SENS Newsletter March 2025

MARCH 2025

VOLUME 5

SENS NEWS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE About SENS Greetings from the Minister of Education Director’s Corner: Meet Mrs. Margaret Missick

HIGHLIGHTS: Speech Camp in Providenciales Audiology Assessments Kick for Inclusion Teacher Training Initiative Clinician’s Corner Article: Building Bridges: Parent Support

Spotlight on Down Syndrome Lots of Socks Campaign Calendar of Events | Referral Process for SENS

sens@gov.tc

About the Department of Special Education Needs Services.

The Special Education Needs Services (SENS) Department is the first of its kind in the Turks and Caicos Islands, dedicated to enhancing support, resources, and opportunities for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities. As a division of the Ministry of Education, SENS is committed to inclusive education, early intervention, and specialized services that empower children and families.

Through comprehensive assessments, interventions, and therapy services, including speech and behavioral therapy, SENS ensures that children receive the support they need to succeed. The department also focuses on educator training and public awareness initiatives, working to create a more inclusive and accessible education system. By collaborating with local and international partners, SENS continues to expand its reach, strengthen its programs, and advocate for individuals with special needs.

At its core, SENS believes that every child has the right to learn, grow, and thrive in an environment tailored to their unique needs. The department remains dedicated to building a more inclusive Turks and Caicos Islands— one step at a time.

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

It brings me great pride to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Special Education Needs Services (SENS) Department on the release of their fifth newsletter—and the first edition for 2025.

As we reflect on the journey from the official launch of the department to where we stand today, I am deeply encouraged by the passion, progress, and commitment that has fueled this important work. In less than a year, the SENS Department has not only taken root but has blossomed into a vital pillar of support for some of the most vulnerable and gifted learners across our islands.

From expanding therapeutic services and assessments, to hosting island-wide events that promote inclusion and awareness, this team continues to rise to the challenge with excellence and heart.

Rachel M. Taylor Minister of Education, Youth, Sports & Culture

This newsletter continues to serve as a powerful platform to celebrate milestones, share knowledge, and keep our community informed and engaged. I commend the Director and the entire team for their vision and tireless dedication to ensuring that every child—regardless of ability—has access to the support they need to thrive.

As we move into 2025, I remain committed to supporting the growth and sustainability of this department. Let us continue this upward journey together, championing a more inclusive and empowering education system for all.

This quarter marks a significant milestone as we proudly celebrates one year of service, advocacy, and progress in special education across the Turks and Caicos Islands. Over the past year, we have worked tirelessly to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with special needs, ensuring they have access to the resources and interventions necessary to thrive.

Hundreds of children have benefited from behavioral therapy, speech and language interventions, and psychoeducational assessments, helping them reach their full potential. Through key partnerships with local and international experts, SENS has also expanded its reach, enhancing training opportunities for educators and strengthening special education support across the country.

The journey has not been without challenges, but with dedication, innovation, and collaboration, we have surpassed expectations. By prioritizing data-driven decision-making, prudent financial management, and strategic advocacy, SENS continues to grow, adapt, and improve the quality of services offered to students and families.

As we celebrate this one-year anniversary, we extend our deepest gratitude to teachers, parents, stakeholders, and community members who have supported our mission. Their commitment has been instrumental in shaping a strong foundation for the future of special education in TCI.

Dr. Anya Malcolm - Gibbs Director of Special Education Needs Services

The first year was just the beginning. The best is yet to come! sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

JAN - MARCH EDITION

Director’s Corner:

Meet Mrs. Margaret Missick Administrative Officer

Mrs. Margaret Forbes-Missick is a dedicated Administrative Officer with the Ministry of Education. In her role, she ensures the smooth operation of daily administrative functions, providing vital support that underpins the department’s success.

With extensive experience in office management, Mrs. Forbes-Missick handles tasks such as scheduling, document management, and correspondence with precision and care. She completed an Associate Degree in Human Resource Management, earned a certificate in Administrative Management, and obtained a Record and Information Management certificate, all of which have equipped her with a robust foundation in administrative principles and resource management.

A key aspect of her role involves working closely with the Department of Special Education Needs Services.

By supporting this specialized department, she contributes to the creation of an inclusive and effective administrative framework, ensuring that tailored services and resources are efficiently coordinated.

Mrs. Forbes-Missick excels at streamlining administrative workflows, helping her team meet deadlines while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism. Her commitment to efficiency enhances the operational capabilities of both her immediate team and the broader ministry.

Collaboration is central to her work ethos. She consistently works with colleagues across various units, including the Department of Special Education Needs, fostering open communication and a teamoriented environment that drives collective success.

