Community Newsletter
August 21, 2020
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IMPORTANT SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENTS |
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Peter Bailey,
Head of School
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8/5/2020 Update from PSD
In Person Operations resumed with VERY limited in person operations on July 6, 2020. Our regular hours are Monday through Friday will be 8:00am to 4:00pm. Masks are required.
No visitors or volunteers permitted on campus. Activities involving outside groups/individuals are suspended until December 31, 2020
Fall
We have made the decision to start the 2020-2021 School Year with virtual learning until the end of our 1st quarter, which is on Friday, November 13, 2020. We will continue to monitor the situation and make changes to the reopening plans as necessary to follow the guidance of state and federal officials and to protect our students.
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PSD is a TreeRing Green Yearbook School!
Thanks to your purchase of our yearbook, Trees for the Future, will plant 42 trees in our school's name!
Thank you for supporting our fundraisers AND helping the Earth!
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PSD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
PRESS RELEASE
To Whom It May Concern:
On Monday, August 3, 2020, Pennsylvania School for the Deaf Alumni Association (PSDAA) Board of Officers convened about the inappropriate statements being circulated by the board member via social media. During the meeting a Board member voluntarily resigned her position as Vice-President and is no longer an officer as of this date.
After we resolved the matter, we discussed further the need to improve the status of PSDAA officers' commitment. A Code of Conduct will be created and each officer will sign it yearly. This will take effect immediately. In addition, we plan to have a training course to educate the officers to work with BIPOC [Black, Indigenous and People of Color].
PSDAA supports PSD and PCBDA [Philadelphia Chapter Black Deaf Advocates] in Black Lives Matter's causes.
Sincerely,
June Goodwin
President, PSDAA
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COMMUNITY EVENTS, ACTIVITIES
AND INFORMATION
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Art-Reach launched an accessible content project in partnership with a few arts organizations. We're trying to pilot what fully accessible digital content in short videos. All of the videos are captioned, and ASL interpreted. In addition all the presenters were trained on how to naturally embed visual description into their presentations.
The first video launched today with the Museum of the American Revolution. Check out the video at the following link:
The plan is to post a new video every Tuesday and Thursday
for the next several weeks.
Check out Art-Reach's social media for new videos as they post: @artreachphilly on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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Hamilton Relay, contracted service provider for PA Relay, is currently seeking nominations for the 2020 Deaf Community Leader Award. Nominations are due August 21st. Please see the attached nomination letter and questionnaire for more details and feel free to forward this message on to others.
Amy Strawser
Pennsylvania TRS Outreach Coordinator
Amy.strawser@hamiltonrelay.com
(412) 944-7424
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Online ASL Class - Animal Signs
Monday, August 24, 2020
8 - 9 PM (Eastern Time)
Animals are featured in so many books and activities that we do with our children. Join ASL instructor Ursa Rewolinski for this online class about signs for animals. Bring a special animal friend, your questions, and a list of animal signs you'd like to learn!
Teacher: Ursa Rewolinski
Platform: Zoom (See sidebar for details)
Cost: $10*
American Society for Deaf Children (ASDC)
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Online ASL Class - DEAF AND HEARING SIBLINGS
Monday, September 14, 2020
8-10 pm (Eastern Time)
Siblings give us our first experiences in how to communicate our needs, negotiate disagreements, and learn social skills. Join authors Marla C. Berkowitz and Judith A. Jonas for a conversation about deaf and hearing sibling dynamics and what parents can do to nurture these important relationships.
Presenters: Marla C. Berkowitz and Judith A. Jonas
Platform: Zoom (see sidebar for more info)
Cost: $20*
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Learn about the PA ABLE Savings Program!
A PA ABLE Savings Program account gives individuals with qualified disabilities (Eligible Individuals), and their families and friends, a tax-free way to save for a wide range of disability-related expenses, while maintaining government benefits. The state and federal tax-free investment options are offered to encourage Eligible Individuals and their families to save private funds to support health, independence, and quality of life.
To help you learn about the important features and benefits of PA ABLE, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department is hosting free webinars.
Some of the topics that we will discuss include: eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits of PA ABLE, and how PA ABLE account interacts with current benefits.
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Competence and Confidence Partners in Policymaking— Early Intervention (C2P2 EI)
2020 - 2021
Free Training to help you Learn the Early Intervention System and actively participate in your child’s team.
Navigate the Pennsylvania Early Intervention System, identify best practice supports and connect with community resources.
Virtual and In-person sessions are planned.
