The 2024 Zarrow Summer Institute will cover indicators 1, 2, 13, and 14, and themes such as improving graduation rates and decreasing drop-out rates. Workshop sessions will be conducted via Zoom.
Session Dates
Session 1: June 11th
Session 2: June 18th
Session 3: June 25th
Session 4: July 9th
Session 5: July 16th
Session 6: July 23rd
Registration Costs
$100- Early Bird Registration (November 1, 2023 - May 1, 2024)
$120- Standard Registration
Register today: https://ZSI2024.eventbrite.com
Improving Student Outcomes & IEP Compliance through Assessment & Evaluation
Assessing and evaluating students with disabilities effectively not only improves students’ postsecondary outcomes but also improves the compliance of students’ IEPs and transition plans. In this session, participants will explore transition assessment tools and will learn how to effectively interpret and evaluate assessment results to construct quality and compliant transition goals. Participants will also discover resources and materials to improve students’ academic and transition skills based on their assessment results.
Stepping-Up Transition
This session will focus on creating compliant and quality transition plans using transition assessment results—thinking beyond Indicator 13. A graphic framework called “Stepping Up Transition” is used to guide the presentation and show how the transition assessment results build different components of the transition plan. The presenter will explain how each transition plan component can be transformed from compliant to quality. Lastly, the presentation will provide examples of quality transition plan components including postsecondary goals, annual transition goals, transition services, and present levels statements.
Understanding Disability Narratives
In this session, we will explore how disability has been portrayed and understood in history, public policy, and media, and discuss how these perspectives overlap to shape diverse experiences. Through this exploration, we'll uncover how various facets of identity intersect with disability, influencing individuals' lived realities. Together, we will apply this knowledge to brainstorm actionable strategies that foster inclusion and equity in both public and educational settings, empowering us to create truly inclusive learning environments.
Diverse Pathways: Tailored Transition Assessment & Services for SWSSN
Students with Significant Support Needs (SWSSN) include those with significant challenges in one or more of the following areas: multiple disabilities, severe or profound disabilities, medical conditions, cognitive challenges, behavioral challenges, sensory impairments, social and emotional difficulties, or complex communication needs. Due to these needs, it is essential that professionals involve students in transition assessments to the greatest extent possible and involve a variety of stakeholders who interact with the student regularly. Involving the student and their stakeholders in transition assessments can provide valuable information to develop a SPIN statement and transition services for SWSSN.
Planning Effectively for Emotional Behavioral Disorder & Mental Health Support
The number of students who are diagnosed with EBD or other mental health needs increases each year. These students require unique supports as part of their transition plan in order to be successful post-graduation. In this session, participants will explore EBD/common mental health diagnoses and how these may present in different students. Participants will also explore methods for balancing the teaching of independent living and “soft” skills with appropriately supporting the mental health needs of students.
Comprehensive Sexuality Education for Individuals with Disabilities
This session includes an exploration of national policies alongside an introduction to research-backed curricula designed to facilitate effective and supportive instruction tailored for individuals with disabilities. By delving into the crucial benefits outlined by research and best practices for inclusive language, this presentation will outline the significance of comprehensive instruction in healthy relationships. In addition to the benefit, the potential risk associated with the absence of explicit guidance in these areas will be discussed.
Our knowledgeable and dedicated team will guide your teachers through a scaffolded-approach to transition planning, enabling them to create compliant and quality transition plans while also promoting positive postschool outcomes for students with disabilities.
Coaching Components
2 full days (16 hours total) of instruction via Zoom
Online learning platform via Canvas
Monthly 1-hour small-group sessions
Individualized support via email and 1-on-1 meetings
Information & Registration
Learn more about the variety of trainings the Zarrow Institute has to offer, including TAGG trainings and workshops, transition coaching, consultations, and more.
SPARK360° Applications
SPARK360° is an Autism Support Program for college students at OU, which launched in Fall 2023, emphasizing support, partnership, advocacy, resources, and knowledge. The program provides full-circle support for participating students through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.
Level Up Learning: Help Test the ATLAS Prototype!
