Seattle Special Education PTSA Newsletter
In the year of uncertainty since Seattle Public Schools (SPS) closed for the pandemic, Seattle Special Education PTSA knows one thing is certain. The problems experienced by students and their families reflect a system that was failing them both long before the first case of COVID came to our state. Delays in getting access to appropriate services. Contradictory communication. A reactive approach to problem-solving that puts the burden on the individual instead of the institution. Isolation and restraint. Segregated classrooms. Undiagnosed learning disabilities. Racism.
The move to remote learning certainly created new challenges, and although it’s easier to adapt to new challenges with a flexible system, the largest school district in the state is not yet there.
The newest challenge involves parents, teachers, and students as the calendar dates shift. As of this writing, the newest challenge for families tracking the shifting dates for students “enrolled in Special Education Intensive Service Pathways” defined by the District as Social/Emotional (SEL), Moderate Intensive, Focus, Distinct, Developmental Preschool, and Medically Fragile. March 29th is the start of a phased return to in-person.
Monthly Open Meeting
Tuesday March 16
Starts at 7:00PM
Our next monthly meeting is on March 16, 2021 at 7 pm. We will welcome Adrienne Stuart, Public Policy Director of the Developmental Disabilities Council, who will present a legislative update regarding bills affecting the disability community. Other agenda items include:
- Discussion about in-person learning
- Report regarding the anti-racism training sponsored by Seattle Council PTSA
- Updates on our work on our three substantive focus areas: inclusionary practices, dyslexia and restraint and isolation.
The Nominations Committee will also present about how they are identifying leadership for the 2021-22 year. We will be electing officers for the 2021-2022 PTA year at our May 18 meeting. Nominees are being sought for the following positions: President, Vice-President, Secretary & Treasurer. Learn how to make a recommendation, including yourself, here.
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