For more information and registration click here!What:The Mandt System builds on skill development through a system of gradual and graded alternatives for deescalating and assisting people using a combination of interpersonal communication skills, conflict resolution strategies and physical interaction techniques.The goal is to assist others in managing themselves and the safety of all involved through skillful and nonphysical means. Physical strategies are also taught to provide additional “least restrictive” options in the event the person poses a clear threat of substantial harm to self or others if physically unassisted. The focus of The Mandt System is primarily on prevention.When:February 3, 20128:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.February 4, 20128:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Where:Havre, MTFifth Avenue Christian ChurchContact:Aileen CouchPhone: (406) 265-4356 ext. 322

What:As families grow and age they reach many crossroads. Each crossroad generates more questions. Family Life Expo was designed to provide Billings families with answers to their many questions and direct families to local professionals and providers who can help.When you register to exhibit at the 2012 Family Life Expo, you will also be included in the network of professionals and providers on FamilyLifeExpo.com, fully launching to the public dare of the expo, February 4, 2012. At FamilyLifeExpo.com families can get the latest news and updates on just about any issue such as healthcare, financial planning, education, real estate, jobs, vacations, insurance, retirement, and more! Most importantly, families can link directly to one of our network professionals or providers that can help. When:February 4, 2012 Where:MetraPark PavilionBillings, MTContact:Phone: 406-294-9116Email: familylifeexpo.comProceeds to benefit the Special K Ranch.

Click here to view registration form and get more information!What:Any reading program can be “powered up” when delivered with effective instructional techniques. Participants will review the “Big Five” strands of reading instruction with a particular focus teaching vocabulary and comprehension both as part of reading instruction and in content areas. They will learn and practice evidence based, explicit teaching techniques, practices and activities that can increase student learning whether used with large groups, small groups or individual students.Register online at http://www.formsite.com/hpsk12/form48873536/index.html.When and Where:January 25, 2012 - Havre, Montana - Fifth Avenue ChurchJanuary 26, 2012 - Great Falls, Montana - Hampton Inn8:00 am - 3:30 pm MTContact:Aileen Couch, CoordinatorPhone: (406) 265-4356 ext. 322Fax: (406) 265-8460Email: cspd@havre.k12.mt.us

Click here for the Save the Date!What:The day's offerings include renowned speakers on children's psychiatry & treatment, integrated recovery models including primary care, dual-diagnosis treatment, and the mental health consumer recovery movement. Five CMEs (currently pending approval) will be available to those attending; conference registration is $60.When:March 1, 20129:00 am - 3:00 pmWhere:Miles City Community CollegeMiles City, MTContact:Phone: 406-587-7774

Click here to view the flyer!What:This conference features Marilyn Bruguier Zimmerman - Director of Nation Native Childrens' Trauma Center. Marilyn is the directr of NNTC which is affiliated with the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) and is housed at the University of Montana. She provides training across the country on trauma and the impact to children and communities.It also features Jamie Walton - The Founder and President of the Wayne Foundation to Prevent Child Prostitution. Jamie initiated the foundation as part of her "breaking the silence" as a former victim of child prostitution. Human trafficking, domestic trafficking, and child prostitution are crimes that can befall any child, anywhere, and at anytime. Jamie provides inspirational and take action now presentations across  the country. When:March 16-17, 2012Where:MSU-College of TechnologyGreat Falls, MTContact:Phone: 877-927-6642Email: info@mhaofmt.org

Click here to register!What:The Montana Talking Book Library provides specialized equipment and an exhaustive list of titles in the Talking Book format for patrons with visual or other physical impairments that make sight reading difficult.  A free service available to any qualifying Montanan, the Talking Book Library also records Montana authors to contribute home-grown content to TBL services elsewhere.  For an overview on how to make a referral and what services are available from the MT TBL, tune into a Webinar tomorrow morning.  One hour CE Credit – Library Services to the Public. When:Tuesday, December 13th, 2011 9:00-10:00 amContact:For more information, contact jflick@mt.gov

Click here to participate in the Talk!What:AppleTree Institute in Washington, DC, has been implementing RTI in preschool settings since 2007 to support the development of language, social-emotional, and foundational academic skills of three- and four-year-old children. Join Mary Anne Lesiak and Lydia Carlis as they explore the application of multi-tiered systems of support in early childhood settings and answer your questions about key issues. Ms. Lesiak and Dr. Carlis will offer specific tips for how school teams can work together to introduce and sustain RTI at the preschool level.When:Tuesday, December 13, 20111:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. MTContact:National Center for Learning DisabilitiesToll-Free: 888-575-7373 Phone: 646-616-1252Fax: 202-842-1942

