INCLUDEnyc Talk: Roads to Independence

Description

Monday, March 24, 2025 – 6:30-8:00pm – Free & Online

Melinda Burke is back with another informative and resourceful talk for our Music Therapy community. This talk is designed to help families begin to think about future planning for young people with disabilities who are preparing to leave high school (though it’s never too early to get started!). This talk will touch upon topics such as: transition in the IEP, what services are (and are not) available after graduation and how to access them, how to begin planning for your child’s adult life, and financial planning. Come prepared to ask questions and expect that this is just the opening of the discussion!

About Melinda: Melinda originally came to INCLUDEnyc as a mother who was trying to understand and navigate the special education system in New York City. She eventually turned that experience into a career, becoming a NYS certified teacher with a Master’s Degree in Special Education from City College. Melinda worked for 17 years in NYCDOE’s D75 as a classroom teacher, a SETSS provider, and a Unit Coordinator, followed by several years as a preschool special education teacher. Melinda is especially passionate about the importance of families as part of each child’s educational team. She is thrilled to be helping people with disabilities and their families feel nurtured and supported within their own community while proudly taking their place in the larger world. As an incredible parent and member of our BKCM Music Therapy program, Melinda also is a co-founder of The Bench, a BKCM Music Therapy Parent Support Collective to create community and friendships amongst parents, offering advice, practical information, and emotional support.