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Read this newsletter in Spanish. Use Google Translate to view this newsletter in additional languages: http://translate.google.com/translate?u=https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORNWRESD/bulletins/3cf135a
Dear Families,
At Northwest Regional ESD, we are honored to support your child’s early learning and development. Actions at the federal level may have raised questions for some families. I want to reassure you that our commitment to your child and family has not changed: every child, regardless of immigration status, has the right to receive early learning services and support.
Ramonda Olaloye, Assistant Superintendent at the Oregon Department of Education, recently shared this important message:
"It is essential to reinforce that all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to access early learning services and supports under federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). EI/ECSE programs remain fully committed to serving all eligible children and families equitably, ensuring they receive the support they need in a safe and inclusive environment…While policies may evolve, our commitment is to uphold federal and state requirements that protect and support young children with disabilities and their families."
Your child’s education, growth, and well-being are our top priorities. We will continue to provide high-quality early learning services to all eligible children and families. Our program is a place where all families are valued, respected, and welcomed.
We understand that uncertainty can be stressful, and we are here to support you. If you have questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Below, you will find links to resources that may be helpful:
Thank you for being part of our early learning community. We are grateful to walk alongside you in supporting your child’s learning and development.
With appreciation,
Stacy Rager
Executive Director, Early Learning
Northwest Regional ESD
Attendees of the February 26 Legislative Summit in Salem had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on learning experience at the Capitol. The event provided insights into Oregon’s statewide special education system, an introduction to lawmaking and state finance, and practical tips for building relationships with legislators and effectively sharing personal stories. Participants also toured the Capitol and visited lawmakers’ offices, gaining valuable experience in advocacy and policy making.
State Performance Plan-
The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) wants to hear from parents and caregivers of children experiencing disabilities. Every year, ODE partners with FACT Oregon to send out a short survey to understand how well schools are working with families to support their children’s education.
This survey is an important way for families to share their experiences—what’s working well and where improvements can be made. It asks about the quality of special education services, how schools partner with families, and how these services impact your ability to be involved in your child’s education.
Each program takes part in the survey every two years, and the results help shape better services and outcomes for children with disabilities. Your feedback is valuable, so if you receive the survey, please take a few minutes to complete it—it makes a difference!
For the 2024-25 school year, a sample of the families in our program are being surveyed. Survey results will be included into the district’s At-a-Glance Special Education Profile.
ODE encourages sharing this information with families to prevent confusion. In April or May 2025, a sample of families will receive a valid text message with a link to complete the survey electronically—please do not ignore it. Your feedback is important!
Families who do not complete the survey electronically will receive a paper copy along with a return envelope by early June as an alternative option.
Kindergarten Connections: Connecting with the New School
The transition to Kindergarten is a big change for both children and their families! There are so many changes in this one transition: change in teacher, school, routines, and expectations. As we know, our Autistic learners often thrive with familiarity, predictability, and routine. Something that can help ease this transition and make it smoother for all is connecting with your new school before the Kindergarten year begins.
How can you do this?
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Schedule a school tour: Visit the classroom and school grounds to familiarize your child with the space.
- If your future school allows, schedule a time to visit your child’s kindergarten classroom. Ask your child’s team or school to find out if this is possible. Create a list of questions you may want to ask while on the tour!
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Contact the teacher: Introduce yourself and ask about the kindergarten program, curriculum, class structure, and daily schedule.
- If your child’s Kindergarten program is unsure who the teacher will be, you can still talk to a Kindergarten teacher to ask these general questions.
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Meet with the principal: Discuss any specific needs, questions, or concerns you have for the upcoming school year, and make sure to ask about how to register.
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Ask about transition activities: Ask if the school offers any special events or activities to ease the transition for new students – most schools hold a Welcome to Kindergarten event in the Spring or a Kinder Camp event in the Summer!
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Share information about your child: Provide details about your child's interests, needs, learning style, and any relevant developmental information–check out our Kindergarten Resume resource to share with your child’s new teacher!
- Click “Make a Copy” in order to use and complete for your child
- Think about sharing this information at your child’s Kindergarten Transition meeting *usually held in the Spring or Summer
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Attend open houses or parent meetings: These events provide an opportunity to meet other parents and teachers
- You can also ask about volunteer opportunities
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Check for online resources: Many schools have websites with information about their curriculum, staff, school policies, and upcoming events.
Getting connected with your child’s new school can help you all feel more comfortable with this big transition. For more information and support, check out the following resources:
Spring is the perfect time for caregivers and their children to explore and enjoy the beauty of Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, and Washington counties! 🌷☀️ Whether it's a stroll through a local park, a visit to an inclusive playground, or a sensory-friendly adventure at the beach, there are endless ways to create meaningful moments together. 💛 See the links below for some ideas.
Spring Break Adventure Camp: Join THPRD for a new camp especially for kids ages 7-12 experiencing disabilities.
Dates: March 24th- March 28th
Times: 1:00pm-5:00pm
Ages: 7-12
These programs will take place at Garden Home Recreation Center, 7475 SW Oleson Rd, Portland, OR 97223. Registration is required. To register, please visit www.thprd.org and log into your online THPRD account, visit any THPRD center, or call (503)-629-6341.
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