FALL 2020 Guide to Distance Learning for Neurodiverse Students - Islands of Brilliance
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FALL 2020
Guide to Distance Learning for Neurodiverse Students
islandsofbrilliance.orgDistance Learning Skills Accelerator
Meeting Students Where They Are.
ACADEMY
Our switch to distance learning still provides the same Product-Based
Learning
Pre-
ETS
Apprentice instruction
student-centered approach with surprising new results. using scrum methodology
on Builder’s Paradise video game
Access determined by:
• Internet connectivity
FOUNDATION
It’s true, we miss seeing our students in person, • SEL competency
2D Visual Design, 3D Modeling,
Unity Coding, Animation
IEP
• Required hardware and software Ability-appropriate intake; 1:1 mentorship
but the growth, progress and connection • Ability to handle rigor with wrap around support; Affinity-based projects;
Ongoing assessment of skills—social and technical
we’ve witnessed over the past few months has
SANDBOX
Doodle Lounge, Smactivities, Natterdays, BBC
inspired us to build a robust suite of distance Greatest amount of access; Subscription-based; Facilitated by activity
appropriate levels which include Creative Lead,
learning programs that will enrich and serve Licensed Special Education oversight, and, where appropriate,
guidance from a Speech Pathologist SEL
students on the spectrum no matter where they
SEL = social and emotional learning competencies IEP = individualized education program
live. Our distance learning model features new, Pre-ETS = pre-employment transition services
Adam shows off his creativity that manifests
itself in both traditional and digital media as well as much loved programming options,
from his home “studio.”
offered with increased frequency and access.
Our new concierge approach to meeting
Now, your child can experience the wonder of IOB almost daily from the conve- learning objectives and reaching life goals.
nience of their own home. Our students are thriving in the comfort of their personal Navigating your child’s needs and the options that will meet them can be challenging and,
learning space, as demonstrated by increased engagement and participation in at times, overwhelming. We understand the many questions on your mind, and very likely,
workshops. Not only that, they have the motivation and passion to continue learning have answered most of them. And if you come to us with a new question or concern,
and working long after the scheduled sessions have ended. And they’ve fostered a rest assured we will do our very best to find the answer and support you. Why? Because,
buzzing online community where they’re building relationships and establishing a just as we’ve seen students living with autism thrive when they work one-on-one with
sense of belonging. mentors, we’ve seen parents and caregivers breathe a sigh of relief when we help guide
them to the right solutions for their child. We call it our concierge approach. The Educa-
Our distance learning suite features three layers of programming, all of which provide
tion Team works individually with families, asking a series of questions to develop a full
guidance and support for social and emotional learning competencies, including
understanding of your child’s current situation and unique needs and interests, as well
relationship skills, self-management, social awareness and more.
as the learning objectives you’ve identified for them at school and your vision for their
While a lot is different these days, our core approach future. With all this in mind, the team provides a learning path recommendation that is
remains the same. We’re still capitalizing on your in alignment with IEP goals, can be integrated into transition plans, if needed, and may
child’s own unique interests to teach them valuable potentially qualify for pre-employment transition services. It’s just one more way we’re
technical skills. And we’re still delivering that training delivering our student-centered approach.
through screens!
Margaret Fairbanks To schedule a concierge meeting with our Education Team,
Chief Education Officer
please reach out to connect@islandsofbrilliance.org
islandsofbrilliance.orgProfiles in Distance Learning Mireya
The shift to our online distance learning model in March 2020 brought many changes, Age 13 - Satellite Beach, FL
but one thing remains the same—our students are thriving. These profiles offer just a few New to IOB, Mireya’s participation in Doodle Lounge, as well as
examples of how families are using programming to enrich their children’s experiences. our Autism, Art & Animals Foundation Workshop has unlocked her
passion and desire to create! Eager to practice all she’s learned, she now needs to be
Shayne encouraged to step away from her iPad every once in a while as she prefers to spend
Age 18 - Milwaukee, WI
hours in Procreate, focused on improving her digital illustration skills. Mireya has been
A long-time IOB student, Shayne taps into his love of art and technology a welcome addition to the Doodle Lounge, bringing with her a contagious energy and
in every layer of programming - from Doodle Lounge and Brilliant
enthusiasm for illustration, as well as a natural ability to understand and encourage her
Breakfast Club to our more rigorous Digital Academy program where he is honing his 3D
fellow Doodle Lounge participants.
