ; ValladoSlidespart1Valladoslidespart2

      Event Description including information about the panelists

      Find more resources on the xMinds Nonspeaking Autistic Students webpage



      December 16, 2020

      Anxiety Plus Autism: Anything but Neurotypical


      Panelists:  Jonathan Dalton, Ph.D., Founder and Director of the Center for Anxiety and Behavioral Change, Jeremy Pedneau

      Video recording

      Slides:  Pdf of slide show available on request. Please email info@xminds.org.

      Dr. Dalton's recommendations for Additional Resources

      Event Description



      November 18, 2020

      Options for Decision-Making When My Child on the Spectrum Turns 18


      Panelists:  Morgan Whitlatch, Legal Director for Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities; Howard Hoffman and Adam Hoffman

      Video recording 11-18-20  

      Slides:  These slides are for informational purposes only, and do not constitute legal advice.

      Resource List

      Event Description


      October 21, 2020

      Functional Communication Plans: An Essential Tool for Supporting Non and Minimally Speaking Students


      Panelists:  Joy Johnson, M.Ed., M.S.;  Lesley Fontana, M.A., CCC-SLP; and Paul Livelli, Ph.D.

      Video  recording 

      Slides:  LesleyFontana.pptx; PaulLivelli.pptxJoyJohnson.pptx

      Event Description

      Nonspeaking Autistic Students Resources


      September 12, 26, and October 10, 2020

      Q&A Series on Distance learning (not recorded for privacy of participants)

      September 12, 2020

      Navigating Online Instruction: Q&A with Classroom Teachers

      Panelists: Kristin King, Rachel Tate, Susan Lee and Joseph Mann

      Event Description


      September 26, 2020

      Online Instruction and the Law: Q&A with Education Attorney Kimberly Glassman, Esq.

      Panelists: Kimberly Glassman, Esq. 

      Event Description


      October 10, 2020

      The Impact and Experience of Online Instruction: Q&A with Sarah Wayland, Ph.D. and Students on the Spectrum

      Panelists: Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Cree Costello (9th grader), and Jack Allnutt (12th grader)

      Event Description


      2019-2020 Program Year

      July 23, 2020

      Racial Justice in Special Education: A Panel Discussion

      Moderator:  Kim Pinckney-Lewis

      Panelists: Selene Almazan, Dr. Delarious Stewart, Joy F. Johnson, Cheryl Poe, and Candace Strickland

      Flyer: xMindsRacialJusticeJuly23.pdf

      Video  recording

      Audio recording: Audio file of Racial Justice in Special Education_July 23 2020.m4a

      Resources:


      May 27, 2020

      Autistic Self-Advocates Panel: Exploring Paths After High School

      Panelists: Alanna Van Valkenburgh, Benjamin Haar, Lisa Vallado, and Nicholas Jennings-Corrales

      Moderator:  Scott Michael Robertson, Ph.D.   


      April 30, 2020

      Understanding and Managing Challenging Behavior during Distance Learning: Focusing on ASD Student

      Speaker: Jaclyn Halpern, Psy.D.

      Outline and Resources from Webinar 4-30-20.pdf  


      April 23, 2020

      Virtual Speech and OT:  Making It Work for ASD Students

      Speaker: Christina Morrissey, M.S., CCC-SLP

      Video recording

      Audio: GMT20200423-230456_Virtual-Sp.m4a

      Power Point slide show:  Virtual Speech-language and OT therapies.pdf


      April 16, 2020

      Special Education in the Time of Distance Learning -- Take Two

      Speaker: Kimberly Glassman, Esq., Education Attorney

      Video recording

      Audio: GMT20200416-230325_SPED-in-th.m4a

      Power Point slide show, which is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be understood as legal advice: SpecialEducation Covid-19 MD.pdf


      April 7, 2020

      SPED and FAPE in the Time of Distance Learning

      Speaker: Michael Gerton, Esq., Education Attorney


      Audio of this online webinar:  GMT20200407-230217_SPED-and-F(3).m4a

      Supporting Documents


      February 26, 2020

      Academics We Can Use:  Making the Most of the Alternate Learning Outcomes ("ALO") Curriculum

