Winter spring 2021 Guide to Distance Learning for Neurodiverse Students - Islands of Brilliance
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winter spring 2021 Guide to Distance Learning for Neurodiverse Students
Serving the need coast to coast
Balance. Finding it is hard—especially as we all continue to navigate this past year.
Prior to March 2020, IOB’s unique, student-centered approach was only available in
Between school, work, family, and those things that help inspire and motivate—it
Southeastern Wisconsin. Now, through distance learning, students on the spectrum
may feel like we’ll never track it down. It’s there. But where?
across the country have access and are able to connect with us regularly.
“It’s so nice to know you are still here!”
“Thank you for being that place where my daughter fits in.” We’ve been able to hold 416 online
“I told him about it and he said YES!” sessions and provided 3,608
instructional hours over the last
At Islands, we continue to hear that we are “that thing” that our
seven months alone. That’s more
students look forward to, whether that is hanging out and
Margaret Fairbanks than we were able to achieve in the
creating with friends in our Sandbox Programming, exploring
Chief Education Officer
previous three years!
and collaborating with one of our amazing mentors on all the
cool things that Photoshop or Illustrator can do in our Foundational workshops, or
And we’re just getting started!
just knowing that there is a place where your loved one feels welcome, connected,
and engaged. Our Concierge Approach, making sure that what we do “works” for
your loved one, takes time but from what we have heard this Fall and honestly, since
we started this in 2012, it is time well spent.
“Thank you for taking so much time with us!”
Rather than expect students to adapt to the
“Our son really enjoyed meeting everyone!”
environment, we create the ideal environment.
“It really helped that you let him check it out first...” Have you ever felt that your child may not be in the right environment but given the
opportunity could truly grow and flourish? Or feel that there are so many things that
We do everything we can to make our online environment special, engaging and
don’t necessarily work for your child? We understand completely—it’s why Islands of
stress-free. We want to be that thing that helps you and your child maintain balance.
Brilliance was first created.
The smiles, the compliments given among the participants, the success stories we
love to receive and share—that helps ALL of us find the balance needed to stay
Over the last eight years, IOB has grown and learned so much about our
positive and connected. We are lucky to be able to tell so many wonderful stories
students, their needs, and how our programming can help them achieve
and to be able to offer more programming than ever. So take a look at all we have to
new goals and reach new heights. We leveraged this information and
offer, share this with your son or daughter, and let us help you find balance.
experience to launch our largest initiative yet in Fall—our Concierge Approach to learning.
Intrigued? Good! We hoped you would be.
islandsofbrilliance.org
islandsofbrilliance.orgThe Concierge Approach: How it Works
STEP 1: Complete the Connect Form
Head to islandsofbrilliance.com/programming, click on the “Connect with us”
link and fill in and submit the Connect Form. Once completed, a member of our ACADEMY
Product-Based
Education Team will contact you to develop a full understanding of your child’s
Learning
strengths, needs, and interests. We may also want to discover the learning Apprentice instruction
objectives that have been identified for your child at school as well as your vision incorporating design thinking
for their future. and scrum methodology
STEP 2: Find the right fit FOUNDATION
By leveraging our multi-layer programming opportunities—AKA The Program 2D Visual Design, 3D Modeling
Pyramid—we are able to provide a learning path recommendation that is in Student driven projects highlighted by
alignment with your child’s individual needs, goals, and desires. Whether that plan 1:1 mentorship with wrap around support
and special education oversight
focuses on IEP goals or simply finds a “happy place” for a student, different program
options exist to meet objectives.
STEP 3: Prepping your student
SANDBOX
Doodle Lounge, Smactivities, Natterdays, BBC
Getting your student ready to go on day #1 is mission critical for future success. Our most frequent and accessible programming, providing a safe
Whether that be conducting virtual staff introductions, walking through technical environment for students to create, collaborate, and connect
applications, jumping on a Zoom call to answer any student questions, or creating
a social story that helps a student learn more about walking into an unfamiliar
situation, IOB will work with parents to identify any preparation needed to ensure SEL = social and emotional learning competencies IEP = individualized education program
their student is ready. Pre-ETS = pre-employment transition services
STEP 4: Ready. Set. Enroll! The Concierge Approach: Program Pyramid
Program registration is easy. Head over to Eventbrite to enroll your child at
Navigating your child’s needs and the solutions that help them can be challenging and, at
islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.com. If applicable, now is also the time to work
times, overwhelming. We understand the many questions on your mind, and very likely,
with your child’s case manager to determine if programming can be covered.
have answered most of them over the years.
