Events /

16th Annual Empower All Abilities Conference in Springfield

When

Saturday, November 16, 2024    
8:00 am - 12:30 pm
iCal

Where

Lanphier HIgh School
1300 N. 11th St., Springfield, Illinois, 62702

Event Type

Connect, learn and grow together to support students of all abilities at this free in-person conference for families, educators and professionals

Join Springfield Public Schools and a supportive community of advocates for the 16th annual “Empower All Abilities Conference” on Nov. 16 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event is at Lanphier High School in Springfield.

This free, in-person conference will provide a day filled with insights and strategies to better support and empower students with exceptionalities.

Explore and enjoy a vibrant exhibitor hall. Browse local and national vendors as well as service providers offering crucial resources and connections in your community.

Listen to social media influencer and keynote speaker Jordan Toma. Jordan is a national speaker and also the author of  “I’m Just a Kid With an IEP.” His inspiring journey will set the tone for a great day.

Participants can join regional experts in sessions on autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), transition services, long-term planning and more. Breakout topics will include:

  • Families as Advisors: Building Advisory Councils | Megan Mutti, MA
  • Understanding Secondary Transition | Karrie Potter and Abbi Mars
  • Guardianship and the Alternatives | Timothy J. Rigby, Esquire
  • Special Needs Estate Planning and Government Benefits – Planning for Your Child’s Financial Security | Timothy J. Rigby, Esquire
  • Empowered IEP Advocacy for Parents | Michele Westmaas
  • From School to Successful Post-Secondary Outcomes | David Brott, Jason Coleman, and Teresa McCarthy
  • Practical Strategies for Improving Behavior | Corey Moore, BCBA
  • Shifting from Deficit-Based to Strength-Based: An Introduction to Neurodiversity-Affirming Practices | Daj’Za Mitchell, MS CCC-SLP
  • STRIVE in District 186 | Christy Reynolds

Members of the Division of Specialized Care for Children (DSCC) team will also be there answer your questions and explain how we help children and families. Please be sure to stop by our table.

The event is open to families, educators and professionals. Childcare services will also be available for children ages 3 and up.

See the “Empower All Abilities Conference” flyer for more details.

Register online to attend the “Empower All Abilities Conference.”