CARS+

Common Core State Standards Update

billyhanna — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 04:58:37 +0000

For Information and Possible Action:
Application Deadline Extended to Serve on the CDE Literature List Update Committee – The CDE is searching for committee members from all content areas (with special encouragement to mathematics, science, and world language experts) and grade levels to work on updating the existing series of literature lists into a single, searchable database. The process is scheduled to begin on April 16-17, 2012, with a two-day training meeting in Sacramento. Following the training, the committee members will work autonomously to select and submit literature works that support the teaching of English language arts, history-social science, mathematics, science, world language, visual and performing arts, health, physical education, and the library standards. Committee members will reconvene in early June to review and finalize submitted literature titles. If interested, contact Roxane Fidler by phone at 916-323-4861 or by e-mail at rfidler@cde.ca.gov. The application deadline has been extended to March 15, 2012.
Recruitment of Educators to Serve on the English Language Arts Focus Groups – The State Superintendent of Public Instruction is recruiting educators to serve on four focus groups to provide input on the revision of the English Language Arts/English Language Development Framework for California Public Schools: Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve. Applications are due April 5, 2012. The focus group recruitment letter and application can be found on the CDE Curriculum Frameworks Web page at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/rl/cf .
Applicants to Serve on the Mathematics CFCC – The CDE and SBE are recruiting applicants for the Curriculum Framework and Evaluation Criteria Committee (CFCC) to assist with the revision of the Mathematics Framework for California Public Schools: Kindergarten Through Grade Twelve (Mathematics Framework). The Mathematics Framework will be revised to incorporate and support the CCSS for Mathematics. The CFCC will include between 9 and 20 members who will be selected to ensure balanced representation of regions, mathematical content knowledge, and grade-level experience. The committee will meet up to six times, with meetings tentatively scheduled from September 2012 through February 2013. More details about the responsibilities of serving as a CFCC member and the application are available on the CDE Mathematics Curriculum Framework Web page at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/ma/cf . The deadline for submission of the application is April 18, 2012.

CCSS Resource Web Page Update:
Update to CCSS Resources – On March 7, 2012, the SBE approved the CCSS Systems Implementation Plan for California. The implementation plan is a living document that identifies major phases and activities in the implementation of the CCSS throughout California’s educational system. You can link to the plan under the “California Department of Education” section. Along with the approved CCSS implementation plan, an updated set of FAQs (frequently asked questions) are also included under the CDE section.

CCSS Update from CDE
1430 N Street, Suite 3207
Sacramento, CA 95814

Day of the Special Educator

admin — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:24:30 +0000

To Friends of Special Educators:

CARS+, The Organization for Special Educators, recommends that the information below about The Day of the Special Educator be shared throughout the state. We encourage your organization to participate by honoring your special educators on December 3, which was declared by the California State Legislature The Day of the Special Educator.

Click here to read more.

Special Announcement

admin — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 07:00:39 +0000

Slate of Officers 2012-2013: to be voted on at the 2012 Convention – General Membership Session

Dee Torrington - President - Description
Robert Hamilton - President Elect - Description
Joni Clark – Past President
Nancy Santoianni - Treasurer - Description
Laisne Hamilton - Secretary - Description
Dee Torrington - Legislative Director - Description
Robert Hamilton - Magazine Director - Description
Billy Hanna - Technology Director - Description

Region Directors - Description:

Region 2: Norlissa Clark
Region 3: Nica Cox
Region 4: George Chueng
Region 5: Laura Danial
Region 6: Wendy Kellogg
Region 7: Joyce Childs
Region 8: Janey Muñoz

SMARTER Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC)

admin — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 15:38:34 +0000

Update from the California Department of Education (CDE)
Issue 12 (Week beginning March 12, 2012)

SBAC CDE News

· Technology Readiness Data Collection

· Technology Readiness Reporting

· Beverly Young named Higher Education representative on Executive Committee

· Item Specifications/Guidelines 3rd draft released and survey posted

The SBAC CDE weekly update is an email sent each week to inform California educators and parents of new developments and upcoming events. Please feel free to share information in the update with those who are interested in the SBAC CDE’s work.

§ Technology Readiness Data Collection—To ensure that district and school staff time is used effectively, SBAC and California have implemented a phased rollout of the Technology Readiness Tool. To make the first data collection window effort as easy as possible, CDE will be working with pilot districts in each of the eleven California service regions to test the system in order to provide CDE feedback and suggestions for improving the local educational agencies (LEAs) experience with the tool. The pilot districts will test the system from March 20, 2012 through April 9, 2012. The statewide data collection window will open April 16, 2012 and end June 14, 2012. Prior to April 16, CDE will host a statewide Technology Readiness Webinar that will be archived and available on the CDE Web site at http://www.cde.ca.gov/sbac/. Please note that this Webinar and additional training modules will replace the March 12 Technology Readiness Tool training Module noted in previous updates.
As additional information on the Technology Readiness Tool is made available, CDE will provide the latest information on the SBAC CDE weekly updates and on the CDE Web site as noted above. The following revised timeline will allow CDE to provide better support to our districts and schools as they begin the data collection and submission process:
March 20–April 9, Pilot Districts Test Data Collection: To facilitate the success of the data collection window, CDE will work with the pilot districts to test the system in order to provide feedback and suggestions for improving the experience with the tool.
April 9–16, Enhance Communications for the Technology Readiness Tool Survey: CDE will consider issues and challenges, solidify the state-specific frequently asked questions (FAQs), and help enhance Consortium FAQs; CDE will host a statewide Technology Readiness Webinar that will be archived.
April 16–June 14, Begin Statewide LEAS Data Collection: Use both the lessons learned from the early implementors and the enhanced FAQs to support California’s statewide rollout.
§ Technology Readiness Reporting—It was determined that both consortia need baseline data from districts and schools to help determine the minimum requirements for technology. Therefore, the first data collection window will be a technology readiness inventory. Data collection summaries will be available. These reports will help improve data quality and to inform the two consortia regarding which types of hardware and operating systems are currently being used in schools.

§ New Higher Education representative on Executive Committee—Dr. Beverly L. Young, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs for the California State University System, was elected by the SBAC higher education state leads to serve on SBAC’s Executive Committee. Dr. Young is one of two higher education representatives on the nine-member governing body and also serves as a Smarter Balanced Higher Education Lead for California. Additional information is available on the Consortium’s public website at http://www.smarterbalanced.org/news/californias-young-joins-smarter-balanced-executive-committee/ .

§ Item Specifications 3rd draft released and survey posted—The third draft of the Item Specifications and Guidelines were released for public review and comment. These item specifications provide item writers with specific guidance on how to translate the Common Core State Standards into actual assessment items. In addition, guidelines for bias and sensitivity, accessibility and accommodations, and style help item developers and reviewers ensure consistency and fairness. The item specifications and presentation materials are available on theSBAC’s public website at http://www.smarterbalanced.org/smarter-balanced-assessments/#item . The survey to share feedback on the item specifications is posted in the same location. Feedback is due by 11:59 p.m. Pacific on Friday, March 16.

SBAC CDE Upcoming Events
March 16, 2012 CDE SBAC Bi-monthly Update to Education Coalition Representatives. The Education Coalition is a group made up of advocacy groups including the California County Superintendents Educational Services Association the Association of California School Administrators, the California Association of School Business Officials, the California Federation of Teachers, the California School Boards Association, the California School Employees Association, the California Teachers Association, California’s Parent-Teacher Association and the California Service Employees International Union. One to three representatives from each organization were nominated by their organizations to participate in regularly scheduled monthly WebEx meetings to receive SBAC updates, to provide feedback, and to discuss transition needs for the new set of state assessments scheduled for the 2014–15 school year.

SBAC CDE Resources

Join the SBAC electronic mailing list by sending a blank e-mail to subscribe-sbac@mlist.cde.ca.gov. To receive CCSS CDE Updates via e-mail notification, subscribe to the from CDE listserv by sending a blank message to join-commoncore@mlist.cde.ca.gov.

External website—The Smarter Balanced external website can be found at www.smarterbalanced.org . The site showcases the SBAC work and provides frequent updates on activities, milestones, and events.

A list of the parameters collected by the SBAC Information Technology (IT) Readiness Tool for the spring 2012 data collection can be found on the SBAC CDE web page at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sa/sbac-readiness-params.asp.

· The IT architecture and requirements are now available online at http://www.smarterbalanced.org/smarter-balanced-assessments/technology/ (refer to section titled “IT Systems Architecture Reports and Resources”).

· Report on engaging higher education in new assessments available—A new report from the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS) identifies the conditions that can help build consensus between state K-12 and postsecondary systems. It also makes recommendations for meaningful involvement by higher education in the implementation of the Common Core State Standards and assessments, which will inform our efforts to engage the postsecondary field. The report is available at http://www.nchems.org/pubs/detail.php?id=146 .

SBAC Question/Answer of the Week

Q: Twenty states are working to develop next-generation science standards. Will science be incorporated into SBAC’s assessments?

A: SBAC will not include science assessments at the time of implementation in 2014-15. However, it is likely that the online test delivery options selected by states (or SBAC) will support the delivery of online test science assessments in the future—particularly in cases where the science assessments are comprised of selected response items. SBAC will continue to monitor the development and adoption of science standards.

Welcome!

admin — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:58:50 +0000

CARS+ is the only organization whose sole purpose is to represent the unique needs of resource specialists and other special education teachers. The California Association of Resource Specialists was founded in 1981 as a non-profit association dedicated to the support of resource specialists. In February of 1996, the organization voted to expand its active membership to include all special education teachers. CARS+ is organized into seven regions with twenty chapters and over 1,500 members. The organization is governed by a sixteen-member volunteer board. Thirteen board members are elected and three are appointed positions.

