In the summer of 2020, with the fear of another year of virtual learning looming, parents of students receiving special education services in Roselle Park began to coalesce regarding how to mitigate the learning loss already significantly impacting their children. The district had little guidance on how parents could address this issue as a group. Many had attended SEPAG meetings in the past, but they lacked the component needed to address systemic issues. As someone who had been through SPAN’s SRP and SEVA training, Katy McDermott knew
SPAN could help transition the SEPAG from district-run to parent-led, enabling parents to advocate for positive changes. The SPAN START-EPSD Project Coordinator, Stefanie Babits, initiated the conversation with the district. She then spoke at a SEPAG meeting, explaining the ins and outs of a parent-led SEPAG. At that initial meeting, Jackie Garcia and Franchesca Hunt joined Katy McDermott as the first leadership team. From humble beginnings a little over three years ago, the Roselle Park SEPAG has made great strides in improving educational outcomes for students receiving services in the district. Current leadership includes Jackie Garcia, Katy McDermott, and Jessica Nash
While the group has accomplished many things, the one they feel was the biggest win was getting the middle school ESY program moved to the high school. Co-leader Jackie Garcia spearheaded this effort. A fearless advocate for her daughter, Jackie had experience with both out-of-district and in-district placements. She was keenly aware of the ESY deficits and had proposed numerous changes over the years. As her daughter prepared to transition to middle school, the issues with older children attending ESY at the elementary school became more and
more evident. From speaking to other parents, Jackie knew something had to change, and waiting another year wasn’t an option. Many parents described that their children’s behaviors regressed after ESY, which was one reason many middle school parents opted out. In addition to Jackie’s tireless efforts, this win would not have happened without the support of the group’s board of education liaison, Sue Carlstrom. It took a year and a half of struggle before the BOE approved a SEPAG liaison, and since then, Sue has played a vital role in supporting the
group. Despite roadblocks being thrown up at every turn, Jackie, with Sue’s support behind the scenes, was finally able to get the district to agree to move the middle school ESY to the high school. This change made a world of difference for middle school students. It mitigated behavioral regression, helped students prepare for the transition to high school, and provided an opportunity for inclusion with non-disabled peers since the district’s summer camp is housed at the high school. This change was a huge accomplishment and reinforced the group’s resolve not to give up even when the district pushes back multiple times. Students, for years to come, will reap the benefits of Jackie’s efforts.
To get in touch with the Roselle Park SEPAG, please email roselleparksepag@gmail.com.
