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2009 Accomplishments & the Year Ahead
We live in a time ripe for improving the delivery of educational services to children with Down syndrome. DSF is privileged to participate in and help create stronger educational opportunities in the following ways:
 
In February, 2009, Down Syndrome Foundation joined forces with DownsEd USA to open its first learning center in the Crown Building in Newport Beach.
   
The Learning Program expanded its core classes to include toddlers. DSF now provides direct service to over 100 families through nine classes held each month (children range in age from 17 months through 14 years).
   
DSF added private and group tutoring and school consultations to the set of services it provides for families. It also launched its “Fitness and Friendship” program, an inclusive sports-based program intended help students develop athletic and social skills and live a healthy, active life.
   
DSF expanded the number of Learning Program Partners it supports. As a model for other programs across the United States, DSF is now strategizing with and mentoring seven other Down syndrome groups who have implemented their own local learning programs.
   
In November, 2009, DSF collaborated with DownsEd USA to host the first US Down Syndrome Education International Conference. This conference brought world-renown researchers to California to educate parents and professionals on a wide variety of educational topics.
   
DSF’s online following has greatly increased. As a core value, DSF strives to make free learning materials available to as many parents, teachers and therapists as possible. To date, over 3,500 users have registered to download DSF’s materials. These users represent parents, educators, and therapists from 47 states and nineteen countries.
   
DSF continues to collaborate with DownsEd International and DownsEd USA on the development of See and Learn Programs for use at home, in groups, and in schools.
   
DSF continues to provide an educational forum for families through our Learning Program group email.
   
DSF is currently working with the Learning Program Consultation Team, the Learning Program Advisory Board, local professors, and others to provide inclusion support to Orange County schools and to better support all students with Down syndrome in their educational setting.