Empowering Parents: A Collaborative Approach to Neurodivergent Education & Advocacy with Winston Preparatory School
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Roadmaps for Neurodivergent Learners Break Out Sessions
Larkin O'Leary Keynote Speaker
Advocating for a Culture of Belonging
This presentation will empower parents of children with disabilities and lEPs by focusing on the importance of connection, communication, and collaboration in the advocacy process. Participants will learn how to build positive, productive relationships with educators and service providers, ask effective questions, and confidently speak up for their child's needs. By working together as a team, families and schools can create more inclusive, supportive educational experiences.
Attorney Mike Zatopa Session I
Neurodiversity & Education Law: Know Your Rights
Attorney Mike Zatopa will provide a practical understanding of what special education law is and to what you, as a parent of a neurodivergent learner, and your child are entitled to. Learn about the practical mechanisms to refer your child for special education, ensure that the District conducts its testing and holds an IEP meeting to determine your child's eligibility for special education, and then develop an IEP with appropriate services. In addition, Mike will discuss the importance of independent psychoeducational evaluations in accessing appropriate special education support, common roadblocks school districts will put up, and how to pursue dispute resolution without an attorney.
Dr. Sara Schiff Session I
Less Recognized Variants of Autism
This breakout session will review less recognized variants of autism, specifically those traditionally seen in assigned female at birth individuals, how this different presentation results in lower identification of girls in particular, and how to recognize these variants in yourself, your children, or your clients.
Bethany Deniz & Annalise Puentes Session I
Beyond the Label: Helping Your Child Thrive Through Understanding, Not Stigma
Join us for a parent-focused talk on how the right evaluation and diagnosis can bring clarity and confidence — not shame. We'll explore how to talk with your child about their learning needs in an empowering way, when (and if) to share a diagnosis, and how to reframe "special needs" as simply needs. Walk away with practical tips to help your child feel understood, supported, and ready to thrive.
John Civita Session II
Building a Longer Runway After High School: Empowering Neurodiverse Young Adults for Sustainable Success
This session will highlight the need for extended timelines and structured support for neurodiverse young adults. It emphasizes self-advocacy, self-regulation, communication, and employability skills, ensuring a smooth transition to college, employment, and independence. This approach empowers neurodiverse individuals to thrive in life and work.
Dr. Dan Davies Session II
Autism & Anxiety
Understanding anxiety and how it presents in people with Autism is a complex detangling of presenting symptoms. Come learn about the nuances of an anxiety diagnosis and treatment plan for individuals with Autism.
Dr. Colleen Arnold & Danielle Mansfield Session II
From Reactive to Proactive: Empowering Neurodivergent Learners Through Positive Behavior
Explore how to shift from punishment-focused approaches to empowering behavior strategies for neurodivergent children. Through real case studies, discover practical IEP tools including FBAs and BIPs, actionable home-school collaboration tips and techniques, strategies for maximizing IEP advocacy, and data-driven methods to support your child's growth and success.
