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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260324T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260324T235959
DTSTAMP:20260323T174107Z
CREATED:20260309T195139Z
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UID:12766-1774310400-1774396799@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LOFT 2026 - Applications Due by March 22
DESCRIPTION:Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today\nThe Leadership Opportunities for Teens (LOFT) is a program for high school students who are deaf and hard of hearing and who use listening and spoken language as their primary mode of communication. This five-day sleepaway experience helps teens strengthen skills in individual leadership\, teamwork\, group dynamics\, public speaking\, and self-advocacy. Best of all\, LOFT is fun! Teens make life-long friends and connections. \nThe 2026 event will take place in Washington\, DC\, July 28 to August 1. \nApplications for LOFT are due by March 22\, 2026. Secure your spot today!
URL:https://agbell.org/event/loft-2026-applications-due-by-march-22/
LOCATION:Washinton\, DC\, 3417 Volta PL NW\, Washington\, DC\, 20007\, United States
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LOFT-30th-Anniversary-Logo_FINAL-e1773085822873.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260326T235959
DTSTAMP:20260323T174032Z
CREATED:20260302T161911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T174032Z
UID:12712-1774483200-1774569599@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Building Parent Leadership in LSL: Mentorship\, Programs and Advocacy
DESCRIPTION:Building Parent Leadership in Listening and Spoken Language: Mentorship\, Programs\, and Advocacy\nA Global Matters Committee Professional Conversation \nJoin us at either 12:00 p.m. EST or 7:00 p.m. EST \nThis Global Matters Committee Professional Conversation Session aims to highlight and strengthen parent leadership within Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) communities worldwide. By showcasing real examples of parent–professional partnerships\, the session will explore how parents can lead at multiple levels—from peer mentorship and program involvement to international advocacy. LSLS professionals and families will gain insight into practical strategies for fostering parent leadership\, building collaborative cultures\, and expanding family‑centred impact across diverse global contexts. \nLearner Outcomes\nBy the end of this session\, participants will be able to: \n\nDescribe different levels of parent leadership within LSL programs.\nIdentify practical approaches to support and strengthen parent–professional partnerships.\nExplain strategies to expand family‑centred parent leadership across diverse global contexts.\n\nDownload the Event Flyer
URL:https://agbell.org/event/building-parent-leadership-in-lsl-mentorship-programs-and-advocacy/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Professionals
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Global-Matters_-jotback.680fcda8478672.71932842-1-e1772657863212.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T210000
DTSTAMP:20260401T200422Z
CREATED:20260401T200422Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T200422Z
UID:12897-1776369600-1776373200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Our Role in Keeping Children Safe
DESCRIPTION:Our Role in Keeping Children Safe\nJoin our next Parent Chat on April 16 to learn about hearing loss and support for your child! \nOur Role in Keeping Children Safe is a guide designed to support educators and parents working with students who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH)\, deafblind\, and DHH+ students. The document emphasizes that children who are DHH experience significantly higher rates of abuse and maltreatment due to communication barriers\, increased dependence on adults\, social isolation\, and challenges with disclosure. \nBy the end of this webinar\, parents will be able to: \n\nIdentify elevated risk factors that make children who are DHH more vulnerable to abuse—such as communication barriers\, dependency on adults\, and social isolation—and explain how these risks differ from peers with typical hearing.\nRecognize signs of trauma in children who are DHH\, including general behavioral changes and DHH‑specific indicators like changes in willingness to communicate or reluctance to remove hearing technology.\nImplement accessible safety‑communication systems such as mood meters\, “need to talk” signals\, privacy supports\, and worry boxes to encourage disclosure and emotional expression.\nTeach and reinforce safety and boundary skills through explicit vocabulary\, daily consent modeling\, role‑play scenarios\, and student‑created “Hand of Safety” networks.\nDesign a supportive\, trauma‑informed classroom environment that provides predictable routines\, sensory supports\, connection‑building rituals\, and calming strategies while fulfilling mandated‑reporter responsibilities.\n\n\nParent Chats are designed and intended for parents/family members; we kindly ask that only parents/family members attend. \nFeatured Guest Speaker\nKristin Grender \nKristin Grender is a Teacher for people who are Blind or have Low Vision and an Orientation & Mobility Instructor for CESA #2. She holds dual master’s degrees in Teaching Children with Visual Impairments and Orientation & Mobility from Western Michigan University\, and a Special Education undergraduate degree from UW–Whitewater. Kristin’s honors include the Herb Kohl Award (2017)\, UW–Whitewater Distinguished Alumni Award (2019)\, Walt Disney Top 100 Teachers (2023)\, and Top 50 Finalist for Global Teacher Recognition (2026). She is National Board Certified\, serves on national boards\, and participates in astronomy and NASA-related projects. 
