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Zarrow Summer Institute 2024

Zarrow Summer Institute 2024

The 2024 Zarrow Summer Institute will cover indicators 1, 2, 13, and 14, and themes such as improving graduation rates and decreasing drop-out rates. Workshop sessions will be conducted via Zoom.

Session Dates

Session 1: June 11th

Session 2: June 18th

Session 3: June 25th

Session 4: July 9th

Session 5: July 16th

Session 6: July 23rd

Registration Costs

$100- Early Bird Registration (November 1, 2023 - May 1, 2024)

$120- Standard Registration

Register today: https://ZSI2024.eventbrite.com

Improving Student Outcomes & IEP Compliance through Assessment & Evaluation

Assessing and evaluating students with disabilities effectively not only improves students’ postsecondary outcomes but also improves the compliance of students’ IEPs and transition plans. In this session, participants will explore transition assessment tools and will learn how to effectively interpret and evaluate assessment results to construct quality and compliant transition goals. Participants will also discover resources and materials to improve students’ academic and transition skills based on their assessment results.

Stepping-Up Transition

This session will focus on creating compliant and quality transition plans using transition assessment results—thinking beyond Indicator 13. A graphic framework called “Stepping Up Transition” is used to guide the presentation and show how the transition assessment results build different components of the transition plan. The presenter will explain how each transition plan component can be transformed from compliant to quality. Lastly, the presentation will provide examples of quality transition plan components including postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, transition services, and present levels statements.

Understanding Disability Narratives

In this session, we will explore how disability has been portrayed and understood in history, public policy, and media, and discuss how these perspectives overlap to shape diverse experiences. Through this exploration, we'll uncover how various facets of identity intersect with disability, influencing individuals' lived realities. Together, we will apply this knowledge to brainstorm actionable strategies that foster inclusion and equity in both public and educational settings, empowering us to create truly inclusive learning environments.

Diverse Pathways: Tailored Transition Assessment & Services for SWSSN

Students with Significant Support Needs (SWSSN) include those with significant challenges in one or more of the following areas: multiple disabilities, severe or profound disabilities, medical conditions, cognitive challenges, behavioral challenges, sensory impairments, social and emotional difficulties, or complex communication needs. Due to these needs, it is essential that professionals involve students in transition assessments to the greatest extent possible and involve a variety of stakeholders who interact with the student regularly. Involving the student and their stakeholders in transition assessments can provide valuable information to develop a SPIN statement and transition services for SWSSN.

Planning Effectively for Emotional Behavioral Disorder & Mental Health Support

The number of students who are diagnosed with EBD or other mental health needs increases each year. These students require unique supports as part of their transition plan in order to be successful post-graduation. In this session, participants will explore EBD/common mental health diagnoses and how these may present in different students. Participants will also explore methods for balancing the teaching of independent living and “soft” skills with appropriately supporting the mental health needs of students.

Comprehensive Sexuality Education for Individuals with Disabilities

This session includes an exploration of national policies alongside an introduction to research-backed curricula designed to facilitate effective and supportive instruction tailored for individuals with disabilities. By delving into the crucial benefits outlined by research and best practices for inclusive language, this presentation will outline the significance of comprehensive instruction in healthy relationships. In addition to the benefit, the potential risk associated with the absence of explicit guidance in these areas will be discussed.



Transition Coaching 2024

Transition Coaching

Our knowledgeable and dedicated team will guide your teachers through a scaffolded-approach to transition planning, enabling them to create compliant and quality transition plans while also promoting positive postschool outcomes for students with disabilities.

Coaching Components

2 full days (16 hours total) of instruction via Zoom

Online learning platform via Canvas

Monthly 1-hour small-group sessions

Individualized support via email and 1-on-1 meetings

Information & Registration

Contact the Zarrow Institute


Zarrow Training Menu

Zarrow Training Menu

Learn more about the variety of trainings the Zarrow Institute has to offer, including TAGG trainings and workshops, transition coaching, consultations, and more.

Download the Training Menu (.pdf)

Newsletter

2024 Newsletters

Learn more and register to attend the Zarrow Summer Institute:

https://zsi2024.eventbrite.com

Learn more and register to attend the Sooner Works Summer Academy:

https://tinyurl.com/SWSummerAcademy24

TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Spring 2024 field test, please visit the Current Research page or contact Chris Sanford to sign up.

Current Research


Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session

Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!

Information Session Registration

Learn more about ZSI2024


Goal Setting Puzzles

Check out our brand-new resource: a pack of goal-setting word puzzles

You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help introduce and reinforce goal-setting vocabulary!

Goal Setting Puzzles (.PDF)


SoonerWorks College Preview Day

The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.

Sooner Works Event Page



Resources for Teaching Financial Literacy

Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked resources on financial literacy!

You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help teach students about money, budgets, and more.

Teaching Financial Literacy Resource (.PDF)


Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session

Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!

