CBIRT Online

Lessons Learned in 30 Years Studying Brain Injury

This insightful webinar, now a podcast, features Ann Glang, PhD, a renowned special education researcher and former director of the Center on Brain Injury Research and Training (CBIRT). Dr. Glang shares her inspiring journey from studying French to becoming a leader in brain injury research, influenced by pioneers in instructional design like the late Dr. Siegfried “Zig” Engelmann and Doug Carnine, PhD. Her work has focused on developing interdisciplinary teams in schools to support students with brain injuries and advocating for legislative changes to improve access to services.
Key achievements under her leadership at CBIRT include the development of a stakeholder-driven team model in Oregon schools, successful policy advocacy such as removing medical documentation barriers for TBI identification, and expanding research into areas like education in corrections facilities. Dr. Glang emphasizes the importance of focusing on functional, real-world skills and working closely with families and educators to design effective interventions.
She also discusses strategies for raising public awareness about the prevalence and preventability of brain injuries and shares her vision for CBIRT to continue building partnerships and disseminating evidence-based practices widely. As she steps back from day-to-day responsibilities, Dr. Glang remains committed to mentoring and supporting select projects. This episode offers invaluable insights into the evolution of TBI knowledge, family engagement, and the systems-level changes needed to prioritize support for students with brain injuries.

10 Things Special Educators Should Know

In this podcast, adapted from a live webinar, we explore Oregon's efforts to support students with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), a low-incidence disability affecting 313 students statewide. While TBI cases in schools are relatively rare, Regional Inclusive Services (RISC) plays a vital role by providing consultative support through trained TBI liaisons. These liaisons work closely with schools, families, and communities, offering training and resources to ensure students with TBI receive the support they need.
We discuss the TBI evaluation process in Oregon, which includes medical exams, psychological assessments, and credible history interviews to gather key information when medical records are unavailable. Students with TBI may qualify for either a 504 plan or an IEP, depending on the extent of their educational needs. House Bill 4140 further ensures a coordinated return-to-school process, mandating a standardized form for documenting symptoms and planning accommodations after a concussion or brain injury.
Looking ahead, Oregon is prioritizing inclusive practices, accessible educational materials, and evidence-based strategies to better serve students with TBI. Linda Brown, Ed.D., a retiring educational specialist with 34 years of experience, shares her insights into what special educators need to know about TBI. Tune in to hear how Oregon’s proactive approaches and the dedication of specialists like Linda are shaping a more inclusive future for students with special needs.

The Josh Goblowsky Story

What started as a webinar is now a podcast exploring the inspiring journey of Josh Goblowsky, who sustained a severe traumatic brain injury at just 3.5 years old following a hit-and-run accident. Despite a 34-day coma and months of intensive rehabilitation, Josh and his father, Mark, have turned their challenges into a mission of hope and resilience. Mark, Josh's primary caregiver, reflects on navigating recovery, education, and the unknowns of life after such a life-altering event.
Josh has channeled his experiences into writing two children’s books, "Josh's World" and "Josh's Friends," with all proceeds supporting the Sunshine Foundation, an organization that granted the family a transformative wish. Together, Josh and Mark now speak publicly to inspire others facing adversity, sharing their journey through podcasts, blogs, and speaking engagements.
Their story doesn’t stop there—Josh is also the Chief Culture Officer at the martial arts school he and Mark founded, using martial arts to empower others while continuing his personal growth. Mark is currently writing a memoir, Strength Through the Struggle, exploring their path and the resilience they've built. Tune in to hear how this father-son duo is turning hardship into hope, and how they continue to inspire others to find purpose and strength in the face of adversity.