Special Ed 101: Turning Holiday Disruptions into Smooth Transitions

Green chalkboard with colorful chalk drawings of a sun, clouds, and a bell, along with large text reading “School’s Out.” A yellow cup filled with colored pencils and stacked notebooks sits at the bottom. The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo is in the top left corner, and a small sign in the corner reads “Happy Holidays.”

The holidays often interrupt routines that families work hard to build during the school year. For students who receive special education services, these disruptions can bring questions, stress, and confusion, especially when school schedules, services, or meetings change. This article revisits a 2023 Pathfinder piece that helped families understand what to expect and how to… Read more Special Ed 101: Turning Holiday Disruptions into Smooth Transitions

Cooking Up Connection: Pathfinder Team Holiday Recipes and Traditions

A close-up of a festive holiday mug filled with whipped cream and topped with gold and silver sprinkles. The mug features a winter village design with snowflakes and houses. It is held by hands wearing bright red gloves, with blurred holiday lights and small decorated trees in the background. Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo appears in the upper left corner.

From Our Homes to Yours Nothing brings the holidays to life quite like the flavors, memories, and traditions we share. This year, our Pathfinder team is opening their kitchens and hearts to share their favorite recipes and holiday traditions. From cherished family dishes to special seasonal moments, these stories offer inspiration and practical ideas to… Read more Cooking Up Connection: Pathfinder Team Holiday Recipes and Traditions

Connecting Through the Language of Care

Colorful illustration of a playground scene on a yellow and green background. Cut-out silhouettes of children are shown playing, including figures using wheelchairs, on swings, and climbing structures. A real hand is raised in the center, and the Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo appears in the top left corner.

Spreading Joy and Understanding: Spanish Services Across our Centers Written by Gerardo Castillo II, Chief Operating Officer, Wellspring LC As the holiday season approaches, we want to ensure our parents and caregiversfeel supported with the latest resources. At Wellspring Learning Centers, creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive is at the heart of what… Read more Connecting Through the Language of Care

Community Events this Holiday Season

Festive green background with pine branches, gold ribbon curls, and decorative confetti. On the left is the Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo. Large gold text in the center reads: “Upcoming Events December 2025.” On the right, part of a figure dressed in a red and white Santa suit is visible, holding a white-gloved hand near the bottom edge.

The holidays aren’t just about cookies and carols (though we wish they were!). They’re also about finding moments that make the season special, whether that’s a resource fair, a quiet visit with Santa, or sharing a meal with friends. Across Tennessee, communities are hosting events that bring people together in ways that feel welcoming, flexible,… Read more Community Events this Holiday Season

A Message from the Executive Director of Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (TN Council on DD)

A graphic featuring a blue and yellow design on the left side with the text “A Special Message from the Executive Director” in bold white letters. Below, a blue banner reads “Tennessee Council on DD.” A gold compass icon is placed near the text. The right side of the image has an orange background with circular accents and shows a person wearing a dark long-sleeve top. At the bottom right, white text reads “Lauren Pearcy, Executive Director TN Council on DD.”

Dear Readers, ‘Tis the season! This issue of The Compass is dedicated to support during the holidays. As I sit down to write, I am imagining all of the different experiences readers may be having while reading this. A much-needed break from routine; the struggle from the break in routine. Eager anticipation for traveling, gathering,… Read more A Message from the Executive Director of Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (TN Council on DD)

Guiding the Way Through the Holidays: Support & Connection for Tennesseans with Disabilities

A scenic graphic showing an empty two-lane road lined with tall trees fading into mist in the background. At the center, a large gold and green compass icon is displayed. Above the compass, text reads “Start Your Journey,” and below it, the words “Tennessee Disability Pathfinder” appear in white.

The holidays can be both joyful and challenging. It’s a season filled with light, laughter, and togetherness, yet also moments of stress, change, and uncertainty. For Tennesseans with disabilities and their families, this time of year can bring unique challenges: managing physical and sensory considerations at gatherings, coordinating support needs while traveling, or carving out… Read more Guiding the Way Through the Holidays: Support & Connection for Tennesseans with Disabilities

Guiding Communities Through Uncertainty: What You Can Do This Season

An illustration showing a group of people moving forward together against a soft gradient background of orange and blue tones. Several individuals are using wheelchairs, while others are walking alongside them. Some are shaking hands, symbolizing connection and cooperation. Autumn leaves are scattered in the air, adding a seasonal touch. At the top center, a purple circle displays the Tennessee Disability Coalition logo.

The budget bill that was signed on July 4 included the most devastating cuts to health and nutrition programs in our nation’s history. Some cuts will take effect in the coming months. Follow TJC and revisit this page to keep informed about those threats. ​ Right now, at the center of the federal government shutdown,… Read more Guiding Communities Through Uncertainty: What You Can Do This Season

Community Conversations Spark Action on Housing Challenges this Holiday Season

A wide view of a community gathering in a gymnasium-style hall with high ceilings and exposed beams. Numerous round tables covered with purple and green tablecloths fill the space, with attendees seated and participating in discussions. Papers, pens, and water bottles are visible on the tables. Large dark panels line the walls, and two screens are positioned at the back, displaying content for the event.

On October 27, community members from across the greater Nashville area gathered for an event focused on addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Hosted by the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center, Our Place Nashville, the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities, and local advocates and leaders, the… Read more Community Conversations Spark Action on Housing Challenges this Holiday Season