modeling skills. He finds joy, connection and meaning in all of the programs, whether he’s
Mireya’s IOB Resume: Foundation Photoshop and Illustrator
sketching with pencil and paper or learning the complexities of 3DS Max. Shayne made a
smooth transition to the online environment and, in many ways it’s been transformational, Doodle Lounge
giving him not only consistency, but greater access to opportunities. The vocational skills
he’s learned in Digital Academy have inspired Shayne to enroll in technical college.
Shayne’s IOB Resume: Digital Academy - 3D Modeling Track
Foundation Photoshop and Illustrator Lenny
Doodle Lounge; Brilliant Breakfast Club Age 17 - Pompano Beach, FL
Our distance learning model has made IOB accessible to Lenny whose parents have
been searching for years for programming that capitalizes on his keen interest in
Aaron architecture. The online platform made it possible to connect him to a long-time IOB
Age 11 - Franklin, WI mentor and graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s School of Architecture
Aaron has been a regular at IOB in-person workshops for the past who currently resides in Las Vegas. Together, Lenny and his mentor used SketchUp to
four years and has shown tremendous growth during that time in his work through the basics of 3D modeling during a recent Foundation Workshop—a true
independence and flexibility. As a distance learner, he quickly took to the online environment, representation of our student-centered approach. Lenny also participates regularly in
participating in Foundation Workshops and Doodle Lounge, which his family uses as an
Doodle Lounge, creating remarkably precise sketches while connecting with participants
incentive during the school year for completing his assigned class work. Aaron’s partici-
from across the country. He invites you to find out more about him by following him on
pation in Doodle Lounge has inspired him to take his drawing to the next level, moving
his YouTube channel: LennyA03.
from initial sketches to refining artwork in Adobe Photoshop. Increased access to IOB
programming has helped grow his confidence in his technical skills, as well as fueled his Lenny’s IOB Resume: Foundation 3D Modeling
desire to work independently. Doodle Lounge
Aaron’s IOB Resume: Foundation Photoshop and Illustrator
Foundation 3D Modeling; Foundation Coding and Game Design
Doodle Lounge; Smactivities
For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comSandbox Programming
Our most frequent and accessible options, Sandbox Programs “I like how I get to talk with my friends in Doodle Lounge
provide a safe, supportive and collaborative environment for and do something I like which is drawing.”
—Makenzie, Age 18
your child to learn, create, and connect.
Doodle Lounge Smactivities
Whether it’s pencil and paper or full-scale Photoshop, Doodle Lounge Smactivities—or more formally, Subject Matter Activities—are 50-minute,
allows participants to meet daily to draw, create, and share artwork via topic-based live video chat sessions that offer students on the spectrum
Zoom. Give your child a safe, supported environment to explore their the chance to dig into a particular topic while engaging in STEaM-based
creativity and interests alongside other students on the spectrum and projects and activities. A subject matter expert will lead your child through
our Doodle Guides. Participants can drop in to create, connect, and collaborate together. an activity as they create alongside peers in a safe, supported environment under the
Students are encouraged to use whatever materials and technology are available to guidance of special education professionals. Pet hats…superheroes and alter egos…
them. Join us all month long with your monthly subscription. cartoons…tiny towns. We’ll provide the subject matter inspiration and creative direction,
Monday–Thursday, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+ your child will add their own unique spin.
Doodle Lounge monthly subscription: $50 Second and fourth Friday of each month, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
Individual sessions: $25
Natterdays Question of the Day
Natter-what?! Natter. Days. We know our students love certain topics Get a taste of the IOB experience through our weekly episode featuring
and could spend hours a day chattering away about their favorite a favorite element of our workshops: the question of the day. Each video
things. Natterdays uses storytelling to help students build confidence encourages viewers to answer the day’s question in a unique and creative
during these 50-minute conversations guided by a master storyteller! Your child can way. Videos are posted weekly on Islands of Brilliance YouTube and Facebook channels.
practice integrating their interests into conversation using a storytelling format while Engage with our community when you share your answers on Facebook or Instagram.
connecting with and learning from peers in a safe, supported environment. Conversations
are designed and overseen by licensed special education professionals and facilitated by
community subject matter experts.
