Welcome Reception
& Parent Panel
Thursday, November 6, 2014
American Bank Center
Watergarden Ballroom
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Light refreshments will be served.
23rd Annual
Texas Autism
Conference
November 6-7, 2014
American Bank Center
1901 North Shoreline Blvd.
Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
txautism.esc2.net
Education Service Center, Region 2
209 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401
361.561.8400 - www.esc2.net
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
Dear Friends,
I and everyone involved with the conference would like to welcome you to the 23rd Annual
Texas Autism Conference, hosted in our beautiful city of Corpus Christi, Texas. This statewide
conference is sponsored by the Texas Education Agency and is coordinated by the Education
Service Center, Region 2. As participants, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable
information and establish networking circles in the area of Autism.
We are thrilled to feature our keynote speaker, Eustacia Cutler, Temple Grandin’s mother,
as well as to offer you international, national and state recognized speakers, who have
been chosen for their depth of knowledge. They will share evidence-based research and
strategies that will guide parents, professionals, and educators in the development of both the
educational and social programming of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder.
I hope that you will leave this conference with not only new ideas and perspectives but ways to
work collaboratively to meet the needs of these students, our future.
Sincerely,
Linda Riddle
Linda Riddle
Conference Coordinator
Education Service Center, Region 2
209 North Water Street
Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
American Bank Center
FLOOR PLAN
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Eustacia Cutler, Mother of Temple Grandin
Eustacia Cutler, Temple Grandin’s mother, earned a B.A. from Harvard, was a
band singer at the Pierre Hotel, New York City, performed and composed for
NYC cabaret, and wrote school lessons for major TV networks. Her research on
autism and retardation established the base for two WGBH television documentaries: The Disquieted and The Innocents, a prize winning first. Her 2006 book
A Thorn in my Pocket, describes raising Temple in the “Leave-it-to-Beaver” world
of the 50’s when children with autism were routinely diagnosed as infant schizophrenics and banished to institutions.
“From Disability to Possibility”
Thursday, November 6, 2014
8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Henry Garrett A
Eustacia Cutler and her daughter Temple Grandin arrive at the 62nd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards in 2010. (Jeff Kravitz)
1
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Key
I = Instructional
T = Transition
B = Behavioral
P = Parent/Family
E = Evaluation/Assessment
S = Social/Communication
C = Community Resources
PS = Post-Secondary
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Early Registration Packet Pick-Up
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Conference Registration and Exhibits Open
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Continental Breakfast
7:15 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Welcome – Texas Education Agency and Keynote Address
8:30 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Breakout Session 1
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Session Title
10 Critical Components for Success in the
Special Education Classroom
Autism and Mental Health Issues - Looking for
Red Flags
Let's Have FUN A.K.A Viable Alternatives to InHome Training
Grades
Strand
ALL
I/B/P
Lindsey's Story: A Long & Winding Road
ALL, PS
Prevention & Intervention of Bullying for
Students with ASD
Basics of Behavior: Practical Applications for
ABA in Home and Community
Solutions for School-Age Children Diagnosed
with HFA or AS
ALL, PS
I/B/P/S
/C
I/T/B/P
/S
Presenter(s)
Marcia Rohrer and
Nannette Samson
Room
226
Terri McGinnis
225A
Beth Hudson
225D
I/B/P/S
Angela Hill,
Lindsey Bailey, and
Michelle Bailey
225C
K-12, PS
B/S
Michael Tucker
225B
PK-5
I/B/P/S
/C
ALL
I/B/P/S
Robin Blue,
Melody Perez
Jennifer Allen and
Samuel Allen
PK-8
2
HG B
HG D
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
The Effectiveness of Autismate iPad
Application on Communication & Socialization
The Power of Communication in Managing
Challenging Behaviors
Twice-Exceptional Students and
Gifted/Talented Services
Video Self-Modeling Interventions:
Implications of Age, Maintenance, and
Intervention Type
K-12
I/S
PK-8
I/B/P/S
K-12
I/B/S
PK-8
I/B/P/S
Lunch on Your Own
Julie Hatz
227
Tommie Turner and
Becky Bilyeu
Anna Phillips and
Greg Reeves
Wendi Johnson,
Kendall Bowles,
Kathryn Caldwell, and
Chris Carter
Lindsey's Story: A Long & Winding Road
Loving and Living on the Spectrum
Stories That Come Alive! Storytelling Magic in
the Preschool Classroom
The Cup Kid: Managing a Child with
Meltdowns
The Effectiveness of Autismate iPad
Application on Communication & Socialization