URL:https://agbell.org/event/our-role-in-keeping-children-safe/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Apr16Parentchat-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260419T150000
DTSTAMP:20260311T175815Z
CREATED:20260309T201439Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T175815Z
UID:12775-1776601800-1776610800@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LEAP - Learning Experience & Adventure Program
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our next LEAP session on April 19. \nA virtual skill & friendship building experience for Middle School Students who are deaf and hard of hearing. \n\nDesigned just for middle schoolers\nMeet new friends with hearing loss\nVirtual games and skills – all online!\n\n. \nMany teens who are deaf or hard of hearing and use Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) do not know another peer who also uses LSL. That’s exactly why LEAP was created. The Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP) allows 6th-8th graders to connect with and learn from other teens who share their lived experiences. Plus\, LEAP is led and facilitated by adults who have grown up using LSL. How cool is that?
URL:https://agbell.org/event/leap-learning-experience-adventure-program/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LEAP_LOGO_FINAL-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T203000
DTSTAMP:20260401T203748Z
CREATED:20260401T203748Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T203748Z
UID:12907-1777489200-1777494600@agbell.org
SUMMARY:National Conversations: Advocacy Resource and Toolkit Launch
DESCRIPTION:Be part of an engaging and interactive session with the Public Policy Team as we dive into the newly launched AG Bell Advocacy page on the website. Discover a wealth of resources designed to empower members at every stage\, with special attention on our evolving Advocacy Toolkit project\, which will feature tailored materials for self-advocacy development at each age and stage. Joni Alberg\, Senior Operations Specialist\, and Gabby Morreale\, Advocacy and Public Policy Consultant\, will guide you through these tools\, highlighting how you can leverage them for personal growth and community impact.  \nFollowing the walkthrough\, you’ll have the chance to join dynamic small-group discussions\, offering your feedback and first impressions of the resources and toolkit plans. This is a unique opportunity to help shape advocacy initiatives that support individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing\, from early childhood through adulthood.  \nCART will be provided. For questions or concerns\, please contact Gabby Morreale at gmorreale@agbell.org.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/national-conversations-advocacy-resource-and-toolkit-launch/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Open to all
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Advocacy-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260521T210000
DTSTAMP:20260511T151746Z
CREATED:20260511T151746Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T151746Z
UID:13343-1779393600-1779397200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Everyday Adventures: Building Language Through Summer Fun
DESCRIPTION:Everyday Adventures: Building Language Through Summer Fun\nJoin our next Parent Chat on April 16 to learn about hearing loss and support for your child! \n“Everyday Adventures: Building Language Through Summer Fun” is a family-focused presentation designed to help caregivers support language development in children with hearing loss. It emphasizes using daily summer activities as opportunities to build listening and communication skills\, while providing practical strategies and planning tools. \nLearning Outcomes:  \n\nParticipants will be able to create a personalized plan to support their child’s language development during everyday summer activities. \nParticipants will identify and apply effective strategies to enhance listening and language skills in children with hearing loss. \nParticipants will utilize the provided planning tools to consistently integrate language-building opportunities into daily routines. \n\n\nParent Chats are designed and intended for parents/family members; we kindly ask that only parents/family members attend. \nFeatured Guest Speaker\nNanette Thompson \nNanette Thompson is a certified Listening and Spoken Language Specialist with over 30 years of experience working with families of children with hearing differences in a variety of settings. She is passionate about helping children learn to talk\, listen\, read and sing! Nanette provides diagnostic listening and spoken language therapy to families\, children\, and adults. She enjoys leading workshops and coaching professionals and parents to improve listening and spoken language outcomes for children with hearing differences. Nanette is currently the head of Pediatric Speech and Language Services at the Marion Downs Center for Hearing\, Speech\, and Language.\n 
URL:https://agbell.org/event/everyday-adventures-building-language-through-summer-fun/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/May21ParentChat-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260530T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260530T150000
DTSTAMP:20260323T173647Z
CREATED:20260323T173647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T173647Z
UID:12798-1780144200-1780153200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LEAP - Learning Experience & Adventure Program
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our May 30th LEAP session. \nA virtual skill & friendship building experience for Middle School Students who are deaf and hard of hearing. \n\nDesigned just for middle schoolers\nMeet new friends with hearing loss\nVirtual games and skills – all online!\n\nMany teens who are deaf or hard of hearing and use Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) do not know another peer who also uses LSL. That’s exactly why LEAP was created. The Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP) allows 6th-8th graders to connect with and learn from other teens who share their lived experiences. Plus\, LEAP is led and facilitated by adults who have grown up using LSL. How cool is that?