      Speaker:  Jean Hickey, M.Ed, Educational Therapist


      February 1 & 8, 2020

      Teen Self-Advocacy Workshop

      Facilitators:  Jamell White, PhD, LCSW-C; Sue Keisler, Executive Director xMinds; Monica Martinez, Special Education Advocate


      January 2020

      Getting Organized for School: A Make-and-Take Workshop

      Workshop Leader:  Jean Hickey, M.Ed, Educational Therapist


      December 2019

      Plugged-In Parents: Keeping Kids Safe, Healthy, and Happy in the Digital Age

      Speaker: Barbara Huth, Education Program Manager, Common Sense
      Handouts:


      November 19, 2019

      Providing Lifelong Financial Support to Your Family Member with Autism

      Speakers: Mark Friese, Wealth Management Advisor, Merrill Lynch
      Chase Phillips, Wealth Management Advisor, Merrill Lynch
      Matthew Bogin, Estate Planning and Probate Attorney
      Presentation Slides: Families of Children with Disabilities
      Handouts: Planning Considerations for Parents of Children with Disabilities; Frequently Used Terms


      November 9, 2019

      Workshop for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children or Adolescents

      Facilitator: Caron Starobin, LCSW-C


      October 2019

      IEP Clinic

      Keynote Speaker:  Monica Martinez, Special Education Advocate, Writing Measurable IEP Goals

      Speakers/Consultants:

      Dr. Sheila Iseman, SCI Education Consulting

      Elizabeth Stoff, M.Ed.

      Katherine Thomas, Esq., Family Legal Advocacy Group, LLC
      Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Guiding Exceptional Parents
      Mariela Pijem, Parents Place of Maryland (
      Spanish Speaking)


      September 2019

      Prepared, Proactive, and Positive: The 3Ps to Getting Your Child with ASD Ready for School Success
      Speaker: Jean E. Hickey, M. Ed., Educational Therapist
      Presentation Slides: Prepared, Proactive, and Positive: The 3Ps to Getting Your Child with ASD Ready for School Success




      2018-2019 Program Year

      June 2019

      Summer Safety
      Speaker: Officer Laurie Reyes of the Montgomery County Police Department’s Autism, IID, and Alzheimers Outreach Unit
      Presentation Slides: Montgomery County Police Department Autism/IID, Alzheimers/Dementia Outreach Presentation

      May 2019

      Ask An #ActuallyAutistic Adult
      Panelists: Joel Carver, Deef Chuang, Annie K., Scott Robertson, speaking about their experiences as students and adults on the autism spectrum and about their insights on self advocacy and neurodiversity
      Resources:

      April 2019

      11th Annual Extraordinary Minds in MCPS Forum

      Our annual “Extraordinary Minds in Montgomery County Public Schools” (MCPS) Forum informs parents about public school placements and services for students across the autism spectrum in Montgomery County, Maryland, a county that supports roughly 2,300 autistic students. Our Forum is an important service that helps parents participate meaningfully as members of their child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team.

      March 2019

      Community Safety And Interactions with Law Enforcement
      Speakers: Officers from the Montgomery County Police Department’s Autism/IDD Outreach unit

      February 2019

      Growing Up with A Sibling on The Autism Spectrum
      Speakers: Cornelia and Walter Suskind, whose family was featured in the book and documentary Life Animated: A Story of Sidekicks, Heroes, and Autism
      Handouts: SibStrong Information

      January 2019

      The Importance of Self Advocacy to Success
      Speakers: Julia Bascom, Executive Director, Autistic Self Advocacy Network
      Presentation Slides: The Importance of Self Advocacy to Success

      December 2018

      How to Help Your Teen with ASD Find A College Where They will be Happy and Successful
      Speakers: Sue Cook Christakos, College Consulting Collaborative
      Handouts: College Support Programs for Students with ASD; College Planning Guidelines for Students Who Learn Differently

      November 2018

      Roadmap to Dating And Relationships on The Spectrum: For Autistic Teens, Young Adults, And Their Parents
      Speakers: Jonathan Rhoads, LCSW-C; JMR Counseling
      Handouts: Meeting People

