SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh my! Conversations with DCSEAC

In this episode of SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh My: Conversations with DCSEAC, the host discusses center-based programming in special education with Laura Anglemeyer, an SSN teacher at Sagewood Middle School with 31 years of experience. They cover what center-based programming entails, its benefits, and the specific programs available in the district, such as SSN (Significant Support Needs) and AN (Affective Needs). Emphasis is placed on meaningful inclusion, the concept of the least restrictive environment (LRE), and how such programs provide tailored support for students with intellectual and behavioral needs. The conversation highlights the importance of creating spaces where students can thrive, build true friendships, and be included purposefully, illustrated through personal anecdotes and examples.

DCSD information about Center-Based Programs: https://www.dcsdk12.org/about/departments/special-education/services-programming

Episode Title: School Board Elections Student Forum Follow-up

Hosts & Guests:

• Meredith (Host)
• Kelly Mayr (Guest, Douglas County Parents)
• Courtney (Guest)

Episode Summary: In this episode, Meredith is joined by Kelly Mayr and Courtney to discuss the recent student forum for the Douglas County school board elections. The conversation covers key election dates, the voting process, the significance of slates, and the unique student-driven format of the forum.

Key Topics Covered:

• Important election dates: Ballots drop October 10th, voting deadline November 4th.
• Voting process: Mail-in ballots, drop boxes, in-person voting, and same-day registration.
• Explanation of "slates": Teams of candidates with aligned views running together.
• Student forum highlights:
  • All eight candidates or their representatives attended.
  • Students generated and asked the questions.
  • The format included time limits and comic relief from students.
• How voting works:
  • At-large election: All voters can vote for all seats, regardless of their district.
• Resources for more information:
  • Douglas County Parents: douglascountyparents.com
  • Additional candidate info: CommonSenseDCSD.com
  • Watch the forum on YouTube.

Notable Quotes:

• “The students asked great questions. You can really get an understanding of where each candidate stands.”
• “It’s a volunteer position, which is a little bit crazy, right? It’s a lot of hours, a lot of time.”
• “We needed a little bit of comic relief because our candidates are very passionate this year.”

Links & Resources:

• Douglas County Parents: douglascountyparents.com
• Common Sense DCSD: CommonSenseDCSD.com
• Secretary of State’s website for voter registration
• YouTube recording of the forum https://www.youtube.com/live/DsrKG2-sd9Q?si=Gc8r8bzx-TAAUMM9

Connect with Us:

• Follow DCSEAC on social media for updates and more conversations.[email protected]
• Socials:Instagram: @DCSEAC_COFacebook: DCSEACTikTok: dcseacYoutube: @DCSEAC

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any school district, organization, or employer. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, financial, or voting advice. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and consult official resources before making any decisions related to school board elections.

Short trailer for The Starting Line episode.

In this episode DCSEAC board members talk about Tashia's first experience with "special education" and realizing that her son was receiving these services.

School Board Elections for Special Education Voices

Board of Education elections are this year: learn what they do and how they can impact our children in special education services. Sources cited in today's episode include: https://www.douglascountyparents.com

https://www.dcsdk12.org

www.dcseac.org

DCSEAC email: [email protected]

00:00 Introduction to School Board Elections

00:19 Meet the Board Members

00:45 Importance of School Board Elections

01:11 Impact on Special Education

02:36 How to Get Involved

06:21 Learning About the Candidates

10:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Socials:

Instagram: @DCSEAC_CO

Facebook: DCSEAC

TikTok: dcseac

Youtube: @DCSEAC

Understanding the Douglas County Special Education Advisory Committee (DCSEAC)

Meredith, a board member, introduces the Douglas County Special Education Advisory Committee (DCSEAC). DCSEAC is a volunteer nonprofit made up of parents whose children are served by special education services in their school district. It is part of the Colorado Department of Education and serves two main functions: providing an advisory role to special education leadership and disseminating useful information to parents.

Highlights include their bi-monthly meetings with leadership, support groups, teacher appreciation events, and informative sessions like the upcoming 'Roadmap to Special Education in DCSD' on October 22nd. For more information, visit dcseac.org or contact them at [email protected].

00:00 Introduction to Special Ed IEPs and DCSEAC

00:26 What is DCSEAC?

00:53 DCSEAC Role and Functions

01:26 Supporting Parents and Teachers

01:59 Upcoming Events and How to Get Involved

02:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

Socials:

Instagram: @DCSEAC_CO

Facebook: DCSEAC

TikTok: dcseac

Youtube: @DCSEAC