The Power of Communication in Managing
Challenging Behaviors
HG C
HG A
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Breakout Session 2
Session Title
10 Critical Components for Success in the
Special Education Classroom
Applied Behavior Analysis: Data Collection and
Effective Implementation in Classrooms
Basics of Behavior: Practical Applications for
ABA in Home and Community
Classroom Play
Everyone Can Sign: Guide for Students with
Autism
225E
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Grades
Strand
ALL
I/B/P
K-12
B
PK-5
PK-8
B/P
I/P/C
PK-5
I/P/S
Presenter(s)
Marcia Rohrer and
Nannette Samson
ALL, PS
ALL, PS
I/B/P/S
B/P/S
Irene Jones
Robin Blue and
Danielle Smith
Jeff Key
Nodya Thornton and
Ana Deter
Angela Hill, Lindsey
Bailey and Michelle
Bailey
James Williams
PK
I/S
Dottie Zimmermann
ALL
B/P
Nancy Kling
K-12
I/S
Julie Hatz
PK-8
I/B/P/S
Tommie Turner
Room
226
225B
HG B
225D
HG C
225C
225A
HG A
HG D
227
225E
Break
2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Breakout Session 3
2:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Session Title
Applied Behavior Analysis: Data Collection and
Effective Implementation in Classrooms
Sing Me a Song: Making the Connection
Through Music
Grades
Strand
Presenter(s)
K-12
B
PK-5
B/P
Irene Jones
Robin Blue and
Danielle Smith
3
Room
225B
HG B
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
Classroom Play
Everyone Can Sign: Guide for Students with
Autism
PK-8
I/P/C
PK-5
I/P/S
It's All Legal
Leading the Dance: Essential Steps for ParentProfessional Partnerships
Loving and Living on the Spectrum
Skills that Matter: Preparing Individuals with
Autism for Adulthood
Stories That Come Alive! Storytelling Magic in
the Preschool Classroom
Successful Strategies for Social Skills; a
Collaborative Model for Autism
The Cup Kid: Managing a Child with
Meltdowns
ALL
I/T/B/P
Jeff Key
Nodya Thornton and
Ana Deter
Lee Lentz-Edwards
and Rebecca Bilyeu
K-12
ALL, PS
K-12, PS
P
B/P/S
I/T/B/P
/E/S
Sarah Coons
James Williams
Alysa Vos and
Crystal Hansen
PK
I/S
K-12
B/S
Dottie Zimmermann
Lani Popp and
Victoria Sills
ALL
B/P
Nancy Kling
Welcome Reception & Parent Panel
Welcome Reception
& Parent Panel
Thursday, November 6, 2014
American Bank Center
Watergarden Ballroom
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Light refreshments will be served.
4
225D
HG C
227
226
225A
225C
HG A
225E
HG D
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
Friday, November 7, 2014
Conference Registration & Exhibits Open
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Continental Breakfast
7:15 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.
Breakout Session 4
8:15 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Session Title
Neurodiversity & Invisible Hurdles:
Understanding and Strategies
Addressing Objectives and Critical Skills
Throughout the Day
Transition Matters: Meeting the PostSecondary Needs of Students with Autism
Sexuality and Hygiene for Individuals with
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Caught You on Camera: Social Skills and Video
Modeling
Putting LAMP - Language Acquisition through
Motor Planning to Work
Childcare... Finding the Right Fit for your Child
It's All Legal
Behavior and The Magic Pill: It Doesn't Exist
What to Do After the Meltdown
Exhibitor Expo Break
Grades
Strand
Presenter(s)
K-12, PS
E/S
All, PS
9-12, PS
I/B/P/S
I/T/P/S
/C
Chris Abldgaard
Cissy Carter and
Hiedi Bassett
K-12, PS
I/B/P
All
I/B/P/S
PK-12
PK
I/B/P/S
P/S/C
All
All, PS
K-12
I/T/B/P
I/B/P/S
B
Breakout Session 5
Session Title
Neurodiversity & Invisible Hurdles:
Understanding and Strategies
Addressing Objectives and Critical Skills
Throughout the Day
Transition Matters: Meeting the PostSecondary Needs of Students with Autism
Sexuality and Hygiene for Individuals with
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Caught You on Camera: Social Skills and Video
Modeling
James Williams
Bobbie Gallagher
Julie Harrison,
Stephen Beckmann,
and Leslea Gore
Julie Adkins
Ann McKitrick
Lee Lentz-Edwards
and Rebecca Bilyeu
Lisa Rogers
Kathy Morris
Room
226
227
225A
225B
225C
225D
225E
HG A
HG B
HG D
9:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Grades
Strand
Presenter(s)
K-12, PS
E/S
All, PS
9-12, PS
I/B/P/S
I/T/P/S
/C
Chris Abldgaard
Cissy Carter and
Hiedi Bassett
K-12, PS
I/B/P
All
I/B/P/S
5
James Williams
Bobbie Gallagher
Julie Harrison,
Stephen Beckmann,
and Leslea Gore
Room
226
227
225A
225B
225C
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
Putting LAMP - Language Acquisition through
Motor Planning to Work
Competing Behavior Pathways: Quality
Behavior Intervention Plans Based on FBAs
Using Music to Improve Language in
Individuals with Autism
Behavior and The Magic Pill: It Doesn't Exist
What to Do After the Meltdown
Lunch on Your Own
All
All, PS
I/B/P/S
I/T/B/E
/S
Julie Adkins
Alysa Vos and
Crystal Hansen
All
All, PS
K-12
S
I/B/P/S
B
Lani Popp and
Megan Rhoden
Lisa Rogers
Kathy Morris
HG A
HG B
HG D
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Session Title
Sensory Solutions
Collaboration and Effective Behavioral
