• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to secondary sidebar
  • About Us
  • Videos
  • Online E-Editions
  • Social Media
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
  • Advertising
  • Local Jobs
  • Puzzles & Games
  • Circulation Request

The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Lutz since 1964 and Pasco since 1981.
Proud to be independently owned.

  • Home
  • News
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills/East Pasco
    • Business Digest
    • Senior Parks
    • Nature Notes
    • Featured Stories
    • Photos of the Week
  • Sports
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills and East Pasco
    • Check This Out
  • Education
  • Pets/Wildlife
  • Health
    • Health Events
    • Health News
  • What’s Happening
  • Closer Look
  • Homes
  • Obits

Darcy McDowell

Reaching out to help those with special needs

May 12, 2020 By B.C. Manion

Even in the best of times, navigating through government bureaucracy can be challenging.

But for people with special needs, that becomes even more daunting during a global pandemic.

A virtual town hall hosted on April 29 by Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore and Pasco County School Board Chairwoman Colleen Beaudoin aimed at helping individuals and families find the resources they need, while managing life under new circumstances.

They were joined in the virtual town hall by panelists:

  • Dr. Monica Verra-Tirado, chief of the bureau of exceptional student education and student services at the Florida Department of Education
  • Darcy McDowell, director of student accessibility services at Pasco-Hernando State College
  • Celeste Kellar, principal at Pepin Academies Pasco campus, a school that specializes in serving students with special needs.

Pasco Commission Chair Moore addressed issues of concern relating to services available from county government, while the other experts focused on education and related services.

Pasco County School Board Chairwoman Colleen Beaudoin offered reassuring words for parents who are struggling to help their special needs children, during this time of distance learning. (File)

Beaudoin offered reassuring words for parents.

“Some families have expressed concern about keeping the instructional momentum going at home and fear that their students will regress,” Beaudoin said. “Please try not to worry. There is a plan in place to address that.

“Pasco County Schools is prioritizing compassion and grace. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teachers, if your family is feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. We all want what is best for all of our students. There is a lot of support that’s available to students and families.”

Questions also have been raised about how special services are being provided now, during this time of online learning.

Verra-Tirado addressed that issue.

She said the state has been clear that students are expected to continue to receive the special services they would receive in a traditional setting.

“The good news is that we’ve got a lot of new technologies that allow for the use of platforms, such as telehealth, in order for our teachers and therapists to provide a wide range — a continuum of services — in this very unique time,” Verra-Tirado said.

Kellar said Pepin Academies students  “are still getting their necessary services that they need, through the tele-therapies. We are making sure that their accommodations are met,” she said, just like they would be in the classroom.

McDowell said Pasco-Hernando State College also is providing accommodations for students online.

“We have used Zoom a lot for our courses,” McDowell said, noting that allows face-to-face interactions.

Beaudoin said the Pasco school district is reaching out to families, individually about their services and therapies.

“I can say that my son did get his speech therapy this week, via Zoom,” she said.

If for some reason a family hasn’t already heard from their school, they should contact their school, she said.

The panelists also addressed the issue of parents trying to balance tele-working and the special education needs of their son or daughter.

Verra-Tirado addressed that question: “I can tell that’s been the main comment that I’ve received from parents during this time.

“My advice to them is that they need to balance what they’re doing with what their children are doing.

“It takes them being scheduled, just like their children are being scheduled.

“Schedule the more difficult work their child is doing, when their workload is not as heavy.

“That’s real stressor for a lot of our families. I’ve told them, it’s not worth stressing out for. We’re going to try to balance it as best we can.”

McDowell, who has a daughter with autism,  offered this advice: “Take breaks.”

“We’ve just taken it one day at a time, and honestly, what’s really worked for me is reaching out to friends and family,” McDowell said, noting she belongs to a Facebook group for moms with kids with special needs.

Beaudoin advised parents to break down the work into manageable chunks, and to schedule the work in a way that works best for them.

“Keep in mind, we have a lot of flexibility. Just reach out to your child’s teacher. Our administrators and our teachers know that they have flexibility, and they’re going to work with families.

“Don’t wait until you’re feeling so frustrated and upset. Just reach out and you can make adjustments,” Beaudoin said.

She also recommended seeking out support groups, which can provide excellent information about resources that are available.

