Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP)

Overview The mission of the NINDS Epilepsy Therapy Screening Program (ETSP) is to encourage and facilitate the discovery of new therapeutic agents for the treatment of epilepsy disorders. The program provides opportunities for researchers from academia and industry in the U.S. and abroad to submit compounds for screening in a battery of well-established rodent seizure models. These tests are performed at a contract facility based at the University of Utah on a blinded and confidential […]

Down Syndrome Overview

Down syndrome is the most common and readily identifiable chromosomal condition associated with intellectual disabilities. It is caused by a chromosomal abnormality: for some unknown reason, an accident in cell development results in 47 instead of the usual 46 chromosomes. This extra chromosome changes the orderly development of the body and brain. In most cases, the diagnosis of Down syndrome is made according to results from a chromosome test administered shortly after birth. Just as […]

Pilot Program Supports First-Year Special Education Teachers

RICHMOND, Va. — Superintendent of Public Instruction James Lane and Secretary of Education Atif Qarni today announced a pilot program to provide resources and professional development opportunities for first-year special education teachers. The program is the result of a partnership between the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), a non-profit professional association dedicated to improving outcomes for students with disabilities. “Special education is consistently the number-one critical shortage area […]

My Tips for Homeschooling a Child with Autism

Education can be a challenge for any child diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. In response, there are many parents who turn to homeschooling1 rather than traditional education means. However, to unlock your child’s full potential, you have to make the most of your homeschooling lessons. In this article, we are going to take a look at some of the ways that you can help your child thrive in their early education and beyond. With these […]

Homeschool Students with Special Needs Options

Creating a calm homeschool environment focused on your special needs child is very different from the effort required to establish a basic homeschool classroom.  Teaching students with learning, behavioral, mental health, medical, or intellectual disabilities requires attention to a level of detail far beyond anything that might be created for a basic K-12 homeschool experience.  Important factors to consider might include: Does your classroom set-up provide the right kind of environment for your special needs […]