📣 NEXT SPF-SEPAG DISTRICT MEETING, TOMORROW!!
The next Scotch Plains-Fanwood SEPAG meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 1, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This session will be held in a hybrid format, giving families the option to attend in person at Terrill Middle School or to join remotely from home. Those planning to join virtually can access the broadcast directly via the SPF-SEPAG June 1 Google Meet Room. This meeting marks the final official district assembly for the 2025–2026 school year, making it an invaluable opportunity for parents and caregivers to collaborate, share feedback on the past year's special education services, and look ahead to fall programming. For the full annual schedule and future updates, please visit the Scotch Plains-Fanwood SEPAG Meeting Page.
📖 FEATURED COMMUNITY UPDATE: SUPPORTING STUDENT TRANSITIONS
As the school year draws to a close, preparing for transitions is a primary focus for families navigating special education. Whether your child is moving to a new classroom, changing schools within the district, or preparing for the post-graduation transition to adulthood, establishing clear routines and expectations over the summer is essential. We encourage parents to use this week to gather final baseline data from current teachers and review Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to ensure accommodations are clearly defined ahead of the upcoming school year.
UPCOMING REGIONAL EVENTS & RESOURCES
💻 MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2026: ADVOCACY AND HIGHER EDUCATION The SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is hosting a virtual workshop titled "The College Track" starting at 6:30 PM EST. This specialized training session is designed specifically for parents, caregivers, and high school students with disabilities who are exploring the path to higher education. Presenters will cover self-advocacy strategies, the legal shift from IDEA protections to ADA accommodations in college settings, and how to effectively document needs for university disability services offices. Registration for this online session can be secured through the SPAN Parent Advocacy Network Eventbrite Registry.
📜 TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2026: BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT STRATEGIES Navigating behavioral challenges requires a collaborative approach between home and school. SPAN is hosting an evening webinar from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM titled "Positive Behavior Support: Addressing Challenging Behavior." This workshop offers parents and caregivers a foundational look at Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) and Positive Behavior Support Plans. Families will learn how to identify the underlying functions of behaviors and implement positive, collaborative reinforcement strategies at home. Parents can register directly via the SPAN Resource Events Calendar.
🤝 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026: YOUTH PEER CONNECTION AND SELF-ADVOCACY Building community among neurodivergent youth is essential for developing strong self-advocacy skills. The SPAN Youth Chat is hosting a virtual interactive session at 4:15 PM EST for youth and young adults with disabilities ages 14–26. This safe, peer-led environment encourages participants to share their lived experiences, discuss transition goals, and practice public speaking and self-determination skills. Families can sign their teens or young adults up for this free networking opportunity by checking the SPAN Eventbrite Main Page.
🏃 MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2026: HEALTH AND WELLNESS FOR CAREGIVERS Caring for a child with diverse needs requires immense energy, making parent-focused wellness initiatives highly valuable. The Springfield Free Public Library in nearby Union County is launching its "Flow into Summer Yoga Series" starting this Monday evening at 7:00 PM. This weekly, community-focused session is designed to offer a low-pressure environment for local residents to decompress, practice mindfulness, and connect with other community members. Registration is free for all local families and caregivers, and slots can be reserved on the Springfield Free Public Library Eventbrite Page.
💡 ADDITIONAL PLANNING RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES
As summer approaches, finding inclusive recreational programs that support student regulation and independence is vital. Local families looking for summer programming that accommodates mild special needs, social skills building, and therapeutic support can explore upcoming seasonal options through specialized providers like Harbor Haven Summer Camp Programs. Additionally, for families seeking sensory-aware arts and cultural experiences within the region, the Union County Board of County Commissioners supports adapted live musical and theatrical experiences through the Union County Performing Arts Center Sensory Friendly Theatre Series, which routinely updates its schedule with low-sensory modifications such as adjusted lighting, general admission seating, and designated quiet break areas.
Have a wonderful start to June, and thank you for your continued dedication to our special education community!
On Behalf of the SEPAG Executive Board
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