Questions? Please reach out to connect@islandsofbrilliance.org and we’ll
provide speedy assistance. You don’t need to navigate this on your own—just as we’ve seen students thrive when
they work one on one with mentors, we’ve seen parents and caregivers breathe a sigh of
STEP 5: Watch your child grow! relief when we help guide them to the right solutions for their child.
It’s program time! Students will find a place that is familiar, welcoming, and lets
them think and create in an outcome-focused environment. We hope they get The focal point for the Concierge Approach is The Program Pyramid. This student-centered
excited to participate and are proud to share their accomplishments. And for solution provides a mix of programming opportunities that span different skill sets,
parents, we hope you’re just as excited too! needs, and objectives. From Sandbox workshops (our most accessible) to Foundational
workshops featuring 1:1 mentorship for students to our more rigorous Digital Academy
program, we offer a robust menu of programs that help build the technical and social
skills needed to thrive, whether it be in the workplace or actively engaged in the community.
islandsofbrilliance.orgReady. Set. Learn! Students thriving in The Pilcher Family
the online environment. Cloquet, MN
The Pilcher Family lives outside of Duluth, MN and was first introduced
The shift to our online distance learning model in March 2020 brought many changes,
to IOB in 2015. A locally-based special education teacher knew of IOB’s
but one thing remains the same—our students are thriving. These profiles offer just a few
mission and connected us with the family. For the next few summers,
examples of how families are using programming to enrich their children’s experiences. all three children participated in workshops while IOB was active in
that market.
Cameron, Age 20 Because of IOB’s pivot to distance learning, the Pilchers were able to re-engage with IOB
Oak Creek, WI and sign their children up for the programming they came to love and enjoy. They truly
look forward to hopping on Zoom and engaging with their fellow students and mentors—
Cameron is a familiar face at IOB - we first met him in 2015. Now a
especially during these days with limited contact outside of school and home.
high school graduate, Cameron has a passion to create his own line
of t-shirts and learn graphic design. He attends all layers of programming—Sandbox, Cameron, Age 17
Foundation, and Academy. Cameron’s personal growth over the last few years has been Cameron loves video games—both collecting as well as playing.
exciting to witness. Because of his dedication and passion to learn, Cameron’s confidence, But his true passion is creative writing and he hopes to become a
maturity, self-esteem, and communication skills have never been stronger. writer someday. Because of IOB, he’s been able not only to expand his
Cam’s IOB Resume: Digital Academy - 2D Design Track abilities and interests, but begin to learn more about possible careers
Foundation Photoshop and Illustrator and what he may want to pursue for his future. Since his return, Cameron has been a
Doodle Lounge; Brilliant Breakfast Club frequent participant in Brilliant Breakfast Club. Next up: Foundation Programming!
Riley, Age 14
Similar to his older brother, Riley also has a passion for video
games. He loves drawing and creating in Minecraft which provide
Griffin, Age 19 opportunities for him to explore two areas of particular interest—
Milwaukee, WI
animation and programming. Riley’s favorite part about IOB is the
New to IOB and Milwaukee, Griffin and her family moved from the welcoming, freeform environment of our Sandbox Programming
East Coast this past summer. While change can be hard and over- which allows him to express his creativity and socialize with fellow students.
whelming, Griffin quickly embraced the opportunity and discovered a new home at IOB.
She’s an active Sandbox student and can be immediately recognized by her contagious
Hayley, Age 13
As the youngest, Hayley has been able to see all the cool things her
smile and energy in the Doodle Lounge, Smactivities, and Natterdays programming. Griffin
brothers enjoy and has started to embrace them as well. While she
absolutely loves drawing and sharing her ideas and creations with her new friends at IOB.
loves Pokemon and creative writing, she truly enjoys drawing and
Not only did she find her community this summer, she also found her voice.
expressing herself through art. If there is any place where that is en-
Griffin’s IOB Resume: Doodle Lounge; Smactivities; Natterdays
couraged, it’s IOB! This year Haley has been able to further develop
and strengthen her social skills and can be regularly heard in the Doodle Lounge and
other Sandbox Programming talking and sharing ideas with her peers.
islandsofbrilliance.orgSandbox Programming
Our most frequent and accessible options, Sandbox Programs “It makes me happy to have such friends and mentors,
provide a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment for and their smiles and compliments.”
—Adam, Age 14
the student to learn, create, and connect.
