THE EDITOR IN CHIEF'S DESK

FAYE SIMON

Moving Forward

Matthew Kenslow's story is at the center of our theme this month, yet he is just one of the inspiring people in this issue.

Matthew Kenslow is a young person living with Autism. He deftly describes his condition in this month's cover story, writing "I view Autism as having an enhancer plugged into my brain, enhancing my perception in life, making things either very easy or very hard." He recounts the various challenges that he has faced while growing up, and celebrates his most recent achievement – starting a fulfilling job as a substitute school teacher.

Matthew’s story is at the center of our Employment and Transition theme this month. Yet he is just one of the inspiring people in this issue. 17-year-old Bella Aguilar, who struggled through years of seizures and setbacks due to drug resistant epilepsy, has responded remarkably well to VNS Therapy™ and will begin college next year. Jessica Jankus was born with multiple developmental delays. As her parents approached their seventies, they found an accessible group residence for her, and she has adapted well to the transition. 

The transition to adulthood normally involves pursuing an occupation in order to live an independent lifestyle. Young people with disabilities often face distinct challenges in this regard. Our contributors this month have valuable advice and resources that can help families make progress on this front. “Guiding Secondary Students with Disabilities toward Successful Employment: A Collaborative Approach,” by Jenn Adams, and “Self-Esteem, Accomplishment and Purpose: Making Competitive Integrated Employment Work by Arturo Cazares offer solid guidance on the topic. 

Two informative pieces make up "An EP Special Section:Thrive at School." Georgie

Normand's article, "Can Dyslexia Be Cured? What the Latest Neuroscience Tells Us About the Prognosis," discusses the latest advances in science and technology, while Dr. Rebecca Jackson's contribution," Tips to Help Your Child Thrive this Year in School," offers practical advice to parents who work hard to help their child succeed in the classroom.

Faye Simon

"Young people with disabilities often face distinct challenges in their pursuit of an independent lifestyle."

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Faye Simon

Faye Simon

Editor In Chief

THE EDITOR IN CHIEF'S DESK

Faye Simon is a certified pre-K—8 teacher with a wide range of educational experience. She has worked in deaf/blind and infant stimulation programs, taught K—2 in public schools, and was a Head Teacher and Parent Coordinator for Head Start. She is Founder and President of the volunteer-run IES Brain Research Foundation. As EP's Editor In Chief, Faye sources and edits articles, creates partnerships with businesses and not-for-profit organizations, and develops relationships with EP's writers, corporate partners, readers and staff.

Information and Support for the Special Needs Community

VOLUME 53 ISSUE 10 ESTABLISHED 1971

Publisher Len Harac lharac@epmagazine.com

Editor In Chief Faye Simon fsimon@epmagazine.com 

Art Direction & Design Leverett Cooper lev@foxprintdesign.com

EXCEPTIONAL PARENT MEDIA

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