URL:https://agbell.org/event/leap-learning-experience-adventure-program-2/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LEAP_LOGO_FINAL-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260604T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260606T235959
DTSTAMP:20260122T041742Z
CREATED:20260122T041742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T041742Z
UID:12017-1780531200-1780790399@agbell.org
SUMMARY:AG Bell Global Listening and Spoken Language Symposium
DESCRIPTION:AG Bell is thrilled to announce that the 2026 AG Bell Global Listening and Spoken Language Symposium will return live and in person in Arlington\, VA. We are excited to welcome people from all over the world to learn about best practices in Listening and Spoken Language development. \n\n\nWhat’s Changing?\n\n\n\n\nWe will offer a live\, in-person meeting at the Crystal Gateway Marriott\, Arlington\, VA. We are bringing back the opportunity for you to connect with colleagues\, network\, meet with vendors\, and explore beautiful Virginia. \nWe are excited to build an interactive exhibit hall\, where attendees can mingle with one another and form those connections often missed in online programming. Details on how you can support this in-person experience will be available soon. \n\n\nWhat’s Staying the Same?\n\n\n\n\nFor those who are unable to travel\, we will still offer an On Demand version of the Symposium from July to September 2026. However\, the live Symposium will not be broadcast virtually. \nYou can still earn CEUs for both the live and on-demand versions. \nOur exceptional education program will remain unchanged\, featuring NIH-funded keynote speakers\, concurrent sessions\, poster presentations\, support for multiple languages\, and a proceedings document that highlights the research of our keynote presenters. \nTo learn more\, visit agbell.org/2026-symposium.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/ag-bell-global-listening-and-spoken-language-symposium/
LOCATION:Crystal Gateway Marriott\, Arlington\, VA
CATEGORIES:Professionals,Symposium 2026,Symposium Keynotes & Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AGB-2026-Symposium-Logo_English_w-dates.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260625T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260628T235959
DTSTAMP:20260123T212914Z
CREATED:20260123T212914Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T212914Z
UID:12034-1782345600-1782691199@agbell.org
SUMMARY:AG Bell Young Leaders Network Retreat in Colorado
DESCRIPTION:The Young Leaders Board of AG Bell is hosting their second annual retreat! Please join us this summer in Estes Park\, Colorado\, for an adult retreat experience from June 25th to 28th. We are excited to welcome young adults ages 18 through 40 who are deaf or hard of hearing and who use listening and spoken language (LSL). \nStep into a powerful weekend of connection\, growth\, and leadership with fellow deaf and hard of hearing young adults! From story circles and outdoor adventures to workshops on communication\, advocacy\, and leadership\, this retreat offers opportunities to build skills\, deepen self-awareness\, and have fun. Enjoy nature walks\, campfires\, team challenges\, and time to reflect as you shape your personal leadership vision. Come ready to learn\, share\, and leave inspired to make an impact. \nPlease email the YLN Coordinator\, Emerson Henry\, at youngadults@agbell.org with any questions\, comments\, or concerns. Registration is all-inclusive (not including airfare). \nTo secure your spot for the 2026 YLN Retreat\, all participants will make a deposit at registration and pay the final balance by April. Prices depend on whether you register during the Early Bird or Late Bird period. \nEarly Bird Registration (January 12th – February 23rd)\n\nDeposit: $100 (due at registration)\nFinal Payment: $199 (due April 17th)\nTotal Cost: $299\n\nYour spot is reserved once the $100 deposit is received. The remaining $199 must be paid by April 17th. See cancellation guidelines in the payment portion. \nLate Bird Registration (February 24th – April 13th)\n\nDeposit: $125 (due at registration)\nFinal Payment: $200 (due April 17th)\nTotal Cost: $325\n\nRegistrations submitted during this period require a $125 deposit. The remaining $200 must be paid by April 17th. See cancellation guidelines below. \n  \nYou will also have the option to make a full payment. Once you make the full payment\, your spot is immediately secured. \n  \n\n\n\n\nGeneral Retreat Information\nJune 25 (Arrival Day)\n\nArrive at Denver\, CO (DEN) Airport between 1:30pm-3:00pm MST\nDrive to The YMCA of the Rockies\nArrive/Check-in\nWelcome Dinner\nOpening Night\n\nJune 26 \n\nPersonal Journeys Activity\nGroup activities focusing on leadership\nFree time\nYLB Panel\nNight time activities\n\nJune 27 \n\nNature Walk/Hike\nGroup activities focusing on communication\nAfternoon Group Activity\nAG Bell Presentation\nNight time activities\n\nJune 28 (Departure Day)\n\nReflecting on the retreat\nCheck out at 10:00 am\nRide back to DEN Airport -Flights should between 1:00-3:00pm MST. No earlier than 1pm or we will not gurantee that you can make your flight.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/ag-bell-young-leaders-network-retreat-in-colorado/
LOCATION:Estes Park\, CO\, 2515 Tunnel Road\, Estes Park\, CO\, 80511\, United States
CATEGORIES:Students,YLN
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/615336309_17977350509986185_6343649447383066675_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260727T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T235959
DTSTAMP:20260805T030915Z
CREATED:20260623T175027Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T030915Z
UID:13624-1785110400-1791503999@agbell.org
SUMMARY:AG Bell Global Listening and Spoken Language Virtual Symposium - On Demand
