Our pilot FATE team developed this national advocacy agenda:
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Require States to include “services to students who are deafblind in special education State Plans” via addenda to existing plans & inclusion in future State plans. The plan should include:
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Definition – We want to add this definition to the existing definition in IDEA
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Qualified Personnel - Teachers of Students who are DeafBlind and Interveners
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Interveners written explicitly in the list of permitted related services for all DB
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Technical Assistance - NCDB and State DeafBlind Projects (increase funding to meet current needs)
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Transition plans to adult life should align with a State Plan for Adults.
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Require States to develop a State Plan for Adults who are Deaf-Blind. Ensure the timely implementation of appropriate services and supports for adults who are deafblind for a successful transition from school to adult life, including but not limited to post-secondary education, the workforce, or other settings. [1] The goal is a purposeful life of their choice. The plan may include:
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Coordination with the Special Education State Plan (initially).
b. The array of support services, to include SSPs/CNs, Interveners, and Interpreter.
c. DB Medicaid Waivers