The Howard County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) advises the school system on the needs of students with disabilities. We collaborate with other community disability advocacy groups to improve special education and the lives of our students in Howard County, MD.
Special Presentation: "Courageous Conversations: Asking Questions at Your Child's IEP Meeting" (slides available at the bottom of the page)
Camille Cranson
SECAC Board Member at Large and TCOE Vice Chair
Special education for 17 years.
Asst Principal in another district.
Parent of a child with a disability
Questions from the group
Example for Program Modifications - Key with modification is reduction in rigor. For example, learning that the Bill of Rights are a part of the Constitution vs learning all 10 amendments.
Program Modifications happen for students that are not on a diploma track.
What proof do you need to show new needs?
Data collection, doctor’s notes, anecdotes, class/homework.
Key - Question the data in the virtual setting.
How comfortable is the student/family with the technology.
MAP data could be used for present levels
Parents must sign consent for modifications every year?
Yes. If the student is not pursuing a HS diploma, you must sign consent every year.
Incorrect placement? How to start that conversation?
Ask - What is being offered at the regional program that cannot be offered at the home school?
IEP should have specific language about what services she needs and why it can only be in the regional program.
Don’t be afraid to let the team know if supports are not working for your student.
Announcements:
Wrightslaw books. “Special Education Law” and “From Emotions to Advocacy” are available for parents. Choose 1 book and email us to reserve your copy.
Janice Yetter (Director of Special Ed), Emily Kinsler (Director of Countywide Services), Trish Gunshore (Director Non public, compliance, parent engagement)
Should be receiving invitations for ESY eligibility meetings soon.
The hope is for ESY in person as health metrics allow.
Virtual option for ESY for families that are not comfortable with in person? Yes, there will be.
Case mgr will ask about in person at ESY eligibility meeting.
Parent webinar soon and they will be recorded. Executive functioning, progress monitoring, creative IEP team meetings.
Doing Spanish speaking sessions for families on 1/31
Progress reports will be sent by 2/12.
Contact FSRC@hcpss.org if you are not receiving the weekly newsletter.
Planning to restart small group and learning centers soon.
Cedar Lane and Homewood
Hopefully in Feb as health metrics allow.
No earlier than Feb 8th at this time.
Next Meeting Dates
The next meeting will be our annual advocate night. Watch your email for sign up information.
February 17, March 17, April 21, May 19, June 16. Location subject to change, pending school closure.