Common Core Standards (CCSS) Resources Update

admin — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 20:27:29 +0000

The edited version of the online publication A Look at Kindergarten Through Grade Six in California Public Schools is now available on the CCSS Resources Web page. The document is a compilation of subject-matter curriculum, including information about the CCSS in English Language Arts and Mathematics, organized by individual grade levels. It is an excellent resource for districts, schools, teachers, and parents to use as an overview of the different subjects for each grade level or as an initial tool in implementing the new English language arts and mathematics standards. The “October 2011 Edition” is available on the CDE’s Common Core State Standards Resources Web page at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci/cc/.

View the 2011 North/South Assessment and Accountability Information Meeting agenda, meeting materials, and webcasts on http://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/tg/sa/northsouthmtnginfo.asp. Information includes an update about California’s participation in the SMARTER Balanced Assessment Consortium, the implementation of the CCSS, and other state assessments.

Advisory Commission’s GOAL Award

admin — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:22:06 +0000

The California Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE) wishes to recognize programs and practices in the field of special education that could benefit other students with disabilities. The Grazer Outstanding Achievement in Learning (GOAL) Award is one of many activities designed to celebrate the professionals, programs, and practices in California that serve youth with disabilities of all ages.

The entry deadline for the GOAL award has been extended to December 2, 2011. Programs and practices in substantial compliance with Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004 operated by school districts, county offices of education, charter schools, and non-public schools that serve students with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Additional information on the GOAL Award can be found on the Grazer Outstanding Achievement in Learning Web page at http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/as/acsegoalaward.asp including a direct link to the entry form.

Please direct questions to Kathleen Smith, Staff Liaison, Advisory Commission on Special Education by telephone at 916-327-3698 or by e-mail at kasmith@cde.ca.gov.

AB1330 Fuarutani: Graduation Requirements, Career Technical Education

admin — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 20:29:23 +0000

Starting with the 2012-13 school year, AB1330 adds career technical education (CTE) as an option for pupils to fulfill the existing high school graduation requirement to complete a course in visual or performing arts (VPA) or foreign language. It also requires districts that elect this option to notify parents, teachers, pupils and the public, as specified.

The existing minimum high school graduation requirements include one course in either visual or performing arts or foreign language. This bill adds career technical education to this category as a course option to meet the minimum graduation requirements in lieu of a course in either VPA or foreign language.

Supporters of AB1330 state that the allowing students to enroll in career technical education courses will help them be more engaged in their education and improve graduation rates and enrollment in postsecondary education. Those in opposition state that it could affect eligibility for admission to UC and USC, as foreign language and visual/performing arts courses are required for minimum eligibility for freshman admission to California’s four-year public postsecondary institutions.

A Guide for Young People with DisabilitiesTransitioning to Adulthood

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 21:44:09 +0000

This guide has lots of great information and resources. It’s geared toward youth with disabilities living in California. Resources on 6 different transition-related topics, and student-led IEP/person centered planning worksheets. Such as, independent living, social/recreation, finances, healthcare, employment and other great resources.

http://www.tknlyouth.info/

New Courses Help Students Exiting K-12 Education

admin — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:41:28 +0000

DAVIS, Calif. As a high school guidance counselor, teacher or special educator, the need to stay abreast of current trends for supporting students as they leave the K-12 system and enter adulthood has never been greater. With this in mind, UC Davis Extension has developed two new courses for winter 2012 that will benefit both professionals in their careers and students in their futures.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Supporting Transition for Youth (Ages 16-25) Examine the transition process for students with high-functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger syndrome (AS) who are leaving the K-12 education setting and entering higher education or the workforce. Learn to determine accommodations and needs based on 504/IEP educational intervention plans, assess both academic and independent living/functional life skills, and compare academic and vocational skill plans. Practice conducting a needs assessment interview and learn how to guide teens to be self-advocates. Become an effective guide for youth and families-including your own-as the transition process unfolds, respecting their vision and empowering them to navigate the process successfully.

College Admissions Navigating Today¹s Application Process As the college admissions process becomes more competitive and complex, develop a comprehensive understanding of the current context and critical
components. Review college admissions timelines and learn to prepare students for key dates. Become particularly familiar with California colleges and gain a broad overview of national universities. Learn to
interpret college rankings and develop strategies for matching students with colleges that support both their educational and personal interests.

Specific topics include:
-Personal statements and essays
-Financial aid, merit aid and scholarship opportunities
-California high school profiles, transcripts and ag requirements
-College entrance exams and high school test scores e.g. ACT, AP and SAT
-Acceptance, deferment and wait-list responses

This course will also include a book signing and presentation by Dr. Sally Springer, associate chancellor emerita at UC Davis and psychologist with more than 30 years of experience in higher education. She is co-author of
the best-selling book Admission Matters: What Students and Parents Need to Know About Getting into College, 2nd ed.

These courses are open to the public, and while they carry academic credit, are also available for noncredit. For additional information or to enroll, call (800) 752-0881 , email extension@ucdavis.edu or visit our website.

http://extension.ucdavis.edu/educators