The team at ADS offers a range of services for educators and parents, such as:
BRIDGE CT (Building Resilience Independence Dignity Growth and Empowerment)
This program is run by Connecticut’s Department of Aging and Disability Services. It helps children and young people with disabilities become more independent, speak up for themselves, and find good jobs in Connecticut's growing career fields.
Children's services policy manual
This guide explains the rules for helping children who are blind or have trouble seeing. It is provided by the Department of Aging and Disability Services.
Children's services newsletters
Families can read the BESB BUZZ, a newsletter made for families of children who are blind or visually impaired. It shares helpful updates and information.
Training opportunities for parents, professionals, and paraprofessionals
ADS offers regular training for parents, school staff, and community workers. These trainings teach how to better support children and students who are blind or have trouble seeing. The trainings take place every fall and cover different topics each year.
To learn about upcoming sessions, email Lori.Cornelius@ct.gov.
Level Up
Level Up is a program for families in Connecticut. It is offered by the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services in the Department of Aging and Disability Services.
Level Up helps students ages 16 to 22 with disabilities get ready for jobs and become more independent. Students who have an IEP, a 504 plan, or get special education services can usually join.
To learn more, read the Level Up Blog on empowering students.