Education Services
Education Advocates
Education Advocates receive referrals from probation officers to work with adolescents on probation who are experiencing a variety of educational challenges. Advocates provide services that focus on:
Helping students obtain school credit or complete their GED
Supporting regular and consistent school attendance
Supporting educational success
Advocating with parents for the student’s special or remedial education needs
Education Advocates work closely with the youth, their parents, probation officers, and educational community resources. They provide a wide range of services that include some specialized interventions that make a very positive difference for the kids they are helping.
Irlen Syndrome
Education Services provides a specific vision screening for kids because it can be a key factor affecting educational success. Irlen Syndrome, also known as Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, refers to the brain’s ability to process visual information. Helen Irlen, an educational psychologist, first identified this syndrome of light sensitivity which can impact:
Academic and work performance
Behavior, attention, and concentration
Ability to sit still
Vision screening identifies this syndrome; many of the children we work with need intervention in this area. Colored lenses glasses and colored overlays for reading are used to help the brain process visual information more effectively.
Structure of Intellect
Structure of Intellect (SOI) is a theory of intelligence developed by Dr. J. P. Guilford. The testing process assesses an individual’s receiving, processing, assimilation, storage and use of information being presented. A plan is developed to increase abilities, skills, and competencies to “brain build” – develop an individual’s ability to use information, make judgments, solve problems, and be creative. Many kids involved served by Education Advocates and Learning Specialists benefit from SOI remediation as an educational intervention.
Belgau Balance Board
Yet another creative tool we use is the Belgau Balance Board. This is used to improve balance, which in turns affects and supports attentiveness, focus, and learning.
Besides providing services for department clients, Marion County Juvenile Department is a community site for free workshops for any parent wanting to learn more about such things as Individualized Education Plans (IEP), disability accommodation, and educational support for parents. Participants don’t have to be involved with the department to attend these workshops, so give us a call if you want more information.
Education Services 503-566-2925
