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It was explained that previously there have been two advisory
groups – the special education parent advisory committee
and the autism advisory committee.
The plan is that Putnam County will now have one advisory
group open to all interested parents and out of this umbrella
group various “support groups” or “disability
specific” groups may organize.
Representatives from two such groups shared information.
LISTEN a monthly support group for women who parent children
with special needs will have their first meeting January 13th
from 6:30-8:00 p.m at Algood First Baptist Church and will
meet the second Tuesday of each month. For more information
call Becky Davidson at 528-7264. The Upper Cumberland Autism
Support Group is also in the process of organizing. For more
information call Jane Baker at 537-6916.
The program for this meeting included a presentation of the
Special Education Manual emphasizing appropriate procedures
for identification and evaluation of students with disabilities
and subsequent IEP development for students eligible to receive
special education services. Information was also shared regarding
Putnam County’s plan for inclusion, testing procedures
and requirements, school support teams and the SRA curriculum.
Kathleen Airhart, Putnam County Special Education Director,
spoke with the group and led a question/answer time along
with informal discussions among those in attendance.
Another Advisory Meeting will be scheduled during the second
semester. For suggestions of topics, best meeting days/time,
etc. call Mildred Burchett at 526-9777. |