Planning: Best Practice for Families
Autism and Mental Health Issues - Looking for
Red Flags
Grades
All, PS
Strand
I/B/P/E
Presenter(s)
Laura Dowdy and
PK-12
Kathy Palomo
Hey! I Need Some Functional Skills
Referent-Based Instruction for Children with
Autism and Other Language Disorders
Competing Behavior Pathways: Quality
Behavior Intervention Plans Based on FBAs
Using Music to Improve Language in
Individuals with Autism
K-12, PS
B/P
I/B/P/S
/C
I/T/B/P
/S
Break
225E
11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Breakout Session 6
Visual Supports for Visual Thinkers
When Is It Time to Discipline? Three Questions
for Classroom
225D
All, PS
Terri McGinnis
B/P/S
I/T/B/E
/S
Ron Reynolds
Lee Mason and
Alonzo Andrews
Alysa Vos and
Crystal Hansen
PK-12
PK-12
S
I/B/P/S
Lani Popp and
Megan Rhoden
Lisa Rogers
K-12, PS
I/B/S
Kathy Morris
PK-5
All, PS
Breakout Session 7
Room
226
227
225A
225B
225D
225E
HG A
HG B
HG D
3:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.
3:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Session Title
Grades
Strand
Sensory Solutions
Collaboration & Effective Behavioral Planning:
Best Practice for Families
Essential Tips for Transitioning into College
All, PS
I/B/P/E
All
6-12, PS
Hey! I Need Some Functional Skills
Referent-Based Instruction for Children with
Autism and Other Language Disorders
K-12, PS
B/P
T/P
I/T/B/P
/S
PK-5
B/P/S
6
Presenter(s)
Laura Dowdy and
Cynthia Cornwell
Kathy Palomo
Marie Ostermeier
Ron Reynolds
Lee Mason and
Alonzo Andrews
Room
226
227
225A
225B
225D
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
Visual Supports for Visual Thinkers
When Is It Time to Discipline? Three Questions
for Classroom
All
I/B/P/S
Lisa Rogers
K-12, PS
I/B/S
Kathy Morris
Thank You…
HG B
HG D
...for being a part of the Texas Autism Conference of 2014. If there is anything we can do to assist you,
please contact any of the Education Service Center, Region 2 staff members listed to the left. Your
valuable feedback will help us to build even more great conferences in the future!
Jodi Ferguson
Associate Director
361.561.8551
[email protected]
Linda Riddle
Autism Conference Coordinator
361.561.8508
[email protected]
Cyndi Vela
Special Programs Secretary
361.561.8518
[email protected]
Melissa Morin
Research, Planning, &
Initiatives Specialist
361.561.8416
[email protected]
Special Thanks To
Autism Advisory Committee
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Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
CONFERENCE AGENDA
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Early Registration Packet Pickup
Thursday, November 6, 2014
7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Conference Registration and Exhibits Open
7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
Welcome – Texas Education Agency and Keynote Address
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Session 1
11:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Lunch on your own
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Session 2
2:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
Break
2:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Session 3
5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Parent Panel and Welcome Reception
Friday, November 7, 2014
7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Conference Registration and Exhibits Opens
7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
Continental Breakfast
8:15 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
Session 4
9:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Exhibitor Expo/Break
10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Session 5
11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Lunch on your own
1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Session 6
3:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Break
3:15 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
Session 7
8
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
NUMERICAL
10 Critical Components for Success in
the Special Education Classroom
communication, social skills, and other critical skills
in a way that makes sense to the students. Daily
practice makes for strong skill development.
Session 1, 2 (Repeated)
(ALL)
Applied Behavior Analysis: Data
Collection and Effective
Implementation in Classrooms
Marcia Rohrer and Nannette Samson
I/B/P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional
Special education teachers have found that setting
up their classrooms and implementing these 10
critical components vital to the success of their
students in the areas of academics, behavior,
communication and increased independence. The
foundation that occurs in a classroom when
implementing these components supports all
students, but especially those with Asperger’s, PDDNOS, Autism, ADHD, and Communication Disorders.
This workshop is packed with examples of how
these 10 Critical Components can be used to
improve the learning of your students. Come learn,
discuss, and explore how you can implement these
10 Critical Components in your classrooms to
further enhance student success.
