Family Matters PTIC Podcast · Family Matters Parent Training and Information Center

Episode 5 Blackburn and Beyond

·20 min·1 clip

Family Matters PTIC has launched a podcast as a way to reach more families in Illinois and professionals with helpful information about disability supports and special education advocacy and navigation. It brings in the voice of experience from professionals and families, with an emphasis on shared experiences, best practices being used across the state, services and support, and family guidance. It also reminds listeners that Family Matters is not a legal service agency, that the podcast should not be construed as legal advice, and that the contents do not necessarily represent U.S. Department of Education policy or federal endorsement. Abby Mars talks with Jamie and Brianna from Blackburn and Beyond about what the program asks of students and what support stays around them. Independence matters here. Students need enough skill to do some things on their own, including taking medication independently if they take medication, while a mentor is assigned to each individual and paraprofessionals can join classes when identified to help take notes or review content. In the dorm room, the expectation is independence. Abby keeps asking for examples, and the guests answer with specifics instead of generalities. The program is three years old and still in its infancy, and the first round of graduates is expected in the fall semester. The early signs are real. Students are serving in Student Senate, where they act as a voice and an advocate. One student has moved into a leadership role after going through the interview process for the work program and being promoted to crew head, making him the first Blackburn and Beyond student in that position. Another student is interning in the community. The show also notes that it highlights a transition-age student quarterly in its transition newsletter. The contact details stay simple. Brianna can be reached at brianna.sutton at blackburn.edu, Jamie at jamie.emmons at blackburn.edu, and the office number is 854-5678, with email as the preferred route. The conversation closes on appreciation for the program. Abby thanks Jamie and Brianna, reminds listeners that Family Matters tries to post the podcast at least once a month, and points them toward their favorite platform.

As heard by us

A clear look at a young transition program and the supports that make independence workable.

Family Matters offers a practical view of Blackburn and Beyond, showing how the program pairs independence with support. Abby Mars talks with Jamie and Brianna about students handling some responsibilities on their own when they have the skill set, including taking medication…

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Why you'd press play

You want to hear how Blackburn & Beyond balances independence with built-in support on campus.

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