Our son, Jamie, was inducted into the National Honor Society on April 24th. This accomplishment is a testament to his hard work throughout his schooling. He is like most other 18-year-old high school students; he likes to hang out with his friends, listen to music and watch Youtube videos. He is championed by his friends and teachers for all that he has accomplished because Jamie has Down Syndrome.

Jamie responds to his special challenges by studying diligently each day, reading books and keeping in close contact with his teachers by email. He is a wonderful young man with incredible potential. He wakes up every morning, excited for school. He loves being in school with his friends.  When asked how he would describe himself, Jamie says, “smart, capable and funny.” He has grown into a tremendously capable young man since he has been given the opportunity to be with his friends at school. He does not think of himself as being different than everyone else.

Jamie’s story is one of new beginnings. He was home-schooled for many years when we lived in Florida, because the school system did not allow him to be in classes with his non-disabled peers. After moving to Connecticut, he went back to public school and has enjoyed a full academic life. The school system has given Jamie a chance to be successful alongside his friends and peers. The administration, teachers and students all believe in his potential and he has achieved so much because of them.

We celebrate Jamie’s accomplishments, big and small. Being inducted into the National Honor Society is a huge deal for anyone, especially Jamie. He has worked tirelessly to show people that he is capable of greatness. Jamie is a leader in the community and an emissary. He is here to show everyone that, given the chance, all of our children can be successful.

Want to be a part of the celebration? Check out the National Down Syndrome Society’s My Great Story link, find out about events around the world through Down Syndrome International’s website, or join us here in Connecticut at the fabulous World Down Syndrome Day event hosted by 21 Strong at the New Canaan YMCA on Saturday, March 24th.

Or raise awareness on your own Thursday — you’ll find facts and figures here Let’s tell the world how bright the future can be.

A paid, part-time position, it is hoped that the new ED will move the CDSC toward greater stability while helping us grow and fulfill our mission of support to members and advocacy for people who have Down syndrome.

People who wish to be considered for the position can read the full job description and requirements at idealist.org.

A new federal effort is encouraging young people with disabilities — and those who come into contact with them — to set high expectations.

In a public service campaign, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment is highlighting the experiences of seven Americans with varying disabilities who’ve excelled at work, sports and in life because of the support of others.

“Many people who achieve success and have found satisfaction in their careers have done so because one person believed in them and urged them to set their expectations high,” said Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy. “This PSA challenges viewers to rethink their ideas about what people with disabilities can achieve and consider what they might do to encourage young people with disabilities to pursue their personal and career goals.”

Those featured in the campaign include a Virginia man with Down syndrome who works for a caterer and an artist with Asperger’s syndrome who credits a teacher for helping him see his talent.

“Like all young people, youth with disabilities should grow up expecting to work and succeed,” a voice-over in the PSA says.

Dubbed “Because,” the PSA is being distributed to over 1,400 television stations, Labor Department officials said.

Get a look at it here.

Partners in Policymaking is an leadership training program for people with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities.  Graduates of the program are recognized as skilled and capable leaders in disability issues, able to fill key policy and advocacy roles in the state.  Participation is limited to 30 people each year.

Partners in Policymaking in Connecticut is a collaborative effort of the CT Developmental Disabilities Network.

Can’t stand the cold?  Stay out of the water and register as a chicken.  Online registration and more information available at http://www.soct.org/plunges/,

Farmington	January 27, 2013
Winding Trails
Winsted	February 9, 2013
Highland Lake
Madison	February 9, 2013
Hammonasset Beach State Park
New London	February 17, 2013
Ocean Beach Park
Middletown	February 23, 2013
Crystal Lake
Westport	March 9, 2013
Compo Beach
Danbury	March 23, 2013
Candlewood Lake Park
Ellington	March 23, 2013
Crystal Lake Town Beach

Theresa Wilkomm, Ph.D., will demonstrate over 30 ways an iPad can be adapted in five minutes or less using everyday materials. Participants will learn to mount an iPad so the camera can be stabilized and used as a video presenter, presentation, lecture, or capture tool; adapt a stylus or use innovative input methods; create tactile graphics for iPad apps; attach an iPad to a wheelchair, bed, crib, chair, or a person; recess an iPad into a table or tray; and learn creative ways to protect an iPad.

General and special educators and para-educators, speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, assistive technology specialists, independent living specialists, vocational rehabilitation counselors, medical equipment sales personnel, parents, and consumers are encouraged to attend.

Registration Deadline is Monday, January 6 at 12 p.m., est.  Cost is $59.  More information is available at the Institute on Disability’s website.

Dance Program Registration Open

Canton, CT — At Farmington DANCE, we don’t see limitations, we see possibilities.   We want each of our children to have a positive, growing experience that they take to each and every aspect of their lives.  Angels In The Wings is a program specifically designed for children with Down syndrome. Our primary goal is for students to foster a love of dance and creative expression by experiencing the pure joy of dance and music. In addition, they may also see improvements in their coordination, overall fitness, balance, focus, listening, self-esteem, self-expression, rhythm and musicality.

This class is staffed by a teacher and extra assistants.  At the end of the semester, students will performance in costume, complete with a curtain call. Our program runs on Fridays from 4:15-5:00, beginning January 11^th, 2013 and ending with our performance on Friday evening May 31^st. Tuition is $350.00.

For further information, contact Kym Nash, Director, Farmington Dance, 133 River Rd., Canton, CT, 860 693-1800.  www.farmingtondance.com.