6/17/2026
U.S. Department of Education Announces Additional Partnerships to Strengthen Coordination for Individuals with Disabilities Programs, Bolster Civil Rights Enforcement
Fact Sheet
Dept of Ed Announcement
Don’t miss these events!
6/7/2026
Save the date for these awesome Disability Pride Events!
6-2-2026
What does Adapt Music Do?
Adapt Music is a 501(c)3 nonprofit based in West Fargo, North Dakota.
We provide musical experiences that are adapted to our client’s social, emotional, and physical needs.
We provide opportunities for people of ALL abilities to create music their own way.
What do participants you get to do in Adapt Music Classes?
We come to you and create music! We provide music enrichment and education activities that include singing, playing instruments, movement activities, and a make and take instrument.
All supplies are provided by Adapt Music and the musical activities are adapted to meet the needs and abilities of our participants.
How is Adapt Music different than music therapy?
We believe music has power to help people grow, engage, learn, create and respond.
Music therapy is a clinical service, typically using music to meet non musical goals. Adapt Music provides adaptive music and music enrichment programs that are educational and recreational experiences designed to make music accessible to everyone.
What are some of the developmental, emotional, or social benefits participants experience through your programs?
Music is the fabric of our society, and music can help shape our abilities and character. Musical education can greatly contribute to intellectual development of people as well. Creating music has many health, emotional, and developmental benefits and whether it’s creating music with our voices, bodies, or instruments everyone can experience the power of creating music your own way. We adapt our musical activities to meet people at their social, emotional, and physical development levels so that people of ALL abilities can have access to the power of music.
Singing has many benefits from breathing, stress relief, and mindfulness. We create a positive environment that allows our participants to enjoy singing together and creating music together which improves social relationships, boosts self-confidence, and provides a sense of community within our groups.
Rhythm and percussion instruments are essential to our music enrichment activities. We provide instruments that can be adapted to meet the physical, sensory, and auditory needs of our participants. Adapting our instruments and activities allow for the pure enjoyment of playing instruments and help connect music to sounds, instruments, and rhythm.
Our activities incorporate movement to music. We provide activities to listen and move to music while singing and using manipulatives such scarves, ribbons, bean bags and stretchy bands. We like to get creative and move individually, in partners, and in small and large groups.
Our activities help engage our brains in mindful activities by singing, playing, moving, and creating as we listen and then respond to the directions. Our activities help us listen, respond, and connect music to sounds, instruments, movement, and rhythm.
Through our activities we can connect our ideas, emotions, movements, and self-expression to music. We use our activities to listen to music and express ourselves in unique and personal ways.
How did Adapt Music get started?
I taught K-12 Music for many years and had the opportunity to teach adaptive music classes in my teaching position. I saw the benefits of creating musical experiences that were adapted to meet the needs of our participants and decided to found Adapt Music and provide these opportunities to people in the community.
Do you have opportunities for individuals or primarily for groups?
We primarily provide group music making experiences. We partner with organizations in the community and bring the musical experiences to our partner organizations! All needed supplies are provided by Adapt Music.
What is something staff/family/caregivers do with individuals on their own for music lovers?
Music is one of the most powerful tools people can use to influence their mood, energy level, and emotional state. Creating personalized playlists gives individuals a practical, accessible strategy for managing emotions throughout the day.
If we want to learn more about partnering with Adapt Music what should we do?
You can find out more at adaptmusic.org or simply email bridgette@adaptmusic.org. We would love to connect!
5-21-2026
5-11-2026
Reminder: June Elections Are Coming Up!
North Dakota’s June elections are right around the corner, and every voice matters. This is your reminder to make a plan to vote and to know your rights. If you have questions, we would love to help! Give us a call at 701.293.8191
Great resource: https://www.ndpanda.org/resources/voting
Election Date
North Dakota holds its statewide primary election in June each year.
Primary Election: June 9, 2026
-Key Dates:
-April 30, Absentee Begins
-June 8, Absentee Application Submission Deadline
-June 9, Absentee Ballots Must Be Returned by Close of Polls
Accessibility Matters
All polling places in North Dakota are required to offer accessible voting options. This includes:
-Accessible voting machines that allow private and independent voting
-Curbside voting for voters who cannot easily enter the polling location
-Assistance from a person of your choice (except your employer or union representative)
-Absentee voting with no excuse required
If you have questions about accessibility at your specific polling place, you can contact the Cass County Auditor’s Office or call us so we can help you 701.293.8191
Know Your Polling Location
Fargo uses vote centers, meaning you can vote at any vote center in the city on Election Day. You can look up locations through the North Dakota Vote Center Map or Cass County election resources.
