December 24, 2025
Disability Rights and Resources wishes you happy holidays and a wonderful year ahead.
Fairfax County's Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) is excited to announce its new Work Student Program, starting January 2026. This paid program is open to students ages 16+, college students, and young adults, offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and career exploration in public service. Participants will work flexible, part-time hours to accommodate busy schedules, with jobs available across Fairfax County.
The program is designed to build skills in public service, program management, and administration—all aligned with the county’s One Fairfax Policy. Students will be matched with positions using their resumes and areas of study, in roles offering varying responsibilities and pay scales. Don’t miss this chance to gain meaningful experience while making an impact in the community!
 Virginia's Augmentative and Alternative Communication Law
The Virginia Department of Education has published a two-page guide, featuring a decision tree and FAQs, to help schools understand and implement a new law, HB2219, requiring schools to provide individualized training to educators working with students who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
This training must occur before the school year and includes updated Individualized Education Plan (IEP) documentation requirements to strengthen communication support for students in Virginia PK-12 schools. This is a significant step forward in ensuring all students who use AAC gain meaningful support in their education.
Free Digital Tech for Everyday Challenges
The National Organization on Disability (NOD) has released a user-friendly fact sheet featuring free digital tools to help tackle everyday tasks with ease. These accessibility tools are designed to simplify activities and improve efficiency, and they’re available to everyone—no diagnosis required. If you ever feel like certain tasks take more effort than they should, this resource is for you. Discover how technology can make your daily routine easier and faster.
Planet Word is dedicated to providing an inclusive and enjoyable visit for guests of all abilities. Accessibility features include elevator access, manual wheelchairs, gender-inclusive restrooms, and open captioning in exhibit videos. Guests are welcome to bring service animals as defined by the ADA, while other animals or pets are not allowed.
For those with sensory sensitivities, sensory maps, calming quiet spaces, and sensory-friendly backpacks with noise-reducing headphones and calming toys are available at the Welcome Desk. Visitors may also request sign language or oral interpreters with at least 14 days’ notice by emailing support@planetwordmuseum.org.
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