March is Brain Injury Awareness Month — a time to recognize the impact of brain injuries and the importance of thoughtful support in our schools.
At High Desert Education Service District, Wendy Beall and Verbata partner with school teams across the region to support students recovering from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including concussions. Their work ensures students don’t fall behind when recovery takes longer than expected.
In addition to concussion support, HDESD also serves as a Regional Inclusive Service for Traumatic Brain Injury, providing consultation and guidance for students who qualify for special education under the eligibility category of TBI. Beall and Verbata work with school teams to help identify needs, support IEP development, and ensure appropriate services are in place for students with brain injuries that have long-term educational impacts.
When a Concussion Doesn’t Resolve
While 80–90% of concussions resolve within 7–10 days, some students continue to experience symptoms that affect learning, concentration, and stamina.
That’s when HDESD’s Concussion Coaching team steps in.
Beall and Verbata work alongside school nurses, counselors, teachers, families, and local medical providers — including St. Charles — to provide timely, coordinated support for students navigating recovery.
For some communities, this partnership fills a critical gap.
“The TBI/concussion partnership with HDESD improves the lives of my students in a multitude of ways,” said Stephanie Campbell, Bend La Pine Consulting Nurse for La Pine. “In La Pine, families often have to travel to Bend for these resources. Having HDESD provide follow-up support at school is a huge benefit and helps students be successful.”
Coaching That Supports Schools and Students
Concussion recovery is rarely one-size-fits-all. Students may struggle with workload, stamina, or lingering symptoms even after returning to school.
Beall and Verbata help school teams respond by providing:
- Classroom observations and feedback
- Student, teacher, and parent coaching
- Support with 504 plans and accommodation strategies
- Coordination with counselors, nurses, families, and medical providers
Their background in special education also helps teams determine when symptoms may qualify a student under TBI eligibility.
“Concussion is a brain injury, but one we expect to resolve,” Beall explains. “When it doesn’t, schools need a clear path forward.”
School staff say the partnership also strengthens their ability to support students.
“They’re another set of eyes on these students and provide valuable expertise,” said Campbell. “They help guide what students should focus on in class and ensure the workload isn’t overwhelming. That extra support is important because recovery requires a multidisciplinary approach.”
Supporting Schools Under Oregon Law
Oregon’s HB 3007 requires schools to notify families of concussions and implement an Immediate Temporary Accommodation Plan (ITAP). Beall and Verbata help schools understand the law and develop practical supports for students returning to the classroom.
By stepping in as specialized coaches, they ease the burden on teachers and counselors while ensuring students receive the support they need.
Supporting Students Eligible for Special Education Under TBI
Beyond concussion recovery, Beall and Verbata also support students who qualify for special education services under the eligibility category of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). As part of HDESD’s Regional Inclusive Services, they work with school teams to understand how brain injuries can impact learning, behavior, and stamina in the classroom.
They help educators interpret evaluations, develop effective accommodations and instructional strategies, and support IEP teams in creating plans that allow students with TBI to successfully access their education.
A Regional Commitment to Brain Health
Importantly, the team supports both students recovering from concussions and students receiving special education services under the eligibility category of TBI. Beall and Verbata assist students with 504 plans, general education students, and those who may later qualify under TBI eligibility.
Their goal is simple: remove barriers so students can regain traction and confidence in school.
“Wendy and Margey have been huge in helping me navigate difficult cases,” said Campbell. “I’ve learned a lot from them, and they’re always available when I have questions or concerns.”
This Brain Injury Awareness Month, we recognize the partnerships that help students recover and succeed — and the educators and specialists working together to make it possible.
This Brain Injury Awareness Month, we recognize the partnerships that help students recover and succeed — and the educators and specialists working together to make it possible.