Alternative options and participant supports will be available if COVID restrictions occur.
Virtual Sessions October 2020 - February 2021:
- Supports to participate virtually will be provided to participants
- Childcare expenses reimbursed
- Virtual sessions will be live sessions
In-Person Sessions March - April 2021:
- LOCATION: The Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel
- 4650 Lindle Road Harrisburg, PA 17111
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tel: 717-564-5511
- Travel and childcare expenses reimbursed
- Meals included
- Overnight lodging (for those traveling 40+ miles)
APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 18, 2020
All applicants will be notified the week of September 25
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
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COMMUNITY RESOURCES
AND INFORMATION
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Philadelphia residents mail applications to the Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC), located at 1234 Market Street, 16th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19107. Online applications are available here.
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Montgomery County residents mail applications to COVID-19 Rent Relief Program, Montgomery County Human Services Center, P.O. Box 311, Norristown, PA, 19404-0311, or via e-mail to RentRelief@montcopa.org.
PHFA is available to help weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-855-827-3466. I fought for this much-needed funding in recent budget negotiations. Please apply, if needed.
Senator Art Haywood
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Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
Phone: 717.780.3960 | Fax: 717.780.4323
ACCESSIBLE UNITS AVAILABLE
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One bedroom, accessible unit available at Clara Baldwin Manor. Clara Baldwin Manor is located in Philadelphia County and is a 62+ community. View details of the property here https://www.clarabaldwinmanor.com/. Contact Marjorie Jett-El, Property Manager with any questions or for an application. clarabaldwin@comcast.net or 215 978-4757.
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The City of Philadelphia’s FREE, quality pre-k program
is now enrolling for the 2020-2021 school year, at over 130 locations throughout the city!
All children who live in Philadelphia and will be 3 or 4 years old on September 1 are eligible. There are no income requirements for participation in this pre-K program.
Enrolling is as easy as 1-2-3:
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Visit PHLpreK.org or call 844-PHL-PREK to find a program near you
- Contact the program of your preference
- Provide proof of age and residency, and complete the PHLpreK application
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Please note: All childcare and pre-K providers are following new safety and cleaning protocols, in compliance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. These include: Mask requirements, Social distancing and limited class sizes, ew cleaning protocols
The safety of PHLpreK students, families, and staff is our top priority. Learn more about our COVID-19 safety plan at PHLpreK.org.
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SIGN VOTE 2020 is designed to help inform and increase voter engagement among the deaf community throughout the 2020 elections, SignVote is a nonpartisan platform that spotlights and features accessible voter content and resources made available in American Sign Language (ASL).
SignVote provides a critical solution, offering the deaf community an extensive and centralized resource of accessible content, including:
- Dedicated SignVote website
- Social media integration with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Youtube
- A central video library continually updated throughout the election cycle
- Voter registration materials and information – how and where to register
- Voter Toolkit on general voting and electoral issues (What’s on the ballot? Who are my candidates? It’s election day, now what?)
- ASL Voter Hotline from the National Association for the Deaf
or call 301-818-VOTE (301-818-8683)
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National Deaf Center Self Determination Inventory - this online assessment asks youth how they feel about their ability to be self-determined, to make choices, set and go after goals and make decisions. After completing the inventory, the students can work with their VR counselors by using the Choose Your Future! Activity Kit to develop a detailed plan for reaching goals that are aligned with their personal preferences.
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Netflix Orders Two Documentaries About Deaf Community In America
Netflix has ordered Deaf U and Audible, two documentaries centered around the deaf community in the U.S.
Deaf U is a coming-of-age documentary series following a tight-knit group of Deaf students at Gallaudet University, a renowned private college for the deaf and hard of hearing, in Washington, D.C. Read more.
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The Free Library continues to follow federal, state, health, and local guidelines to help manage the spread of COVID-19. This means that we still cannot welcome patrons into our buildings for regular visits. However, we are happy to share a few important updates with you:
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Some Free Library locations are now offering limited services, including returns, material pickups, and phone reference. Visit our new Limited Services page to see what’s available at your neighborhood library. (This page is updated daily, so please check it regularly.)
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You can now place new holds with the Free Library! Sign in to freelibrary.org with your library card number and PIN to place a hold online, or call your neighborhood library to place a hold over the phone. Once your materials are ready, we’ll contact you to schedule a pickup appointment.