Doodle Lounge Smactivities
Whether it’s pencil and paper or full-scale Photoshop, Doodle Lounge Smactivities—or more formally, Subject Matter Activities—are 50-minute,
allows participants to meet daily to draw, create, and share artwork via topic-based live video chat sessions that offer students on the spectrum
Zoom. Give your child a safe, supported environment to explore their the chance to dig into a particular topic while engaging in STEaM-based
creativity and interests alongside other students on the spectrum and projects and activities. A subject matter expert will lead your child through
our Doodle Guides. Participants can drop in to create, connect, and collaborate together. an activity as they create alongside peers in a safe, supported environment under the
Students are encouraged to use whatever materials and technology are available to guidance of special education professionals. Animal mashup…design your own planet…
them. Join us all month long with your monthly subscription. upcycled art…toothpick log cabins. We’ll provide the subject matter inspiration and cre-
Monday–Thursday, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+ ative direction, your child will add their own unique spin.
$100 per month Second and fourth Friday of each month, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
$25 per session
Scheduled Winter/Spring Smactivities
Natterdays Jan. 15: Cartoon Character Cardboard Challenge
Natter-what?! Natter. Days. We know our students love certain topics Jan. 29: Animal Mashup
and could spend hours a day chattering away about their favorite Feb. 12: Create Your Own Movie Poster
things. Natterdays uses storytelling to help students build confidence Feb. 26: Design Your Own Planet
during these 50-minute conversations guided by a master storyteller! Your child can March 12: Create Your Own Holiday
practice integrating their interests into conversation using a storytelling format while March 26: Design Your Own Log Cabin
connecting with and learning from peers in a safe, supported environment. Conversations April 9: Plant Mashup
are designed and overseen by licensed special education professionals and facilitated by April 23: Create Your Own Villain
community subject matter experts. May 14: Upcycled Art
First and third Friday of each month, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+ May 28: Sock Puppets
$25 per session
islandsofbrilliance.org For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comFoundation Programming
1:1 mentorship, technical software instruction, and guidance
on social and emotional development are the hallmarks of our
Foundation Programming, which requires specific hardware
and software for participation.
Foundation Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
Imagine your child’s own unique interests taking shape through digital
painting, illustration, and graphic design. It’s possible when they work one- March 29 - April 2 and April 5 - 9
on-one with a professional design mentor online via Zoom over the course Spring Break 2021 will be here before we know it! Looking for an opportunity for your
of a five-week session. Students will learn new tools as they explore the basics of Adobe child to stay engaged and excited during time off from school? IOB has you covered!
Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate while they collaborate and create alongside their
Foundation Adobe Photoshop
mentor. The final week culminates with an in-class presentation and celebration of their
and Illustrator
work. All participants will receive a 18” x 24” printed poster of their creation. Our popular week-long version of our classic programming!
Saturdays, 10:00–11:15 a.m. CST, Ages 8+ M–F, March 29–April 2,
Jan 16–Feb 13 | Feb 27–Mar 27 Noon-1:15 p.m. | 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
$300 per session M–F, April 5–9, 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
$300 per session
Wildcard Wednesdays!
For students looking for a new challenge, Wildcard Wednesdays offers a twist
on our traditional foundation workshop! At the beginning of the workshop, Foundation 3D Modeling
students will have the chance to select a theme and then have five sessions Now your child’s creativity can go beyond two dimensions with an intro-
to ideate, create, and design using Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate based on that topic. duction to 3D modeling. Students will work 1:1 with a mentor online via
We hope we hear many students say, “Challenge accepted!” Zoom to learn the basics of the craft used in many industries, including
Wednesdays, 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Ages 8+ gaming, architecture, movie production, engineering, and commercial advertising. The
Jan 13–Feb 10 | Feb 24–Mar 24 | Apr 21–May 19
$300 per session week-long workshop will feature software instruction in Blender with an emphasis on
creativity and collaboration alongside their mentor. The final day culminates with an in-class
Themed Thursdays! presentation and celebration of their work. All participants will have projects published to
Formerly known as “Brilliant Guest Artist” workshops, these themed, five-week SketchFab, the largest online platform for publishing and sourcing 3D models.
series challenge students to create a design using Photoshop, Illustrator, or
M–F, April 5-9, Noon–1:15 p.m. CST, Ages 10+
Procreate. Check out the themes we have lined up! $300 per session
Thursdays, 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
Need some technology assistance before a program begins? We’re happy to provide a Tech Check to make
“Under the Sea” Jan 14–Feb 11
“Mythical Creatures” Feb 25–Mar 25 sure everything is set up correctly and your student is ready to go! Please reach out to
“I, Robot” Apr 22–May 20 connect@islandsofbrilliance.org. Help is on the way!
