What is SELAC?

The purpose of the Special Education Local Advisory Committee is to give children with special needs in our school a voice, stimulate parent involvement and to establish an effective channel of communication between the school and parents of children with special needs. SELAC offers membership to all parents of students found eligible for special education, as well as other interested parties. SELAC provides advice to families and individuals regarding special education programs and policies.

 

Additionally, SELAC works to meet with designated school officials and to engage in activities which enable SELAC members to participate in the planning, development and evaluation of SouthSide Elementary special education programs.

 

Mission

The purpose of the SouthSide Elementary Charter School Local Advisory Committee for Special Education is to work for the understanding of, respect for and support of, all children with special needs in the community.

 

Committee Responsibilities

The Committee shall advise the SouthSide Elementary Charter School District on matters concerning the needs of students, including:

1. Serve as an advocate, in partnership with parents, for students with disabilities to ensure that they receive the entitlements provided to them under state and federal laws;

2. Comment on improvement plans, including school support plans resulting from; Part B compliance reports.

3. Comment publicly on the SouthSide Elementary Charter School District’s compliance with State and Federal laws pertaining to the education of students with disabilities;

4. Comment on applications for federal and state funds.

5. Present an annual report of activities and recommendations to the SouthSide Elementary Charter School Board of Trustees.

 

Objectives

• Promote a network of parents of children with special needs and provide a forum to share information, and discuss matters of common concern and interest.

• Meet regularly with the Director of Special Education and other appropriate school personnel as needed, to participate in matters pertaining to the education, health and safety of special needs students. This includes participating in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of special education programs.

• Promote communication among families with special needs students and the SouthSide Elementary Charter School.

• Provide informational forums to parents, students, educators and other professionals involved with children with special needs.

• Promote communications and programs within the community to encourage understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of children with special needs.

• Communicate with local, state, and national organizations, as well as councils/groups that support children with special needs.