Click here to download flyer (PDF)What:Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS) for Early Childhood Educators is a supplemental LETRS module based on a growing body of research that says the more children know about language and literacy before they begin formal schooling, the better equipped they are to succeed in reading. This two session presentation describes the scope and sequence of the module, helping preschool and kindergarten teachers to deepen their understanding of early literacy and enhance their strategies to help young children develop the foundation skills needed for learning to read and write.$75.00 Registration Fee - includes copy of LETRS for Early Childhood Educators (non-refundable payable to: Montana Center on Disabilities).You can register online here!When:Registration is from 8:00 am to 8:30 am January 13, 2012 and March 2, 20128:30 AM - 4:00 PMWhere:MSU-Billings College of Education Building Room 122Billings, MT1500 University DriveContact:Debra Miller Email: dmiler@msubillings.eduPhone: 406-657-2072

What:Child Care Resources has had to cancel some CSEFEL classes since they didn't fill with child care providers, so they are opening them up to social service providers and others.  The cost is very reasonable.  The focus will be more on group settings.  Child Care Resources is offering the following courses for Early Childhood educators and child care providers:1. The Pyramid Model (CSEFEL) Preschool Module 1    December 19, 2011    8:30 am - 2:30 pm    Childcare Resources - Missoula    Click here to register/more information!2. The Pyramid Model (CSEFEL) for Preschool Module One     January 23, 2012    8:30 am - 2:30 pm    Childcare Resources - Missoula    Click here to register/more information!3. The Pyramid Model (CSEFEL) for Preschool Module Two    March 5, 2012    8:30 am - 2:30 pm    Childcare Resources - Missoula    Click here to register/more information!Cost is $30 per session.Contact:Lucy Marose lucy@childcareresources.org  or  Jennifer Swartz jennifer@childcareresources.org

Click here for Registration and more information!What:Montana Fair Housing is a full service, private, non-profit organization dedicated to the reduction and eradication of housing discrimination in our state. Today Montana Fair Housing serves housing providers and consumers across the state, responding to inquiries and discriminatory housing complaints. We provide information and support to consumers and industry representatives, and investigate allegations of discrimination in housing. We also counsel victims of housing discrimination and assist them in filing federal and state administrative complaints.When:April 18th & 19th 2012Where:Copper King 4655 Harrison Ave Butte, MTContact:Email: inquiry@montanafairhousing.orgPhone: (406) 782-2573 or 800-929-2611Montana Relay: 711/Fax: 406-782-2781

Click here to download the full flyer (PDF) What: Join our statewide network of information and resource sharing for families and caregivers of children withemotional or behavior difficulties. Together our voices will be heard by the state agencies and providers of services for our children. Be part of a life-changing movement. Topic: Wraparound Process When: Friday, December 16, 2011 6:00 – 7:30pm Where: Tumbleweed 505 North 24th St Billings, MT To register, contact: Jami Machler jami.machler@pluk.org (406) 850-2938RSVP by December 13, 2011Dinner and Childcare Provided if Pre-Registered

Click here for full information!What:The purpose of the listings is to provide families, particularly with low-incomes, with an affordable opportunity to become acquainted with the wide range of activities and programs offered throughout the Missoula community for parent-child interactions, family self-sufficiency, recreation, and wellness for adults & children.When:December 2011 to Mid-JanuaryWhere:Missoula Early Head Start2121 39th Street Missoula, MT 59803Contact:Mary-Glynn CromwellPhone: 406-251-9410, ext. 302

Click here for full information!What:The purpose of the listings is to provide families, particularly with low-incomes, with an affordable opportunity to become acquainted with the wide range of activities and programs offered throughout the Missoula community for parent-child interactions, family self-sufficiency, recreation, and wellness for adults & children.When:December 2011 to Mid-JanuaryWhere:Missoula Early Head Start2121 39th Street Missoula, MT 59803Contact:Mary-Glynn CromwellPhone: 406-251-9410, ext. 302

Click here for full information!What:The purpose of the listings is to provide families, particularly with low-incomes, with an affordable opportunity to become acquainted with the wide range of activities and programs offered throughout the Missoula community for parent-child interactions, family self-sufficiency, recreation, and wellness for adults & children.When:December 2011 to Mid-JanuaryWhere:Missoula Early Head Start2121 39th Street Missoula, MT 59803Contact:Mary-Glynn CromwellPhone: 406-251-9410, ext. 302

Click here for more information! What:Join the holiday celebrations for fun, food, and hourly drawings! When:Friday, December 9, 201111:00 AM - 3:00 PMWhere:3333 2nd Ave. North Suite 100Billings, MTContact:Phone: 406-259-5181

Click here for more information!What:The 2012 OSEP Leadership Conference (previously named the OSEP Mega Leadership Conference) will support better outcomes for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities and their families by providing opportunities for key leaders and partners to interact with Department staff and OSEP-funded technical assistance providers. State Part B Directors, Part C Coordinators, Parent Center leaders, and State Part B and Part C Data Managers will enhance their leadership roles through opportunities to hear from experts in the field and to learn about evidence-based practices that will support participants’ ability to improve results for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities and their families.The conference is designed for:PTIs, CPRCs, and PTACs; State Part B Directors of Special Education and staff; State Part C and Section 619 Coordinators and staff; State ICC Chairs; and Parts B and C IDEA Data Managers responsible for submitting 618 Data. Others are welcome to attend.When:July 30 - August 1, 2012Where:Washington, DCContact:Tamara InfanteEmail: tinfante@fhi360.org