      October 2018

      IEP Clinic
      Speakers: Rene Averitt-Sanzone, Executive Director of Parents’ Place of Maryland (PPMD)
      Consultants: Brian Gruber, Esq., Law Office of Brian K. Gruber, P.C.
      Sheila Iseman
      Hayley Jacobson, Weinfeld Education Group
      Ali Lackey, Weinfeld Education Group
      Mariela Pijem, PPMD
      Katherine Thomas, Esq., Family Legal Advocacy Group, LLC
      Presentation Slides: PPMD Presentation

      September 2018

      Setting Up Your Child for School Success
      Speaker: Monica Martinez, President, Partnership for Extraordinary Minds
      Presentation Slides: Setting Up Your Child for School Success
      Handouts: Back to School Kit; Back to School Checklist; Behavior Contract Example 1; Behavior Contract Example 2; Student Snapshot Template; MCPS Reorganization Explained; MCPS Reorg. explicada en español

      2017-2018 Program Year

      June 2018

      Special Needs Trusts and ABLE Accounts
      Speakers: Eric Jorgensen, CFP, Turning Point Financial
      Tia Marsili, Director of Trusts, The ARC of Northern Virginia

      May 2018

      Parent Panel and IEP Clinic
      Consultants: Stacey Dworin, M.S.
      Amy Mounce, M.A., M.Ed.
      Elizabeth Stoff, M.Ed.

      March 2018

      Community Safety and Interactions with Law Enforcement
      Speakers: Officers from Montgomery County Police Department's Autism/IDD Outreach Unit

      February 2018

      Little Miss Precise: One Autistic Woman’s Journey of Self-Discovery
      Handouts: Little Miss Precise Resources

      January 2018

      Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum: A Family Experience
      Speaker: Caron Starobin, LCSW-C
      Handouts: Stages of Raising a Family with a Child on The Autism Spectrum; Parents Together Resource Packet for Young Adults and Youth with Autism

      December 2017

      Supports for Autistic Students at the University of Maryland, College Park
      Speakers: Kathy Dow-Burger, M.A., CCC-SLP, Co-Director, University of Maryland Autism Research Consortium (UMARC)
      Nancy Forsythe, M.A., Ed.S, Career Development Specialist, UMD
      Nan Bernstein Ratner, Ed.D.-SLP, Director, University of Maryland Autism Research Consortium (UMARC)
      Presentation Slides: Forsythe Employment Presentation; UMARC Presentation

      November 2017

      Maryland Online IEP System
      Speaker: Philip A. Lynch, Director, Special Education Services, MCPS
      Presentation Slides: Overview of Maryland Online IEP

      October 2017

      IEP Clinic
      Speakers: Suzanne Keith Blattner, M.S. Ed., ITS-PALSS How to Write a Good Parent Report
      Molly Whalen, Executive Director, District of Columbia Association for Special Education 5 Things Parents Should Know, Think and Care About in IEP Meetings
      Consultants: Stacey Dworin, M.S.
      Lisa Morris, M.S. Ed., Weinfeld Education Group
      Katherine F. Thomas, ESQ., Family Legal Advocacy Group
      Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Guiding Exceptional Parents, LLC

      September 2017

      Back2School: Get Organized!
      Speakers: Wendy Taylor, M. Ed. Executive Director, Learning Essentials

      2016-2017 Program Year

      May 2017

      Parent Panel on Services and Programs for Autistic Students in Montgomery County

      March 2017

      Interactive Screening of Be Safe
      Speakers: Pathfinders for Autism
      Montgomery County Police Department, Autism/IDD Outreach Unit

      February 2017

      Our Child Just Got an Autism Diagnosis: Now What?
      Speakers: Susan Abrams, M.A. CCC-SLP, Center for Communication and Learning
      Teri Kozlowski, OTR
      Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Guiding Exceptional Parents

      January 2017

      An Evening with Self-Advocate Joel Carver
      Speakers: Joel Carver, Co-Chair, Neurodiversity Student Group, College of William and Mary

      December 2016

      What Comes Next? Preparing Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum for the Path of Life
      Speakers: Dr. David Black, Ph.D., Center for Assessment and Treatment