No Voter Registration Required
North Dakota does not require voter registration. You do need a valid ID, such as:
–North Dakota driver’s license
–North Dakota non‑driver ID
–Tribal ID
-Long‑term care certificate
Your Voice Matters
Voting is one way to make sure your needs, experiences, and priorities are represented. Make your plan now, spread the word, and help others in your network prepare too.
5-4-2026
Ambassador Program at Peace Academy
Interviews with Rachel Pulling from Peace Academy, Kelly (a longtime ambassador) & Kelly’s Staff
What is the ambassador program at Peace Academy?
Rachel (Peace Academy), “The ambassador program is a volunteer experience in which individuals with disabilities interact with preschoolers in the classroom. Ambassadors gain meaningful experience developing new skills, having social interactions and forming positive relationships. Preschoolers gain an understanding and appreciation of others with differing disabilities. Through this program we hope to promote inclusion and increase social interaction between preschoolers and our ambassadors.”
What do you think of being an ambassador?
Jenny (Ambassador), “I love helping the kids at Peace Academy. I have so much fun at the Gala too!”
What are the benefits you found the children get from this program?
Rachel, “We have seen so many benefits from this program. Preschoolers learn how to interact with people with disabilities, they gain an understanding that communication can look different for every person and they see how adapted equipment can help someone do great things. The program, however, is most impactful because of the deep relationship our preschoolers develop with their ambassador. Our students truly care about their ambassadors and they get excited when they walk through the door. Preschoolers learn to and want to include their ambassadors in whatever they are doing.”
What things have you seen with Jenny’s experience as an ambassador?
Jenny’s Staff, “I take Jenny to Peace Academy, she has really valued being able to independently clock in and out and take initiative while doing so. It has been so fun to watch her interact with the kids, she is using skills such as patience, communication, and teamwork. Practicing these skills in a group setting that she is not normally in allows her to expand her knowledge and experience. Having Peace Academy built into her week is very valuable to Jenny, and we are grateful for the opportunities that she gets to experience while she is there!”
How was the program started?
Rachel, “Our mission at Peace Academy is to nurtured children, enrich parents and strengthen communities. The ambassador program embodies this mission in the way that it positively impacts children, families and our community. The program started in 2017 with our assistant director Kellie’s cousin Jeromy, our first ambassador. Kellie wanted to create a meaningful opportunity for Jeromy to thrive after he graduated. She hoped that through this experience he could find purpose and joy and since has discovered the positive benefits it has for our ambassadors, preschoolers and teachers! Since then, we have grown the program and hope to continue to find more ambassadors who would thrive in this setting.”
Are weekly activities with the ambassadors planned or do they just jump in to play (or what activities do they do together)?
Rachel, “Typically, ambassadors come during free play time. We have toys, games, art, and time in the gym. We have found that usually ambassadors thrive around these activities. We will do activities to help ambassadors and preschoolers get to know each other a little more too!”
If someone is interested in becoming an ambassador, can they reach out to you?
“If someone would like to learn more, we would love to provide them information or give them a tour. They can email ambassadors@pafargo.com.”
Do you have a memorable moment you can share about the ambassadors/experience?
Rachel, “There are so many stories to share. We currently have 14 classroom ambassadors plus more who serve on a lunch bunch helping in our lunch room. Many of our favorite memories come from small moments in the classroom. The love that children have for their ambassador is so great and you can see it when an ambassador walks into their classroom. The children always greet their ambassador with a big hello, sometimes a hug and often ask the question, “Will you play with me?”. It’s in those small moments that you see a big impact.”
Jenny’s Staff, “Along with practicing new skills, the kids adore Jenny! It is very fun to see her thrive in the classroom, creating art, solving puzzles, and learning new skills with the kids. The kids look up to her and seem to really value what she has to say. One event that stuck out to me was on Jenny’s birthday, the kids were tasked with coming up with words to describe Jenny’s personality. They came up with phrases such as “Jenny is creative! Jenny is fun to dance with! Jenny is a caring friend!” Ms. Cheryl then wrote all of these phrases on a piece of paper, which Jenny showed all of her peers when returning to VTC. She recently told me that this paper is displayed in her bedroom, reminding her every day of just how much she is valued.”
Learn more/support https://pafargo.com or register for their Gala on June 10th.
4-22-2026
It’s Assistive Technology Awareness Day!
Accessibility is a bridge to independence!
Assistive Technology (AT) is any tool that helps people with disabilities or learning differences navigate the world on their own terms. From the simple to the cutting-edge, it’s everywhere:
Low-Tech: Pencil grips, magnifiers, or braille labels.
Mid-Tech: Audio recorders and talking calculators.