Provide opportunities to ‘virtually socialize’
Others asked for guidance on how to keep kids motivated, and how to create opportunities for them to interact with friends, while away from school.

As for socializing, McDowell said her daughter Skypes with friends and in-laws, and plays online games.

Her daughter also interacts with others via phone, Chat, Zoom and FaceTime.

Having ways for students to see each other and their teacher is important, Kellar said.

“That social aspect of education is a huge part, that you forget about it sometimes, you’re so concentrated on getting the curriculum,” she said.

Verra-Tirado agreed:  “We’re hearing that all over the state. That can completely change a youngster’s day.”

When students are able to see teachers and friends, it’s reassuring to students, she said.

If parents or grandparents don’t know how to work the technologies, they should reach out to their schools. They can help families, the education experts said.

Another question was posed regarding whether students can repeat the grade.

The experts said that requires a close evaluation before a determination could be made.

Beaudoin put it this way: “That is a major decision and one that should not be made lightly.”

Commission Chairman Moore touched on some issues of interest to the elderly, and also regarding people requiring a special needs shelter, in the event of a hurricane.

He responded to a question relating to senior citizens who have disabilities who do not have access to a computer for ordering groceries.

“We have a nonprofit here in Pasco County called CARES and they’re offering grocery service for seniors over 60 years old. The service itself is free, but the senior prepares a grocery list or a loved one at home helps prepare that grocery list, and they do pay for their groceries. They’re also providing care packages and toiletries,” he said.

To find out more, call (727) 862-9291.

Moore also told viewers that Pasco County Senior Services also provides meals.

The commission chairman also said: “It is getting close to hurricane season. Now is the time if you or a loved one or a child has special needs, to go ahead and register for the special needs program when it comes to evacuations.”

To find out more about having groceries delivered, call (727) 862-9291.

To find out more about senior services, call (727) 834-3340.

To register for special needs evacuation, go to the county’s website at PascoCountyFl.net.

Resources for families with special needs
Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System (FDLRS) is a valuable resource for students with disabilities. The main page is http://www.fdlrs.org

Within FDLRS there are virtual webinars parents can attend and there are also recorded webinars posted:  http://www.fdlrs.org/virtual_webinar_resources

Here’s the parent toolbox and live chat options with FDLRS:  http://www.livebinders.com/b/2646931

Here’s the parent toolbox for Pasco:  http://www.livebinders.com/b/2646931

Melissa Musselwhite, director of student support services in Pasco County Schools, has recorded a video specifically for families of students with disabilities. It can be found at  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyGBas2jsAo

All school District videos are here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg2EPgrZtxyZPdaprLgSqpQ

Other helpful resources:

  • http://www.fdlrs.org/virtual_webinar_resources
  • http://www.livebinders.com/b/2646931#anchor
  • Family Network on Disabilities (FND)- Local Parent Support Network staff member: Tosha Littles via email: or call (800) 825-5736.

Published May 13, 2020

Filed Under: Education, Top Story Tagged With: CARES, Celeste Kellar, Colleen Beaudoin, Darcy McDowell, Family Network on Disabilities, Florida Department of Education, Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System, Melissa Musselwhite, Mike Moore, Monica Verra-Tirado, Pasco County Schools, Pasco County Senior Services, Pasco-Hernando State College, Pepin Academies Pasco

Primary Sidebar

Plaza Mexico

Foodie Friday Gallery

Search

Sponsored Content

Avalon Applauds… Norah Catlin

February 23, 2021 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

CONGRATULATIONS to Norah Catlin, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Catlin, a senior at Wiregrass Ranch … [Read More...] about Avalon Applauds… Norah Catlin

More Posts from this Category

Archives

What’s Happening

‘Aladdin jr.’

Live Oak Theatre is now selling tickets for its Acorn Theatre production of “Aladdin jr.” Performances will be March 18 through March 28, at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts, 21030 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville. Seats are $15 for adults and $8 for children ages 13 and younger, when accompanied by an adult. For show times and tickets, visit LiveOakTheatre.square.site, email , or call 352-593-0027. … [Read More...] about ‘Aladdin jr.’

