According to the American Psychological Association, suicide rates rose at an alarming rate over the past two decades. This is a trend that Robin Farris, licensed counselor and director of Missouri State University’s Center City Counseling Clinic (CCCC), observed over the past decade. “We used to tell students ‘You might see suicidal issues in a semester,’” Farris … [Read more...] about Responding to mental health trends
Imagine walking down a sidewalk, getting on a bus or boarding a plane. Now imagine accomplishing them without sight. Missouri State University’s orientation and mobility (O&M) program trains students how to assist individuals with visual impairments. This includes providing individuals with the tools and experience they need to navigate the world … [Read more...] about Gaining access to the world
Finding your passion within a field can make all the difference in motivating you to pursue your dreams. As a freshman at Missouri State University, Taylor Janota worked as a nanny for a young boy who had autism. In this role, she watched as a speech therapist, physical therapist and behavioral analyst worked with the boy to improve all parts of his life. “This … [Read more...] about Serving individuals with autism
Missouri is facing a teacher shortage. Information from Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) shows that special education teachers rank in the top three certification areas in need of fully certified teachers to fill vacancies across the state. Faculty in Missouri State’s College of Education are striving to create a solution to … [Read more...] about Creating pathways for paraeducators
When Dr. Kennedy Ongaga, assistant professor in the department of counseling, leadership and special education, found out he won the Spencer Foundation research grant, he ran to his front yard and shouted, “Thank you, God!” “When we have a crisis, marginalized students and English learners are always left behind,” Ongaga said. “During COVID-19, our homes, our students' … [Read more...] about Supporting English language learners