Dear Pennsylvania FBLA Advisers
Please identify special needs requests by February 4, if possible.
As your chapter is entering members in Blue Panda SLC registration, there may be special needs/special accommodations that you need us to know about. Those items may include special needs due to disability, related to testing, related to meals (if your chapter is purchasing meals), related to lodging. If there is an extreme circumstance that we need to know about, please contact me at 570.279.6998 / bboncal@pafbla.us or Janet Skiles at 412.576.2826 / jskiles@pafbla.us.
Where Do I Submit "Special Needs" Information in Blue Panda?
(includes physical, dietary needs, academic accommodations, or special lodging accommodations)
This information is entered as part of the SLC registration process for each individual's profile. For each attendee (only as needed), the chapter adviser has the opportunity to enter "special needs" information. The image at the end of this email shows where an adviser can find the special needs options.
To activate the special needs text box, place a checkmark in the appropriate box; otherwise, the textbox will not be displayed. Be as detailed as possible. If we have questions or need additional information, we will call you.
Testing/Performance Accommodations
If there are specific testing/performance modifications that need to be made for a student (such as extended time), a school official (principal, special education director) must provide a written request certifying that an accommodation is necessary, must identify the accommodation that must be made, and that the accommodation already exists in the student’s IEP. The written request must be emailed to Bruce Boncal, PA FBLA Executive Director, at bboncal@pafbla.us by the principal or special education director. That official written request must be documented and on file in the state office.
Lodging Accommodations
While you are completing your lodging, if there are special needs/special accommodations instructions that we need to know about, the adviser should also identify that as part of the attendee's profile. Examples might include information about the need for a handicap accessible room; specific instructions not to put two sets of students in rooms next to each other; walking limitations due to pregnancy; need for a refrigerator for insulin; etc. If the student uses a wheelchair for mobility, list it. If the student is visually impaired or hearing impaired, please identify it. When we review lodging, we look at this area and flag your forms to take whatever action is necessary to make the accommodations.
Dietary Accommodations
As far as dietary accommodations, the information is collected by Janet Skiles and turned over to the chef. Dietary accommodations could include vegetarian/vegan options; gluten free; food allergies, etc. Once that information is collected, Janet Skiles will reply with specific instructions for the adviser and student to claim their special meals, if necessary.
