It's not you: this year was a lot. Again.

Thank you for all the energy you bring to this work: as self-advocates, as families, as providers, and as educators. There's a long way still to go and this year didn't make things easy on anyone, but we're glad to work with and know each and every one of you. You light the way.

We want to wish all of you a very happy, healthy, and restful holiday season.

We're taking a break to rest, and to recharge, and to come back at the beginning of January with a renewed commitment to accessibility, inclusion and community.

From all of us here at CDCI, have a very merry holiday season.

Vermont Assistive Tech

Holiday Gift Guide 2021

Over at the Vermont Assistive Technology Program, Ben Wimett, assistive technology access specialist, has a list of holiday gift ideas for the 2021 giving season, with notes on which products he's tried himself, how extensively they've been tested with actual users, and wherever possible, which ones you can buy local. Thanks Ben!

UPCOMING EVENTS

SATURDAY DEC. 18, NOON-5PM EST (Montpelier) | All Brains Belong VT

"Creativity Zone" Parallel Play Group for Teens 12-17

MONDAY DEC. 20, 4:30 PM EST (virtual) | All Brains Belong VT

Creating Alt-Text & Verbal Descriptions

TUESDAY JAN 4, 9:30AM EST (virtual) | Inclusive Arts Vermont

Vermont Family Network "Sibshop": Paint & Sip

"Sibshops" are for children 6+ who have a brother or sister with a disability or special health need. They provide an opportunity to connect, share a snack, and discuss the ups and downs of being a “sib,” all while doing a fun activity at VFN or in the community. Sibs are welcome to come create their paintings at VFN and bring them home, or they can request a paint kit be mailed and call in via Zoom.

The theme of this Sibshop is Leadership. What qualities does Claire have that make her good at leading Paint & Sips? What qualities do you think make you a good leader? Do any of these qualities serve your sibling relationship?

SUNDAY JAN 9, 1PM EST (Williston or virtual) | Vermont Family Network

Parenting Children with Complex Needs

JAN 6 & 20, 9:30AM EST (virtual) | I-Team Early Intervention Project

Introduction to Supported Employment

JAN 6, 12, 13 (virtual) | Supported Employment Program @ CDCI

Communication & Collaboration: Families & Providers in a Changing World

JAN 13 & 27, 9:30AM EST (virtual) | I-Team Early Intervention Project

CDCI Celebrations!

An icon of a party horn spewing sparkles and stars

Welcome Cassandra Townshend!

A white woman in her early forties with hazel eyes and straight, dusty blonde hair falling loose to her shoulders.

We're excited to announce that Cassandra Townshend, Ed.D will be joining the CDCI in January! Townshend (she/her) will be leading the BEST project (home of VT PBIS) with Amy Wheeler-Sutton.

Cassandra worked as the director of special education at Charlotte Central School and director of behavior systems for Champlain Valley School District for the past five years. She previously worked for BEST as training and development coordinator.

Welcome back, Cassandra!