First and third Friday of each month, 3:30–4:20 p.m. CST, Ages 8+
Individual sessions: $25 Posted on YouTube and Facebook every Saturday morning
at 9:00am CST beginning September 12th; Ages 6+
FREE
islandsofbrilliance.org For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comFoundation Programming
1:1 mentorship, technical software instruction, and guidance
on social and emotional development are the hallmarks of our
Foundation Programming, which requires specific hardware
and software for participation.
Foundation 3D Modeling
Foundation Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator
Now your child’s creativity can go beyond two dimensions with an intro-
Imagine your child’s own unique interests taking shape through digital
duction to 3D modeling. Students will work one on one with a mentor
painting, illustration, and graphic design. It’s possible when they work one-
online via Zoom over the course of a six-week session to learn the basics
on-one with a mentor online via Zoom over the course of a six-week session
of the craft used in many industries, including gaming, architecture, movie production,
to explore the basics of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will be introduced to
engineering, and commercial advertising. Week one (tech week) will provide an introduction
their mentor and technical aspects of the program during week one (tech week), then
to their mentor and an overview of the technical aspects of the program. The remaining
spend the next five weeks learning, collaborating, and creating alongside their mentor.
five weeks will feature software instruction (in SketchUp, 3DS Max or Blender), collaboration,
The final week culminates with an in-class presentation and celebration of their work. All
and creation alongside their mentor. The final week culminates with an in-class presentation
participants will receive a 18” x 24” printed poster of their creation.
and celebration of their work. All participants will have projects published to SketchFab,
Thursdays: 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Sept 10–Oct 15, Ages 8+
Saturdays: 10:00–11:15 a.m. CST, Oct 3–Nov 7, Ages 8+ the largest online platform for publishing and sourcing 3D models. Foundation 3D Modeling
Thursdays: 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Nov 5–Dec 17 (no class 11/26), Ages 8+ will be offered in tandem with Foundation Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator—3D spots
Tuition: $300
are limited.
Saturdays: 10:00–11:15 a.m. CST, Oct 3–Nov 7, Ages 10+
Tuition: $300
Foundation Design - Monster Mash!
Zombies. Wolfman. Dracula. This workshop’s bound to be a graveyard
smash. Students will work one on one with a mentor online via Zoom over
the course of the week to create the creepiest, spookiest, most terrifying Private 1:1 Mentoring Sessions
monster their imaginations can muster. Participants can choose to use Adobe Photoshop Private mentoring sessions are available for students interested in
and Illustrator or opt for 3D Modeling (space for 3D participants will be limited and will acquiring new skills or fine tuning those that they’ve acquired in Foundation
fill up fast). The final day culminates with an in-class presentation and celebration of their classes. Curriculum and projects are tailored to student needs and goals. 60-minute
work. All participants will receive either a 18” x 24” printed poster of their creation or sessions can be scheduled to accommodate student and mentor availability. Limited
have their project published to SketchFab, the largest online platform for publishing and sessions are available.
sourcing 3D models. To inquire about private sessions, email connect@islandsofbrilliance.org
Friday, Oct. 23, Monday–Friday, Oct 26–Oct 30, 4:45–6:00 p.m. CST, Ages 8+ Ages 10+
Tuition: $300 Tuition: $75 per 1-hour session
For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comDigital Academy Community Support Programs
The most rigorous IOB program, Digital Academy provides Life can be hard to navigate, whether you’re living with autism or
apprentice-style instruction in a product-based learning someone who loves them, that’s why we offer two programs for
environment. adults that provide support and guidance for the journey.
