Here’s what’s happening at SPAN
Find all of our events in one place.
MULTIPLE DATES AVAILABLE This workshop provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities as parents of children with special needs. This workshop provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities as parents of children with special needs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the NJ Code, and Section 504 […]
Parents/Caregivers will train to be volunteers for social/emotional supports.
This workshop will discuss issues relating to transitioning from school to adult life, identifying outcomes, and developing goals as part of the IEP process. Parents and students will become knowledgeable regarding resources in the community in order to build linkages and ensure a dignified life as contributing citizens.
SPAN Youth Chats is a community of youth supporting youth, monthly, hearing from professionals and SPAN staff on empowerment in daily living
This workshop will focus on helping parents and professionals “create agreement” and avoid, minimize, or appropriately address conflict in the IFSP and IEP process. Participants will: 1. explore the benefits and challenges of parent-professional collaboration2. learn best practices for creating agreement, addressing power imbalances, and implementing cultural reciprocity3. learn how to “create agreement” with others […]
Gain a clear understanding of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how it can support children with communication needs and more.
MULTIPLE DATES AVAILABLE This workshop provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities as parents of children with special needs. This workshop provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities as parents of children with special needs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the NJ Code, and Section 504 […]
Lunch & Learn: Understanding the School BudgetPresented by: New Jersey Family Engagement Hub &Paterson Education Fund Asking the Right Questions Understanding the School Budget Parent Advocacy Meeting Facilitation Tuesday, June 16, 2026The New Jersey Family Engagement Hub is a project of SPAN funded by the U.S. Department of Education. PEF Workshops 2026 Decode school budget […]
The presentation will provide an overview of the IEP process and describe the legal requirements for the Least Restrictive Environment principle.
Through this workshop, parents and professionals will learn practical strategies for developing IEPs with clear, measurable annual goals, along with step-by-step guidance for writing effective objectives and tracking student progress.
Participants will learn:1. What do families and students need to do to begin the student-led IEP process for students?2. What do student-led IEPs look and feel like for students, families, and teachers?3. Tools for students to develop self-advocacy skills
Learn how a strengths-based approach helps educators build trust, motivation, and engagement by identifying and leveraging what students do well, especially those who struggle most. Shift from deficit-based thinking to strength-based noticing without minimizing challenges or expectations. Identify and name student strengths, academic, social, emotional, and behavioral, in authentic, meaningful ways. Use […]
Better understand the functions of behaviorIncrease knowledge of positive behavioral interventions and supportsLearn strategies that encourage/increase desirable behavior Dates AvailableApril 15, 2026 (in-person)July 22, 2026 (virtual)
