Important: Leisure coaching IS A LIMITED RESOURCE. Transitional support into FCPA camps/classes is based on availability and need. The maximum level of support generally targets 3 days of camp during a given week. Based on the progress of the customer, the Leisure Coach (LC) may support additional days. Support should not be construed to automatically serve as 1:1 assistance. The LC may be needed to support multiple customers at a given site/camp/class. Classes generally are generally flexible operating on the basis that the customer’s is making progress in the inclusive environment. If additional support is needed in a camp/ class to help meet the code of conduct, parents, under the ADA, may provide their own support (self, therapist, aide, babysitter, etc.), both in lieu of an LC or in addition to the LC.

***Effective Mid-August through Labor Day*** Access to a Leisure Coach is difficult at best regarding camp support. LC’s (teachers, instructional assistants, and college students) generally return to school beginning mid-August. ADA accommodations and an accommodation plan will be are provided for the camp staff/customer when the services of a LC are unavailable. Always check first before registering!!!

Process:

• Request for accommodations from parent/guardian
• Customer Profile Form (CPI) sent to customer (must be updated annually)
• Inclusion Specialist assesses CPI form/general needs and determines if a LC will support the customer’s transition into camp/class or provide information only (in the form of a written accommodation plan) to the camp/class staff
• Parent is notified if a LC is assigned to the customer and provided contact information by Thursday or Friday of the week prior to the start date.
• The assigned LC contacts the parent prior to the start date
• Regardless as to whether or not a LC is assigned to support the transition into camp, a written Accommodation Plan will be completed by the Inclusion Specialist or LC detailing needs and strategies (information gleaned from parent feedback, profile form, and generally the first day camp/class experience). This plan will be effective by the second day of camp/class
• Accommodation plan verified by parent and shared with site staff
• Inclusion Specialist monitors implementation of accommodation plan
• Inclusion Specialist/LC/camp staff/parent collaborate as to customer’s progress/evaluation of services
• The office maintains the customer’s file and supporting documentation of the experience

Printable Camp/Class Accommodation Process form

Fairfax County Park AuthorityInclusion Fact Sheet/Frequently Asked Questions

****All requests for ADA accommodations should be made at least 10 business days in advance of your start date***

To effectively accommodate your son/daughter, FCPA staff can provide the following accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):

• Camp staff training: facilitation styles, communication methods, implementation of behavior plans, modification/adaptation of activities, etc.
• Provide sign language interpreters upon request.
• Ensure physical accessibility to all sites and program offerings.
• Utilize the services of the Inclusion Specialist during summer camp operations to help problem solve participation issues/needs/ADA accommodations.
• Unlimited one to one support is not provided. Trained Leisure Coaches are available on a limited basis to help facilitate ADA accommodations and, depending on the assessed needs (profile form/parent feedback) of the customers. Leisure Coaches may be responsible for supporting multiple customers with disabilities at a given location.
• Leisure coaching services do not provide one to one support for physical assistance such as personal care, balancing and assistance with ambulation. Leisure Coaches are provided to help facilitate reasonable accommodations on a short term, transitional basis. Parents have the right, under the ADA, to provide their own volunteer/staff to support these needs, including personal care.

*** Mid-August through Labor Day*** Camp access to Leisure Coaches is extremely limited. Leisure Coaches (teachers, instructional assistants, and college students) generally return to school during that time frame. ADA accommodations and an accommodation plan are provided for the camp staff/customer***

• Personal care support: staff can develop a formal restroom schedule and provide guidance in the restroom; however, leisure coaches are not trained to provide any other types of personal care.
• Preschool camps do not provide personal aides and parents must make their own arrangements to ensure personal care needs are met.

With or without accommodations, customers must comply with the camp code of conduct and engage in scheduled activities for the majority of the program time. Participation is encouraged and aided, but not forced.

What is the staff to customer ratio?

• Rec-PAC Targeted Inclusion Summer Camp Sites: 2-3 Leisure Coaches provide support within the various age groups. General staff ratios remain 1:18 at these sites. Inclusion Leaders are assigned to these specific locations for the duration of the camp. Leisure Coaches are available at other Rec-PAC locations upon request.
• RECenter/Park/Specialty/School Based Camp Sites: ADA accommodations are provided for these camps as well; however, requests for Leisure Coaches are based on need and determined by the ADA Coordinator/Inclusion Specialist.
• If a Leisure Coach is utilized to facilitate transition/participation, that support, while not limited, is generally targeted for 3 of 5 days for 1 week camp sessions and 5 of 10 days for 2 week camps sessions. General staff ratios in these camps range from 1:10 to 1:15, and 1:8 to 1:10 for preschool camps. Important Note: Depending on the overall needs of the customers with disabilities, the number of camps operating at the site, and the age group assignments, additional Leisure Coaches may be added to a site to effectively support the inclusion experience. When is leisure coaching support withdrawn?
• With the exception of the Rec-PAC targeted inclusion summer camp sites, if a customer with a disability demonstrates the ability to participate at a level of independence similar to that of his/her peers without disabilities, including meeting expectations listed in the FCPA Code of Conduct, leisure coaching support is typically withdrawn. Participation levels are continually monitored to ensure this level of independence is maintained and, if needed, leisure coaches can return to the site to help problem solve. The ADA Coordinator/Inclusion Specialist/Leisure Coach will discuss the withdrawal with the parent/guardian prior to ending services along with the camp staff. The withdrawal of support is based on feedback received from general staff, leisure coach, parent, and Inclusion Specialist.

