Dyslexia laws change for early intervention useful gadgets, new playground and get inspired by these special artists. Also, we remember Jeffrey Friedman and his legacy.

DYSLEXIA SCREENING BECOMES LAW IN OHIO

By Georgia Lattas

The Right to Read Law” (Ohio House Bill 436) was signed into law for every school district in Ohio to screen kindergartens through third graders for dyslexia. It's a learning disorder, which involves difficulty reading due to problems identifying speech sounds and learning how they relate to letters and words, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fourth through sixth graders can also get screened for dyslexia if a parent or a teacher (with parent’s permission) requests it. The dyslexia screenings law will go in effect the 2023-24 school year (the new law was delayed a year from its original timing after it was passed.)

We asked, what does this mean for your child? What should you know about this law? Lacey Snoke, interim chief of communications and press secretary for the Ohio Department of Education, answers all these questions and more.

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHY IS DYSLEXIA A POINT OF INTEREST? WHY FOCUS ON DYSLEXIA?

SNOKE: “Growing research suggests that up to 1 in 5 students have characteristics of dyslexia, which can have long-lasting effects on their academic achievement and social-emotional development. Research also shows that if reading difficulties are identified and addressed early, students have a much greater chance of overcoming those problems and being successful. Nationally, there is a collective effort to understand the characteristics of dyslexia and the instructional practices that are most effective for students.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHAT SHOULD PARENTS KNOW ABOUT THIS LAW? HOW WILL IT IMPACT THEIR CHILD’S SCHOOL?

SNOKE: “Parents should know the screening process will help to identify students who are at risk for reading difficulties, including dyslexia, and to determine which specific reading skills students might need support. The screening process is not meant to diagnose dyslexia, but to support early identification of potential difficulties to prevent more reading problems as students get older. These laws will help schools and districts strengthen their reading instructional practices and services in several ways. K-3 teachers and intervention specialists will complete professional development training around the characteristics of dyslexia and instructional practices for students with, or at risk for, dyslexia. In addition, schools and districts will establish multidisciplinary teams, which will include someone with certification and expertise in dyslexia, to engage in the screening and intervention process.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHY ARE KINDERGARTENERS THROUGH THIRD GRADERS SCREENED?

SNOKE: “The goal of these laws, in accordance with other states’ dyslexia laws, is early identification to prevent later and more severe difficulties. Formal reading instruction begins in the early grades. Children who struggle learning to read in the early grades are at heightened risk to continue to struggle as they get older, and when academic demands are greater.

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WILL SCHOOLS BE RESPONSIBLE FOR SCREENING THEIR STUDENTS? HOW WILL THAT PROCESS WORK? IS THE SCREENING FREE?

SNOKE: “Yes, schools will conduct screenings. Schools will have to select a screener from a department-approved list and report results annually. Screening will be done at school and at no cost to families. If students are identified as being at risk from the initial screener, the school will monitor the student’s progress and response to instruction for up to 6 weeks, and possibly do a more in-depth screener later, if the student is still experiencing difficulties.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHAT HAPPENS IF A CHILD IS SUSPECTED OF HAVING DYSLEXIA BASED ON SCREENING?

SNOKE: “Students who continue to demonstrate reading difficulties will receive a second screener (called a tier 2 or intervention-based diagnostic assessment) so that further information about where the student needs specific support can be identified. The second screener can be used to guide instruction and intervention, as needed, using a structured literacy approach.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WILL ALL SCHOOLS HAVE TO SCREEN THEIR STUDENTS?

SNOKE: “The law applies to public schools, which include community (charter) schools. Ohio’s Dyslexia Support Laws do not apply to chartered nonpublic schools.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHAT ARE SIGNS OF DYSLEXIA?

SNOKE: “There are several resources available to support parents who may have concerns. Ohio’s Dyslexia Guidebook has a helpful list of behaviors and characteristics, across different age groups, that may indicate risk for dyslexia. The guidebook also contains a list of books, articles, podcasts and websites that may be helpful.”

LIVESPECIAL.COM: WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO PASS SUCH A LAW?

SNOKE: “Learning to read is a major milestone in a young child’s life and is fundamental for long-term success. However, for some children, the process of learning to read is extremely difficult and becomes a barrier to their academic and social-emotional development. Early identification of children who may experience reading difficulties is possible, and focused intervention and remediation efforts are effective for reducing negative long-term impacts.” Visit education.ohio.gov/Topics/Learningin-Ohio/Literacy/Dyslexia for resources.

ASSISTED TECHNOLOGY FOR HOME

ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUND OPENS AT CLAGUE PARK IN WESTLAKE

• LIFX Wi-Fi Bulbs do not require a separate hub but can be connected directly to home Wi-Fi. The bulbs can do shades of white light, as well as more than 16 million colors. LIFX has a variety of bulbs, including compact bulbs and ambient power strips to enhance the light in a room.

Prices range from $10 to $120, lifx.com

• Kwikset Halo Touch

Wi-Fi Enabled Smart

Door Lock with

Fingerprint Access

allows users to program up to 100 individual fingerprints, or 50 if using a fingerprint from each hand. Grant temporary access when needed. The lock has a 30-second auto-lock function if enabled.

The lock is available in two styles, contemporary or traditional, and in either a satin or nickel finish. $250, kwikset.com/halo-touch — Sid Blair, assistive technology specialist at Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities

The playground, located at 1500 Clague Road in Westlake, is roughly 20,000 square-feet and includes a large mound which provides access to an elevated entry platform leading to one of multiple play structures, including adaptive swings, sensory-friendly play, as well as access to the entrance of multiple slides. "The grounds are specifically designed to accommodate children with special needs, but all children are welcome to enjoy this amenity located adjacent to the Westlake Aquatic Center and Peterson Pool," according to the city's website.

Visit cityofwestlake.org for more information.

By Angela Gartner

Jeffrey Friedman

Most people remembered Jeffrey Friedman’s name from his many billboard and television ads. The well-known personal injury lawyer, who was in a wheelchair due to an injury he sustained in a car accident when he was 17, was there if you needed him.

Friedman, of University Heights, who passed away at age 74 on May 29, 2022, leaves behind his imprint of helping others in the community.

“Jeff worked for decades to create a law firm to address the legal needs of individuals who were wrongly injured,” says his wife, Margaret Duffy-Friedman.

“Although Jeff is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through his law firm."

His legacy began when he graduated

Cum Laude from John Carroll University with a bachelor’s in political science, followed by Case Western Reserve

University School of Law and then passing the bar exam. He began practicing law and eventually joined his partners and the namesakes of the firm, David Smith and Joe Domiano.

“As a result of an automobile accident, Jeff had a personal understanding of what it was like to be physically disabled; he would always say, ‘I know, I’ve been there,’” Duffy-Friedman says. “Jeff had a keen awareness and advocacy of ‘Justice for All,’ especially for those with disabilities of any type." “Everyone always said that Jeff had ‘rose-colored glasses,’” she adds. “He always looked for positive solutions and had a brilliant, creative mind for problem solving. Jeff used his skills, expertise and positive attitude to always help others in need.” Julie Thomas, executive director of Friedman, Domiano & Smith adds "he was quick-witted and unbelievably intelligent; he dealt with everything, no matter what was thrown at him. I am so blessed to have known him, to watch how his mind worked.”

Thomas says what was most impressive is that Friedman really believed in what he said.

“We had clients who were severely injured and I think he was an inspiration to them,” she says, adding that Friedman would go out of his way to meet with them, and for many years, clients called to check in and thank him again for everything he had done."

She also recalls how much he was involved in the community, including with Spinal Cord Injury Foundation.

“We are going to continue to do what he wanted us to do: help as many people as possible," Thomas says.

Marco G Bocciarelli, a partner in the firm, spoke about Friedman’s advocacy work, including providing a strong voice for accessibility (such as on public sidewalks and spaces) and rights of people with disabilities.

“He was driven to help people who suffered severe injuries,” Bocciarelli says. “He was always trying to help someone else. There are thousands and thousands of people he has helped in some way over the course of his career.”

One way the law firm will continue in his memory is to keep the name Friedman, Domiano & Smith.

“It’s as simple as the firm’s motto, ‘Fighting for You’ — we want people to know that we will be here for them,” Bocciarelli says about continuing Friedman’s legacy and name. “That we are going to be on their side and do everything we can. I am proud to continue the name and to be part of it. I wouldn’t want to do anything to alter that.”

Friedman wasn’t just a lawyer, as his involvement in the community was important to him. He served as councilman and vice mayor of University Heights.

“Jeff was an elected civic leader in University Heights for approximately 30 years,” Duffy-Friedman says. “While at John Carroll University, Jeff learned the importance of civic responsibility. While on city council, Jeff was instrumental in supporting ordinances and initiatives that had a long-lasting, positive impact on the city.”

Sue Infeld, former mayor of University Heights, wrote that what “made him so unique was that he used his prodigious talents in the service of so many other people.”

He was an integral part of city developmental projects and spearheaded the campaign for a levy that would support firemen to be trained as paramedics.

“Whatever Jeff put his mind to, he accomplished,” Infeld wrote. “His life touched and enhanced the lives of his clients, colleagues, and everyone who called or will call University Heights, Ohio, their home.”

To those who knew him, Friedman was someone who didn’t give up and made it his mission in life to help people and the community.

“Jeff lived life to its fullest,”DuffyFriedman says. “He valued education and understood its importance in career development and professional success. Jeff never let his physical disability limit his mission in life. He, too, would encourage his disabled brothers and sisters to strive to achieve their dreams, and help to make the world a better place.”

"Tropical Watercolor" Abby Gourley, fifth-grader, of Beachwood "Road to Success" Kira Weber, adult artist, of Chagrin Falls

"Shapes" Eliora A., fourth-grader, of Solon

"Ice Cream" Colin N., kindergarten, of Solon

'ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS' ART SHOW

LiveSpecial.com featured a public art show in April 2022, featuring artists with special needs at Eton Chagrin in Woodmere. There were more than 150 pieces of art from all ages — children and adults. Here’s some of their pieces and the displays to get inspired by these talented artists.

"African Mask" Davonte Marcus, high school senior, of Bedford "LeBron" Xavier Sledge, high school junior, of Akron

"In the Future" Delcina Laffin, high school senior, of Bedford

Joy of Creating

The Importance of Creative Arts for People of All Abilities

By Ginny McCabe

The joys of creating are endless. With so many art forms, from the visual arts to acting and dancing, anyone can engage in art they enjoy. Art promotes freedom of creative expression for artists of all abilities.

“The arts are important for everyone and it’s no different for people with disabilities,” says Cheryl Pete, ATRBC, clinical director at Art Therapy Studio (arttherapystudio.org). “People with disabilities are an integral part of our society and they need to be represented through the arts. In our society, we live with so many labels and many are related to abilities or illnesses; those labels can become part of a person’s identity. One of the things I love about the arts is that everybody understands what an artist is and it gives people a positive label that can uplift them and help them connect with others.”

Art is a way for us to tell our stories and express ourselves in non-traditional ways. The arts activate different parts of our brain than language, which allows us to communicate in different, often richer ways, she explains.

“Many people can relate to the experience of not being able to find the right words to express something,” Pete adds. “Art allows us to bypass the need for words and connect on a deeper level.”

ENGAGE IN ART

Ed Gallagher, MT-BC, director of education at Beck Center for the Arts, (beckcenter.org) says the best way to engage students is through fun learning.

Teachers and parents can help students excel by making the arts experience age appropriate, developmentally appropriate and success oriented, Gallagher says. Provide resources that are at the student’s level and broaden the experience from there,

“The benefits range from someone using their favorite music to relax, whether it be slow, flowing, calm music or something upbeat and cacophonous,” Gallagher says. “Using music to help you through the day or even a moment is helpful.”

Pete adds that it’s important to let artists take the lead by letting them explore, try new things, make mistakes and teach you.

“Often, people try to help too much when someone appears to be struggling or they expect them to struggle,” she says. “Encourage artists to ask for the help that they need, but let them try it on their own first."

Fairmount Center for the Arts (fairmountcenter.org) has developed outreach programs that bring the arts to area locations, including the Geauga County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Metzenbaum Center.

“It can help with untangling a problem at work by helping one consider all possible angles," says Elizabeth Bolander, executive director at Fairmount Center. "Acting in a theater production or performing dance and music can help instill new levels of confidence. It can help us personally by providing an outlet for creative expression and making.”

OPEN TO ALL

It’s crucial to be inclusive of everyone in art programming, according to Pete, who adds that most Art Therapy Studio groups have a combination of people who are typically-abled or functioning working alongside people who have physical, cognitive or emotional challenges.

“It’s not a one-way street in terms of the gifts that are shared,” Pete says. Artists with special needs can share with us new perspectives and ways of seeing the world that inspire, challenge and teach us, we are all better for it.”

Ann Marie Raddell, associate director of Creative Arts Therapies

at The Fine Arts Association, (fineartsassociation.org), says the organization is now a partner with the Ohio Department of Mental Health.

“We are certified in the Licensure and Certification Tracking System (LACTS), so we are licensed providers for mental health services for the state of Ohio. We are very proud of that,” Raddell says, adding they are a funder for the Autism Scholarship Program through the Ohio Department of Education.

“I think what we do well is we make the arts accessible for anyone,” she says. “Art is an aspect of life that can be enjoyed and practiced by everybody, despite any disability or illness. The arts are extremely healing and helpful, as well."

CELEBRATING ABILITIES

Meredith McCulloch, an art therapist at Cleveland Clinic (my. clevelandclinic.org), says the arts provide opportunities for individuals of differing abilities to express themselves (including if they are unable to communicate verbally). They can provide meaning and a sense of mastery, in addition to enhancing self-esteem. The arts also can create a sense of community and challenge the public’s preconceptions of the abilities of a person with special needs.

“Providing accommodations, early screening and intervention, treating all individuals with respect, and connecting them with services can help those with special needs be successful,” McCulloch adds.

She explains that adaptations in the art classroom may be needed. Adaptive art materials can include mouth sticks, instruments to assist an individual with grasping an artistic utensil or attaching it to a foot, handover-hand assistance, and/or creating art according to an artist’s instructions.

“The arts are a universal method of communication that speaks to the human experience on a level that transcends language,” McCulloch says. “For those with disabilities, the arts can be a powerful and tangible way to convey their capabilities and experiences, and challenge existing perceptions.”

“We have seen that the arts can decrease feelings of stress and depression, increase feelings of connection, and even help regulate things like heart rate and breathing," Pete says. "I cannot count the times I have seen a person come into the space angry, frustrated, anxious or sad and walk out an hour or two later with a smile and a sense of joy.”

Beck Center for the Arts in Lakewood, adaptive programming on the stage.