NJCommonGround.org is working to increase the dialogue among stakeholders in New Jersey’s special education system. Online and via E-news – Subscribe Now!
Current Edition
Community-Based Instruction
Teachers, special educators, related-service providers, administrators, and families all contribute to the IEP process. School social workers are another essential part of the special education team because they address needs that extend beyond academics and classroom instruction.
School social workers bring expertise in social-emotional development, family systems, mental health, behavior, community resources, and advocacy. Their responsibilities can include counseling students, participating in IEP meetings, conducting social-developmental assessments, supporting positive behavior interventions, assisting families, coordinating community services, and responding to crises. When appropriately integrated into special education programs, school social workers can help schools address barriers that interfere with student learning and family participation.
Special Education Basics
Common Ground is sharing a series of basic and important special education topics on the rights, responsibilities, administrative processes, and legal remedies parents and students may encounter, and to which they are entitled.
Feature Articles & Resources
Feature articles • In-depth consideration of current special education topics and practices. • Experienced and authoritative writers. • Resources for parents, teachers, and professionals. • Fostering dialogue among special education stakeholders.
From the Courts & Capitols
Covering legal and legislative developments that shape special education in New Jersey and nationally. • Specific cases from administrative, state and federal courts. • Legislative and administrative policy developments at state and federal levels.
Information Parents & Educators Can Use
By and for parents, teachers and professionals. • Teaching and assessment strategies for specific learning and behavioral challenges • Peer-to-peer advice and experience sharing • Q&As and FAQs for use on the front line • Statistics and data for trend identification.