Resources for Parents of Exceptional Students

A Message from Jennifer Croymans: Partnering with You, Every Step of the Way

Dear McDowell County Schools Families,

From the bottom of my heart, I want to extend the warmest welcome to you. As the Director for Exceptional Children here in McDowell County Schools, I consider it a true privilege to work alongside you as we support your incredible child.

I know that raising a child is a journey filled with unique joys and sometimes, unique challenges. When your child has a disability, that journey can bring its own set of questions and new paths to explore. Please know this: you are not alone on this journey. You are a vital, cherished part of our McDowell County Schools family, and we are here to walk alongside you.

Every single student in our schools possesses a spark of brilliance, unique strengths, and unlimited potential. We see your child not just for their disability, but for their incredible abilities, their bright spirit, and all the wonderful things that make them uniquely them. Our passion is to discover and nurture that potential, helping your child grow into the confident, capable individual they are meant to be.

Our commitment to your child is holistic and heartfelt. We are dedicated to supporting them in every aspect of their well-being—academically, yes, but also physically, developmentally, and emotionally. We understand that a child truly thrives when they feel safe, understood, and encouraged in all these areas. From personalized learning strategies and accessible environments to fostering social connections and celebrating emotional growth, our team pours its energy into creating a supportive and inspiring space for your child.

The most powerful ingredient in your child's success is our partnership with you. You are your child's first and most enduring advocate, the expert on their heart and their history. Your insights, your hopes, and your unwavering love are invaluable to us. When we combine our professional expertise with your deep understanding of your child, we create a truly unstoppable team. We want to hear your voice, answer your questions, and collaborate on every decision, ensuring your child's educational journey is tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.

This journey is a shared adventure, and we are absolutely thrilled to embark on it with you. Together, we will navigate challenges, celebrate every milestone, and cheer loudly for every success. Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. We are here to support, encourage, and empower your family every single day.

Jennifer Croymans

Director for Exceptional Children McDowell County Schools

NC Public Schools - Exceptional Children's Division
Website for NC Public School Exceptional Children Department

Do2Learn: Educational Resources
Do2learn provides thousands of pages of social skills and behavioral regulation activities and guidance, learning songs and games, communication cards, academic material, and transition guides for employment and life skills.

Exceptional Children Assistance Center
Learn how to be an effective partner in your planning your child's educational program. Become your childs best and most effective advocate!

http://ec.ncpublicschools.gov/parent-resources
Parent resources from NC Public School Exceptional Children Department

http://www.teacch.com/
TEACCH Autism Program

McDowell County Special Olympics
The site for Special Olympics McDowell County! Here you can find information about getting involved with our local program.

National Center for Learning Disabilities
Committed to ensuring that all students with learning disabilities graduate from high school with a standard diplomaprepared for college and the workplace.

The Learning Disabilities Association of North Carolina
Promotes awareness of the multifaceted nature of learning disabilities.

College Resources for Students with Disabilities
http://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/disabled-students/

https://www.retailmenot.com/blog/sensory-overload-while-shopping.html Reduce the noise, Help loved ones with sensory overload enjoy shopping- article

How to Help Your Child with LD Have a Happy Holiday

Financial Resources and Discounts for Students With Disabilities

The school system retains control over what links will be placed on system-related websites; however, the linked sites themselves are not under the control of the school system, its agents or its employees. The school system is not responsible for the contents of any linked site, any link contained in a linked site, or any changes or updates to such sites. The school system provides links as a convenience, and the inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement of the site by the school system. The school system reserves the right to remove or restrict any links.