Hello SPF SEPAG Members!
Welcome to the first newsletter of April during the SPF district Spring Break! As we move into the spring season, our focus remains on providing Scotch Plains-Fanwood families with high-quality advocacy tools, inclusive recreational opportunities, and supportive community connections. In addition to our monthly meeting,on April 22nd, we will be hosting a separate event for Autism Acceptance Month. Look for more information and a flyer once we return from Spring Break! In the meantime, check out the curated resources and upcoming events below for the next two weeks.
📣 Next Upcoming SPF SEPAG Meeting
The next Scotch Plains-Fanwood SEPAG meeting, that will focus on Autism Acceptance Month, is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This session will be held in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person attendance at Terrill Middle School and remote participation via Google Meet. These meetings are a vital opportunity for parents and caregivers to provide input on system-level challenges in Special Education and Related Services within our district. You can join the meeting virtually at https://meet.google.com/dvi-zzrv-dyd
📢 Advocacy and Educational Workshops
On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM, the SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is hosting an online workshop titled "Understanding the IEP: A Guide for Parents." This session is designed to help caregivers navigate the Individualized Education Program process, from initial evaluations to annual reviews, ensuring that the student's unique needs are being met in the Least Restrictive Environment. Access the registration link at https://spanadvocacy.org/event/understanding-the-iep-4/
The Progressive Center for Independent Living is offering a virtual seminar on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 12:00 PM regarding "Guardianship and Its Alternatives." This presentation covers the legal transitions that occur when a student reaches the age of 18 in New Jersey, including discussions on Power of Attorney and Supported Decision-Making. Registration details can be found at https://pcil.org/events/
On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, the NJ Coalition for Inclusive Education (NJCIE) will present a webinar on "Universal Design for Learning (UDL) at Home." Participants will learn how to adapt home environments and homework routines to better support diverse learning styles. Sign up at https://www.njcie.org/events
The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute is hosting a "Lunch and Learn" session on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM focused on "Navigating DDD and DVRS Services." This is a critical resource for families with students in the transition age range (14–21) looking to understand adult service systems in New Jersey. Join the session via https://www.arcnjfamilyinstitute.org/news_events/calendar.html
🎈 Community Events and Inclusion
The Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs is sponsoring a "Sensory-Friendly Open Gym" on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle. This event provides a safe, low-sensory environment for children to engage in physical activity and peer socialization. Register through the Union County activities portal at https://ucnj.org/opsn-reg/
On Sunday, April 5, 2026, the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn will host a sensory-friendly performance of their latest family production at 10:00 AM. These performances feature adjusted lighting and sound, as well as "quiet areas" in the lobby for those who need a break during the show. Tickets and accessibility information are available at https://papermill.org/access-services/
The "Believe in Art" inclusive workshop series continues on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM at the Westfield Memorial Library. This program is tailored for neurodivergent children and their siblings to explore various artistic mediums in a supportive, small-group setting. Visit the library calendar to reserve a spot at https://wmlnj.org/calendar/
On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) is holding a "Young Athletes" session in Berkeley Heights from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. This program introduces children ages 2 to 7 with and without intellectual disabilities to the world of sports through play and skill-building. Learn more and register at https://www.sonj.org/sports/young-athletes/
💙 Support and Mental Health Resources
The Family Support Organization (FSO) of Union County is holding its "Caregiver Support Group" on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. This is an opportunity for parents to connect with peer support partners who have shared lived experiences in navigating the mental health and special education systems. More information is available at https://www.fso-union.org/events
The NJ Children's System of Care (PerformCare) offers 24/7 support for families in crisis or those seeking mobile response services. If your child is experiencing a behavioral health challenge, you can contact their specialists at 877-652-7624 or visit their resource page at https://www.performcarenj.org/
We hope these resources provide valuable support for your family as we begin the month of April.
Enjoy your Spring Break!
On Behalf of the SPF SEPAG Executive Board
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