2021 NEWS LETTER Disability Rights of West Virginia August The Pandemic and Special Education The American Rescue Plan Act Article by Lori Waller, DRWV Staff Attorney The American Rescue Plan Act The American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) is designed to help the American public recover from the effects of the pandemic created by COVID-19. Part of the money given to States through the ARP is specifically tagged for educational recovery. The federal government gives each State a certain amount of money. In turn, each State must give 90 percent or more of the money given to it for education recovery to local school districts. Local schools can use the money to help in re-opening schools safely, in maintaining the safe operations of schools, and in addressing students’ learning loss, including students’ emotional and social wellbeing. Local schools must use 20 percent or more of the money given to them by the State to address learning loss through the use of evidence-based interventions (using programs that have been shown to work) to respond to the full variety of students’ needs, including social needs, emotional needs, and academic needs. This money also is to be used to deal with the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on certain student subgroups, including children with disabilities. ARP funds are to be used to address learning loss and for children with disabilities, this learning loss can come in many forms. All children lost classroom instruction time and social time with others due to being forced to go to school virtually. However, children with disabilities also lost other services, given the limitations of transferring those services to virtual delivery and due to social distancing during in person learning. One recommended intervention is tutoring. In providing tutoring to regain losses and move students forward: (1) tutors should be trained educators; (2) tutors should plan and collaborate with classrooms teachers; (3) wherever possible, tutoring should be done during the school day; and (4) tutoring should be done in high dosages each week (three sessions per week, preferably daily sessions). Parents and guardians do not be afraid to ask for tutoring for your child(ren)!! If your child needs tutoring, it is part of their right to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE).

A PARENT'S ADVOCACY GUIDE TO SPECIAL EDUCATION Parent's Advocacy Guide: Version 4.0 - April 2024 3rd Edition Parent's Advocacy Guide (Spanish) Templates for Education Letters

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SUPPORTERS! Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Hardesty

