Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Students with Individualized Education Plans can achieve success just like anyone else. That’s the message of the upcoming Empower All Abilities Conference, hosted by District 186 on Nov. 16. The free, half-day event will take place at Lanphier High School and feature nationally known author and motivational speaker Jordan Toma.

Toma, author of “I’m Just a Kid with an IEP,“ is widely recognized for his videos on TikTok and YouTube, where he shares his journey with learning challenges and inspires others.

Director of Student Support Services Ward Lamon said, “Just because a student has an exceptionality, that’s not going to prevent them from achieving their best self. That is one of the reasons we wanted to bring Jordan here.  If he could do it, anybody can do it.”

The conference will also include area experts specializing in autism, ADHD, and other exceptionalities, who will provide information on local support services and long-term financial planning for families with a child with disabilities.

Now in its 16th year, the conference is returning to an in-person format after going virtual during the pandemic. The event is free and open to all, including those outside of District 186.

For more details and to register, visit the District 186 website.