Appeals Process: An appeals process is available in the event the parent disagrees with the staff assessment for withdrawing support and a consensus cannot be reached. Note: Therapeutic Recreation Services staff members from the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services are utilized to complete an independent assessment.

How are children grouped during activities?

• Rec-PAC Camps: children are typically grouped by grade level: 1st – 2nd graders, 3rd – 4th graders, etc. (child may be placed in different grade level due to staffing)
• Park/Specialty/RECenter Camps: typically by age, 6-7, 7-8, 9-10, etc.
• Preschool camps, ages 3-5, are generally grouped together for most activities. What is the environment like?
• Camp programs are generally very stimulating with frequent transitions. The environment is noisy and active with a variety of large group and small group activities; structure varies camp to camp; general recreation activities are planned throughout the day with a varying number of camp participants. Camps located in FCPA parks are subject to extended periods of time in "hot" weather conditions.
• Rec-PAC Inclusion Camp sites do provide quiet areas for customers needing some time to "chill" and engage in briefly individualized activities such as reading and drawing. Parents are encouraged to bring their own resources if a "chill time" is conducive to your son/daughter’s needs. Other camp locations can accommodate the need for quiet time but isolation away from the camp is generally difficult (staffing/physical limitations). Is Inclusion the right choice for my child?
• Does your child show interest in the program activity or subject matter?
• Is your child comfortable and able to function appropriately, with or without assistance, in various inclusive environments, such as parks, malls, restaurants, parks, (etc.)?
• Does your child’s current leisure activities or goals prepare him/her for an inclusive experience?
• Is your child able to maintain the ability to use a consistent form of communication to indicate basic needs and follow simple directions? What can I expect from the Extended Care programs?
• Extended Care Programs (Rec-PAC does not operate pre or post daycare) are generally unstructured and primarily revolve around self-directed activities. ADA accommodations will be provided and a Leisure Coach can help jump start/facilitate participation in the program. Staff ratios are typically 1:18. Will the staff dispense medications or assist with feeding?
• Staff are provided with basic medication administration training and will administer medication or medical procedures with proper authorization.
• Staff will assist with the unwrapping or preparation of lunches/snacks. How will other children accept my child (will they be nice/friendly/open)?
• Staff are trained to facilitate your child’s participation in group activities and to encourage/foster social relationships with other camp members.
• Generally speaking, customers with disabilities have very few issues developing appropriate friendships with other participants at the camp location. Staff can implement Sensitivity Awareness activities to help ensure appropriate interactions or eliminate inappropriate behaviors on the part of other campers. Bullying is NEVER an acceptable behavior and will not be tolerated.
• Staff will also promote the buddy system to help develop a cooperative group environment. Is transportation provided to and from the program site?
• The FCPA does not provide transportation to or from the home. FCPS buses are utilized for most camp field trips and are typically not equipped with air conditioning. Lift vehicles are available upon request. How will the ADA Accommodations be determined?
• Based on information gathered from the phone interview and the Customer Profile Form, staff will develop a written Accommodation Plan that details specific needs and strategies for the customer as agreed to by the parent, and shared with camp staff or instructors. Where are the locations of the camps?
• Rec-PAC sites are located schools throughout Fairfax County. The sites for summer 2017 TBA:http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recpac/Rec-PAC targeted inclusion sites are listed on the Rec-PAC website in April. Directions to locationscan http://commweb.fcps.edu/directory/
• RECenter locations are Oak Marr, Cub Run, Audrey Moore/Wakefield, George Washington,Spring Hill, Providence, Mt. Vernon, Lee District and South Run.
• Specialty & Park camps vary depending on camp selection.
• See the Parktakes magazine or visit our web site at http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parksHow do I make arrangements for enrollment and accommodations?
• If ADA accommodations are required you must request the accommodations at least 10 business days in advance of the start date. If less than 10 days, we will make every effort to comply with your request, however, we cannot guarantee the accommodations.