2023 NEWS LETTER January Disability Rights of West Virginia Successful Client Resolutions 2022 With the closing out of Fiscal Year 2022, I want to take the opportunity to thank the staff of Disability Rights of West Virginia. We have an amazing team dedicated to working hard every day for people with disabilities in West Virginia. With the easing of COVID 19 restrictions, the staff were eager to provide in person monitoring at many facilities throughout the state, as well as attend in-person meetings. My hat’s off to this amazing team! I want to share some examples of positive outcomes for our clients through our advocacy efforts, as well as some of the other types of work that we did. I hope you enjoy reading the stories as much as we loved getting the results. Susan Given, Executive Director, MSW, LSW Overview In FY 2022, DRWV conducted 327 monitorings of 151 state and private facilities. These monitorings were conducted over eleven major categories including: Assisted Living Facilities; Forensic/Behavioral Health Group Homes; Intermediate Care Facilities; Specialized Family Care Homes; State and Privately Operated Children’s Residential Facilities, Psychiatric Hospitals, and Nursing Homes; WV Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation Jails and Prison; and an Intellectual/Development Disabilities Waiver Group Home. In FY 2022, DRWV opened 1,050 federally funded Service Requests for 777 clients. DRWV staff set up our outreach display table at ten events in FY 2022. Staff also provided fifty-one outreach presentations and seventeen trainings to various groups throughout the state. Abuse/Neglect/Financial Exploitation The parent of a child requested assistance regarding a restraint incident that occurred at the client's school. DRWV reviewed records, filed a state complaint with the WV Department of Education, and attended Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. DRWV advocated for appropriate services and goals to be added to the IEP, including appropriate behavioral interventions. As a result, the client began to receive a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in his Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), the teacher resigned her position, and a new teacher was placed in the client's classroom. Accessibility A client requested assistance regarding accessibility to a state university basketball game venue. DRWV found that the university's policy was that a general ticket would be purchased, then if an accessible seat was needed, the guest would have to exchange tickets at the ticket office, subject to availability. There was no guarantee that an exchange would be possible as there are a limited number of seats available. DRWV communicated with the Mid-Atlantic ADA, then provided the university with information on accessible seating policies and procedures. DRWV's staff attorney worked with the university's General Council regarding their accessible seating policy. As a result of DRWV's advocacy, the university updated their online ticketing program. The ticketing software is capable of separating purchases for accessible seats, asking if purchaser or member of party requires this type of accommodation, and allows a notice which is initialed or signed by purchaser saying they understand they are subject to removal if they do not require accessible seating. The university will also post signage notifying fans of the new policy. Security will be trained to enforce the policy of removing individuals who inappropriately use accessible seating. The university also holds back a certain percentage of accessible seating tickets for fans who purchase over the phone or in person. They will adjust that percentage based on demand. This will affect not only the client but all individuals with disabilities who attend the university's sporting events including basketball, football, baseball, etc. Access to Services A transition aged client and his father requested assistance in getting more transition services and job training for post-graduation. He was about to graduate high school and they felt that the school was not providing proper transitions services. The WV Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) was not yet involved as they had a difficult time getting the client to come in to complete an application. DRWV arranged an interview for the client with WVDRS and attended with him at his request. As a result, WVDRS provided the client with options for future job training and employment. Assistive Technology A client requested DRWV's assistance with getting a CPAP. DRWV communicated with the durable medical equipment (DME) provider, Pulmonologist, and Neurologist. DRWV ensured that the client's physicians provided the DME provider with the needed orders. While working on this case, the client's Neurologist recommended an updated sleep study which found that he required a BiPAP. Due to advocacy provided by DRWV, the client has received the BiPAP as ordered. Education A client who had recently become an adult and had to move requested assistance with getting the high school in her previous county of residence to take her back or to get enrolled in the high school in her current county. Both counties appeared to be discouraging her from finishing school. DRWV communicated with the Special Education Directors of the client's previous and current school districts and advocated for the client to be enrolled in high school to complete the credits she needs to graduate with the senior class. As a result of DRWV’s advocacy, the client was enrolled in high school in her new county and graduated with her senior class in May 2022. In July 2022, DRWV submitted comments to the WV Department of Education as they were planning to make changes to Policy 2419, the Special Education policy for WV. DRWV suggested several modifications to the existing language as well as comments on proposed changes. A Social Security benefits recipient requested assistance regarding allegations of employment discrimination. DRWV spoke with the client and employer to determine his current employment status. DRWV assisted the client with obtaining necessary medical information regarding his ability to perform essential job functions with reasonable accommodations. DRWV was able to assist the client in meeting with his employer to discuss returning to work with appropriate accommodations in place. As a result, the client was able to return to his previous employment with appropriate reasonable accommodations in place. Employment Systems Work Due to education provided by DRWV, the State Treasurer’s Office proposed a bill at a special session of the legislature to expand the definition of legal representative to include representative payees. The bill passed unanimously in October 2021. After the law went into effect, DRWV worked with the WVABLE Savings Program Director to identify entities to provide outreach and education regarding the changes in the law. As a result, many individuals who otherwise would not have had access to ABLE accounts now have open accounts. DRWV submitted comments to the WV Bureau for Medical Services (BMS) related to the Statewide Transition Plan for the Title XIX Medicaid Waiver including: Aged and Disabled Waiver (ADW); Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Waiver; and Traumatic Brain Injury Waiver. We expressed concerns about the conflict-of-interest standards and home and community-based service requirements. In addition, we advised that the document that BMS put out for public comment was not presented in a manner that the public could easily follow. A client requested assistance regarding her service animal being denied access to a business. DRWV educated the owner of the business on service animal access, different types of service animal functions, and handler rights and responsibilities. Due to advocacy provided by DRWV, the business owner now has a greater knowledge of service animal access rights. He agreed to train his employees on service animal access. Due to DRWV’s Advocacy under the Medley Hartley Advocacy Program (MHAP) a Medley Class Member who had been in a nursing home for years was able to move back into the community with assistance from the Take Me Home program. He is now living happily with his wife. Rights Restrictions/Violations Voting DRWV assisted two clients in registering to vote, one client in updating their voter registration, and one client with requesting an absentee ballot in FY 2022. In FY 2022, DRWV staff conducted accessibility studies of the external access to eighty-nine polling sites in five counties in WV. A detailed process was also put in place to guide these studies and act once they were completed. Plans of correction were agreed upon by some of the counties. Several DRWV staff attended a County Commission meeting in one of the counties that was surveyed in hopes of addressing several accessibility issues. DRWV's legal team intervened in this as well. Client Comments Why we do what we do "We sincerely thank you for you participation in the Jackson/Roane County's Transition Event. Many of the students listed "Disability Rights" as a session that they enjoyed and learned from. In providing an informational event to these students as they begin their transition into adulthood, they were able to make a greater connection with our community and with the services and supports that are offered. You have helped us succeed in our mission of increasing awareness of after high school employment/career options and available community supports. On behalf of the Transition Committee of Jackson County, thank you." "Thank you so much for your hard work and dedication. We are in a very difficult situation and any and all input was very much appreciated."