DESCRIPTION:AG Bell is pleased to offer its 2026 AG Bell Global Listening and Spoken Language Symposium virtually\, on demand. We are excited to welcome people from all over the world to learn about best practices in Listening and Spoken Language development. \nThe On-Demand Symposium provides registered attendees with access to recorded sessions from the in-person AG Bell Global LSL Virtual Symposium\, available to watch at their convenience. On-Demand sessions will be available from July 27-September 30\, 2026. \nCEUs will be offered! If you attended the live Symposium\, you do not need to register again. You will have access to all recorded sessions when the virtual Symposium opens on July 27. \nTo learn more\, visit agbell.org/2026-symposium.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/ag-bell-global-listening-and-spoken-language-virtual-symposium-on-demand/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Professionals,Symposium 2026,Symposium Keynotes & Speakers
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/AGB-2026-Symposium-Logo_ON-DEMAND-1.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260820T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260820T210000
DTSTAMP:20260805T030950Z
CREATED:20260805T025851Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T030950Z
UID:13726-1787256000-1787259600@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Building Strong Home-to-School Partnerships for Families of Children who are DHH
DESCRIPTION:Building Strong Home-to-School Partnerships for Families of Children who are DHH\nJoin us for a special Back-to-School Parent Chat on August 20! \nThis interactive session provides an opportunity to connect with other families\, learn about school supports\, and discuss ways to ensure students have a successful school year. Parents will explore effective strategies for building positive partnerships and maintaining open communication with teachers\, interpreters\, and other school staff. We will share practical tips for supporting language development\, self-advocacy\, and learning—both at home and at school. Families will leave with new resources\, greater confidence\, and ideas for working collaboratively with their child’s educational team throughout the year. \nLearning Outcomes:  \n\nParents will identify at least three effective strategies for communicating regularly and collaboratively with teachers\, interpreters\, and other members of their child’s educational team.\nParents will understand the importance of sharing information about their child’s communication preferences\, hearing technology\, strengths\, and learning needs with school staff.\nParents will learn practical ways to support their child’s language\, literacy\, and self-advocacy skills at home while reinforcing school goals.\nParents will develop an action plan for establishing positive home-school partnerships that promote student success throughout the school year.\n\n\nParent Chats are designed and intended for parents/family members; we kindly ask that only parents/family members attend. \nFeatured Guest Speakers\n \nKelly Welch\, M.A. Ed.\, is a dedicated Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TODHH) and Department Team Lead for Denver Public Schools\, bringing three decades of passionate expertise to the field. With 30 years of experience—including 16 years on the Colorado Department of Education DHH Leadership Team—Kelly has worked across the full spectrum of educational settings\, having spent her early career as a center-based teacher before pivoting to an itinerant role 18 years ago. Certified to work with youth ages 3 to 21\, she supports students and families through every major milestone\, from early childhood Child Find evaluations and IFSP-to-IEP transitions\, to post-secondary planning and transition programming. Kelly is a fierce advocate for a child-led approach to education\, firmly believing that the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) must be tailored to the unique needs of each individual student. Guided by the philosophy that “it takes a village\,” she partners closely with families and multidisciplinary teams to ensure every child receives holistic\, meaningful support. When she is not teaching\, she enjoys spending time with her family & friends\, traveling and reading. \nTara Bauman\, Au.D.\, has over a decade of expertise in pediatric and educational audiology. She currently serves as an educational audiologist and senior lead for Denver Public Schools\, where she is entering her 10th year as a provider. Prior to her work in public education\, Dr. Bauman was a pediatric cochlear implant audiologist and served a diverse patient population at a Denver-area hospital providing comprehensive diagnostic services for all ages. \nA recognized leader and advocate within the audiology community\, Dr. Bauman is a past president of the Colorado Chapter of the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AG Bell). Her expertise has been sought after by local\, state\, and national organizations\, where she collaborates on pediatric audiological initiatives and presents on topics in the field. \n 
URL:https://agbell.org/event/building-strong-home-to-school-partnerships-for-families-of-children-who-are-dhh/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Parent-Chats-Aug-20-sized.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260829T150000
DTSTAMP:20260805T030746Z
CREATED:20260323T173927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260805T030746Z
UID:12842-1788006600-1788015600@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LEAP - Learning Experience & Adventure Program
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our August 29th LEAP session. \nA virtual skill & friendship-building experience for Middle School students who are deaf and hard of hearing. \n\nDesigned just for middle schoolers\nMeet new friends with hearing loss\nVirtual games and skills – all online!\n\nMany teens who are deaf or hard of hearing and use Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) do not know another peer who also uses LSL. That’s exactly why LEAP was created. The Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP) allows 6th-8th graders to connect with and learn from other teens who share their lived experiences. Plus\, LEAP is led and facilitated by adults who have grown up using LSL. How cool is that?
