When kids struggle in school, you may hear the term IEP. What is an IEP? IEP is an acronym that stands for Individualized Education Program. Some people may refer to it as an Individualized Education Plan.

An IEP is more than just a written legal document (or “plan”). It’s a map that lays out the program of special education instruction, support, and services kids need to make progress and thrive in school.

IEPs are covered by special education law, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). They’re created for eligible kids who attend public school, which includes charter schools.

There are many benefits to getting an IEP. The process begins with an evaluation that shows a student’s strengths and challenges. Families and schools use the results to create a program of services and supports tailored to meet the student’s needs.

Having an IEP gives students, families, and schools legal protections, too. It lets families be involved in decisions that impact their child’s education. It also gives students rights when it comes to school discipline.

Read the 8 Benefits of Individualized Education Programs, for Students with Learning Disabilities for a deeper dive.

We live in such a fast-paced world that it is easy to get overwhelmed, over-stressed, and near burnout. It is important to remember that while our bodies need the stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline to do certain tasks, it is not healthy to live in a constant state of high stress. If you have been to any TBRI training we discuss the effects of a constant high level of cortisol and the negative effect it has on the body and more importantly the brain. This month I want to share with you a Stress Management Quick Reference Guide.

Don't forget that the most important person you are supposed to take care of is YOU!

A CASA of Terrebonne Teen reveals his story, its traumas, its endurance to be good, and the hopes for a happy ending.

At our most recent Lunch and Learn we met a biological mother who lost custody of her children because of her addictions. She will tell you that by the time DCFS came in contact with her family she had been fighting her demons and "functioning" as best she could way before "the system" came knocking at her door.

Although this did not come easy, she kept showing up to visit her child and slowly she began to address her traumas and addictions. By grace, things came together and she was able to reunite with her child. Today she continues to thrive and she reminded us of how important it was for her to be treated with dignity despite her actions.

Ten years later her contact with our office couldn't have come at a more perfect time. As volunteers and staff, we need those reminders of how our work does make a difference. At the end of the day, if we have helped a whole family or a child, the fight was worth fighting. We always say let's keep planting seeds in hopes that one day they will sprout. Even if we never see them flourish, the hope is that one day they will grow.

In a recent Facebook post, Ann Beeson's former CASA child shared her gratitude for having Ann while she felt lost in foster care. She is not only her CASA but for becoming her "Gammy".

Mrs. Yvonne has impacted many lives throughout her legacy at CASA of Terrebonne. She has been awarded Advocate of the Year and continues to push forward to do what is needed for her CASA children.

When a child is falling through the cracks of a flawed and overwhelmed system, a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer has the chance to come in to change the trajectory of the case and change the child’s life. This is a story about how one CASA of Terrebonne Volunteer was able to achieve that goal.

We have compiled a list with Amazon Wish Lists to make it easier than ever for you to support CASA of Terrebonne and the children and families we serve.