1. LYNDHURST SEPAC PRESENTED BY SUPERVISOR OF SPECIAL SERVICES FALL 2015

2. SEPAC stands for Special Education Parent Advisory Committee Special Education Parent Advisory Committees are required by all school districts in the state of New Jersey N.J. Administrative Code 6A: 14:1.2 (h) states: “Each district board of education shall ensure that a special education parent advisory group is in place in the district to provide input to the district on issues concerning students with disabilities.” What Is S.E.P.A.C?

3. To provide direct input on the policies, programs, and practices that impact services and supports for children with disabilities and their families. To increase the involvement of families of children with special needs in making recommendations on special education policy. To advise on matters pertaining to the education, health and safety of children with special needs. To advise on unmet needs of children with disabilities. What Is The Purpose Of S.E.P.A.C?

4. Responsibilities Of S.E.P.A.C Encourage parent turnout to meetings and training sessions Make the organization visible by being involved in outreach activities Participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of Special Education Program by addressing the substantive priorities to parents Establishing communication with non-English speaking parents/members Assist the district in organizing and coordinating workshops and training sessions for parents Creating spin off groups. Example: “Parent Support” group

5. Collaboration with the school community: It is key to educate all members of the school community regarding the mission of SEPAC. This is essential in harnessing support for SEPAC events Working closely with other parent organizations or groups such as P.T.O’s will further promote the mission/purpose of SEPAC Collaboration with district SPED Administrator: A positive relationship with the district’s SPED administrator will be beneficial to all parties Key Components Of An Effective S.E.P.A.C

6. Draft a mission statement Include as many members possible in this process Statement should reflect the core beliefs of all/majority of members of the group Establish Bylaws Bylaws should outline the key policies and procedures of the group (see sample of bylaws from South Orange Maplewood District) Establish System of Communication: Determine how you will communicate with all key stakeholders Recommended Steps For Organizing An Effective S.E.P.A.C

7. Methods for selection of officers Duties & terms of officers How meetings will be conducted Budgetary & financial rules & responsibilities Frequency of meetings Location of meetings What Should Be Included In The Bylaws ?

8. Question and Answer Session

9. Sources Materials included in this presentation were adapted from http://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/pac/guidelines.pdf https://somsdsepac.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/soma-sepac- by-laws-final-5-19-15.pdfhttps://somsdsepac.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/soma-sepac- by-laws-final-5-19-15.pdf