We’ve pulled together some information on organizations and groups for you. Click on the associated links and documents for detailed information.

People First Language

F.A.C.T. is the lead agency for People First, an adult self-advocacy and self-help organization run by and for adults 18 years and older who have developmental disabilities. People First teaches, mentors, coaches, guides, and prepares adults to advocate for change in their community and in state and federal laws.

People First Language, written by Kathy Snow, discusses the importance of putting the person before the disability:

“Using People First Language—putting the person before the disability—and eliminating old, prejudicial, and hurtful descriptors, can move us in a new direction. People First Language is not political correctness; instead, it demonstrates good manners, respect, and the Golden Rule.”

- Kathy Snow, author of “People First Language”

Please visit the Disability is Natural website for more information. To read the full article, please click on the pdf located under related downloads at the bottom of this page.

http://www.disabilityisnatural.com

No Child Left Behind

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was passed in 2002, and reauthorized the existing Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). NCLB has established new accountability measures for all public schools, meaning that students must test annually to measure academic progress, and that students be taught by highly qualified teachers. NCLB also focuses on improving communication between teachers and parents, as well as the safety of schools.

To find out more information about No Child Left Behind, you can visit the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website.