Irene Jones
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(K-12)
B
Administrators, Teachers, Paraprofessional
Helping teachers more effectively identify and
measure challenging behavior is critical to
improving overall student outcomes. Learn basic
principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and how to
implement simple data collection strategies that
busy teachers can successfully employ.
Autism and Mental Health Issues Looking for Red Flags
Terri McGinnis
Session 1, 6 (Repeated)
(ALL, PS)
A
Addressing Objectives and Critical Skills
Throughout the Day
I/B/P/S/C
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
This presentation will discuss how mental health
issues affect individuals with Autism Spectrum
Disorders. Parts of the discussion will include
introduction to autism and mental health, screening
for comorbid psychiatric conditions in students with
ASD, signs of possible mental health conditions in
students with ASD and supporting individuals with
ASD and mental health concerns.
Cissy Carter and Hiedi Bassett
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(All, PS)
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Community Partners
The routines and activities of the day are critical to
the development of skills for students with autism.
This presentation presents ideas for incorporating
appropriate activities into the daily schedule in
order to build critical skills. We address the variety
of activities that are common to a classroom
(morning meeting/circle time, snack, math, reading,
etc.) and show potential ways to also address
9
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
B
Basics of Behavior: Practical
Applications for ABA in Home and
Community
C
Caught You on Camera: Social Skills
and Video Modeling
Julie Harrison, Stephen Beckmann, and Leslea Gore
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(PK-12)
Robin Blue and Danielle Smith
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(PK-5)
B/P
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Support Staff,
Paraprofessional, Community Partners
Basics of Behavior: Practical applications for using
ABA in the home and community. Research has
consistently shown that when parents are actively
involved in the ABA process by applying strategies,
treatment outcomes are more positive. When
behavior skills are not generalized, reinforced, and
maintained by the family, then one of two things
will happen: The child will lose the skill or the child
will only display the skill for the therapist/teacher.
Therefore, parental application is imperative for
success. Join us to learn how to structure situations
in-home to better promote further learning and skill
retention in the natural environment.
Behavior and The Magic Pill: It Doesn't
Exist
Lisa Rogers
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(All, PS)
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Related Services, Speech,
Paraprofessional
Individuals with autism often present challenging
behaviors. Educators and parents alike seek out the
"magic pill" that will erase that behavior. While a
"magic pill" does not exist, evidence-based
strategies do. This session will focus on the
function of the behavior as the starting point. Then,
through strategic planning, consistency and a
commitment to prevention, challenging behaviors
can be addressed with respect and understanding.
10
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
The effectiveness of video modeling for children
with autism has been demonstrated for a variety of
behaviors including increasing conversational
speech, social initiations and play-behaviors, and
play related statements. Information will be
provided for the use of incorporating video
modeling as a part of a school based social skills
program.
Childcare... Finding the Right Fit for
your Child
Ann McKitrick
Session 4
(PK)
P/S/C
Teachers, Related Services, Speech, Support Staff,
Community Partners
In the session we will explore child care options for
families with a young child on the spectrum. We
will look at what you should and should not expect,
how to advocate for your child and ways that you
can initiate a partnership to form a home/school
connection that supports your child.
Classroom Play
Jeff Key
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(PK-8)
I/P/C
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Support Staff,
Paraprofessional
How do we structure a safe and fun play environment
for all students, but especially for our students on the
spectrum of autism? This workshop highlights and
teaches fun activities and game adaptations for
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
participants to Competing Behavior Pathways and
how to develop a quality comprehensive behavior
intervention plan based on the results of their FBA.
Pre-requisites: Participants should have
foundational knowledge regarding functional
behavioral assessment and the ABCs of Behavior.
special needs students in the classroom and gym.
This fast paced, action packed workshop will give
teachers a bundle of fun, easy, and quick physical
games and activities to play with their students with
special needs and how to safely manage students of
all abilities in the play area. The activities are
designed for students with autism and other
special needs, but every student will benefit from
these activities. The activities are taught with
minimal equipment for small or large classes. Many
of the games presented in this workshop can be
played inside, outdoors, in the gym, hall, or
classroom. Over 50 games, activities, and ideas will
be presented in this energetic workshop. These
activities will enhance inclusion students with
special needs in general education classes and
positive social interaction between general ed PE
students and special need students. This workshop
is designed for the classroom teachers, teaching
assistants, and PE teachers.
E
Essential Tips for Transitioning into
College
Marie Ostermeier
Session 7
(6-12, PS)
T/P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
Being accepted to college is a momentous
achievement for any young adult. The US Bureau of
Labor Statistics reports that 65.9% of high school
graduates in 2013 went on to enroll in college. But
for students on the autism spectrum, college is still
considered to be almost an impossible route. It
does not have to be. Being aware of the challenges
that typically face students and preparing students
prior to high school graduation can open the door
to success for many students on the autism
spectrum.
Collaboration & Effective Behavioral
Planning: Best Practice for Families
Kathy Palomo
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(ALL)
B/P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
This session is to assist the parent in expanding
their knowledge base on how to be an effective
collaborator in the educational process as it relates
to Behavioral Programming.
Everyone Can Sign: Guide for Students
with Autism
Nodya Thornton and Ana Deter
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(PK-5)
I/P/S
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Speech,
Support Staff, Paraprofessional
Everyone Can Sign: Guide for Students with Autism
is a component of Time to Sign. This program is a
communication method used for hearing
individuals. Sign language can be used as a tool for
communication at school and at home. Using sign
helps individuals to understand, read, and
communicate with words.
Competing Behavior Pathways: Quality
Behavior Intervention Plans Based on
FBAs
Alysa Vos and Crystal Hansen
Session 5, 6 (Repeated)
(All, PS)
I/T/B/E/S
Teachers, Related Services, Speech, Support Staff,
Community Partners
You have completed an FBA on a student....now
what? This two-hour workshop will introduce
11
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TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
professional partnership and how to work together
through honest, respectful and skillful
communication.
H
Hey! I Need Some Functional Skills
Ron Reynolds
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(K-12, PS)
Let's Have FUN A.K.A Viable
Alternatives to In Home Training
I/T/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Speech
This session will focus on functional skills to help
students with autism to prepare for life challenges.
Discussion on measures of valued life outcomes,
learning how to make choices that will promote
independence and happiness. Participants will learn
the 6 factors necessary for competitive
employment. Parents will learn the steps in
developing a plan for their child.
Beth Hudson
Session 1
(PK-8)
I/T/B/P/S
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Speech,
Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
No where in the law does it say following an IEP
cannot be FUN. Come see fun and practical ideas
that follow IEP objectives in various settings. These
tips are being used as viable alternatives for In
Home and Community-Based Training to generalize
skills across a wide range of settings.
I
It's All Legal
Lee Lentz-Edwards and Rebecca Bilyeu
Session 3, 4 (Repeated)
(ALL)
Lindsey's Story: A Long & Winding Road
Angela Hill, Lindsey Bailey, and Michelle Bailey
I/T/B/P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Community Partners
This presentation will provide information to
parents, educators and advocates on the Legal
Framework for the Child-Centered Special
Education Process. From the mobile site to the new
search feature participants will gain knowledge and
expertise in where and how to find just what they
are looking for in the legal framework website.
Session 1, 2 (Repeated)
(ALL, PS)
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
This presentation will explore the journey of one
family and the myriad of individuals supporting
them over the course of a nine year period.
Through collaboration and dedication, Lindsay's
family has experienced great success that can
inspire other families. While there is no one way,
there are lessons to be learned on the long and
winding road. This session will share those lessons
and give hope for all that care for a person with an
autism spectrum disorder.
L
Leading the Dance: Essential Steps for
Parent/Professional Partnerships
Sarah Coons
Session 3
(K-12)
P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Community
Partners
It is a beautiful dance when parents and
professionals partner together in making decisions
for children. However, it isn’t always easy. We will
discuss the essential steps to cultivating the parent-
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Loving and Living on the Spectrum
P
Prevention & Intervention of Bullying
for Students with ASD
James Williams
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(ALL, PS)
Michael Tucker
B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
Relationships form in the most-interesting ways and
they don't always make sense, but having Autism
makes them even more of a puzzle. Join James and
Chrissy as they discuss how their lives and the
experiences brought them together. They will
discuss how their relationship and daily lives are
challenged, yet strengthened by James' diagnosis of
Autism. This session will further prove, that no
matter what, no disability is stronger than love.
Session 1
(K-12, PS)
B/S
Administrators, Teachers, Paraprofessional
Bullying is one of the most severe and widespread
problems facing today’s schools. Over 3.2 million
youth are victims of moderate or serious bullying
each year (American Medical Association). Students
on the autism spectrum are often the target of
bullying in schools. This session will include
neurodevelopmental aspects and characteristics of
both the bully and the ASD victim. This
presentation offers a specific focus on the impact
bullying has on a student with ASD and recognizing
bullying in ASD students. Schools need to be a safe,
nurturing environment where all students are able
to learn, achieve, and be successful. Further, this
session will aid in identifying intervention methods
and PBIS strategies for bully prevention schoolwide. (This session can range from 1 ½ hours to 3
hours).
N
Neurodiversity & Invisible Hurdles:
Understanding and Strategies
Chris Abldgaard
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(K-12, PS)
E/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional
Social Cognitive Hurdles (SCH) are highlighted by
impairments in Theory of Mind, Executive
Functioning, Pragmatics, the ability to integrate
emotional expression and regulation within social
situations, and to utilize that information to
navigate our social world. Individuals identified
with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will
struggle with these social cognitive hurdles
throughout their lives. They will struggle not
because they “want to” but because this is part of
their neurological make up. The struggle for
therapists and others working with individuals with
an ASD is that these social cognitive hurdles are not
always clear to the naked eye - rather they can be
more invisible. This presentation will examine how
these “invisible” social cognitive hurdles, impact
overt behaviors of students and adults identified as
having a High Functioning Autism and Asperger
Syndrome.
Putting LAMP - Language Acquisition
through Motor Planning to Work
Julie Adkins
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(PK-12)
I/B/P/S
Parents
LAMP is an augmentative alternative
communication (AAC) approach designed to give a
method of independently and spontaneously
expressing themselves through a speech generating
device. This course will cover the components of
LAMP: readiness to learn, engaging the learner
through joint engagement, and learning language
through a unique and consistent motor plan paired
with an auditory signal and a natural consequence.
Discussion will include how this approach addresses
the core language deficits of autism, device features
that are beneficial to teaching language, and how to
use those features to implement LAMP
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components. Videos will be used to illustrate the
treatment components.
Sexuality and Hygiene for Indivudals
with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Bobbie Gallagher
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(K-12)
R
Referent-based Instruction for Children
with Autism and Other Language
Disorders
Lee Mason and Alonzo Andrews
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(PK-5)
B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services
Referent-based instruction (RBI) is a teaching
methodology that focuses on strengthening
language by manipulating it's four primary sources
of control: mands, echoics, tacts, and sequelics. This
presentation introduces four verbal operants,
discusses their practical implications for children
with language delays, and provides a systematic
overview of how to implement RBI in the classroom.
Referent-based instruction is designed to promote
generative language by establishing multiple control
over verbal behavior in the natural environment.
Using referents as a hub for developing verbal
behavior provides an efficient and effective method
of developing an individualized treatment plan that
is functional for the student.
S
Sensory Solutions
Laura Dowdy and Cynthia Cornwell
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(All, PS)
I/B/P/E
Parents
Sensory Solutions is a hands-on entry-level course
designed to give an overview of sensory processing,
specifically in those affected by Autism Spectrum
Disorders. Video case studies are used to illustrate
signs of sensory deficits and practical applications
are presented. These strategies can be used across
environments. At the end of the course,
participants will have tools to address sensory
behaviors and promote self regulation.
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I/B/P
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional
Sexuality and Hygiene for Individuals with Autism
Spectrum Disorder and other Developmental
Disabilities. This presentation will provide an
overview of the specific challenges present during
puberty and adolescence, specifically issues of
sexuality and hygiene. Strategies will be reviewed.
In addition, issues and strategies surrounding
sexuality, modesty, privacy, boundaries and
personal safety will be discussed.
Sing Me a Song: Making the Connection
through Music
Robin Blue and Melody Perez
Session 3
(PK-5)
I/B/P/S/C
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Speech,
Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
Because music is motivating and engaging, it can be
used as a powerful method for learning. As a
natural "reinforcer," the benefits of music and
music therapy can include increased compliance,
reduced anxiety, increased speech/language,
decreased stereotype behaviors, and increased
social interaction. In short, music can be used to
help encourage communication ranging from
language development to self-expression while
offering a non-threatening environment and
sensory experience in the process. Join us to learn
how music can help unlock and make the
connection with individuals with autism as well as
learn hands-on music strategies to address a wide
array of needs.
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
will identify storytelling techniques, poems, finger
plays, and a variety of stories that can be integrated
within thematic units, while making curricular tieins with different areas of learning. Information on
brain research and the positive impact storytelling
has on learning, positive behavior and language
development will be shared. By the end of the
session participants will have discovered storytelling
activities that are fun, exciting, and
developmentally appropriate! Get ready for an
exciting, active, and useful session!
Skills that Matter: Preparing Individuals
with Autism for Adulthood
Alysa Vos and Crystal Hansen
Session 3
(K-12, PS)
I/T/B/P/E/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional
Some studies suggest that as many as 90% of
individuals with autism are un- or underemployed.
Why are our young adults so unprepared for life
beyond high school and what can we as parents and
professionals do about it? Presentation will offer
recommendations for behavior and skill
prioritization to better prepare students for the
realities of adulthood.
Successful Strategies for Social Skills; a
Collaborative Model for Autism
Lani Popp and Victoria Sills
Session 3
(K-12)
B/S
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Speech,
Paraprofessional
This presentation will explore strategies to improve
social skills for individuals with Autism using a
collaboration between speech therapy and behavior
management. Individuals with autism typically have
pragmatic language deficits which impact the
individual’s ability to develop social skills
appropriately. Social skills practices that dually
address pragmatic language skills and behavior
management are the most successful. Effective,
proven strategies that have been successfully used
in a school setting will be highlighted. Videos of
student using these strategies will be shown.
Solutions for School-Age Children
Diagnosed with HFA or AS
Jennifer Allen and Samuel Allen
Session 1
(ALL)
I/B/P/S
Teachers, Parents
Join documentarian/writer Jennifer Allen as she
offers her personal insights as a mother of a son
with high-functioning autism. She will share how
she and her son, Sam, navigated through his schoolage years. In addition to sharing her experiences,
Jennifer will play her recorded interview excerpts
from Dr. Temple Grandin, Dr. Tony Attwood and
many other professionals/educators. In addition,
her son, Sam Allen, offers insightful enlightenment as
he interjects his AU perspective and openly
addresses your attendees' questions.
T
The Cup Kid: Managing a Child with
Meltdowns
Stories That Come Alive! Storytelling
Magic in the Preschool Classroom
Nancy Kling
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(ALL)
Dottie Zimmermann
B/P
Teachers, Parents
Are you walking on eggshells to keep from setting
off a child/student? Is he easily overwhelmed?
Sounds like a Cup Kid! When Cup Kids are told "no"
or when the unexpected happens, they "fill up" and
eventually "run over" in a meltdown. During this
Session 2, 3 (Repeated)
(PK)
I/S
Teachers, Parents, Speech, Paraprofessional
This fun-filled and interactive session will include
strategies for developing successful storytelling
activities in the early childhood setting. Participants
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workshop, Ms. Kling uses the analogy of a cup to
explain tantrums and teach you how to "get a
handle" on your "Cup Kid."
Transition Matters: Meeting the PostSecondary Needs of Students with
Autism
James Williams
The Effectiveness of Autismate iPad
Application on Communication &
Socialization
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(6-12, PS)
Julie Hatz
Session 1, 2 (Repeated)
(K-12)
I/S
Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Paraprofessional
This presentation will discuss the results of a
research project focused on the iPad application
Autismate in 4 classrooms for children diagnosed
with autism. The Social Communication
Questionnaire (SCQ) and the Gilliam Autism Rating
Scale (GARS) were administered to determine the
effectiveness of the intervention for students in the
classroom. Teachers also provided input on the easy
of use and applicability of Autismate.
The Power of Communication in
Managing Challenging Behaviors
I/T/P/S/C
Teachers, Parents, Support Staff, Paraprofessional
This interactive and informative session will be
offered through the unique perspective of a
counselor and educational administrator diagnosed
with Asperger’s Syndrome. James will discuss his life
experiences and the impact they have had on his
decision to become a disability services
professional. He will also discuss a variety of
strategies and resources that counselors and
educators can use to prepare individuals with
Autism/AS for post-secondary education,
employment, and independent living. The
participants will also be provided with information
about community-based programs focusing on
independent living and employment in the state of
Texas.
Twice Exceptional Students and
Gifted/Talented Services
Tommie Turner and Becky Bilyeu
Anna Phillips and Greg Reeves
Session 1, 2 (Repeated)
(PK-8)
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
This fun-filled, action packed session will address
the connections between communication
challenges and the inappropriate behaviors often
exhibited from students with ASD. Evidence-based
interventions will be presented through modeling,
video, and fun collaborative activities that can be
generalized across settings.
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Session 1
(K-12)
I/B/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents
Twice-Exceptional students are gifted students with
special needs. They may be students who
outperform their peers in math, but read below
grade level. They can tell you everything about
artificial intelligence or military psychology, but
when asked to write about the same topic, they
may produce little or nothing. Outside of class, they
are the creative problem solvers and analytical
thinkers with task commitment. In school, they are
underachievers at risk of failing and may have
difficulties in social settings or groups. In this
session, we will look at understanding twiceexceptional students so we can improve their
learning and socialization.
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
VSM vs. other similar intervention modalities for
autism (i.e., social autopsy). Current research
regarding the use of VSM with a preschool
population with AU will be discussed, in addition to
the maintenance of skills over a two year period.
U
Using Music to Improve Language in
Individuals with Autism
Lani Popp and Megan Rhoden
Session 5, 6 (Repeated)
(All)
Visual Supports for Visual Thinkers
S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
Communication is one of the primary areas of need
for individuals with Autism. This course will present
research which supports the use of music as a
therapeutic tool with individuals with Autism and
will provide simple practical techniques for learning.
As we reveal how to integrate music therapy
strategies with speech therapy strategies, the
participants will gain knowledge to offer individuals
with Autism, a research-based, multi-sensory
approach to improving language skills. We will also
give a live demonstration of music that can be used
for a variety of age groups and different therapeutic
applications. Audience participation will be
encouraged.
Lisa Rogers
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(PK-12)
I/B/P/S
Teachers, Parents, Related Services, Speech
Under stress, we all struggle to show our best
selves. Stress takes a toll on our reasoning and
good nature. One might say that we act and react
in more extreme ways when times are stressful.
Significant findings from research on the brain
indicate that individuals with autism spectrum
disorders live in stressful times more than most.
Educators and parents can help to decrease this
stress through strategic structure and heightened
visual supports. This session will focus on strategies
such as classroom organization, individual
schedules, narratives and other visual tools that
decrease this neurological stress and allow our
students to show us their best selves as they work
and learn together.
V
Video Self Modeling Interventions:
Implications of Age, Maintenance, and
Intervention Type
W
What to Do After the Meltdown
Wendi Johnson, Kendall Bowles, Kathryn Caldwell,
and Chris Carter
Kathy Morris
Session 4, 5 (Repeated)
(K-12)
Session 1
(PK-8)
B
Administrators
When students with social-cognitive disorders, such
as autism, Asperger’s, or other developmental
disorders have a melt-down, the educators and
parents naturally feel quite helpless and may not be
certain what to do to intervene. In this seminar,
many practical and meaningful strategies are
presented that the educator, administrator or
parent can implement to prevent another one,
intervene in the meltdown, and provide
instructional consequences.
I/B/P/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Related Services,
Speech, Support Staff, Paraprofessional, Community
Partners
This presentation will provide an overview of the
theoretical and research base for Video SelfModeling (VSM), as well as the practical
implications of implementing a VSM intervention
program. Attendees will be provided with hands-on
knowledge for determining a target behavioral or
social goal, obtaining the necessary video footage,
and the steps on how to edit the VSM intervention
movie. Additionally, the presenters will contrast
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Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
When Is It Time to Discipline? Three
Questions for Classroom
Kathy Morris
Session 6, 7 (Repeated)
(K-12, PS)
I/B/S
Administrators, Teachers, Parents, Support Staff,
Paraprofessional, Community Partners
Imagine a classroom where students respond to
your request the first time. The secret is to teach
your expectations. This is especially relevant for our
students with Social Cognitive Differences or
emotional disorders. By cutting down on low level
intermittent behaviors throughout the classroom,
more time can be spent on academics while at the
same time empowering your students to take
responsibility for their actions.
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Notes, thoughts...
Notes, thoughts…
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TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
GENERAL INFORMATION
Conference Site
Conference sessions will be held at the American Bank Center in Corpus
Christi, TX.
Name Tags
Name tags must be worn to all conference sessions.
Cell Phones
Please turn off or silence all mobile devices during conference sessions.
Accessibility
Conference facilities are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you need special
accommodations or assistance, please contact Melissa Morin at [email protected] or call
361.561.8416.
Lunch on Your Own
There are restaurants nearby in downtown Corpus Christi offering a variety of cuisine. A variety of
concessions will be available for purchase at varying prices at the American Bank Center.
CEUs/CPEs
11 CEUs offered for: Speech Language Pathologists, Speech Language
Pathology Assistants, Licensed Psychologists, Licensed Psychological
Associates, and Licensed Specialists in School Psychology, Licensed
Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists and
Social Workers and Occupational Therapists. Educators will receive CPE
credits.
Conference Handouts
Conference handouts can be accessed by utilizing the QR code to the right:
Accessing Your Certificate of Completion
1
2
3
4
5
Visit the ESC-2 Professional Development Online Registration at
https://www.escweb.net/tx_r2/ .
Click on My Account then User Account and sign in with your username and password or
create a new account at
https://www.escweb.net/tx_r2/security/signin.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2ftx_r2%2fshoebox%2facc
ount%2fdefault.aspx .
After you successfully sign in or create a new account, you can then click on Registration
History.
Select the Past Workshops tab. Click on the Certificate hyperlink to access your Certificate.
If you see an Evaluation hyperlink, you must first complete the workshop evaluation to
access a workshop certificate.
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Dear Friends,
I and everyone involved with the conference would like to welcome you to the 23rd Annual
Texas Autism Conference, hosted in our beautiful city of Corpus Christi, Texas. This statewide
conference is sponsored by the Texas Education Agency and is coordinated by the Education
Service Center, Region 2. As participants, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable
information and establish networking circles in the area of Autism.
We are thrilled to feature our keynote speaker, Eustacia Cutler, Temple Grandin’s mother,
as well as to offer you international, national and state recognized speakers, who have
been chosen for their depth of knowledge. They will share evidence-based research and
strategies that will guide parents, professionals, and educators in the development of both the
educational and social programming of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder.
I hope that you will leave this conference with not only new ideas and perspectives but ways to
work collaboratively to meet the needs of these students, our future.
Sincerely,
Linda Riddle
Linda Riddle
Conference Coordinator
Education Service Center, Region 2
209 North Water Street
Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
Corpus Christi, Texas
TEXAS AUTISM CONFERENCE 2014
American Bank Center
FLOOR PLAN
Welcome Reception
& Parent Panel
Thursday, November 6, 2014
American Bank Center
Watergarden Ballroom
5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Light refreshments will be served.
23rd Annual
Texas Autism
Conference
November 6-7, 2014
American Bank Center
1901 North Shoreline Blvd.
Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
txautism.esc2.net
Education Service Center, Region 2
209 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401
361.561.8400 - www.esc2.net