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Check out our newest remote resource: a Free Library call center. Patrons can call five days a week to speak with our expert staff, who will provide information, technology help, Library updates, and more. Calling is free! Give us a dial at 1-833-TALK FLP (1-833-825-5357). We’re here Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10:00 a.m.–3 p.m., and Wednesday, 2:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
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“Unspeakable” Video Highlights the Role of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing People in Black Lives Matter
Filmmaker Emmai Alaquiva of Pittsburgh wanted to talk to his 8-year-old daughter about the racial climate in the US, but was concerned that at her age, she might not be able to fully grasp the issues. CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO Read more.
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This summer, we'll be continuing our work to empower Philadelphia residents through Census participation, but we need your help. Our Summer of Census plan outlines how we plan to get the word out about the importance of 2020 Census participation, and ensure communities feel safe participating. You can get involved in our Summer of Census plan by clicking here.
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Census takers can be easily identified by a valid government ID badge with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark, and an expiration date on the badge. To confirm a census taker’s identity, the public may contact their regional census center to speak with a Census Bureau representative.
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Apply for a no-cost captioning phone
Our phone displays big, easy-to-read text that automatically captions your
conversations. It dials, rings, and works just like a regular phone.
• Easy to use
• Captions turn on or off as needed
• Captioned voice messages included
• No cost if you have hearing loss and need captions to use the phone efficiently
Do you have trouble hearing on the phone? Do you keep
asking people to repeat themselves? If so, you may be eligible
Better phone calls now
ASL Interpreted Facebook videos
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PA Office for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing
We have created a helpful Communications card in the event that you or someone you love needs health care assistance related to COVID-19. You can access the PDF here.
(multiple ASL videos)
Do you have hearing loss-related questions or are you looking for info on assistive technology, sign language interpreters or equal access?
Are you in need of advocacy assistance for services you deserve or need help with the referral process for deaf, deafblind or hard of hearing services? We are HERE FOR YOU. ...See More
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Melissa A. Hawkins MS, MHR | Director
PA Department of Labor & Industry | Office for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing
1521 North 6th Street | Harrisburg, PA 17102
Phone & TTY: 800-233-3008 (PA only) | Phone & TTY: 717.783.4912
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PA Department of Human Services
Emergency Assistance Program
Has your family lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
PA Coalition Against Domestic Violence
(Youtube video – no sound)
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National Association of the Deaf
Public Statement on George Floyd
Melissa Draganac-Hawk, President, NAD
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ASDC: Talking to Your Child About Racial Justice:
ASL & English Resources
As protesters take to the streets after the death of George Floyd, conversations about racial justice are happening in homes across the country. To help you talk to your child about recent events and issues related to race, ethnicity, and racial justice, we’ve put together this list of resources for you. CLICK HERE for resources in English and videos in ASL.
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ASL Stories Directory!
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The Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management (PhilaOEM) has a text alert system all about COVID-19. Text COVIDPHL to 888-777 to receive updates to your phone. Message and data rates may apply.
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How Technology is Helping Deaf Professionals Communicate Remotely
As a member of the Deaf community, Deaf-Hearing Communication Centre (DHCC) Executive Director Neil McDevitt leads his Swarthmore-based organization in finding ways for Deaf individuals to better participate in their communities through work, fellowship and community activism. It also offers American Sign Language classes and ASL interpreting services. Read more.
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DHCC - Providing Equal Access at Philadelphia-area
Black Lives Matter Protests
Many people today are fighting for basic human and civil rights. We know there are Deaf, hard of hearing and DeafBlind people who want to add their voice to peaceful protests but don’t have equal access. This changes today. We are committing to coordinating equal access for Deaf individuals who want to participate in peaceful protests by connecting them with volunteer Deaf and/or Hearing ASL interpreters. Vlog message here Read more....
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Cap4Kids Updated Link to the website for services and resources including food, housing, utility, self care, etc.
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Catholic Deaf Philly
Our Daily Hope – Vlog Reflection
Sr. Kathleen Schipani, IHM
Director, Office for Persons with Disabilities & Deaf Apostolate
Archdiocese of Philadelphia
222 N. 17th Street, Philadelphia PA 19103
215.587.3913 phone /267.507.1215 video phone
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Consider a gift today to help PSD continue the important work we do for our Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students.
United Way #737
Combined Federal Campaign #87714
or click below.
We thank you for your support!
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Please forward comments and announcements for posting considerations to:
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Content Disclaimer
The information contained in the e-newsletter is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Pennsylvania School for the Deaf and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the newsletter or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the e-newsletter for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this e-newsletter. Through this e-newsletter you are able to link to other websites that are not under the control of PSD. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
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