Special Education Summer Institute 2025: Full Schedule

July 29- July 31

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2:30pm CDT

Press Start: Understanding Echolalia Through the Lens of Gestalt Language Development LIMITED

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Echolalia is often seen as a barrier—but for Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs), it’s a meaningful and essential part of communication. This session explores the stages of Natural Language Acquisition and provides educators and support staff with practical tools to recognize, respond to, and build on gestalt language. Participants will learn how to identify a student’s stage of language development, design affirming instruction, and support spontaneous communication through collaborative, neurodiversity-aligned practices. Discover how shifting our lens on echolalia can lead to deeper connections and greater communication success.

Speakers

Adam Liker-Hill

Alternate Assessment Coordinator/Professional Learning Facilitator, Des Moines Public Schools

Adam holds a Professional Learning Facilitator position and serves as the Alternate Assessment Coordinator for Des Moines Public Schools, specializing in support of students with Intellectual Disabilities. Over the past two years, he has additionally contributed his expertise as a... Read More →

Alishea Henze

Des Moines Public Schools

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
TBA

Communication Intellectual Disabilities Classroom Supports