Dr. Jaye Capretto, Dr. Jenny Sperling, and Gale Hann, MPH from the University of Oklahoma are developing an online educational video game about healthy relationships and dating that is co-designed with autistic youth. By engaging autistic youth in the development of this resource, we hope to empower them to actively contribute to their own learning tools, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance. We are currently recruiting participants ages 13-25 who identify as autistic to review our video game prototype and help shape the design! If you are interested in learning more, contact Jaye at jessica-cappreto@ouhsc.edu.
Healthy Relationships Resources
Our newly updated Healthy Relationships Resources document provides individuals of all ages with essential tools to build strong communication skills, set healthy boundaries, and foster meaningful connections. This collection includes engaging materials and discussion guides and now features a plain text version to enhance accessibility. Whether for educators, families, or individuals, these resources promote positive relationships and personal growth. Click the link below to view it on the Zarrow Institute's Teachers Pay Teachers page.
Level Up Learning: Help Test the ATLAS Prototype!
Dr. Jaye Capretto, Dr. Jenny Sperling, and Gale Hann, MPH from the University of Oklahoma are developing an online educational video game about healthy relationships and dating that is co-designed with autistic youth. By engaging autistic youth in the development of this resource, we hope to empower them to actively contribute to their own learning tools, fostering a sense of ownership and relevance. We are currently recruiting participants ages 13-25 who identify as autistic to review our video game prototype and help shape the design! If you are interested in learning more, contact Jaye at jessica-cappreto@ouhsc.edu.
TAGG-Middle School Field Testing
Participate in the next step of field testing for the TAGG-Middle School assessment for students with mild-to-moderate disabilities and receive $30 per completed assessment set. Learn more about the field testing on our website.
Introducing the Transition in Practice Journal: Read the First Issue and Submit Your Work!
We are thrilled to introduce the Transition in Practice Journal, a new platform dedicated to exploring the practical aspects of transition across sectors and disciplines. Our inaugural issue features insightful articles, case studies, and thought pieces that bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering actionable insights and real-world examples. Whether you're a practitioner, researcher, or simply curious about the field, the journal provides valuable tools and perspectives for navigating and implementing transitions effectively.
Additionally, we are now calling for submissions for future issues! If you have research or insights to share, we encourage you to contribute to this growing body of knowledge. Join us in advancing the conversation and making an impact in the field of transition.
The SPARK360 Autism Support program is accepting applications for the Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 SPARK360 cohorts! Spots will fill up quickly, so apply today.
Learn more and register to attend the Sooner Works Summer Academy:
Learn more and register to attend the Zarrow Summer Institute:
Learn more and register to attend the Sooner Works Summer Academy:
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Spring 2024 field test, please visit the Current Research page or contact Chris Sanford to sign up.
Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session
Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!
Goal Setting Puzzles
Check out our brand-new resource: a pack of goal-setting word puzzles
You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help introduce and reinforce goal-setting vocabulary!
SoonerWorks College Preview Day
The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.
Resources for Teaching Financial Literacy
Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked resources on financial literacy!
You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help teach students about money, budgets, and more.
Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session
Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!
SoonerWorks College Preview Day
The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.
ZSI at CEC 2024 Convention & Expo
We'll be at the 2024 Annual Council for Exceptional Children Convention and Expo in San Antonio! Come by our booth--we have swag and resources, and we'd love to meet you! We also have a presentation on Wednesday, March 13 from 1:00-2:30 PM: Deep Dive: Walk the Walk: Promoting Self-Determination through a Culturally Responsive Lens.
Resources Focused on Healthy Relationships
Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked resources on healthy relationships!
You don't want to miss out on these resources designed to help teach students about romance, healthy relationships, and intimacy.
Zarrow Summer Institute Information Session
Join us on April 2 at 5:30 PM Central to learn more about the amazing sessions planned for our 4th Annual Zarrow Summer Institute! Registration is free, and attendees are eligible to win door prizes (discount on registration)!
Leaders for Transition 2.0
Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.
Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.