URL:https://agbell.org/event/leap-learning-experience-adventure-program-3/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LEAP_LOGO_FINAL-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T235959
DTSTAMP:20260818T182900Z
CREATED:20260818T182900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T182900Z
UID:13748-1788393600-1788479999@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Become a Future Bridging Course Provider in 2027
DESCRIPTION:Become a Future Bridging Course Provider in 2027: Application Informational Session\nThe Bridging Course is intended to provide an accessible and structured pathway for qualified professionals seeking foundational preparation toward Listening and Spoken Language Specialist (LSLS) certification. The Bridging Course has three primary aims: \n\nTo bridge knowledge gaps related to LSL practice\nTo eliminate one barrier to certification (requisite degree requirement)\nTo enhance global knowledge through peer-reviewed\, culturally relevant programming.\n\n. \nAfter several years of thoughtful development\, AG Bell is excited to announce the next phase of the Bridging Course\, an initiative designed to expand access to Listening and Spoken Language Specialist (LSLS) certification. \nThe Bridging Course provides an accessible\, structured pathway for qualified professionals seeking foundational preparation for the LSLS certification process. Beginning in 2027\, AG Bell will open the Bridging Course to all interested providers through an online application program. \nThis information session is designed for providers interested in offering the Bridging Course in 2027. Participants will learn about the program’s vision\, structure\, application process\, and what it takes to become an approved Bridging Course provider. It will include a timeline for the 2027 Bridging Course Applications and end with a Q&A period for questions. \nTwo session options are available: \n\n12:00 p.m. ET\n7:00 p.m. ET\n\n. \nJoin us to learn how you can be part of this exciting next chapter in expanding access to high-quality professional preparation in listening and spoken language practice.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/become-a-future-bridging-course-provider-in-2027/
LOCATION:Virtual
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260910T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260910T210000
DTSTAMP:20260824T155552Z
CREATED:20260824T155552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T155552Z
UID:13908-1789070400-1789074000@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Let’s Talk About Late-Identified Hearing Loss in Childhood
DESCRIPTION:Let’s Talk About Late-Identified Hearing Loss in Childhood\nJoin us for a special Back-to-School Parent Chat on August 20! \nNot all childhood hearing loss is present at birth. In her recent advocacy project and published book\, Late to the Party: Extraordinary Stories of Hope After Late-Identified Hearing Loss\, parent advocate and author Valerie James Abbott beautifully narrates sixteen true stories of families with children whose hearing loss was identified after newborn screening when safeguards failed\, risk factors were missed\, and parent concerns were dismissed. Drawing from her own daughter’s late diagnosis\, Valerie’s motivation has been focused in recent years on helping reduce developmental delays and negative academic outcomes for tomorrow’s children\, and meeting the emotional needs of their families through various collaborations and projects. \nIn this Parent Chat\, Valerie will share her family’s story and her path to advocacy\, and lead a conversation on navigating the uncomfortable and unknown during the journey\, finding support that works\, and speaking up confidently and successfully with medical professionals. \nBy exploring the insights shared in this parent advocate forum\, caregivers will gain the tools to: \n\nRecognize Subtle Behavioral Milestones: Look beyond newborn screening results to identify red flags\, such as a toddler relying on lip-reading\, missing language milestones (like colors or numbers)\, or exhibiting unexplained social-emotional changes.\nHold Space for Yourself and Others: A late diagnosis of hearing loss can occur for many reasons. Understand the natural feelings of guilt\, panic\, worry\, or anger that may accompany a late diagnosis. Replace isolation with the reassurance that caregivers are not alone and can lean on a massive\, supportive community.\nAdvocate Proactively Across Professional Systems: Gain confidence in small steps\, speaking up when concerns are dismissed by medical professionals\, demanding thorough pediatric audiological evaluations rather than accepting assumptions.\n\n\nParent Chats are designed and intended for parents/family members; we kindly ask that only parents/family members attend. \nFeatured Guest Speaker\nValerie James Abbott is a parent advocate\, author\, and awareness ambassador for early childhood hearing loss. In addition to founding the national Late Onset Hearing Loss Awareness Campaign with Justin Osmond\, CEO/Founder of the Olive Osmond Hearing Fund\, she is also co-founder of the ListenUp! Preschool Hearing Health Outreach Initiative\, Virginia’s largest\, free early childhood hearing screening program offered by the Lions Clubs of Virginia.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/lets-talk-about-late-identified-hearing-loss-in-childhood/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Preschool-Transition-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260921T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261023T235959