ON VOTING DAY Answers to Your Questions When are the polls open? On election day, the polls will be open from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Is there another day I can vote? Yes, you may take advantage of Early Voting. Any registered voter may vote at their County Clerk’s office 13 days before the election and ending the 3rd day before the election. Some counties offer additional Early Voting locations. Early Voting is available on weekdays during regular business hours and on Saturdays from 9AM to 5PM.Please call your County Clerk’s office to find out additional locations and hours for Early Voting. Where do I vote? You must vote at your polling place. This place is determined by your physical address that you put on your registration form. To find out where your polling place is: Call your County Clerk’s office, or Visit this website: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/elections/voter/ What do I need to bring? If you registered by mail, and did not provide a copy with your registration form, you will need to bring: A copy of a current & valid photo ID, or A copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and current residence address. Even if you registered in person or provided the necessary documentation with your registration form, it is a good idea to bring the above identification with you. What happens if I do not bring the required documentation, my name is not on the voting list, or I am in the wrong precinct? Request a provisional ballot. What is a provisional ballot? A provisional ballot is used when a voter’s eligibility cannot be determined at the polling place. The vote cast on a provisional ballot will not be considered until canvass and the voter’s eligibility can be determined. The status of a provisional ballot can be checked online at: https://apps.sos.wv.gov/elections/voter/ What if I cannot get to my polling place or my County Clerk’s office to vote due to a medical condition or a disability? Then you can request an absentee ballot. How do I find out what kind of voting system my county uses? You may call your County Clerk’s office, or Visit this website, which details what voting systems each county of West Virginia uses: http://www.sos.wv.gov/elections/ Instructions on the use of the electronic voting systems used in West Virginia can be found at this website: http://www.sos.wv.gov/elections/ Is there anything else that can make voting easier? Please call your County Clerk’s office to verify that you are registered before election day. Ask for accommodations (assistance with voting, accessible voting machine, etc.) when you sign in. Also, be sure that you know where your polling place is.