Her ability to adapt to new challenges is evident in the way she supports her team through evolving administrative demands. By working closely with specialized departments, she helps devise creative solutions that address both routine tasks and unique operational challenges.

Looking ahead, Mrs. Forbes-Missick remains committed to advancing administrative excellence within the Ministry of Education. She eagerly embraces opportunities for professional growth while continuously contributing to the success and innovation of her department and its specialized programs.

sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

SPECIAL SPEECH CAMP IN PROVIDENCIALES In January, the SENS team welcomed a team of 10 dedicated volunteers from Illinois State University’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders through the Therapy Abroad program. Throughout their visit, the team made a significant impact, conducting 45 speech assessments and providing invaluable support to private and public schools and students.

The visiting team worked with the SNAP Center, Preparing Little Minds, Tumble Tots, Thelma Lightbourne Primary, and Ianthe Pratt Primary schools during the week. Their efforts included one-on-one speech assessments, group speech therapy sessions with students, and collaborative meetings with teachers to provide insights and strategies to assist children with speech delays and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

SENS NEWS

JAN - MARCH EDITION

AUDIOLOGY ASSESSMENTS This quarter, the SENS department hosted it’s annual audiology assessments. A team of 10 audiologists conducted hearing screenings from 31st March to 3rd April across the four major islands in the Turks and Caicos. This important initiative, in partnership with Hearing the Call and the 1 World Foundation, provided critical hearing screenings and hearing aids to individuals in need—especially youth—underscoring our national commitment to early identification and intervention.

This visit, a total of 158 individuals were screened, including 85 youth under the age of 21. Several individuals were also outfitted with hearing aids, ensuring greater access to education, communication, and quality of life. These assessments form a vital part of our department's broader strategy to provide equitable, timely interventions for children with special educational needs.

sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

The Kick for Inclusion initiative brought together over 85 enthusiastic students from schools across Providenciales for an exciting day of soccer, camaraderie, and empowerment.

Participating schools included Enid Capron Primary, A. Louise Garland High, Thelma Lightbourne Primary, Oseta Jolly Primary, Ianthe Pratt Primary, SNAP Centre, Ashley's Learning Centre, Richmond Hill Preparatory, and Preparing Little Minds. The event featured fun-filled football activities, interactive team-building exercises, and engaging drills led by trained educators and coaches who worked closely with the students to ensure a meaningful and enjoyable experience for all. Parents, teachers, and supporters were also in attendance, reinforcing the community’s dedication to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for children with special needs.

Special recognition goes to our esteemed sponsors: Seven Stars Resort, Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, TDMG Construction Company, Let's Move TCI, and The Patty Place, whose generosity helped bring this event to fruition. The festival organizers also express gratitude to Technical Director of TCI Football Association, Mr. Dane Ritchie, and his team who were instrumental in the event’s success.

REMINDER

sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

JAN - MARCH EDITION

SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER TRAINING This quarter, the SENS department in collaboration with the Department of Education, hosted an intensive Special Education Teacher Training. This initiative brought together special education teachers from public and private schools from across the islands, equipping them with essential skills and strategies to better support students with diverse learning needs.

The workshop, led by SENS Behavioral Analyst, Christina Joseph, Speech-Language Pathologists, Jamiliya Jordan, and Caleb Hunter (Intern through Therapy Abroad), focused on evidence-based practices in communication development, behavior management, and classroom interventions tailored for students with special needs.

Teachers gained hands-on experience in developing individualized support strategies, improving engagement techniques, and fostering inclusive learning environments.The training is part of the department’s ongoing efforts to enhance capacitybuilding within schools and strengthen collaborative efforts between educators and clinicians. .

sens@gov.tc

SEN Teachers at the conference with the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Education - Mr. Amin McCartney.

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

CLINICIAN’S INSIGHT AM I IN GRIEF? UNDERSTANDING THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY OF PARENTING A CHILD WITH COMMUNICATION CHALLENGES

By Jamiliya Jordan SPEECH/LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST & Caleb Hunter SPEECH/LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST/THERAPY ABROAD When a significant challenge or change is introduced into our lives, we all respond in some way. In counseling practice, a commonly encountered response is grief which has five stages: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance. Here are some realities, myths, and questions about the grieving process as it relates to a child’s communication challenges or diagnosis.

SOMETHING TO KEEP IN MIND ● Myth: A diagnosis of a disorder is permanent, negative, and means your child is stuck with a condition that will never change; Reality: Your child will continue to grow, change, and develop with their own unique strengths, challenges, and identity.

Denial

● Myth: You won’t have to go through a journey of grief if your child is not recognized or labeled as different; Reality: Each parent must walk through a journey to acceptance that varies in length, cycles, and may occur more than once for the same challenge.

Anger

● Myth: Finding an excuse or place to put blame will provide a path forward for your child; Reality: Focus on what will make success possible provides the maximum benefit for your child.

Bargaining

● Myth: A true expert can “fix” or “cure” you child’s challenges quickly; Reality:Setting realistic expectations can guard against false hope, undue burdens on your child, and allow focus to reside in the process of taking steps forward great and small.

Depression

● Myth: There is no longer anything to celebrate or reason to emotionally invest now that your child is diagnosed; Reality: Knowing that your child has specific communication challenges opens the way to specialized support and knowledge about what makes your child who they are.

JOURNEY TO ACCEPTANCE Questions and concerns: ○ Will my child be cared for their entire life? ○ How do I help my household and relatives understand this situation? ○ Will other people at work, church, and in my community understand our differences? ○ How am I going to find the money to support my child? ○ Will I have the stamina to always be there for my child?

While a therapy service provider may not be able to supply perfect answers, seeking support that is individualized to your child and family’s circumstances begins the process essential to finding effective solutions.

Here are some suggested places to start: ○ Get educated on the diagnosis or challenge you and your child face, find the means available for support and take FULL advantage of them! ○ Focus on positive and subtle change even if it is a baby step. ○ Find and draw close to community that understands and empathizes with you. ○ Don’t forget that you need support too, care for yourself so you can care for your child.

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

Building Bridges Autism Parent Support SENS COORDINATOR OF ASSESSMENTS

LASHAUNDA SKIPPINGS

Understanding Autism Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior.

Every child with autism is unique, with their own strengths and challenges.

Early intervention is key to helping your child thrive.

Moving from Denial to Acceptance

It’s natural to experience a range of emotions when learning about your child’s diagnosis. Denial is a common reaction, but acceptance allows you to focus on the best ways to support your child’s development. Here are some steps to help with this transition: Take Your Time – Allow yourself to process your emotions.

Educate Yourself – Learn about autism from reputable sources.

Seek Support – Connect with other parents and professionals who understand your journey.

Celebrate Your Child – Recognize and appreciate their unique abilities and progress.

Practical Steps to Support Your Child Create a Routine – Predictability helps children with autism feel safe and secure.

Use Visual Aids – Picture schedules, charts, and social stories can improve communication.

Encourage Communication – Whether through speech, gestures, or assistive technology, support your child’s efforts to express themselves.

Be Patient and Consistent – Progress takes time, but with persistence, your child can achieve milestones.

Seek Professional Guidance – Our department is here to provide strategies and encouragement tailored to your child’s needs.

Thank you for being a champion for your child’s growth and development.

We believe in their potential and are here to support you every step of the way. sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

SENS NEWS

JAN - MARCH EDITION

SPOTLIGHT ON DOWN SYNDROME AWARENESS

This quarter, in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness, we shine a light on Khashanti Smith, a warm and lovely student of the SNAP Center.

Khashanti brightens the classroom with her beautiful smile, She approaches every lesson with dedication, paying close attention until she masters it. Whether it’s her classwork or life skills lessons, Khashanti gives her best and she especially loves braiding and nail polishing - embracing her inner beauty goddess with style and grace!

Her progress in money literacy has been inspiring. During the shopping classes at IGA, she amazed everyone by shopping and scanning her items independently - proving that nothing can limit her abilities. Khashanti’s determination, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn shows that she is more ready to thrive in the community. With just a little guidance, she will be able to work and sustain her daily living like anyone else.

We are incredibly proud of Khashanti and celebrate her journey towards independence. sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

OTS OF S CKS CAMPAIGN

The Lots of Socks Campaign is a global initiative used to raise awareness and show support for individuals with Down Syndrome on March 21st, which is World Down Syndrome Day. The campaign encourages people around the world to wear bright, colorful, mismatched socks as a fun and visible way to celebrate diversity and promote inclusion.

In the Turks and Caicos Islands, we proudly participated in this campaign. Schools, government offices, community organizations, and the wider public joined in by wearing their wildest socks, sharing photos, and sparking conversations about Down Syndrome.

sens@gov.tc

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

SENS NEWS VOLUME 5

SENS NEWS UPCOMING EVENTS

SPECIAL DAYS

April - Autism Awareness “Rainbow Walk” Tour

April 2nd - Autism Awareness Day

June - SNAP Center Prizegiving Ceremony NOV. - Special Needs Awareness Month of Activities

sens@gov.tc

Sept. 23rd - International Day of Sign Languages Oct. 6th - World Cerebral Palsy Day Dec. 3rd - International Day of Persons with Disabilities

@sens_tci