Have you ever dreamt that your son or daughter’s love of all things Brilliant Breakfast Club
drawing, gaming, and coding could become a potential career? Well, Our older students are invited to grab their favorite tea or coffee
that dream could be closer to reality with our Digital Academy (DA), beverage and hang out with us on Friday mornings! These weekly live
that utilizes evidence-based practices in the areas of learning, social video chats are tailored for young adults 18+ interested in an online
emotional learning, and transition to equip candidates with the skills necessary to access social experience and peer discussion designed to foster pathways toward independence.
post-secondary education and/or employment in design and tech-related fields. Discussion will touch on daily living skills including health and nutrition, finances, job
searches, community engagement, and more. Facilitated by special education professionals
Students collaborate with industry professionals as mentors and peer team members in
and interns, participants have the opportunity to meet up virtually with their peers and
one of three tracks as they learn the technical skills needed to build the assets and develop
grow together by building a community of mutual support.
the framework for “Builder’s Paradise,” a unique and proprietary video game:
Fridays, 10:00–11:00 a.m. CST, Ages 18+
3D Art Track: focuses on how to 3D model, UV map, and texture game-ready Tuition: $135 per month
assets using software such as 3DS Max, Substance Painter, and Unity
Unity Coding Track: provides instruction on the basic principles of C# programming Lighthouse
using software such as Unity, Visual Studio, and Github Do you sometimes feel like you’re on an Island? Do you take comfort in
2D Art/User Experience (UX) Track: focuses on how to create concept art and hearing from parents facing similar challenges? Parents and caregivers
user-interface assets, how to setup and create artwork files, and create wireframes are invited to join this weekly one-hour moderated video chat session
and user flows in software such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, XD, and that provides connection, conversation, and community support in a safe, respectful
SketchApp environment. Discussion topics vary weekly. Come to contribute or just listen in!
Wednesdays, 9:00–10:00 p.m. CST, parents & caregivers
Emphasis on the development of soft skills, including self-awareness, social awareness, Free
and self-management skills accompany the technical product-based learning approach.
Weekday evenings - days and times vary by track, Ages 14+ Serving the need coast to coast
Tuition: $1,000 per trimester Prior to March 2020, IOB’s unique, student-centered approach
was only available in Southeastern Wisconsin. Now, through
*Prerequisites are required for participation in Digital Academy; distance learning, students on the spectrum across the country
inquiries for the application process should be directed to have access and are able to connect with us regularly.
connect@islandsofbrilliance.org
islandsofbrilliance.org For additional information on workshop schedules and to register, visit: islandsofbrilliance.eventbrite.comWhether you’re looking for after-school extracurricular enrichment or curriculum to meet
Fall 2020 Calendar academic and social goals while schooling at home, we’ve got plenty of options to meet a
range of scheduling needs.
September September M T MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS F S
31 1 31 2 13 24 35 47 5 8 79 8 10 9 11 1012 1114 1215 1416 1517 1618 1719 1821 1922 2123 2224 2325 2426 2528 2629 2830 29 1 30 2 13 2 3
ProgrammingProgramming
Doodle Lounge Doodle Lounge H H
Natterdays Natterdays O O
Smactivities Smactivities L L
Foundation -Foundation
Photoshop -&Photoshop
Illustrator& Illustrator I I
Foundation -Foundation
3D Modeling - 3D Modeling D D
Foundation -Foundation
Monster Mash- Monster Mash A A
Digital Academy
Digital Academy Y Y
Brilliant Breakfast
Brilliant
Club
Breakfast Club
Lighthouse Lighthouse
Question of Question
the Day of the Day
October October M T MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS F S
28 29 2830 29 1 30 2 13 25 3 6 57 68 79 8 10 9 12 1013 1214 1315 1416 1517 1619 1720 1921 2022 2123 2224 2326 2427 2628 2729 2830 2931 30 31
ProgrammingProgramming
Doodle Lounge Doodle Lounge
Natterdays Natterdays
