Wednesday, October 16, 2002
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Wednesday, October 16, 2002 |
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Joseph Sams School a 'model' site By CAROLYN
CARY
Mobility Opportunities Via Education, otherwise known as MOVE, is a new unique educational program designed to help people with disabilities learn skills needed for sitting, standing, and walking. This collaborative program utilizes the services and knowledge of parents, educators, therapists, and other support personnel to help the participant learn and practice skills while engaged in activities of daily living. The Joseph Sams School, Fayetteville, was designated as the Model Site for MOVE. Several staff members spent time in Bakersfield, Calif. learning the motor improvement programs that were designed for students with severe, multiple disabilities. MOVE uses wheel chairs, walkers, standers, and specialized chairs. The program strives to be educational rather than just involve therapy and to offer the highest degree of independence and dignity for the student involved. Linda Bidabe is the founder and creator of the MOVE program and curriculum. She has spent nearly 30 years in education, the majority of which have been in Special Education at the Kern County Superintendent of schools office in Bakersfield. Her goal is meaningful and functional movement in natural and everyday settings for children who are multiply disabled. She was on hand at the dedication ceremony at the Sams School and presented the charter designating the school as the Model Site in Georgia. Lana Carr, executive director at the school, was one of those attending classes in California. Accepting the charter on behalf of the faculty and students were Hope and Scott Blackstock, parents of student Justis Blackstock.
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