We are resending this week's newsletter to correct the March Meeting Link error. The correct link is below.
📣 NEXT UPCOMING SPF-SEPAG MEETING: REMINDER
The March Scotch Plains-Fanwood SEPAG meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Scotch Plains Library. This meeting will be held in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person attendance at Terrill Middle School and remote participation via Google Meet. The evening's discussion will focus on school climate and fostering inclusive environments for all students. This is a vital opportunity to provide feedback to the district on how to improve the daily experience of students with special needs. You can join the meeting virtually at https://meet.google.com/eib-xzbd-ufa or view the full 2025-2026 schedule at https://spf-sepag.blogspot.com/p/sepag-meetings-dates.html.
During the second half of this meeting, the SEPAG will also be hosting a Parent & Caregiver Connection Social. This is not just for families navigating IEPs and 504 plans, but also those wondering if their child may need one. Please join the SEPAG for a relaxed, judgment-free gathering where parents and caregivers can meet, connect, and breathe. This is a space to share experiences, feel re-energized, and find your people. So many families walk this journey feeling alone—yet they shouldn't have to.
Not all children follow the "standard path," and that's okay. Together, families can support one another as they build the path they need. Come for community, conversation, and a chance to feel understood!
⚖️ UPCOMING SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVOCACY AND WEBINARS
The New Jersey Department of Education is hosting its Winter Learning Institute throughout this week, offering several sessions critical for parents and caregivers. On Monday, March 2, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, the NJDOE will conduct a session on Discipline and Removals of Students with Disabilities, which provides essential information on the rights of students during disciplinary actions. More information on this series can be found at the NJDOE Winter Learning Institute Portal.
On Tuesday, March 3, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, the NJDOE will feature a session titled Using the Educational Environment Dashboard 2.0 to Improve System-Level Results. This is a valuable resource for parents who want to understand the data-driven methods districts use to determine placement and inclusion levels for students. Registration is available through the NJDOE Events Registration Page.
The SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is hosting a "Lunchtime Learning" webinar on Wednesday, March 4, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM titled REAL Transition Partners: The Role of Centers for Independent Living. This session will explore how these centers help youth and adults build self-advocacy skills and navigate community systems. You can register at the SPAN Events Calendar.
Also on Wednesday, March 4, the SPAN Youth Engagement Team is hosting a Virtual Youth Chat for ages 14-26 from 4:15 PM to 5:00 PM. This month's topic is Assistive Technology, where participants can explore practical tools that support independence in learning and daily life. Access details are available at the SPAN Youth Chat Event Page.
The NJDOE continues its series on Thursday, March 5, with Navigating the Intersection of NJTSS and Students with Special Needs from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. This webinar helps parents understand how the New Jersey Tiered System of Supports interacts with the special education referral and eligibility process. Full details are listed in the NJDOE Broadcast Memo.
On Monday, March 9, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM, a session titled Case Manager's Compass: Compliance for Case Managers – Part 2 will be held. While geared toward staff, this is an excellent opportunity for parents to understand the compliance standards their child's case manager must follow. Information is available via the NJDOE Winter Institute Schedule.
🧠 BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT AND CLINICAL WORKSHOPS
Children's Specialized Hospital is offering a virtual workshop on Monday, March 9, titled Managing Your Child's Behavior. This session is part of their ongoing parent support series and focuses on practical strategies for promoting positive conduct at home. You can view their full calendar and sign up at the RWJBarnabas Health Events Portal.
🎡 INCLUSIVE RECREATION AND SENSORY-FRIENDLY EVENTS
For a sensory-friendly theatrical experience, the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown is hosting a performance of Curious George: The Golden Meatball on Sunday, March 1, at 4:30 PM. This show is designed with adjusted sound and lighting to create a welcoming environment for children with autism or sensory sensitivities. Tickets and details are available at the Mayo PAC Website.
The Raritan Valley College Planetarium in nearby Branchburg offers its "The Sky Above" sensory-friendly show on Saturday, March 7, at 5:00 PM. This program features a relaxed atmosphere with dimmed lights and lower audio levels, specifically synced to music and laser lights for an inclusive experience. Visit the Raritan Valley Planetarium for more information.
On Sunday, March 8, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM, Adventure Aquarium in Camden holds its monthly Sensory Sunday. During this hour, the aquarium provides a low-sensory environment with reduced crowds and lowered music, and sensory bags are available for guests. Information on these Family Inclusive Sensory Hours (F.I.S.H.) can be found at the Adventure Aquarium Accessibility Page.
For families looking for outdoor activities, the Union County Trailside Nature and Science Center in Mountainside offers accessible trails and various nature workshops. While many programs require advance registration, the center remains a staple for inclusive local recreation in the Watchung Reservation. Check the Union County Parks Calendar for the most current weekend activities.
☘️ LOOKING AHEAD IN UNION COUNTY
Registration is currently open for the Arc of Union County's Shamrock Shuffle 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk, which will take place on March 15 at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. This is a significant community event that supports services for over 1,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Early registration and team sign-ups are available at The Arc of New Jersey Walkathon Page.
On Behalf of the SPF-SEPAG Executive Board
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