2026 Day of Learning Series | Arizona Autism Coalition

STARTING STRONG: AUTISM SUPPORT FOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL

Heather Hall, M.Ed.

The first 30 days can make or break the school year for students with autism. During this critical time, routines, expectations, and emotional safety are established, yet many educators and families are left guessing how to best support the transition. This session provides practical, research-based strategies to help students start strong across both home and school environments. Participants will learn how to reduce anxiety, build predictable routines, and support independence using structured teaching, visual supports, and a behavior-as-communication approach. Leave with simple, actionable tools you can use immediately to create a confident, successful start to the year.

PARENT RIGHTS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION

Hope Kirsch, Esq., Lori Kirsch-Goodwin, Esq., Kirsch, Goodwin-Kirsch PLLC

Navigating special education can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Two special education attorneys will explain parent and guardian rights under the IDEA in clear, practical terms you can actually use. We’ll walk you through the Procedural Safeguards Notice in plain language, highlighting what matters most: how to advocate for your child, resolve disagreements, and stay empowered every step of the way. Expect real-life examples, helpful tips, and space for your questions. Whether you’re new to special education or need a refresher, this session will leave you more confident, informed, and ready to partner effectively with your child’s school.

WHOLE FAMILY

Catherine Hallam, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, ACAS, Chapter & Page Counseling

This presentation explores a neuro-affirming, whole-family approach to autism support that goes beyond behavior management to emphasize regulation, connection, and practical parent partnership. Participants will learn how behavior can be understood as communication, how caregivers can support nervous system regulation at home, and how professionals can collaborate with families using strengths-based, relational strategies. The session offers concrete tools to help parents, providers, and advocates better support autistic individuals while strengthening family functioning and long-term well-being.

PUTTING FAMILIES FIRST: ETHICAL PRACTICES FOR AUTISM SERVICES

Nia Uhlenhake, CFSP, AZA United

In recent years, there has been a huge increase in autism service providers in Arizona, especially ABA therapy companies. This rapid expansion has increased access to care for many families, but a wide range of ethical concerns has also become more common. This presentation will help parents understand the most common “red flags” and “green flags” to look for when evaluating options for high-quality service providers. Participants will receive an “Ethical Services Checklist” with questions to ask providers that serve your child to better understand what types of service models best align with your values and goals.

60 YEARS OF ADVOCACY

Cynthia Elliott, MA

I have been called the "perfect storm" when advocating for my daughter in special education, disability services and health care. Strong, smart parent advocates with immense compassion for individuals with disabilities face systemic challenges in their advocacy journey. My advocacy experiences began with caring for my sister, who was profoundly disabled at the time when disability services were just beginning, and have continued with my daughter, who is deaf with intellectual disabilities, medical issues, and behavioral challenges. My goal is to share my over 60 years of advocacy work, including suggestions for positive advocacy, and to address common obstacles in navigating systems and advocacy.

TOP FINANCIAL MISTAKES TO AVOID FOR DEPENDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Karen Starbowski, CLU ChSNC, MassMutual SpecialCare

Not planning at all for the future is the biggest mistake a family can make, especially when it can impact a loved one with special needs. But there are also some common mistakes that can be avoided. We’ll review some common planning situations with the understanding that the actual plan created for an individual with special needs will be unique to their needs and lifestyle. Avoiding these common situations can provide a significant impact on the life of a loved one with special needs today and well into their future.

FROM SCIENCE TO SAFETY: COLLABORATIVE APPROACH TO ABUSE, PREVENTION & RESPONSE

Gina Griffiths, MSW, Sonoran Center, University of Arizona, Juliana Huereña, Southwest Institute

Sexual violence is a difficult but critical issue that people with disabilities, their families, advocates, and professionals must address. Research shows that individuals with disabilities experience sexual violence at significantly higher rates than those without disabilities. In response, the Arizona Sexual Violence and Disability Network and the Sonoran Center’s Silence to Safety project have partnered to develop accessible, trauma-informed resources that strengthen prevention efforts and improve community response. This session will highlight risk factors, systemic barriers, and practical tools designed to increase safety, awareness, and coordinated response. Participants will leave with information about available resources and strategies to better support people with disabilities in their communities.

Series Sponsor recognition with LOGO and company link on event website, social pages, event emails for one year.
Logo on event tote bag given to attendees at all 3 events.
Logo on event day marketing materials and signage for all remaining events.
(3) Exclusive FB posts with tag/link to your page and/or website
(2) Complimentary Tickets for each Day of Learning event-6 total tickets
Exhibitor Table on all 3 event days with 6' table & 2 chairs
Breakfast, Lunch, unlimited beverages/snacks for 2 Exhibitor Staff at each event

EACH DAY OF LEARNING INCLUDES

SERIES EVENTS

BUILDING ALLIES AND ADVOCATES!JULY 18, 2026 | 8AM-3PM

REGISTRATION

$30

$60

PROPOSALS FOR PRESENTATIONS FOR 2026 EVENTS

SERIES SPONSORS

SCHOLARSHIP SPONSOR

LUNCH & LEARN SPONSOR - JULY

JULY EXHIBITORS

2026 SPONSORSHIP + EXHIBITOR OPPORTUNITIES

Series Sponsor - $5,000

Scholarship Sponsor - $2,000

Lunch & Learn Sponsor - $1,000

Exhibitors - $500