WEST VIRGINIA EARLY AND PERIODIC SCREENING, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Publication Provided By Disability Rights of West Virginia Download the EPSDT Booklet in PDF . HealthCheck is the name of West Virginia’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) program. What is the EPSDT Program? The EPSDT program is Medicaid’s comprehensive and preventive child health program. EPSDT serves any child receiving WV Medicaid from birth up to twenty-one (21) years of age. The EPDST program provides: regular health exams; immunizations; and vision, dental and hearing check-ups. How Can I Get EPSDT Services For My Child? In order for your child to receive services under EPSDT, an appointment for an initial examination must be made with a medical provider that accepts WV Medicaid. This can include physicians, nurse practitioners and physician’s assistants. If your child needs a service, the medical necessity for that service MUST be documented as a part of the EPSDT screening exam on the EPSDT form. Screening services required by the Medicaid Act with oversight provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) include: Comprehensive health and developmental history Comprehensive unclothed physical exam Appropriate immunizations Laboratory tests Lead Toxicity Screening Health Education Vision Services Dental Services Hearing Services Other Necessary Health Care You should schedule an EPSDT screening exam for your child at your earliest convenience so that his/her medical needs can be met. You might want to take this booklet with you when you meet with your child’s physician. The physician can get more information about services available under EPSDT by contacting the HealthCheck program at 1-800-642-9704 or by visiting the HealthCheck website at http://www.wvdhhr.org/mcfh/ICAH/healthcheck/. Should your child’s physician order services and they are denied, you will receive a written denial from the West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources (WVDHHR). The written denial should explain what was denied and the reason. It should also contain an explanation of your right to appeal the denial and instructions how to do that. Please call West Virginia Advocates to see if we may be able to provide assistance. What Services Can EPSDT Provide? Services available through EPSDT for children with and without disabilities include many home and community based services: assistive technology; mental health services; home health services; medical equipment and supplies; personal care; skilled nursing; private duty nursing; physical and related therapies; and rehabilitative services. NOTE: If your child has been found eligible for the WV Title XIX ID/DD (formerly known as the MR/DD) Home and Community Based Waiver Program but was placed on a wait list, and is currently eligible for WV Medicaid, the EPSDT program should be able to meet many of your child’s needs until a slot opens on the Waiver Program. A child already eligible for Medicaid who is NOT found eligible for the Title XIX ID/DD Waiver program can receive many of the same services through the EPSDT program that they would receive from the Title XIX ID/DD Waiver Program. What Are Rehabilitative Services? One of the most important services available under EPSDT are the rehabilitative services. Rehabilitative services were added to Medicaid in 1967 and are defined as: “any medical or remedial services (provided in a facility, a home, or other setting) recommended by a physician or other licensed practitioner of the healing arts within the scope of their practice under State law, for the maximum reduction of physical or mental disability and restoration of an individual to the best possible functional level.” Depending on the need, rehabilitative services can include a range of services such as: basic living skills to restore independent function in the community including food preparation, maintenance of living environment, and/or mobility skills; social skills to develop skills needed to enable and maintain community living, including communication and socialization skills and techniques; and counseling and therapy to eliminate psychological barriers that impede development of community living skills. Do EPSDT Services Have Limits? EPSDT should cover the services to the extent the child needs them when the services are necessary to improve or correct the child’s condition. NOTE: Services deemed necessary under EPSDT can exceed a limit set by the state even if the state places a quantitative limit on the service (such as twenty (20) visits per year for physical therapy). Services not covered by Medicaid for adults could be covered for anyone who is eligible for EPSDT. Funding Published by Disability Rights of West Virginia. Content is solely the responsibility of Disability Rights of West Virginia and does not reflect the official views of the funding agencies. Funding for this publication is provided by the Rehabilitation Services Administration, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, U.S. Department of Education; Health Resources and Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services. Version 2.1, August 2011

Thriving in the Workforce Business Opportunities for Young Adults with Disabilitie s By: Ed Carter December 2024 The business world offers diverse opportunities for young adults with disabilities to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully. While challenges may arise, these hurdles can be overcome with the right resources, supportive networks, and personal determination. Today, inclusive work environments and entrepreneurship are paving the way for individuals with disabilities to build successful careers and make an impact. This article explores strategies, resources, and actionable advice to help young adults with disabilities navigate the business world and unlock their full potential. Unlocking Entrepreneurial Potential Specialized programs designed for young adults with disabilities can be a game-changer, equipping you with vital business skills and a supportive community . These initiatives offer a pathway to join a dynamic group of entrepreneurs who often find greater financial rewards compared to traditional employment. Engaging in these opportunities can help you develop the confidence and skills necessary. Working with Disability Rights Advocates Collaborating with disability advocates can be a powerful way for young adults with disabilitie s to access valuable support, guidance, and opportunities in the business world. Organizations like Disability Rights of West Virginia offer a range of services designed to empower individuals, including legal advocacy, education, and assistance with workplace accommodations. By connecting with groups like this, young professionals can gain insight into their rights, find resources to navigate challenges, and build confidence in pursuing their career goals. These advocates not only provide practical assistance but also serve as champions for inclusion and equal opportunities in the workforce. Pursuing a Business Degree Going back to school for a business degree can sharpen your business and marketing skills, providing a solid foundation for success. Whether you earn a degree in marketing, business, communications, or management, you can learn skills that can help your business thrive. Online degree programs make it easy to run your business while going to school at the same time. If you’re considering further education, consider this option to balance personal commitments while advancing your career. Leveraging Social Media for Growth Social media can be a powerful tool for business growth . By cross-promoting your content across platforms, you can broaden your reach and cultivate a diverse audience. This strategy not only helps build a loyal community but also connects you with various demographics crucial for your business. Investing in paid advertising and utilizing tools like social listening can further enhance your visibility and foster a sense of community among your audience. Fostering Inclusive Employment Encouraging businesses to adopt inclusive employment practices can significantly enhance social equity and economic growth. By offering incentives for companies to hire individuals with disabilities, you help bridge the employment gap and tap into a diverse talent pool. Organizations provide essential resources and tools to help businesses implement effective inclusion strategies, contributing to a more inclusive workforce that benefits everyone involved . Taking Advantage of Networking Opportunities Vocational programs that emphasize networking offer a unique advantage. Programs provide pathways to connect with mentors and potential employers, integrating students with disabilities into diverse fields. Engaging in such initiatives helps build professional relationships that are crucial for long-term career success and advancement . Participating in Skill-Building Workshops Participating in skill-building workshops can be a transformative journey, enhancing vital skills such as communication and emotional intelligence. These programs foster adaptability and resilience, aligning your abilities with the strategic goals of potential employers. Investing time in these programs not only prepares you to meet industry standards but also equips you to face future challenges with confidence . Incorporationg Adaptive Online Learning In the digital era, adaptive online learning tools are transforming how young adults with disabilities engage with business education. These tools and platforms customize learning experiences, allowing students to progress at their own pace. This personalized approach enhances comprehension and builds confidence, empowering you to excel in the business world. Young adults with disabilities have the talent, resilience, and creativity to excel in the business world. By leveraging available resources, building strong networks, and embracing their unique perspectives, they can turn challenges into opportunities. Success in business is not defined by limitations but by the drive to innovate, connect, and grow. With the right mindset and support, young adults with disabilities can shape fulfilling careers and make lasting contributions to the business landscape. Discover how Disability Rights of West Virginia is breaking down barriers and advocating for equality.