Information Session Registration

Learn more about ZSI2024


SoonerWorks College Preview Day

The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.

Sooner Works Event Page


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.

Current Research


ZSI at CEC 2024 Convention & Expo

We'll be at the 2024 Annual Council for Exceptional Children Convention and Expo in San Antonio! Come by our booth--we have swag and resources, and we'd love to meet you! We also have a presentation on Wednesday, March 13 from 1:00-2:30 PM: Deep Dive: Walk the Walk: Promoting Self-Determination through a Culturally Responsive Lens.


Resources Focused on Healthy Relationships

Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked resources on healthy relationships!

You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help teach students about romance, healthy relationships, and intimacy.

Healthy Relationships Resource (.PDF)


Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session

Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!

Information Session Registration

Learn more about ZSI2024


Leaders for Transition 2.0

Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.

Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.

L4T Program Information


SoonerWorks

The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.

Sooner Works Event Page


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.

Current Research


Resources for Spanish-Speaking Families

Be sure to download and share these resources for Spanish-speaking families:

  • ¿Qué es un IEP?
  • Miembros del equipo de IEP
  • Derechos de los padres

Download Resource (.PDF)

2023 Newsletters


Winter Movies for Teaching Self-Determination

Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked winter-themed movies which feature self-determination and transition skills!

Don't miss the opportunity to combine the magic of cinema with the teaching of these essential life skills.

Winter Movie Resource


Leaders for Transition 2

Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.

Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.

L4T Program Information


SoonerWorks

Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.

At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.

Sooner Works Event Page

Program applications are due February 1, 2024, and applications for early admission consideration are due December 1, 2023. Learn more about the application process on the Sooner Works page.

Program and Application Information


Spark 360º

Learn more about the "Full Circle Support" our SPARK360º program offers students with autism at the Univeristy of Oklahoma!

Interested?

Apply today


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.

Current Research


Transition in Practice Journal

Transition in Practice is a research-to-practice journal for special educators in transition and secondary education settings. Sign up for journal notifications or submit a manuscript for review!

Transition in Practice Website


Leaders for Transition 2

Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.

Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.

L4T Program Information


SoonerWorks

Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.

At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.

Sooner Works Event Page

Program applications are due February 1, 2024, and applications for early admission consideration are due December 1, 2023. Learn more about the application process on the Sooner Works page.

Program and Application Information


Spark 360º

Formerly IMPACT360º--same great program, awesome new name!

Our Autism Support Program is designed to support students with autism who are seeking an undergraduate degree in a STEM field* through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.

Interested?

Apply today


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.

Current Research


Study Participants Needed

If you are a certified K-12 instructor within an alternative or juvenile-justice setting, please take the survey below. For more information, please contact Wendy Mitchell.

Take the Survey


Spark 360º

Formerly IMPACT360º--same great program, awesome new name!

Our Autism Support Program is designed to support autistic students seeking an undergraduate degree in a STEM field* through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.

Interested?

Apply today


SoonerWorks Virtual Open House

Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.

At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.

Sooner Works Event page


TAGG Lesson Plans

Searching for resources to teach TAGG constructs and transition skills? Check out our new lesson plans!

View the Lesson Plans


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.

Current Research


OU Unified Sports

We're excited to introduce the OU Unified Sports Club which promotes inclusion across the OU campus. Learn more about this exciting program by watching this video by students in the Sooner Works program!

Watch the video


Zarrow Institute at DCDT 2023

Join us October 18-21 in Reno for the DCDT International Conference. Zarrow Institute Scholars will be presenting 16 sessions out of the 250 exciting sessions! Stop by our booth to meet us and enter to win a free registration to ZSI 2024.

ZI DCDT 2023 Session Information Flyer (.pdf)


Oklahoma Transition Institute

18th Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute: Creating Connections

If you’re an educator, parent, advocate, or student, this event is for you! The Oklahoma Transition Council presents the 18th Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) November 14 -15, 2023. This year will be an all in-person event at the Glenpool Conference Center, 12205 S Yukon Avenue in Glenpool, Oklahoma.

Register for OTI via Whova


TAGG Middle School Field Testing

For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit our Current Research page.

Current Research


Zarrow Institute Training Menu

Looking for specific training for your school, district, or state? The Zarrow Institute offers a variety of trainings! Check out our new Training Menu!

Download the Training Menu (.pdf)


TAGG Workshops

Have questions about TAGG assessment, results, or website? Get your questions answered at one of our monthly workshops!

Fall 2023 Workshop Dates
Spring 2024 Workshop Dates
September 11February 12
October 10March 11
November 13April 18

Morning sessions run from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Central.

Morning Session Registration

Afternoon sessions run from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central.

Afternoon Session Registration


New Bell Ringers: Intro to Transition


My IEP Quick Reference


Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Beyond Cancer: Educational considerations during and after treatment for the child with cancer and their families. For questions or more information, please email Kerry Frank.

Download the resource (.pdf)