High-Tech: Screen readers, eye-tracking software, and motorized mobility.
The best part? Many of these tools (like voice-to-text and captions) are already in your pocket! 
When we design for accessibility, everyone wins.
4-15-2026
Upcoming Opportunities – click the image to view info!
The Arc needs your help advocating for people with IDD
Tell Congress: Increase the SSI Asset Limit!
Tell Congress to Protect Voting Rights for People With Disabilities!
4-9-2026
Share your experience with ND Childcare to the North Dakota Legislative Council!
4-7-2026
ALL Meeting (Advocates Leading Their Lives)
April 10 Holiday Inn – Fargo, ND Mezzanine Room
Schedule
4:30–6:00 PM – Presentation: Budgeting
Dinner will be served
Register: https://forms.microsoft.com/r/qZqxiRq4fa
4-6-2026
70th Anniversary Celebrating Today
Right now is an exciting moment for us at The Arc of Cass County. For 70 years, we’ve been committed to empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and right now that mission feels energized, community‑driven, and impactful. We’re proud to share what we’re building!
We’ve always believed in advocacy, education, and inclusion. Now we’re expanding that work with programs and partnerships that help individuals with I/DD live fuller, more connected lives.
Our focus is simple: Support people. Strengthen voices. Build a more inclusive community.
The Arc Attic Treasures Stores are a large part of Today
The Arc Attic Treasures thrift stores continue to be the heartbeat of our mission. When people shop or donate, they’re directly supporting our advocacy and programming.
These stores allow us to:
-Fund essential services
-Create volunteer opportunities
-Build community connections
-Offer affordable goods to local families
Every purchase and every donation helps us do more.
Thank you for being with us Today!
3-24-26
It’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!
What are developmental disabilities?
Lifelong conditions that can affect learning, communication, mobility, and overall development. They occur in every community and across all backgrounds. Some examples include cerebral palsy, downs syndrome, autism, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
What can we do for Disability Awareness?
Our theme is “I am The Arc of Cass County.”
This Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we invite our community to move beyond awareness and into action. Everyone can be The Arc of Cass County! Advocates, community members, friends, neighbors… anyone!
It’s up to all of us to create a community embraces differences, and creates opportunities for everyone to participate and thrive.
You can help build a stronger, more inclusive community by:
-Creating opportunities for people of all abilities to participate and contribute
-Listening to and valuing people with disabilities
-Supporting accessible spaces, programs, and services
-Using respectful language and challenging stereotypes
-Taking time to learn about disability and how to be a supportive ally
Small actions create big change. Together, we can ensure everyone belongs and has the opportunity to thrive.
3-11-2026
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has documented major disruption at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and a sharp rise in the dismissal of discrimination complaints in schools, including those involving students with disabilities.
From March through September 2025, OCR received more than 9,000 discrimination complaints, and roughly 90% of the resolved cases were closed through dismissal. GAO also found that 247 OCR staff were placed on paid administrative leave starting March 21 and were not allowed to work for nearly nine months. A decision GAO estimates cost taxpayers up to $38 million.
Rights are only meaningful when enforcement exists. Families have a right to turn to OCR when a child is denied accommodations, pushed out of class, harassed, or disciplined unfairly because of disability. When those complaints aren’t addressed, schools lose clear direction, families lose answers, and students live with the consequences for years. Read the full story by following the link below:
Full Costs and Savings Estimate Needed for Reduction-in-Force and Restructuring of the Office for Civil Rights
3-10-2026
3-9-2026
Building Career Pathways for Direct Support Professionals
The Importance of Direct Support Professionals
For many people with disabilities, direct support professionals (DSPs) are essential for participation in daily activities, community life, and employment. Often, it is DSPs, including employment support professionals, who make independent living and workplace success possible for disabled people. In addition, the role of DSP is not only critical for supporting people with disabilities but is in itself a career in which job seekers with disabilities may thrive. READ MORE
3-2-2026
2-27-2026
Do You Know About?
Red River Ambucs
Interview with Kristin Peters – President, Red River Ambucs
What services does Red River Ambucs provide?
The mission of the Red River AMBUCS is Inspiring Mobility and Independence in the Red River Valley by working in partnership with Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapists by providing Amtryke Adaptive Trykes for people with disabilities. We help people of all ages and abilities to get specially designed adaptive trykes to enhance their quality of life with their families and peers. Amtrykes make standard 3-wheeled hand, hand and foot and foot trykes including for all ages from early childhood trykes to adult trykes with necessary adaptations to individualize the person’s needs to be successful to ride the Amtrykes.
Why are trykes important to the people who receive them?