HEALTHCARE - COMPLAINTS The Joint Commission – Report a Complaint Report a complaint about a Health Care Organization. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights Complaints If you believe that you have been discriminated against because of your race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex or religion by a health care or human services provider (such as a hospital, nursing home, social service agency, etc.) or by a State or local government health or human services agency, you may file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights (OCR). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights HIPAA Privacy Complaints If you believe that a covered entity violated your (or someone else's) health information privacy rights or committed another violation of the Privacy Rule, you may file a complaint with OCR. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights Patient Safety Confidentiality Complaints If you believe that a person or organization impermissibly disclosed PSWP, you may file a complaint with OCR. OCR is responsible for the investigation and enforcement of the confidentiality provisions of the Patient Safety Rule. West Virginia Board of Medicine Complaints To file a complaint with the West Virginia Board of Medicine against a doctor licensed in West Virginia. West Virginia Registered Nurses Board Complaint To file a complaint against a Registered Nurse (RN) licensed in West Virginia.

PAIMI ADVISORY COUNCIL As required under the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) Act, 42 U.S.C. 10801 et seq., the purpose of the Council is to: Advise DRWV staff and the Board of Directors on policies and priorities to be carried out in protecting and advocating for the rights of individuals with mental illness in West Virginia. Complete a section of the annual PAIMI program performance report that describes the activities of the Council and its assessment of the operation and quality of services of the PAIMI Program. Work with the Board of Directors and the PAIMI program staff members jointly to develop the annual statement of objectives and priorities for the PAIMI program of DRWV. Educate the public about DRWV’s purpose, priorities and activities. If you are interested in becoming a member of DRWV’s PAIMI Advisory Council, please fill out the application below and send it to Disability Rights of West Virginia by: E-mail: contact@drofwv.org Mail: 5088 Washington St. W, Suite 300 Charleston, WV 25313 Fax: (304) 346-0867 PAIMI Advisory Council Application (PDF Format) PAIMI Advisory Council Member Information Sheet (What to Expect as a Member) PAIMI Advisory Council Application link PAIMI Advisory Council Meeting Dates Fiscal Year 2026 Meeting Dates: December 4, 2025 March 5, 2026 June 4, 2026 September 3, 2026