      November 2016

      Preparing for Kindergarten
      Speakers: Lisa Grant, MCPS Special Education Program Specialist
      Jennifer Strouble, Preschool Special Education Instructional Specialist, MCPS
      Presentation Slides: Transition to Kindergarten

      Preparing for College
      Speakers: Janet Price, College Living Experience
      Presentation Slides: College Living Experience Presentation

      October 2016

      IEP Clinic
      Speakers: Rich Weinfeld, Executive Director, Weinfeld Education Group
      Consultants: Suzanne Keith Blattner, M.S. Ed., ITS-PALSS
      Michael Gerton, Esq.
      Amy Mounce, M.A., M.Ed.
      Anjali Prakash, Esq.

      September 2016

      Understanding Children on the Autism Spectrum: An Afternoon for Friends and Family to Learn about Autism
      Speakers: Eve Megargel, author of Learning to Kiss
      Monica Adler Werner, Director of the Model Asperger Program, The Ivymount School

      Book Club Discussion of Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them
      Speakers: Sarah Wayland, Ph.D., Guiding Exceptional Parents
      Holly F., xMinds Secretary

      2015-2016 Program Year

      May 2016

      Verbal Behavior Programs for Students on the Autism Spectrum
      Speakers: Cynthia Onder, MA., CCC-SLP/BCBA

      March 2016

      Financial Planning for Autism Families
      Speakers: Eric Jorgensen, CFP

      February 2016

      How to Talk to your Child about His/Her Diagnosis
      Speakers: Amy Alvord, M.Ed.
      Jean Winegardner, Autistic Self-Advocacy Network
      Handouts:

      "You Have Autism" by Shelly McLaughlin, Pathfinders for Autism

       I'm Determined!

      Using the STAR Curriculum to Talk about Sex with your Adolescents on the Spectrum
      Speakers: Dr. Cara Pugliese, Ph.D.
      Dr. Yael Granader, Ph.D.

      December 2015

      Opportunities at Montgomery College for Students Across the Autism Spectrum
      Speakers: Sue Haddad, Montgomery College Chair of Disability Support Services
      Shalawn Childs, Montgomery College Assistant Professor of Student Development

      November 2015

      Meet Glen Finland, Author of Next Stop: An Autistic Son Grows Up
      Speakers: Glen Finland, MFA
      Handouts: Glenn's Resources

      October 2015

      Discover How Your Child Learns: Neuropsychological Evaluations
      Speakers: Dr. Rebecca Resnik, PsyD

      September 2015

      Get Organized! Get Involved!
      Speakers: Alison Hoffman (Parent, Carderock Springs ES)
      Amy Marella-Carpenter (Parent, xMinds and Sligo Creek ES)
      Monica Martinez (Parent, xMinds and Sligo Creek ES)
      Bryan Osborn (Parent, Flora Singer ES)
      Kara Tymon (Coordinator, Learning Center, Flora Singer ES)


      2014-2015 Program Year

      May 2015

      Public Safety for Autistic Children and Youth
      Speaker: Scott Campbell, Board Member, Parents of Autistic Children of Northern Virginia (POAC)

      March 2015

      Math Strategies for Students on the Autism Spectrum
      Speaker: Jean Hickey, M.Ed.

      February 2015

      Sensory Processing and the Autistic Student
      Speakers: Julie Schade, MA, OTR/L
      Colette Silver, MS, OTR/L; ITS-Developmental Therapy Services
      Presentation Slides: Challenges with Sensory Processing in Children with ASD

      December 2014

      Affective Collaboration and Dispute Resolution
      Speakers: Brian Gruber, Esq., and Ashley Van Cleef, Esq.

      November 2014

      Safeguarding Your Child's Experience on the Internet
      Speakers: Dr. Jamell White, Ph.D., and Andrew McGahan, JSSA

      October 2014

      Helping Students with Written Expression
      Speakers: Esther Goetz, M.A., CCC/SLP
      Katherine Hartley, The Katherine Thomas School

      Technology Tools to Enhance Independence and Learning
      Speakers: Dr. Katharina Boser, Ph.D.

      September 2014

      Organize and Connect for Success
      Speakers: xMinds Board Members

       
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