Below are highlights of projects and resources that may be of assistance to educators and
their students & families. Click the links for complete information.
Educational Advocate Program -
Educational Advocate Program is responsible for making educational decisions for children with
disabilities who are in the care of the state, and whose parents are unable to act on their behalf.
Family Support 360 Transition Project –
This initiative provides assistance to transition age students (age 14 – 21) with significant
disabilities and their families. Staff help families plan an effective transition for the young
person from high school to a meaningful adult life with appropriate supports.
Family to Family of RI –
Family to Family of Rhode Island is a network created by families for families of children and
adults with special needs. The network offers opportunities for families to connect with one another
to share experiences, information, and/or support. The Family to Family Directory is available on the
Internet and by calling (401) 727-4144, ext. 161. Membership in the network is not required to use the
Directory or to contact a participating family.
RI Special Education Careers - Rhode Island is
facing a significant shortage of Special Educators. Now, more than ever, RI children and youth
with disabilities need highly qualified teachers who can make a difference in their lives.
The Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities seeks to recruit and assist individuals who are
interested in pursuing careers in Special Education and/or support services in Rhode Island.
RI State Improvement Grant (RISIG)
- The United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) awarded
Rhode Island a grant to improve student performance and increase access to general education for
children with disabilities. Funding was awarded for five years, effective November 1, 2002 to
October 31, 2007.
RI Vision Education and Services Program (RIVESP) –
RIVESP, supported by the Rhode Island Department of Education, provides teaching and
consultation services to children who are blind or visually impaired, their families
and educational staff within the school environment. The array of services available
includes Early Intervention, Orientation and Mobility, and the instruction of specific
compensatory skills to children from birth through 21 years.
School-Wide Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support (SWPBIS) -
SWPBIS is a research based model for promoting positive behaviors in schools. SWPBIS is a whole school
model that focuses on ALL children. It is currently being implemented in more than 7000 schools
nationwide and has been demonstrated to be highly effective.
The Sherlock Center on Disabilities at Rhode Island College is collaborating with the
National Technical Assistance Center on School Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions
and Supports to implement SWPBIS in Rhode Island. Three cohorts, 58 RI schools, are currently
implementing this model; an Early Childhood cohort will start in fall 2007.
PUBLICATIONS
Below is a partial list of publications designed for educators and students.
Click the Publications link (on the left) for a complete list.
The Sherlock Center offers a variety of workshops, courses and conferences on a
disability and education –related topics. Join our mailing list to receive direct announcements
or click the Training & Events link (on the left) for current offerings.
Certification as Special Educator of Children with Severe Disabilities
The Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities at Rhode Island College and the Rhode Island
Department of Education Office of Special Populations has created an opportunity for
public school teachers to pursue certification as a Special Educator of Children with
Severe Disabilities. A recently funded Personnel Preparation Grant (obtained by the Sherlock Center)
will provide partial tuition support for a cohort of teachers. The Sherlock Center is providing
instruction, on site technical assistance, and other resources. The next cohort is expected to
start in November 2007.
A Leadership Series: What YOU Need to Know Now! Survival Skills for New School Administrators
This 10-session course explores critical issues in public education, particularly
current special education laws and regulations, and what they require administrators
to know and do. The next course begins September 17, 2007.
Using Effective Practices with Children who have Low Incidence Disabilities or
Other Disabilities that Significantly Affect Function
This graduate credit workshop is intended to provide an update for teachers who
support children who have low incidence or other disabilities that significantly
affect function. Research and best practices will be discussed. Rhode Island examples
will be provided for each topic. Participants will be provided with guidance in
designing and implementing effective programs for the focus populations. Next
offering scheduled for summer 2008.
Inclusion Institutes
Inclusion Institutes provide the opportunity for school personnel and parents to
work in teams in planning for inclusion of individual children who have developmental
disabilities. Lead by Tony Antosh, these one-day institutes address barriers to meaningful
inclusion. Teams usually consist of the child's parents, a special educator, teaching assistants,
therapists, and others. Most teams also include either a principal or a special education director.
Each institute consists of one full day; meals are included. Dates for 2007/2008 will be available
in September.
RESOURCE LIBRARY The Sherlock Center has a lending resource library with over 1500 books, periodicals,
software and videotapes. If you are in need of a specific resource, let us know
and we will do out best to provide assistance. Click the Resource Library link (on the left) for more information.