2022 NEWS LETTER September Disability Rights of West Virginia DRWV Accessiblity Studies Article by Regina Desmond, DRWV Senior Advocate July 26th, 2022 marked the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! To mark this anniversary, the ADA National Network has asked that people share moments where you were thankful for the ADA by using #ThanksToTheADA to share what the ADA means to you on social media. One of Disability Rights of WV’s Priorities and Objectives is to “complete accessibility studies when access issues are discovered by DRWV or brought to our attention.” Over the past several years, DRWV has provided technical assistance to the Monongalia County Parks & Recreation regarding updates they have made and are planning at their facilities, including, the brand-new swimming pool facility opened at Camp Muffly this summer. Below are examples of completed accessibility updates made to Mason-Dixon Historical Park and Camp Muffly. Camp Muffly Park's New Swimming Pool Facility Van Accessible Parking Pool Front Accessible Parking Spaces Pool Back Accessible Parking Spaces Accessible Route Back Entrance Accessible Route Accessible Sales Counter Pool Sales Counter Detail of Sales Counter Height Hand Dryer Hand Dryer Height - 38" Detail of Hand Dryer Height - 38" Baby Changing Station Baby Changing Station Height - 31" Detail of Baby Changing Station Height - 31" Accessible Pool Lift Camp Muffly Accessible Pool Lift Mason Dixon Historical Park Accessible Restroom Mason Dixon Historical Park Accessible Restroom DRWV would like to thank Monongalia County Parks and Recreation for reaching out to us and collaborating to increase the accessibility of your facilities. If you have questions or concerns about the accessibility of a facility or program, feel free to contact DRWV at 800-950-5250. Useful Websites Monongalia County Parks and Recreation https://www.monongaliacounty.gov/departments/parks_and_recreation/ ADA Checklist for Existing Facilities & Recreational Checklists https://www.adachecklist.org/ Mid Atlantic ADA (free resource, has a free tip line) https://www.adainfo.org/ US Access Board (free resource, has a free tip line) https://www.access-board.gov/ ADA Standards for Accessible Design https://www.ada.gov/2010ADAstandards_index.htm ADA National Network Adjusting Doors for Access https://adata.org/factsheet/adjusting-doors-access ADA Quick Tips – Tax Incentives https://adata.org/factsheet/quicktips-tax USDOJ’s Expanding Your Market Maintaining Accessible Features in Retail Establishments https://www.ada.gov/business/retail_access.htm Client Comments Why we do what we do "Love our advocate. She is awesome!" "Yes, my advocate does well!"

EDUCATION - BULLYING/HARASSMENT Bullying Resources for Educators and Parents Once bullying starts, it is hard to get it to stop. The role of an educator and a parent is to teach empathy, teach and train staff and improve how bullying is handled by adults . A comprehensive list of resources is provided for educators and parents to help put a stop to bullying in schools and communities. Cyberbullying Research Center The Cyberbullying Research Center is dedicated to providing up-to-date information about the nature, extent, causes, and consequences of cyberbullying among adolescents. Effective Evidence-based Practices for Preventing and Addressing Bullying The enclosure to go with the U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter on Bullying, August, 20, 2013. PACER Center's 'Kids Against Bullying' PACER's site for kids to get information and guidance about bullying. PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Publications Page PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Project unites, engages, and educates communities nationwide to prevent bullying through creative, relevant, and interactive resources. This page provides publications and other resources for bullying prevention. PACER Center's National Center for Bullying Prevention PACER Center's Bullying Prevention Project is for all children, including children with disabilities, and promotes bullying awareness and teaches effective ways to respond to bullying. StopBullying.gov The Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention Steering Committee has partnered with the Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs to share information the federal government has prepared to help prevent and address bullying in communities. U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter on Bullying, October 21, 2014 Guidance from the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights to schools about addressing bullying. U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights bullying fact sheet A fact sheet for parents detailing what public schools are required to do when students with disabilities are bullied. Understanding Bullying and Cyberbullying A bullying resource from Online Schools "created to bring awareness to issues surrounding bullying and cyberbullying, and to help students, parents, and teachers prevent instances of bullying in the future". West Virginia Safe Schools Helpline A 24-hour, toll-free number has been assigned for all of West Virginia -- the same number for ALL schools. It can be reached from instate and from outside the state. When you call this number, you will be talking to an actual person -- not a recording.

CAREERS: We are currently accepting applications for the following position/s. Advocate for Medley/Hartley Advocacy Program