Federal Support for Inclusive Early Childhood Programs

“The “Policy Statement on Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Early Childhood Programs,” released jointly by the Departments of Education (ED) and Health and Human Services (HHS) on September 14, 2015, states that all young children with disabilities should have access to inclusive high-quality early childhood programs, where they are provided with individualized and appropriate…

Individual Education Account (IEA) – Voucher Option for Education of Students with Disabilities

The “Individualized Education Act”, adopted by the General Assembly in 2015 per Public Chapter 431, creates the Individualized Education Account Program and related accounts (IEA) for eligible students with disabilities to use for educational purposes. The program provides options for parents and students to choose the education opportunities that best meet their own unique needs…

Occupational Diploma Information Sheet

 From the Disability Coalition on Education… OCCUPATIONAL DIPLOMA INFORMATION SHEET What is the Occupational Diploma? The Occupational Diploma is one of three diploma options for students graduating/exiting high school; the other two options include a regular high school diploma (full diploma) or a special education diploma The Occupational Diploma IS NOT the equivalent of a…

Journey Educational Services

Journey Educational Services, Inc. Luronda Jennings, Executive Director 423-774-3444 Email rising2succeeed@gmail.com Journey Educational Services provides educational support and supplemental services to students and young adults with disabilities to assist with obtaining a more confident, efficient, and productive way of life.  The mission of JES is to enrich, educate, and elevate school-aged students and young adults…

Every Kid in a Park: Free Park Admission

To help engage and create our next generation of park visitors, supporters and advocates, we are kicking off the Every Kid in a Park initiative. The immediate goal is to provide an opportunity for each and every 4th grade student across the country to experience their public lands and waters in person throughout the 2015-2016…

Helen Ross McNabb Center

Helen Ross McNabb Center of McMinn County is a regional, not-for-profit integrated system of mental health, substance abuse, and social services.   HRMC offers a range of comprehensive services to children, adults and families.   HRMC is located in Athens, TN but services and programs are provided in over 21 counties through the East Tennessee Region. Services include…

Tennessee Association of Microboards & Cooperatives

“A microboard is a small group of committed family and friends who join together with an individual with a disability to create a non-profit organization.” “Microboards and Cooperatives provide natural supports to the individuals who are the focus of their collective energy.  They can also become providers of services under Tennessee’s Home and Community Based…

VITA – Volunteer Income Tax Assistance

During tax season each year, the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga coordinates the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in partnership with the City of Chattanooga, the IRS, and the United Way of Greater Chattanooga. Offering free tax preparation services to low- to moderate-income individuals and families.  Find tax site locations, what to bring, tax…

Special Needs Planning at Chambliss, Bohner, & Stophel

When planning for long term care of a loved one with special needs, special care must be taken to work with someone who specializes in estate planning for those with disabilities and special needs trusts.  “Dana Perry concentrates her practice on estate planning, special needs planning and elder law. Dana has a hands-on approach helping clients provide…