DTSTAMP:20261017T015234Z
CREATED:20260918T182806Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261017T015234Z
UID:14022-1789948800-1792799999@agbell.org
SUMMARY:AG Bell Connect: Virtual Global Symposium & Community Forum
DESCRIPTION:Dates: June 22-24\, 2027\nLocation: Virtual \nWe are excited to welcome you to something new! \nAG Bell Connect: Virtual Global Symposium & Community Forum will be a global learning experience that brings together parents and families\, professionals\, and individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to learn\, connect\, share experiences\, and inspire one another. \nAG Bell Connect reflects AG Bell’s belief that the strongest outcomes happen when diverse perspectives come together. AG Bell Connect will create an online\, shared learning community where research\, professional expertise\, lived experience\, and family perspectives intersect to create meaningful learning and lasting impact. It combines the best of AG Bell Symposiums with the community engagement of past AG Bell Conventions. \nAG Bell Connect will begin with a day of interactive workshops on June 22\, followed by two days of presentations\, keynote sessions\, panel discussions\, and conversations across three program streams: \n\nParents & Families: Growing Confidence. Building Connection.\nLived Experience: Sharing Stories. Shaping Possibilities.\nProfessionals: Growing Knowledge. Strengthening Practice.\n\nDesigned for virtual participation\, AG Bell Connect will provide opportunities for engagement through interactive sessions\, discussion\, and networking. \nCall for Proposals Deadline Extended to October 23\, 2026\nThe AG Bell Connect Committee welcomes your proposal. \nWe need your participation\, experiences\, and insights! \nYou are invited to submit a workshop or presentation that will inform\, engage\, and inspire participants. \nWorkshops should be practical and hands-on\, providing opportunities for participants to actively engage with ideas\, develop skills\, and apply new learning. Workshops should equip participants with actionable strategies\, practical tools\, and useful resources that they can take directly into their practice or personal lives. \nPresentations should be evidence- and/or experience-based\, sharing relevant knowledge and perspectives. Presentations should encourage participant engagement and provide practical take-away strategies\, resources\, or ideas that participants can apply in their own professional or personal context. \nWe invite submissions for all three program streams and encourage workshops and presentations that connect knowledge with real-world application. Your voice can help strengthen our collective understanding and improve outcomes for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. \nPriority will be given to proposals that: \n\nDemonstrate collaboration and interdisciplinary thinking\nConnect research\, practice\, and lived experience\nProvide practical\, actionable takeaways\nEncourage participant interaction and engagement\nRepresent diverse perspectives\, backgrounds\, and experiences\n\nAG Bell Connect is more than a professional development event. It is an opportunity to build connections\, exchange ideas\, and strengthen a global community committed to helping individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing listen\, speak\, and thrive. We look forward to learning from your experiences and welcoming you to our program. \nPlease review the submission requirements and instructions carefully before submitting your proposal(s). We look forward to receiving your ideas and working together to create an engaging\, inclusive\, and impactful AG Bell Connect experience. \nApply Today
URL:https://agbell.org/event/ag-bell-connect-virtual-global-symposium-community-forum/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families,Open to all,Professionals,Students,YLN
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AGB-2027-Convention_web-banner-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260924T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260924T210000
DTSTAMP:20260914T201451Z
CREATED:20260914T201451Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260914T201451Z
UID:13992-1790280000-1790283600@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Young Leaders Network Game Night: Deaf Awareness Month
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for an evening full of family feud-style questions centered around deaf awareness and resources/tips! \nJoin us on September 24th from 8-9 pm EST for a fun and exciting game night celebrating Deaf Awareness Month! We’ll have a fun time answering deaf/HOH questions\, Family Feud-style\, and connecting with others in the community. You’ll get to meet other young adults who are deaf and hard of hearing – an event that you don’t want to miss! Please feel free to reach out to youngadults@agbell.org with any questions or concerns. We hope to see you on September 24th!