Request formal accommodations after registering for the camp by one of the following methods:

• Emailing Monica Klock
• Calling (703) 324-8727, (711 VA Relay system)
• On-line registration process by checking the ADA accommodation box.
• Upon receipt, complete and return the Customer Profile Form (the form is not needed for interpreting requests unless there are secondary needs).
• Your child’s application request and intake information are reviewed.
• The parent will be contacted prior to the start of the camp by the leisure coach to review the needs of your child. What about FCPA classes and other programs/services?
• Applying the same concepts as stated above, ADA accommodations are provided upon request. Leisure Coaching is also available in class environments.

FCPA Code of Conduct:

All customers enrolled in Fairfax County Park Authority programs agree to meet and sign the rules of conduct document. ADA accommodations provide customers with disabilities additional supports to help meet the rules of conduct. The ADA Coordinator reserves the right, on behalf of the agency, to terminate participation in the program if the customer cannot follow the rules of conduct. Every effort will be made to provide appropriate accommodations before terminating participation.

Must be able to maintain personal care without support of FCPA staff or FCPA volunteers (parents can provide personal care assistance if needed)

Stay with his/her assigned group

Respect others (listening & following directions; using appropriate language; keeping hands and feet to self)

Maintain self-control (manage emotions)

Meet the prerequisites for the program (age and other if required for participation)

With or without accommodations, customers must engage in scheduled activities for the majority of the program time. Note: Participation is encouraged and aided, but not forced.

Additional questions/concerns about inclusion or other FCPA programs?

For more information contact Monica Klock or call 703-324-8727, TTY 711 Virginia Relay

Printable Park Authority Inclusion Fact Sheet/Frequently Asked Questions

Targeted Inclusion Sites

• Request for accommodations from parent/guardian

• Customer Profile Form sent to customer (must be updated annually)

• Parent/Guardian contacted by inclusion site staff prior to start date (generally weekend before) to review needs, expected outcomes, and general accommodations requested for participation

• Site staff outline Accommodation Plan detailing specific needs and strategies (information gleaned from parent feedback and Customer Profile Form) within first 2-3 days of participation.

• Accommodation plan verified by parent and shared with all site staff

• Inclusion Specialist/Site Director monitors implementation of accommodation plan and/or tweak as needed. Site staff/Parent collaborate as to customer’s progress/evaluation of services

• Site staff/Parent collaborate as to customer’s progress/evaluation of services

• Weekly progress notes completed by inclusion staff and sent home each Friday of camp

• Site director maintains file and supporting documentation of customer’s experience

Non-Targeted Inclusion Sites

• Leisure Coaches (typically Special Education teachers) will train the site staff and implement the requested accommodations via a written Accommodation Plan with the site staff prior to the start date

  • Note: See Leisure Coaching document for parameters of service

• The Inclusion Specialist will monitor the effectiveness of the plan and is available for consultation with the site staff or parent throughout the week(s) of participation

ble Rec-PAC Summer Camp Accommodation Process (Targeted Inclusion Sites)

NOTICE UNDER THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

In accordance with the requirements of title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended (ADA), Fairfax County Government (Park Authority) will not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in the County’s services, programs, or activities.

Employment: The Park Authority does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its hiring or employment practices and complies with all regulations promulgated by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission under title I of the ADA.

Effective Communication: The Park Authority will generally, upon request, provide appropriate aids and services leading to effective communication for qualified persons with disabilities so they can participate equally in our programs, services, and activities, including qualified sign language interpreters, documents in Braille, and other ways of making information and communications accessible to people who have speech, hearing, or vision disabilities.

Modifications to Policies and Procedures: The Park Authority will make all reasonable modifications to policies and programs to ensure that people with disabilities have an equal opportunity to enjoy all County programs, services, and activities. For example, individuals with service animals are welcomed in our facilities, even where pets are generally prohibited. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service for effective communication, or a modification of policies or procedures to participate in a Park Authority program, service, or activity, should contact the ADA representative as soon as possible but no later than 10 days before the scheduled event. All attempts to accommodate will be made, but not guaranteed, if the request is received less than 10 days out.

For the Fairfax County Park Authority

Please contact: Monica Klock, Adapted Program Specialist

703-324-8563 / 711 TTY / 703-324-3976 / Monica.Klock@fairfaxcounty.gov

Phone / 711 TTY / Fax / Email

The ADA does not require the Park Authority to take any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs or services, or impose an undue financial or administrative burden. Complaints that a Park Authority program, service, or activity is not accessible to persons with disabilities should be directed to Monica Klock, Park Authority Adapted Program Specialist, Park Services Division, 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 425, Fairfax, Virginia 22035.

The Park Authority will not place a surcharge on a particular individual with a disability or any group of individuals with disabilities to cover the cost of providing auxiliary aids/services or reasonable modifications of policy, such as retrieving items from locations that are open to the public but are not accessible to persons who use wheelchairs.

Printable Fairfax County Park Authority ADA Statement