📰 SPF SEPAG WEEKLY RESOURCE NEWSLETTER: JANUARY 19 – JANUARY 26, 2026
We hope you are all enjoying the snow on this long weekend away from school and hopefully work. We also hope you enjoy this week's newsletter full of information to support our children on their education journey as well as their caregivers that support them, along with a few events related to commemorating Dr. King and his legacy.
"If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
📣NEXT SPF-SEPAG MEETING: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2026, TOPIC: DYSLEXIA SUPPORTS
The next SPF-SEPAG meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 9, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This session will be held both in person at Terrill Middle School and remotely to ensure all community members can participate. You can join the meeting virtually via the following Google Meet link: https://meet.google.com/gtp-uwou-hnk. For the most up-to-date information on locations and future dates, please visit the official meeting information page at https://spf-sepag.blogspot.com/p/sepag-meetings-dates.html.
🗓️ UPCOMING DISTRICT AND REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
On Monday, January 19, Union Township celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a vibrant community event at the DMK Black Box Theater in Union, New Jersey. This free celebration features music, dance, and spoken word performances from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for local families to engage with community culture and youth talent. Detailed information can be found at https://www.uniontownship.com/927/MLK-Events.
The SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is hosting a Winter Wellness and Self-Care workshop on Tuesday, January 20, at 12:00 PM. This virtual session is specifically designed to help parents and caregivers of children with special needs manage stress and build sustainable self-care habits. Registration is available through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-wellness-and-self-care-registration-1976950489131.
Also on Tuesday, January 20, NAMI Union County will hold its monthly Family Support Group from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. This peer-led session offers a safe space for adults with loved ones experiencing mental health conditions to share insights and find community support. You can access the meeting details and the full calendar at https://namiunioncountynj.org/calendar/.
TOOLS FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCACY
On Wednesday, January 21, the New Jersey Department of Education presents a foundational webinar titled CST Team Basics: Building a Strong Foundation for Effective Special Education Planning. Running from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, this session is ideal for families wanting to understand the legal requirements of IDEA and how to collaborate effectively with Child Study Teams to develop measurable IEP goals. Registration remains open until January 19 at https://homeroom5.doe.state.nj.us/events/details.php?t=2;recid=54772.
Assistive Technology Specialist Adam Krass will host an informative webinar on Thursday, January 22, focusing on AI Tools for Reading and Writing. This session explores how emerging artificial intelligence can be used to support students who struggle with literacy, providing practical tools for both home and classroom settings. Register through the TCNJ Assistive Technology Center at https://atcenter.tcnj.edu/professional-development-opportunities/.
For families seeking a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, the New Jersey Psychological Association is hosting a virtual workshop titled Spotting Neurodivergence in the Wild on Friday, January 23, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Presenter Dr. Matt Zakreski will discuss how neurodivergent students differ from neurotypical peers and how to create more affirming environments. More information is available at https://psychologynj.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1996727&group=.
TRANSITION RESOURCES FOR SCHOOL PERSONNEL AND STUDENTS WHO WILL BE EXITING SCHOOL AND TURNING 21 AND THEIR FAMILIES
Full page: Transition from School to Adult Life
Webinars: Transition to Adult Life Webinars and Events
PARENTING AND BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT
Children's Specialized Hospital begins a new cycle of its highly regarded workshop, Managing Your Child's Behavior, on Sunday, January 25. This seven-part course is designed by child psychologists to help parents of children ages 2-10 navigate challenges such as setting limits, sibling conflict, and implementing behavioral systems. While there is a fee, it may be covered by the CSH Benefit Fund. Further details and registration can be found at https://www.rwjbh.org/events/event/?event=29953.
On Monday, January 26, the NJDOE Learning Lounge continues its series with a focus on the Framework for Grades 3-5 Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science. This 3:30 PM webinar provides caregivers with an overview of the curriculum standards their children are expected to meet, which is essential for identifying necessary modifications in a student's IEP. The registration link is available on the NJDOE events page at https://homeroom5.doe.nj.gov/events/?p=c;v=m;d=1;m=01;y=2026.
RESOURCES FOR SPANISH-SPEAKING FAMILIES
Spanish-speaking caregivers are invited to a virtual workshop on Wednesday, January 21, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM titled Autismo: Lo que es y lo que pueden hacer como padres de familia. This session provides an introduction to autism characteristics, available school supports, and home-based strategies. Registration is managed through Children's National at https://www.childrensnational.org/about-us/events.
COMMUNITY AND RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Union County continues to offer inclusive recreational activities at Warinanco Park, including public ice-skating sessions and events specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. Families looking for low-pressure winter outings can check the county's seasonal calendar for updated times and sensory-friendly options at https://ucnj.org/calendar/.
The Family Support Organization (FSO) of Union County remains a vital resource for year-round advocacy and peer support. They provide a "Warmline" for immediate assistance and various support groups for parents navigating the behavioral health system. Explore their comprehensive resource net at https://www.fso-union.org/.
Enjoy the snow and see you at the February meeting!
On behalf of the SEPAG Executive Board
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