February with FACT Oregon:
Learn & Connect

Dear FACT Oregon Community,

As a parent of a young adult, I’ve learned that every stage of growing up brings a new set of questions—and a new kind of courage and advocacy. What you and your child need shifts over time: from noticing differences and finding early support, to navigating school transitions and learning, and later to the teen and young adult years—when crushes, relationships, and hormonal changes become part of the conversation, too.

The early childhood years can be challenging as you figure out services, transitions, and inclusive early learning for a child with a disability. We know how much heart and advocacy this takes, and you don’t have to do it alone!

This month, we offer opportunities to learn, connect, and build confidence—from our Early Childhood Conference and IEP trainings to resources that support teens and young adults in dating, sexual health, and relationships with respect, safety, and self-advocacy.

In community,

Christy Reese
Executive Director, FACT Oregon

2026 Early Childhood Conference

Saturday, February 28 | 8:45 AM - 1:00 PM | Zoom

A virtual learning day for families of young children with disabilities and the professionals who support them.

Gain practical tools and knowledge to navigate your child’s early education journey with confidence!

Register | Learn More
E-flyer (multilingual)

Free for families and individuals with disabilities. $50 for professionals, with a certificate of attendance.

Most sessions are in English with simultaneous Spanish interpretation. Please request additional language supports or ASL at least 14 days prior to the conference.

Questions? Email program@factoregon.org or call: 503-786-6082 or 541-695-5416.

8:45 am - 9:55 am: Welcome and Keynote

• Dr. Jackie Joseph: Combining Science and Heart: Relearning Inclusion through Love

10:05 am - 10:55 am: Session 1 Trainings

• Natural Settings, Least Restrictive Environment and Inclusion - Kevin Anderson

• From Early Intervention to Early Childhood Special Education: Navigating the Transition Together - Stacy Inman

• Your Voice Matters: Everyday Advocacy to Support Your Child’s Learning and Development - Heather Olivier

11:05 am – 11:55 am: Session 2 Trainings

• Transition into Kindergarten: Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) Edition. - Dr. Mindi Helmandollar-Armatas & Meredith Villines

• ADA: Rights for today and after school - Oscar González (Spanish with English interpretation)

• Explore FACT Oregon’s New! Inclusion Toolkit - FACT staff

12:05 pm - 12:55 pm: Session 3 Trainings

• Supporting Young Children Who Are DeafBlind and Those with Complex Support Needs Through Routines, Relationships, and the IFSP - Dr. Lisa McConachie & Darlene Daniels

• The Power of Family Partnerships: Navigating Inclusive Education with Young Children - Meredith Villines

• One Page Profiles: A Powerful Tool to Share Your Vision and What You Know About Your Child- Britania Vazquez

12:55 pm - 1:00 pm: Closing