Smactivities Smactivities
Foundation -Foundation
Photoshop -&Photoshop
Illustrator& Illustrator
Foundation -Foundation
3D Modeling - 3D Modeling
Foundation -Foundation
Monster Mash- Monster Mash
Digital Academy
Digital Academy
Brilliant Breakfast
Brilliant
Club
Breakfast Club
Lighthouse Lighthouse
Question of Question
the Day of the Day
November November M T MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS F S
2 3 24 35 46 57 69 7 10 9 11 1012 1113 1214 1316 1417 1618 1719 1820 1921 2023 2124 2325 2426 2527 2628 2730 28 1 30 2 13 24 35 4 5
ProgrammingProgramming
Doodle Lounge Doodle Lounge
Natterdays Natterdays
Smactivities Smactivities
Foundation -Foundation
Photoshop -&Photoshop
Illustrator& Illustrator
Foundation -Foundation
3D Modeling - 3D Modeling
ThanksgivingThanksgiving
Week - No programming
Week - No programming
Foundation -Foundation
Monster Mash- Monster Mash
Digital Academy
Digital Academy
Brilliant Breakfast
BrilliantClub
Breakfast Club
Lighthouse Lighthouse
Question of Question
the Day of the Day
December December M T MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS FM ST MW TR WF RS F S
30 1 30 2 13 24 35 47 5 8 79 8 10 9 11 1012 1114 1215 1416 1517 1618 1719 1821 1922 2123 2224 2325 2426 2528 2629 2830 2931 30 1 31 2 1 2
ProgrammingProgramming
Doodle Lounge Doodle Lounge
Natterdays Natterdays
Smactivities Smactivities
Foundation -Foundation
Photoshop -&Photoshop
Illustrator& Illustrator
Foundation -Foundation
3D Modeling - 3D Modeling
Winter BreakWinter
- No programming
Break - No programming
Foundation -Foundation
Monster Mash- Monster Mash
Digital Academy
Digital Academy Waiver, IRIS
Brilliant Breakfast
Brilliant
Club
Breakfast Club
Lighthouse Lighthouse
Question of Question
the Day of the DayIslands Of Brilliance Team Community Support & Funding Options
Islands of Brilliance has a small, but mighty team that is passionate about our mission and Islands of Brilliance offers student-centered workshops and programs in a safe, secure
dedicated to providing families with the highest-quality distance learning experience available. online environment. In many cases, federal, state, and county funding, including self-
directed and CLTS waiver funds, can be used to pay for programming. IOB currently has
students using waiver, Children’s Community Options Programming (CCOP) and Wisconsin’s
Include, Respect, I Self-Direct (IRIS) funding to participate.
Funding approval can be contingent upon location and is case specific (workshop
Mark Fairbanks Margaret Fairbanks Courtney Rogaczewski Amy Mason curriculum must align with the goals outlined in the participant’s individual plan). Families
Co-founder, Co-founder, Director of Operations Director of Integrated
Chief Innovation Officer Chief Education Officer Learning MUST consult with their case manager to confirm funding eligibility and approval prior to
participation. Authorizations are required for programming using waiver funds.
For questions related to community support and funding, please contact Chief Education
Officer Margaret Fairbanks at margaret@islandsofbrilliance.org.
Matt Juzenas Christina DeCheck Michelle Pape Stephanie Phillips
Director of Director of Director of Special Education
Educational Content Programs Development Support
Forget everything
Charlie Fairbanks Lillie Sheridan Natalie Derr you know about
Creative/Technology Art Educator in Student Artist in
Support Residence (UWM) Residence (UWM) virtual fundraising events.
Our team is joined by the following education partners who work closely with staff and Because this November,
students to ensure their needs and goals are being met. we’re taking you
to an island.
SAVE THE DATE!
Jeff Fleetwood Hector Borges
Foresight VR Foresight VR Saturday, November 21, 2020NONPROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
P.O. Box 774 PAID
Milwaukee, WI 53201
MADISON WI
PERMIT NO 2939
Islands of Brilliance
Provides Distance
Learning and Social
Engagement Programming
for Youth and Young
Adults Living with Autism.
Through our person-centered approach, our
neurodiverse students’ individual interests
and capabilities are allowed to flourish. Art,
design, and STEM-based curriculum helps
children and young adults on the autism
spectrum learn valuable technical skills, while
practicing critical social and emotional learning
islandsofbrilliance.org competencies in a supported environment.You can also read