SoonerWorks
The Sooner Works College Preview Day is open to high school students grades 9-12 and recent graduates with a documented intellectual or developmental disability who want to experience a day as an OU student in the Sooner Works program. Space is limited, and completion of the application does not guarantee registration.
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.
Resources for Spanish-Speaking Families
Be sure to download and share these resources for Spanish-speaking families:
Winter Movies for Teaching Self-Determination
Check out our brand-new resource: a list of handpicked winter-themed movies which feature self-determination and transition skills!
Don't miss the opportunity to combine the magic of cinema with the teaching of these essential life skills.
Leaders for Transition 2
Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.
Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.
SoonerWorks
Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.
At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.
Program applications are due February 1, 2024, and applications for early admission consideration are due December 1, 2023. Learn more about the application process on the Sooner Works page.
Spark 360º
Learn more about the "Full Circle Support" our SPARK360º program offers students with autism at the Univeristy of Oklahoma!
Interested?
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.
Transition in Practice Journal
Transition in Practice is a research-to-practice journal for special educators in transition and secondary education settings. Sign up for journal notifications or submit a manuscript for review!
Leaders for Transition 2
Leaders for Transition provides a unique, funded doctoral experience at the universities of Arkansas and Oklahoma seeking to be future assistant professors of Special Education or state/district Leaders focused on transition services for youth with disabilities and their families.
Learn more about the program and application process on our scholarship page.
SoonerWorks
Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.
At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.
Program applications are due February 1, 2024, and applications for early admission consideration are due December 1, 2023. Learn more about the application process on the Sooner Works page.
Spark 360º
Formerly IMPACT360º--same great program, awesome new name!
Our Autism Support Program is designed to support students with autism who are seeking an undergraduate degree in a STEM field* through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.
Interested?
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.
Study Participants Needed
If you are a certified K-12 instructor within an alternative or juvenile-justice setting, please take the survey below. For more information, please contact Wendy Mitchell.
Spark 360º
Formerly IMPACT360º--same great program, awesome new name!
Our Autism Support Program is designed to support autistic students seeking an undergraduate degree in a STEM field* through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.
Interested?
SoonerWorks Virtual Open House
Learn more about the Sooner Works program at one of our virtual informational sessions on Zoom.
At these sessions, you will meet the Sooner Works program staff, learn about all the opportunities OU and Sooner Works has to offer, and hear from current students in Sooner Works.
Sooner Works Event page
TAGG Lesson Plans
Searching for resources to teach TAGG constructs and transition skills? Check out our new lesson plans!
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit the Current Research page.
OU Unified Sports
We're excited to introduce the OU Unified Sports Club which promotes inclusion across the OU campus. Learn more about this exciting program by watching this video by students in the Sooner Works program!
Zarrow Institute at DCDT 2023
Join us October 18-21 in Reno for the DCDT International Conference. Zarrow Institute Scholars will be presenting 16 sessions out of the 250 exciting sessions! Stop by our booth to meet us and enter to win a free registration to ZSI 2024.
Oklahoma Transition Institute
18th Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute: Creating Connections
If you’re an educator, parent, advocate, or student, this event is for you! The Oklahoma Transition Council presents the 18th Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) November 14 -15, 2023. This year will be an all in-person event at the Glenpool Conference Center, 12205 S Yukon Avenue in Glenpool, Oklahoma.
TAGG Middle School Field Testing
For more information on TAGG-MS and the Fall 2023 field test, please visit our Current Research page.
Zarrow Institute Training Menu
Looking for specific training for your school, district, or state? The Zarrow Institute offers a variety of trainings! Check out our new Training Menu!
TAGG Workshops
Have questions about TAGG assessment, results, or website? Get your questions answered at one of our monthly workshops!
| Fall 2023 Workshop Dates | Spring 2024 Workshop Dates |
| September 11 | February 12 |
| October 10 | March 11 |
| November 13 | April 18 |
Morning sessions run from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Central.
Afternoon sessions run from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central.
New Bell Ringers: Intro to Transition
My IEP Quick Reference
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Beyond Cancer: Educational considerations during and after treatment for the child with cancer and their families. For questions or more information, please email Kerry Frank.