URL:https://agbell.org/event/young-leaders-network-game-night-deaf-awareness-month/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Open to all,YLN
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/YLN-Games-Night.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260926T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260926T150000
DTSTAMP:20260910T205401Z
CREATED:20260910T205401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260910T205401Z
UID:13981-1790425800-1790434800@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LEAP - Learning Experience & Adventure Program
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our September 26th LEAP session. \nA virtual skill & friendship-building experience for Middle School students who are deaf and hard of hearing. \n\nDesigned just for middle schoolers\nMeet new friends with hearing loss\nVirtual games and skills – all online!\n\nMany teens who are deaf or hard of hearing and use Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) do not know another peer who also uses LSL. That’s exactly why LEAP was created. The Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP) allows 6th-8th graders to connect with and learn from other teens who share their lived experiences. Plus\, LEAP is led and facilitated by adults who have grown up using LSL. How cool is that?
URL:https://agbell.org/event/leap-learning-experience-adventure-program-4/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LEAP_LOGO_FINAL-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261008T210000
DTSTAMP:20260917T194820Z
CREATED:20260917T194742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260917T194820Z
UID:14016-1791489600-1791493200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Preparing for College: Helping Your Teen with Hearing Loss Transition Successfully
DESCRIPTION:Preparing for College: Helping Your Teen with Hearing Loss Transition Successfully\nJoin us on October 8 from 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET! \nThe transition from high school to college is an exciting milestone that brings new opportunities and increased independence for students with hearing loss. This parent chat will explore the key differences between high school and college support systems\, including how accommodations are requested and provided. Families will learn about the disability services and accessibility resources commonly available at colleges\, such as captioning\, interpreting\, assistive technology\, and academic coaching. The session will also discuss important skills students should develop during high school\, including self-advocacy\, communication\, time management\, and understanding their accommodation needs. Parents will leave with practical strategies to support their teen’s successful transition while encouraging confidence and independence. \nLearning Outcomes \nBy the end of this Parent Chat\, participants will be able to: \n\nIdentify the differences between high school and college disability support services for students with hearing loss.\nDescribe common accommodations and accessibility resources available through college disability services offices.\nRecognize the self-advocacy\, organizational\, and communication skills students should develop before graduating from high school.\nDevelop a plan to support their child’s transition to college while fostering increasing independence and self-determination.\n\n* \nParent Chats are designed and intended for parents/family members; we kindly ask that only parents/family members attend. \nFeatured Guest Speaker\n \nAlexandria Mestres holds degrees in Education of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing and Elementary Education as well as a master’s degree in Applied Learning Sciences. Alex has worked as an administrator\, professional development trainer\, and consultant in the fields of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Education and Early Childhood. She is currently working for the University of Miami Children’s Hearing Program as the educational specialist. She leads a team of 3 D/HH Specialist who work across multiple counties in the state of Florida as a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Specialist for Charter Schools and 2 rural districts.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/preparing-for-college-helping-your-teen-with-hearing-loss-transition-successfully/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/College-Transition2-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261015T180000
DTSTAMP:20260825T180507Z
CREATED:20260825T162004Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260825T180507Z
UID:13915-1792074600-1792087200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Gene Therapy for Pediatric Hearing Loss
DESCRIPTION:We invite you to join us for the 2026 AG Bell Fall Forum: Gene Therapy for Pediatric Hearing Loss on October 15\, where leading experts will explore the latest evidence\, early patient outcomes\, and the opportunities and challenges shaping this rapidly evolving field. \nWhen: October 15\, 2026\, from 2:30 – 6:00 p.m. ET \nWhere: Virtually\, from wherever you are. \nCost: Free for students and attendees to the 2026 Global LSL Symposium; $99 for members; $199 for non-members \n2026 Fall Forum Keynote Speaker\nEliot Shearer\, M.D.