Here are some examples of the ways the Partnership for Jewish Life and Learning is helping to include more people with special needs in our community: 

Jewish Disability Awareness Month Resource Guide 2011-12

SNAP (the Special Needs Assistance Program) trainings to be held this fall in Virginia and Maryland:

The Partnership's SNAP is designed to train teens who are working as madrichim or aides in congregational school classrooms. During this day-long training, we will cover a variety of special education issues and how they relate to Jewish values. Teens will have the opportunity to learn in-depth information about different types of disabilities, explore their own learning style, and raise their own awareness of the ways in which we all learn differently. They will walk away with concrete strategies and tools to use in the classroom in order to help children be more successful in religious school. The teenagers will engage in study and hands-on activities to gain knowledge, resources and perspective on working with children with different needs.

Teacher training on special needs:

The Partnership’s Special Needs Community Education Leader recently led a teacher training for the religious school at Congregation B’nai Tzedek.  The workshop involved looking at different ways to include children with special needs in the classroom.  Teachers were given specific tools and techniques for their classrooms in general, as well as creative ideas for teaching Rosh Hashanah concepts at varying age levels.

Staff training regarding disabilities:

Temple Shalom recently held a staff training as they prepared to begin the new year in their religious school.  One session involved a panel that would help convey the importance of accommodation and inclusion of children with differences in the classroom.  The panel consisted of parents of children with special learning needs.  In searching for additional panel members, the Partnership was contacted for suggestions.  The Partnership’s Special Needs Concierge was able to arrange for a young adult who has Asperger Syndrome to participate, sharing the experiences he had—both positive and negative-- throughout his Jewish education. Not only did the staff find his participation enlightening and inspiring, but the parents on the panel found it particularly encouraging.

Training on politically correct language regarding individuals with disabilities:

Marketing Directors of local Jewish agencies were addressed at their recent monthly meeting by the Partnership’s Special Needs Concierge.  The topic covered appropriate “People First Language” usage in communications throughout the community.  People First Language (PFL) represents more respectful, accurate ways of communicating about people with disabilities.

Interested in learning more about the Partnership's work in supporting people with special needs?  Want to speak with our Special Needs Concierge for assistance in finding the best educational fit or resources for your child? Looking for an expert to come speak at your organization?  Call 240-283-6200 or email info@pjll.org