Staff from The Advocacy Center provided two days of professional development for 14 service coordinators from Chemung Arc on December 2 and December 9, 2008. Topics included the special education process, working effectively with families, Social Security benefits, guardianship, and taking care of yourself. One participant commented, “I enjoyed this training and loved the activities. Some trainings are all informational and this was more hands-on and an overall fun training with important information.”

In November, Jackie Yingling and Gretchen Jackson from The Advocacy Center presented “Out with the Velcro, in with the Tools: Strategies for Paraprofessionals” for 133 paraprofessionals in the Corning-Painted Post School District. This day-long workshop clarifies the important role of the paraprofessional as a part of a team supporting a student or students. Hands-on exercises provide participants with tools to promote natural interaction and support.

For more information about professional development opportunities through The Advocacy Center, contact Allyn Stelljes-Young at 585-546-1700 ext. 226.