Additional Resources
Opportunities Collaborative is one source of support in our community. Here are some links to helpful resources and organizations you may find of interest. We believe working together can achieve greater results.
LINKS
​
Autism:
​
Autism Society of America
This site provides information on Advocacy, Local Affiliates and general information about Autism
​
Autism Speaks
A site that provides information on what Autism is, signs and symptoms of Autism, educational and treatment program for children with Autism
​
Autism Society Western New York
This website serves as a resource for those who would like to learn more about autism spectrum disorders and resources in the WNY area. Please check out local educational options, recreational options, support groups and upcoming events and workshops.
Agencies/Services:
New York State Education Department
Information regarding the NYS Department of Education
New York State Office for People with Disabilities
OPWDD is the NYS office that is responsible for the coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities and the agencies that provide that coordination
​
Buffalo Hearing and Speech Center
https://buffalohearingcenter.com
Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center. We improve the quality of life for adults, children and infants with communication disorders by delivering cutting edge diagnosis and treatment of hearing and speech impairments and related special education services.
​
​
Parents:
Parent Network of WNY
This is a comprehensive site that provides information for families and professionals working with and caring for individuals with disabilities. This site provides a bank of resources for parents and professionals on nearly every topic of interest. There is also a calendar of Regional trainings offered by the Parent Network for families, caregivers and professionals.
Iris Center
www.iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu
A national center dedicated to improving the outcomes for all children, especially those with disabilities, through the use of effective, evidenced based practices and interventions.
​
Inclusive Schools Network
This is a resource for families, schools and communities that promote inclusive educational practices. It provides opportunities for families and educators to network and build their knowledge of inclusive education.
​
The Arc New York
A family based organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
​
Parent to Parent of New York State
http://parenttoparentnys.org/site/
Parent to Parent of New York State builds a supportive network of families to reduce isolation and empower those who care for people with developmental disabilities or special healthcare needs to navigate and influence service systems and make informed decisions.
Special Education:
​
Educating All Learners Alliance
https://educatingalllearners.org/
The Educating all Learners Alliance is a coalition of organizations dedicated to sharing resources that support the efforts of the education community to meet the needs of students with disabilities
.
FICE - The Foundation for Inclusive Catholic Education
The Foundation for Inclusive Catholic Education supports families, educators and schools with the advocacy, knowledge and resources necessary to help students with special needs experience the spiritual and academic richness of a Catholic Education in an inclusive environment.
​
Dr. Julie Causton
https://drjuliecauston.podbean.com
Dr. Causton is an author, speaker and inclusion advocate. She was a professor at Syracuse University prior to becoming the CEO of Inclusive Schooling. Her blog focuses on ways to engage learners of all ages.
​
​
Opportunities Collaborative provides external links as a convenience to website visitors and for informational purposes only. OC does not endorse or approve any of the content (including products, services or opinions) present on external websites and bears no responsibility for the accuracy or legality of the content of the external site or subsequent links from an external site.
RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS
Professional Development Resource Center (PDRC)
https://www.nysed-soris-upstate-pdrc.org/
The New York State Office of Religious and Independent Schools - The Upstate PDRC - All NYS Regions North of NYC. A NYSED Funded Project for Access and Equity - Free of cost services through Title II, Part A and Title IV, Part A of ESSA
Progress Center
https://promotingprogress.org/
provides information, resources, and support for local educators and leaders responsible for the development and implementation of high-quality educational programming for students with disabilities
​
Understood
To help those who learn and think differently discover their potentials, take control, find community, and stay on positive paths along each stage of life’s journey.
​
Learning Disabilities Association of America
https://ldaamerica.org/support/new-to-ld/
LDA’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities through support, education, and advocacy.
National Center for Learning Disabilities
Working to create a society in which every individual possesses the academic, social and emotional skills needed to succeed in school, at work and in life.
​
Reading Rockets
https://www.readingrockets.org/teaching
Looking to improve your literacy instruction skills? Visit Reading 101: A Guide to Teaching Reading and Writing, our self-paced online course on teaching reading and writing.
​
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS)
Supporting Schools During and After Crisis. Supporting States, Districts, Schools, Educators, Families and Students through an MTSS Framework
​
Lead for Literacy
Guiding elementary school and district leaders to improve literacy teaching and learning outcomes for all students.
Parent Network of WNY:
Supporting families and professionals to empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.