This webinar explores best practices for supporting students with disabilities who have feeding and swallowing needs in school settings. Designed with families in mind, it highlights the roles of school staff, legal considerations, and strategies for school and family collaboration to ensure safety, inclusivity, and the well-being of students. Participants will gain valuable insights to advocate effectively for their children.

Presenters:

Dawn Merth-Johnson, M.A., CCC-SLP is an Education Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction with a focus on speech-language and assistive technology. In this role, she provides leadership, consultation and technical assistance for local education agencies, providers and families. Merth-Johnson serves as a member of the Assistive Technology Advisory Council (ATAC) through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. She has 29 years of clinical and supervisory experience in the schools, long-term rehabilitation, and at the university level.

Michelle Silverman, OTD, OTR, ATP is an Education Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction with a focus on occupational therapy, physical therapy and assistive technology. She has 30 years of clinical and supervisory experience in schools, pediatric clinics, and at the university level. Michelle led students and programming as the director of the Assistive Technology and Accessible Design Certificate program at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Organization: DPI

Learning Objectives:

Understand the key components of a safe and effective feeding and swallowing plan within the school environment.

Identify the roles and responsibilities of school staff and families in supporting students with feeding and swallowing needs.

Learn how to advocate for appropriate accommodations and collaborate with school teams to address individual student needs.