$300 per session
For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comDigital Academy Community Support Programs
The most rigorous IOB program, Digital Academy provides Life can be hard to navigate, whether you’re living with autism or
apprentice-style instruction in a product-based learning someone who loves them, that’s why we offer two programs for
environment. adults that provide support and guidance for the journey.
Have you ever dreamt that your son or daughter’s love of all things drawing, gaming, and Brilliant Breakfast Club
coding could become a potential career? Well, that dream could be closer to reality with Our older students are invited to grab their favorite tea or coffee
our Digital Academy (DA), that utilizes evidence-based practices in the areas of learning, beverage and hang out with us on Friday mornings! These weekly live
social emotional learning, and transition to equip candidates with the skills necessary to video chats are tailored for young adults 18+ interested in an online
access post-secondary education and/or employment in design and tech-related fields. social experience and peer discussion designed to foster pathways toward independence.
Discussion will touch on daily living skills including health and nutrition, finances, job
searches, community engagement, and more. Facilitated by special education professionals
and interns, participants have the opportunity to meet up virtually with their peers and
grow together by building a community of mutual support.
Fridays, 10:00–11:00 a.m. CST, Ages 18+
$150 per month
LIGHTHOUSE
Students collaborate with for-profit and nonprofit industry professionals who will serve
as mentors. Students and their peer team members will have the opportunity to partici-
pate in Design Thinking processes as well as technical skills needed to build and integrate
a community-based project.
Emphasis on the development of soft skills, including self-awareness, social awareness, Do you sometimes feel like you’re on an Island? Do you take comfort in hearing from
and self-management skills accompany the technical product-based learning approach. parents facing similar challenges? Parents and caregivers are invited to join this weekly
one-hour moderated video chat session that provides connection, conversation, and
Weekday evenings, Ages 14+
community support in a safe, respectful environment. Discussion topics vary weekly.
$1,000 per trimester
Come to contribute or just listen in!
*Prerequisites are required for participation in Digital Academy; Wednesdays, 9:00–10:00 p.m. CST, parents & caregivers
inquiries for the application process should be directed to Free
connect@islandsofbrilliance.org
islandsofbrilliance.org For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comIslands Of Brilliance Team Community Support & Funding Options
Islands of Brilliance has a small, but mighty team that is passionate about our mission and Islands of Brilliance offers student-centered workshops and programs
dedicated to providing families with the highest-quality distance learning experience available. in a safe, secure online environment. In many cases, federal, state, and
county funding, including self-directed and Waiver funds, can be used
to pay for programming.
Funding approval can be contingent upon location and is case specific (workshop
curriculum must align with the goals outlined in the participant’s individual plan). Families
Mark Fairbanks Margaret Fairbanks Courtney Rogaczewski Amy Mason MUST consult with their case manager to confirm funding eligibility and approval prior to
Co-founder, Co-founder, Director of Operations Director of Integrated
Chief Innovation Officer Chief Education Officer Learning participation. Authorizations are required for programming using waiver funds.
For questions related to community support and funding, please email
connect@islandsofbrilliance.org.
Matt Juzenas Christina DeCheck Michelle Pape Stephanie Phillips
Director of Director of Director of Special Education SistaStrings
Educational Content Programs Development Coordinator An amazing virtual event!
Jonny T-Bird
Charlie Fairbanks Kim Gerdes Lillie Sheridan Natalie Derr
Creative/Technology Marketing Coordinator Art Educator in Student Artist in
Support Residence (UWM) Residence (UWM)
Our team is joined by the following education partners who work closely with staff and
Klassik
students to ensure their needs and goals are being met. PREMIERE NIGHT - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Coe Douglas Kim Beckmann Kevin Schuhl
Advocate Aurora UWM DVC 3D Instructor
UWM DVC Marielle Allschwang
Tickets: $25 Enjoy the experience through Dec 31st!Islands of Brilliance
NONPROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
Provides Distance
P.O. Box 774 PAID
Milwaukee, WI 53201
Learning and Social
MADISON WI
PERMIT NO 1949 Engagement Programming
for Youth and Young
Adults Living with Autism.
Through our person-centered approach, our
neurodiverse students’ individual interests
and capabilities are allowed to flourish. Art,
design, and STEM-based curriculum helps
children and young adults on the autism
spectrum learn valuable technical skills, while
practicing critical social and emotional learning
competencies in a supported environment.
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