03/05/2021 – Apple Pie Bombs

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer “Foodie Feast: Apple Pie Bombs” on March 5. Participants can learn how to make tasty, apple pie bombs. Watch the prerecorded video between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., online at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary. For information, call 352-567-3576, or email Danielle Lee at . … [Read More...] about 03/05/2021 – Apple Pie Bombs

03/06/2021 – Bridal Trunk Show

The Gulfside Hospice New Port Richey Thrift Shoppe, 6117 State Road 54, will host a Bridal Trunk Show on March 6 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. There will be more than 250 dresses to choose from, starting at $29.99 and many brand new. Admission is free, but limited spots are available to allow for social distancing. Brides must register online in advance, by March 3, at bit.ly/NPR-Bridal-Trunk-Show. All proceeds from the shop go to help hospice patients in Pasco County. For questions, contact Jeremi Sliger at , or call 727-842-7262. … [Read More...] about 03/06/2021 – Bridal Trunk Show

03/11/2021 – Economic security

The Pasco Unit of the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough County will sponsor a panel discussion on “Economic Security in Pasco County During the COVID Outbreak” on March 11 at 7 p.m. Panelists will include Brian Hoben, community services director, Pasco County Public Services; Marcy Esbjerg, director of community development, Pasco County Public Services; Don Anderson, CEO, Pasco Homeless Coalition; and, Mike Bishop, director, Stakeholder Engagement, Pasco Economic Development Council. For information on how to register, email . … [Read More...] about 03/11/2021 – Economic security

03/13/2021 – ‘Grease’ event

T-Mobile will sponsor “Grease is the Word” on March 13 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. There will be a sing-along contest pitting Pasco County Fire Rescue against the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, a free movie “under the stars,” and a classic car show with prizes. There also will be food trucks and games. Admission is free. … [Read More...] about 03/13/2021 – ‘Grease’ event

03/13/2021 – Exhibitors needed

Demene Benjamin and UrEsteem will host “UrSelf: A Dabble in Self-Care” on March 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Exhibitors can be anyone who has a product or service to promote physical, mental and social health, including physical and massage therapists; counselors; churches; nail techs/hairstylists; yoga/pilates/exercise; or natural products. For information, call 813-334-6006, or email . … [Read More...] about 03/13/2021 – Exhibitors needed

More of What's Happening

Follow us on Twitter

The Laker/Lutz NewsFollow

The Laker/Lutz News
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
9h

An entertainment venue in downtown Zephyrhills? https://buff.ly/3suOzCe

Reply on Twitter 1366433116852805636Retweet on Twitter 1366433116852805636Like on Twitter 1366433116852805636Twitter 1366433116852805636
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
28 Feb

This week in SPORTS: Sports agency in Lutz building reputation, clientele. https://buff.ly/3qZDdpc

Reply on Twitter 1366070716072943616Retweet on Twitter 1366070716072943616Like on Twitter 1366070716072943616Twitter 1366070716072943616
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
27 Feb

Pasco board looks to put pause on multifamily. https://buff.ly/2MtqP1Z

Reply on Twitter 1365708311912415237Retweet on Twitter 1365708311912415237Like on Twitter 13657083119124152371Twitter 1365708311912415237
Load More...

 

 

Where to pick up The Laker and Lutz News

Top Stories

Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

Pasco board looks to put pause on multifamily

An entertainment venue in downtown Zephyrhills?

Ash Wednesday events vary, across region

State testing should not be punitive, board members say

Retiring ‘Old Glory’ with dignity

SWFMD executive director wins geology alumni award

Perils on Pasco roads continue to climb

New fire truck welcomed with a ‘push-in’ ceremony

Efforts underway to help deputy’s family

PHSC panel seeks solutions on racial equity, social justice

Celebrating one life, saving another

Two Rivers will offer places to live, work, play

Secondary Sidebar

More Stories

Check out our other stories for the week

Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

Pasco board looks to put pause on multifamily

An entertainment venue in downtown Zephyrhills?

Ash Wednesday events vary, across region

State testing should not be punitive, board members say

Retiring ‘Old Glory’ with dignity

SWFMD executive director wins geology alumni award

Perils on Pasco roads continue to climb

New fire truck welcomed with a ‘push-in’ ceremony

Efforts underway to help deputy’s family

PHSC panel seeks solutions on racial equity, social justice

Celebrating one life, saving another

Two Rivers will offer places to live, work, play

Sports Stories

Sports agency in Lutz building reputation, clientele

Conference champs!

1,000-point club

Locals athletes ink with colleges on National Signing Day

Seniors keep active at East Pasco Family YMCA

Copyright © 2021 Community News Publications Inc.

   