As the population of the world includes 1-3% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, chances are you already have students in your community who require more intensive services or you are working with families who have children who need these services and are not at your school.​​ This session will use the example of the American International School of Johannesburg’s experience to guide school leaders and teachers in the first steps of developing and implementing life-centered education services.

Learning Outcomes

1. Define Life-Centered Education – Who requires this level of service? What are the essential aspects of this level of service? What post-secondary transition planning is necessary?
2. Align Vision – What community commitment and understanding is required? What language and learning is needed to build momentum for the development of LCE services?
3. Reflect on Current Practices – Identify existing strengths and areas for growth in your schools’ approach to Support Services and in partnership with local resources.
4. Identify First Steps for Expanding Services– Develop an initial action plan for integrating life-centered education within your school communities.