On Saturday, January 31, 2009, Baton Rouge Parent University hosted a workshop for parents, students and educators entitled, “Closing the Achievement Gap.”  The event was held from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Kenilworth Middle School.

The focus of the workshop centered around high-stakes testing and the rights of parents of students that require exceptional student services.

Monica Ballay, the Site Liaison/Evaluator for the Louisiana State Personnel Improvement Grant (L.A.S.I.G.), served as the keynote speaker.

Ms. Ballay provided a very informative presentation reflective of the Positive Behavior Support Program (P.B.I.S.), that is widely implemented in many EBRPSS schools.

Break-out sessions included:

• “Understanding Your Child’s Individual Plan (I.E.P.),” presented by Cynthis Chesterfield of Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge.
• “Parents’ Educational Rights of Children with Exceptionalities,” presented by Judy Barbay and Pam Taylor of the EBRPSS ESS Dept.
• “4th Grade LEAP Overview and Test-Takig Strategies,” presented by Katrina Randall of Louisiana Promise Parent Information and Resource Center.
• “8th Grade LEAP Overview and Test-Taking Strategies,” presented by Stephen Precciely of the YWCA Center for Family, Empowerment.
• “GEE Overview and Test-Taking Strategies,” presented by marlon Cousin of the EBRPSS Office of Federal Programs.

One hundred and eighty-two registered attendees enjoyed a free continental breakfast and box lunches from Jason’s deli while obtaining empowering information.