Recipients, parents and therapists report that the Amtryke adaptive tricycle provides increased strength, mobility and coordination as well as self-confidence and positive peer interaction. That all adds up to great exercise, the opportunity to be outdoors and just plain fun!
How much does an adaptive tryke cost?
$1200-$2000 depending on the type of Amtryke along with the necessary adaptations.
How do I know if I can get an adaptive tryke for myself or someone I know?
You would work with your OT or PT if you currently have one to order your cutomized Amtryke. Many of our riders have tried to ride a 2-wheeled bike but have been unsuccessful due to balance or safety. If you currently are not receiving therapies, reach out to redriverambucs@gmail.com to help coordinate.
Your national affiliate gives out scholarships for college students, who are those scholarships for?
People may apply to the national affiliate for a scholarships if you are furthering your education in PT, OT or Speech Therapy.
Anything else you want our readers to know?
We have currently given away 160 Amtrykes since January of 2021!
2-18-2026
2-11-2026
2-3-2026
Do You Know About?
House of Everyday Learning
Interview with Laura Kolling, Secretary – Board of Directors House of Everyday Learning
What services does House of Everyday Learning provide?
House of Everyday Learning was created to help uninsured and underinsured children access therapeutic programming despite financial barriers. Over time, our nonprofit has expanded to offer a wider variety of camps, mobile therapy services, and access to specialty interventions such as equine assisted therapy and music therapy.
We primarily serve children ages 2 to 18. Through fundraising and grant-writing efforts, we are able to offer many of these programs through scholarships, helping families access services that may otherwise be out of reach due to cost, insurance limitations, or eligibility restrictions.
Do you work with parents on specific goals they have for their children?
Yes. While our camps focus on general skill areas such as social skills, parents are encouraged to share specific concerns or goals during registration. Camp leaders review this information and can intentionally support those areas during the program or offer suggestions for carryover at home. This collaborative approach allows programming to feel more personalized while still maintaining a group-based, inclusive environment.
Are your camps designed to be inclusive for children of all abilities?
Yes. Inclusivity is a core value of House of Everyday Learning. Our camps are intentionally designed to provide a safe, supportive, and understanding environment for children of all abilities. This year we are offering a variety of camps: social skills, nature, anxiety, grief, nutrition, Kindergarten readiness, movement, sensory exploration – houseofeverydaylearning.com
We partner closely with Beyond Boundaries Therapy & Wellness, and our camps are led by licensed therapy professionals. Their expertise allows us to offer high-quality programming that supports a wide range of developmental needs while fostering connection, confidence, and belonging.
How do you assist with barriers such as distance to services or the cost of therapy?
In the spring of 2021, we launched our Mobile Therapy Unit (MTU). With the support of grants, the MTU travels to rural North Dakota communities to provide occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy services in areas such as Milnor, Gwinner, and Lisbon. We currently provide services one day per week during the summer months and offer free screenings within these communities. We hope to expand to additional rural routes in the future.
In addition, some therapeutic programs such as equine therapy and music therapy are not covered by insurance. Through the House of Everyday Learning scholarship process, we are able to help families reduce the cost of these valuable therapy experiences so children can access services that support their growth and success.
Do you offer financial assistance for camps?
Yes. This year, our board of directors is intentionally lowering the overall cost of camps to improve accessibility. Families may also apply for partial scholarships to further reduce financial barriers. This is also our second year of being a part of Giving Hearts Day, which has helped our efforts as well!
1-30-2026
1-28-2026
Want to see The Arc’s previous newsletters? Check them out here!
1-14-2026
The Arc of The United States
Year-End Highlights: Momentum Across The Arc
As we wrapped up the year, The Arc is closing strong across chapters, policy, advocacy, communications, legal work, and programs.
Our National Convention in Charlotte brought together leaders from across the country, with thoughtful sessions and productive strategy discussions. On the policy front, staff met with senior officials in the Trump Administration — including CMS leadership and the White House Domestic Policy Council — to shape implementation of the 2025 budget law and reinforce the importance of federal oversight in disability and education programs. A new toolkit and January webinar will help chapters prepare for upcoming changes.
Advocacy reached new heights, with more than 658,000 actions to Congress and over 700 personal stories shared to protect home‑ and community‑based services. Communications efforts expanded our reach through national media coverage and a new Sephora collaboration highlighting inclusive beauty.
Legal advocacy advanced key disability rights cases, from challenges to federal education changes to voting rights litigation in Texas, while also tracking a major Supreme Court case on intellectual disability and the death penalty.
Our programs team wrapped up a successful year as well, supporting nearly 800 people with IDD through Tech Coaching Centers and expanding digital literacy opportunities across chapters.
1-13-2026
