• Special Education Parent Advisory Committee
    The Voorhees Township Schools has organized a Special Education Parent Advisory Committee as a forum for parents to provide input to the district on issues concerning students with disabilities.  We welcome the participation of all parents. Please sign up here if interested: SEPAC Sign Up
     
    Please note that this is not the forum for a discussion about individual students or your child's IEP.  Topics are limited to those that impact all students or a group of students.  If you have concerns that you would like to share with the Director of Special Services prior to that meeting, or a specific concern about your child's program, please contact Dr. Melody Alegria at 751-8446 x 6135.
     
    WHY GET INVOLVED?

         There is a significant statistical relationship between the level of family involvement and improved outcomes for children and young adults.   (Parent Reaching Out, 2006)

    Special Education Parent Advisory Groups are required for all school districts in New Jersey. The purpose of these groups is to provide opportunities for parents and community members to offer input to their districts on critical issues. New Jersey Administrative Code 6A:14-1.2(h) states that:

         Each board of education shall ensure that a special education parent advisory group is in place in the district to provide input to the district on issues concerning students with disabilities.

    What is The Purpose of a SEPAC?
    • To provide direct input on the policies, programs, and practices that impact services and supports for children with disabilities and their families.
    • To increase the involvement of families of children with special needs in making recommendations on special education policy.
    • To advise on matters that pertain to the education, health and safety of children with special needs.
    • To advise on unmet needs of children with disabilities.
    Who Should Attend SEPAC Meetings?
    • Anyone with a student or students in the Voorhees school district with different learning needs; be they physical, emotional, or behavioral.
    • Anyone with a student or students eligible for or receiving services under an IEP or 504 plan.
     
    What Happens at SEPAC Meetings?
    • Concerns related to a group of students are shared and discussed with Dr. Melody Alegria, Voorhees Director of Special Services. Dr. Alegria serves as the liaison to the Assistant Superintendents and Superintendent.
    • Dr. Alegria will provide updates related to Special Services in the Voorhees district and at the State and National Levels
    • Parents will have adequate time to discuss issues among themselves and plan the agenda for the next meeting.
    • Speakers, other District Representatives, and Individual Staff members may be invited based upon the needs of the Members of the Council.

     

    What Can I Do Before the next SEPAC Meeting?
    • Volunteer to be a parent representative regarding issues and concerns raised at your individual school.
    • Contact Dr. Melody Alegria or any Child Study Team member with questions or concerns. 
     

    SEPAG Calendar: SEPAG Meeting Dates 2024-2025