Click here to register!Whats and Whens:Pre sessions, Wednesday, January 18, 1-4 pm include workshops on: Proposed Montana Common Core Standards Math Proposed Montana Common Core Standards in English Language Arts Instructional Uses of English Language Proficiency (ELP), WIDA assessment results ACT Plus Writing training Thursday, January 19, 8:30-4:25 pm 8:30 am, Keynote: Tony Alpert, CEO of the SMARTER Balanced Assessment Consortium, will provide updates and insights on the adaptive online assessment implementation in 2014-15. Friday, January 20, 8:30-11:30 am 8:30 am, Keynote: Montana GEMS data warehouse project. Conference presentations include sessions on assessment and data training for the 2012 MontCAS CRT test administration. Regularly updated information about the conference offerings and a call for proposals can be found at http://www.opi.mt.gov/curriculum/MontCAS/#p7GPc1_ Where:Red Lion Colonial InnHelena, MontanaContact:Judy SnowPhone: 406- 444-3656.

Registration available here!What:Connecting to the work that has been carried on during the last five years to successfully andcomprehensively implement Indian Education for All across Montana’s diverse communities, the theme for this year’s conference will explore the importance of crossing cultural and community divides to establish strong and productive relationships. Please consider sharing your knowledge and experiences related to this topic by submitting a conference presentation proposal. The Call for Proposals form will be available until December 30. The Indian Education Division and Office of Public Instruction will also be soliciting nominations for an important opportunity – the Advocacy Award for Excellence in Indian Education for All, in honor of one of Montana’s finest educators, Teresa Veltkamp. Nomination forms for the award will be available December 15th at OPI Indian Education Hot Topics. Please give consideration to this opportunity to acknowledge anoutstanding educator’s efforts in the promotion of and steadfast support for Indian Education for All. When:February 27-28, 2012Where:Billings, MTCrowne Plaza HotelContact:Joan FrankePhone: 406-444-3694

Click here to apply for MYLF!What:MYLF (pronounced “my life”) is a unique career and leadership training program for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with disabilities. By serving as delegates from their communities, youth with disabilities will cultivate leadership, citizenship, and social skills.Delegates gain access to vital resources related to assistive technology, community support, and self-advocacy. Successful men and women with disabilities serve as role models in helping youth realize their abilities and obligations to pursue meaningful employment and contribute to society. This educational and motivational forum involves an intense schedule. Throughout the training, small "working groups" explore personal leadership and career plans.When:July 16-20, 2012Where:Helena, MontanaContact:June Hermanson Phone: (406)442-2576 mylfjuneh@bresnan.net

Whats and Whens:PTAC and FPCO will be conducting a series of webinars on FERPA. All webinars will last approximately one hour. To sign up for one of these webinars, please see the corresponding links. And be sure to check back regularly for additional training opportunities. December 7, 12:00 pm (MST): FERPA 101. This webinar will provide FERPA basics, geared toward an LEA audience. It is not specifically about the recent regulation changes; rather it will provide a high level overview of FERPA and how it applies in the K-12 context. For more information visit: https://edinfoevents.webex.com/edinfoevents/onstage/g.php?d=662947509&t=a January 11, 12:00 pm (MST): Data Sharing Under FERPA. This webinar will review best practices for data sharing, including reasonable methods and written agreements. This training will include the recent regulation changes. While the training is geared toward SEAs, all are welcome to participate. For more information visit: https://edinfoevents.webex.com/edinfoevents/onstage/g.php?t=a&d=661742602 February 9, 12:00 pm (MST): FERPA for Colleges and Universities. This webinar will provide FERPA basics, geared toward a postsecondary audience. It is not specifically about the recent regulation changes; rather it will provide a high level overview of FERPA and how it applies in the postsecondary context. For more information visit: https://edinfoevents.webex.com/edinfoevents/onstage/g.php?t=a&d=666846567

Click here to register!What:January's topics will be Edmodo and Backchannel. Edmodo is a safe and easy way for your class to connect and collaberate, share content, and access homework, grades, and school notices.Backchannel is a site that can be used to show a video, while students comment, write notes, and discuss the film in live time on the side of the screen. Click here for more information on Edmodo and Backchannel!Participants must bring a laptop.When:January 10th, 20125:00 - 7:00 PM MountainWhere:MSU Billings College of Education BuildingRoom 160Contact: John Keener - Phone: 657-1743                        Email: john.keener@msubillings.edu Debra Miller -  Phone: 657-2072                        Email: dmiller@msubillings.edu

What:Region IV CSPD is pleased to offer a range of training opportunities on the following Reading and Math Intervention programs.  All the programs are research-based and are effective in a Multi-Tiered System of Support.Attached is the revised listing of Reading and Math Interventions being offered by Region IV CSPD.  Please note the change of dates for the Corrective Reading training. Click here for the revised listing.