Each month BPDD features a different leader in Wisconsin living with a disability. “What’s the Word?” is an opportunity to hear directly from self-advocates about what’s important to them. This month’s column comes from self-advocate, Partners in Policymaking graduate and Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2020/2021 Martha Siravo! Keep reading for a preview of the article and click the button below to read the full thing!

“Is it in-person or virtual? We are all too familiar with this question since the COVID pandemic changed how we interact with each other. In particular, students and parents receiving Special Education services were forced to “adapt” to support educational needs within their homes. Making this sudden and unexpected switch exacerbated systemic inequities and challenged the true meanings of LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) and FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) as identified under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). “

If you or somebody you know would like to be featured in “What’s the Word?” contact Jeremy at jeremy.gundlach@wisconsin.gov.