Panel Discussion: Teens with Learning Differences

Google Tech Talk November 12, 2012 Moderated by Brian Thomas, Associate Head of School and Head of the upper school at Bentley School in Lafayette, CA. ABSTRACT ASD, dyslexia, ADHD... hear from teens who are making their way in spite of learning differences. This unique group of teens is passionate about learning differently, pursuing their fullest potential and spreading awareness of their capacity for academic and life success. They are members of S.A.F.E. Voices (Student Advisors for Education), a student community that strives to educate, mentor, and support students, parents, and teachers regarding the challenges and strengths of learning disabled and ADHD students. The conversation covers everything from their initial personal experience of being diagnosed with a learning difference, understanding what accommodations they need to succeed, "self-advocating" with the dozens of teachers they've had over the years, and finding their unique strengths, to discussing their curiosity and passion for learning. S.A.F.E. Voices is a program of the Parents Education Network, a coalition of parents collaborating with educators, students, and the community to empower and bring academic success to students with learning and attention difficulties. To get involved in this or a range of other programs and events, visit parentseducationnetwork.org Speaker: Brian Thomas, MA Brian Thomas is the associate head of school and head of the upper school at Bentley School in Lafayette. He's the former head of school of Presidio Hill School, San Francisco, and the executive director/high school designer at the Andre Agassi College Preparatory School in Las Vegas. He has a 23-year career as a teacher and administrator in independent and public schools. Thomas is also an Emmy-winning actor (1988) and is the author of articles and a speaker about education and parenting issues. He is a S.A.F.E. Voices advisor and a member of the Board of Advisors for Parents Education Network (parentseducationnetwork.org)