Corporal punishment still allowed in 15 states??

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/corporal-punishment_us_58337528e4b030997bc0efad?section=us_education

It is absolutely insane that there are still 15 states in our contry that allow corporal punishment.  Not only that, but there are seven additional states that don't "prohibit it".  Our education system in the United States is certainly not top notch in comparison to other countries, and it's reasons like this why. The article addresses a letter that was sent by the Obama administration, specifically by Secretary of Education, John King Jr., requesting (and giving reasons why) that school officers and governors should eliminate the practice in ALL states.  Not only is it obsurd that the practice is something that even still takes place, but African American children (male and female) are victims of physical discipline more frequently than white students - so are students with disabilities.  This adds yet another layer of sadness to this issue.  My hope is that this letter will prompt change in our education system and society as a whole.  So many students need their classroom and school to be a safe, consistent place for them that they may not have outside of school walls.  The thought of students coming to school in fear of their teachers, peers, and other adults is sickening to me.

For Students With Disabilities, Transition From High School Requires Self-Advocacy - Education Week

For Students With Disabilities, Transition From High School Requires Self-Advocacy - Education Week
Education Week
June 5, 2015
By Sarah D. Sparks
Audience:
Educators, Students, Parents

Key Points:
Post High School Transition is a challenging time for students, especially those with disabilities.
Students need assistance to help them start to find their own voices.
Federal Law requires transition planning no later than age 16 this includes self advocacy but there is no  specific reporting on it.

Relevance:

 Transition is a time when many students fumble through the process of learning to be independent.  Students with disabilities, who are now graduating from high school are  entering higher education at greater numbers than ever before. Students with disabilities are no longer provided accommodations and services through the IEP.  There are are 2 other federal laws that provide services but not at the same level. 

Feds Rethink Stance on Speech Devices

Disability Scoop/Halle Stockton/May 15, 2015


Link to Article

Key Points: About a year ago, CMS (Center of Medicaid/ Medicare Services) took steps to narrow coverage of speech generating devices, including phones, tablets, etc.  However after over 2000 people submitted comments to the agency about how these devices allow them to communicate, they have rethought their stance.  Now they will include such devices recognizing that they serve the same as someone speaking verbally.

Audience: Parents, Educators

Relevance: As teachers we need to be aware of the difficulty that our families might have obtaining speech devices for their child.  If we know current laws we can help assist them or at the very least give current information to help them when making requests.