1. HOW TO USE: http://imdetermined.org

2. What is I’m Determined? The I’m Determined project, a state directed project funded by the Virginia Department of Education, focuses on providing direct instruction, models, and opportunities to practice skills associated with self-determined behavior. This project facilitates youth, especially those with disabilities to undertake a measure of control in their lives, helping to set and steer the course rather than remaining the silent passenger. www.imdetermined.org

3. Definition of Determine (adjective) 1. Having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it. 2. Processing or displaying resolve.

4. Why is I’m Determined important? Through the use of this program students are taught: –The importance and steps of goal setting –Ways to identify their own strengths and weaknesses –How to be active participants in their educational process –To hold themselves responsible for educational success –And perhaps most of all… Students learn how to self-advocate!

5. Statistics: According to imdetermined.org: Statistically, in the first year after graduation, students who used self-determination goals in conjunction with their IEPs and transition plans received higher wages. Behavior improves with allowing students the opportunity of making their own choices and taking ownership of the behavior improvement plan. Higher rates of positive employment experiences result from focused instruction in problem- solving skills (Wehmeyer, 2004; Shogren, Faggella-Luby, Bae & Wehmeyer, 2004; O’Reilly, Lancioni & O’Kane, 2000)

6. Steps to Success Help students become aware of their strengths/struggles –Self-awareness is necessary for the child to set goals –In order for the student to become self-aware, it is important for them to be able to discuss accommodations needed and to speak up for their success Educate them on the IEP process –Most students are not aware of the IEP process or the steps –Discuss this with the parents first –Encourage the parents to allow the student to attend IEP meetings Help them set goals –Once self-aware, and knowledgeable on IEPs - have the student work on setting manageable goals –Goals should be challenging but achievable