\, Ph.D. \nDr. Eliot Shearer is a pediatric otolaryngologist and cochlear implant/gene therapy surgeon at Boston Children’s Hospital. He leads the Translational Hearing Genomics Lab and serves as site principal investigator for three hearing loss clinical trials. \nDr. Shearer will speak on the intersection of gene therapy and pediatric hearing loss. Gene therapy for hearing loss has moved from scientific promise to clinical reality\, and the pace of progress is accelerating. With the first FDA-approved gene therapy for hearing loss now available and multiple clinical trials underway\, clinicians\, researchers\, and families are beginning to see how these innovations may transform the future of care. \nFall Forum Overview\nDuring this interactive forum\, participants will: \n\nReview early efficacy and safety findings from current pediatric gene therapy trials\nLearn about surgical delivery approaches and how they compare with established interventions such as cochlear implantation\nDiscuss candidacy\, timing\, and the role of genetic testing in identifying and counselling families\nWork through real-world case studies in small group discussions\nEngage directly with an expert panel on key questions facing the field today\n\n. \nTogether\, we will explore important topics including: \n\nHow durable are treatment effects over time?\nWhich genetic causes of hearing loss are best suited to current therapies?\nHow should gene therapy be sequenced or combined with cochlear implants and other interventions?\nWhat systems and infrastructure are needed to support broader access as additional therapies move toward approval?\n\n. \nThe Fall Forum is designed for clinicians\, researchers\, and families seeking a practical\, evidence-based understanding of where gene therapy stands today and where the field is headed over the next several years. Plus\, CEUs will be available for professionals who need them.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/gene-therapy-for-pediatric-hearing-loss/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Open to all
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261112T210000
DTSTAMP:20261027T145654Z
CREATED:20261027T145654Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261027T145654Z
UID:14192-1794513600-1794517200@agbell.org
SUMMARY:Helping Students who are DHH Succeed in the Classroom
DESCRIPTION:This upcoming Parent Chat will help families understand how hearing aids and cochlear implants provide access to sound\, and how students use these technologies to listen and learn. Parents will explore how classroom noise\, distance\, reverberation\, and competing speakers can affect a child’s ability to understand instruction. The presentation will share practical strategies and accommodations that families can discuss with teachers to improve their child’s access to learning and classroom participation. Participants will learn about remote microphone systems\, daily technology checks\, listening fatigue\, and communication strategies that support their child’s success. The session will also emphasize self-advocacy and collaboration among families\, students\, teachers\, audiologists\, and other school professionals to ensure individualized support. \nBy the end of this Parent Chat\, participants will be able to: \n\nDescribe how hearing aids and cochlear implants provide access to sound and identify key differences in how the two technologies work.\nIdentify classroom listening challenges\, including background noise\, distance\, reverberation\, and competing speakers that may affect their child’s understanding.\nRecognize and discuss accommodations and strategies that support educational access\, including remote microphone systems\, visual supports\, daily technology checks\, and listening breaks.\nIdentify ways to promote their child’s self-advocacy and collaborate with school staff and hearing professionals to support individualized educational needs.\n\nAbout Marti Bleidt\nMarti Bleidt is AG Bell’s Parent Support Consultant\, providing guidance and support to families at every stage of their child’s hearing loss journey. A parent of four grown children\, two of whom have hearing loss\, Marti brings both personal and professional experience to her role. She spent nearly 40 years as a teacher of the deaf in Denver’s public school system and continues to support young children and their families as an early intervention provider with EI Colorado.
URL:https://agbell.org/event/helping-students-who-are-dhh-succeed-in-the-classroom/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Families
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ThriveinArts-scaled.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261205T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261205T150000
DTSTAMP:20261014T173408Z
CREATED:20261005T173133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261014T173408Z
UID:14145-1796473800-1796482800@agbell.org
SUMMARY:LEAP - Learning Experience & Adventure Program
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our December 5th LEAP session. \nA virtual skill & friendship-building experience for Middle School students who are deaf and hard of hearing. \n\nDesigned just for middle schoolers\nMeet new friends with hearing loss\nVirtual games and skills – all online!\n\nMany teens who are deaf or hard of hearing and use Listening and Spoken Language (LSL) do not know another peer who also uses LSL. That’s exactly why LEAP was created. The Learning Experience and Adventure Program (LEAP) allows 6th-8th graders to connect with and learn from other teens who share their lived experiences. Plus\, LEAP is led and facilitated by adults who have grown up using LSL. How cool is that?
URL:https://agbell.org/event/leap-learning-experience-adventure-program-5/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Students
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://agbell.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/LEAP_LOGO_FINAL-scaled.png
ORGANIZER;CN="AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing":MAILTO:2024symposium@agbell.org
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR