The next event in the monthly Autism Seminar & Discussion (ASD) series—sponsored by UC Santa Barbara’s Koegel Autism Center and the Santa Barbara Public Library—is “Improving the IEP Experience.” The event, which is free and open to the public, is on Tuesday, April 3 from 6:30 - 8 pm at the Faulkner Gallery at the Santa Barbara Public Library, 40 E. Anapamu St.
This hour-long presentation, followed by a Q & A session, will focus on strategies for improving the IEP experience, for parents, self-advocates, and educators.
Geared towards parents/self-advocates and professionals alike, this presentation will describe practical strategies and ideas to facilitate a positive IEP experience. Specifically, information will be presented to address common parent barriers/concerns, as they relate to the IEP process, as well as recommendations presented, regarding ways in which the educational team can work to ensure parents (a) understand the IEP process, (b) trust in the IEP process and (c) are active members in the process.
Sarah Pelangka will lead the presentation. Dr. Pelangka is a doctoral candidate at UCSB in the Department of Education with an emphasis in Special Education, and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctorate, and credentialed special education teacher. She is now the owner and primary advocate for the non-profit Know IEPs? Its mission is to ensure a collaborative and trusting experience ensues between families and school districts to allow for a positive IEP experience.
The monthly Autism Seminar & Discussion series is made possible through collaboration between UCSB’s Koegel Autism Center and the Santa Barbara Library to bring highly engaging and informative content to the local community. It will take place the first Tuesday of each month.
The Koegel Autism Center is internationally recognized for its innovative autism research and clinical training. The center is part of the University of California, a not-for-profit state institution of higher learning. Led by Center Director Dr. Ty Vernon and Clinical Director Dr. Anna Krasno, the center focuses on the development and implementation of strength-based, motivational interventions and supports for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorders. Intervention models developed at the center include the Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) and the Social Tools And Rules for Teens (START) programs.
The center provides diagnostic assessments, intervention services, parent support, and clinical training opportunities through its funded research projects and clinics. It provides research and clinical training to doctoral students in clinical psychology and special education, many of whom have continued on to become highly influential members of the autism research community. The center was originally founded by Drs. Robert and Lynn Koegel, co-developers of the PRT autism intervention model.
The Center strives to develop and disseminate high-impact, strength-based autism interventions and services; build collaborative partnerships with local and global communities; be culturally sensitive and responsive; provide ongoing outreach and education to families and professionals; support the diverse needs of individuals with ASD across the lifespan; and serve as a model for excellence in autism research and training.