Kaitlyn Gorman

I want to highlight the importance of establishing a Special Education Parent Council in our New Hampshire school districts. This is essential to foster an inclusive environment for all special needs students. Its creates a vital link between parents and the school administration, allowing for open dialogue and collaborations. This council will promote awareness , understanding within the community and a positive presence within the district. As a parent of a elementary aged child, I have first hand experience of how challenging and isolating it is to face the hurdles of special education alone. Our district among others, have recently had significant budget deficits. The already vulnerable community of special education have been blamed publicly. Having a SEPAC could *possibly* help prevent such events. I do have a couple of reservations on the details of this bill. One being how the council members would be chosen. Though the PTA is a wonderful group of parents, they MAY not have a comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs of children with disabilities. I would like to ensure the SEPAC functions effectively as an independent body that truly represents and advocates for the interests of students with special needs and their families. Ensuring full transparency of the selection criteria and process is vital to ensure the trust among parents. Secondly, If this bill is passed I hope to see it begin and remain parent led and supported while keeping an effective partnership with administration and the PTA. Overall, the goal of SEPAC is positively support students, families and school staff, while working respectfully and collaborative with administration.