🏫 SPF-SEPAG Weekly Resource Newsletter: October 1 – October 8, 2026
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
October is upon us! We are pleased to share our latest roundup of upcoming educational workshops, sensory-friendly family events, and district updates designed to empower special education students and their families across Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Union County.
📅 UPCOMING SPF-SEPAG MEETING
🤝 Next Scheduled Meeting: Parent & Caregiver Only Session
Date & Time: Thursday, October 8, 2026 | 7:00 PM EST
Format: Hybrid (In-Person and Remote)
Google Meet Link: https://meet.google.com/sir-abae-imc
Details: Please join us for our next SPF-SEPAG meeting on Thursday, October 8! This session is designated specifically as a Parent and Caregiver Only meeting. It provides an open, supportive space for families to connect, discuss topics related to special education services, share insights, and get the latest district updates.
Resource Links: Check the full list of meeting dates and virtual links for the 2026–2027 school year on the SPF-SEPAG Meetings Information Page or catch up on past discussions via the SPF-SEPAG Meeting Minutes Archive.
💻 UPCOMING EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS & WEBINARS
🎓 SPAN Resource Parent In-Person Course
Date & Time: Thursday, October 1, 2026 | Morning Session
Details: The SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is hosting an in-person training session designed to equip parents and caregivers with essential knowledge regarding special education laws, parental rights, healthcare resources, and system advocacy. It provides a solid foundation for families navigating special education support.
Resource Link: SPAN Resource Parent Course Registration
🛡️ Preventing and Addressing Bullying: Tools and Resources
Date & Time: Monday, October 5, 2026 | Evening Session
Details: Hosted virtually by the SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, this webinar focuses on protecting students with special needs in the school environment. Parents will learn about student rights under anti-bullying statutes, practical advocacy strategies, and school system remedies.
Resource Link: SPAN Anti-Bullying Workshop Details
📜 Basic Rights in Special Education Workshop
Date & Time: Thursday, October 8, 2026 | Evening Session
Details: This foundational virtual workshop covers the primary rights of parents under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Topics include understanding evaluations, navigating Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), setting measurable goals, and effectively collaborating with school district teams.
Resource Link: SPAN Basic Rights Learning Portal
🏡 LOCAL COMMUNITY FOCUS & RECREATION
🎬 Sensory-Friendly Theatre: Dora and the Lost City of Gold
Date & Time: Friday, October 2, 2026 | Special Family Matinee
Location: Union County Performing Arts Center (Hamilton Stage), Rahway, NJ
Details: Designed specifically for children and adults with autism or other sensory sensitivities, this screening features lowered sound levels, comfortable house lighting, and a relaxed environment where movement and vocalizations are welcomed.
Resource Link: UCPAC Sensory Friendly Theatre Information
🎪 Special Education Resource & Transition Fair
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 7, 2026 | Afternoon & Evening
Location: Matawan, NJ (Regional Central Jersey Event)
Details: Hosted by local school district transition and special education teams, this regional event provides caregivers direct access to community resources, therapy providers, state support agencies, and educational transition services across Central Jersey.
Resource Link: NJ Division of Disability Services Events Directory
Wishing you and your family a wonderful, supportive week ahead!
On Behalf of Scotch Plains-Fanwood SEPAG
