Monthly Agenda Topics
Each meeting includes time for a topic or speaker relevant to raising a child with special education needs in Cecil County. Here's what's planned this year.
September 17
IEP Readiness
Tina Andrews - Family Partner - Behavioral Health Specialist - The Parent’s Place of Maryland
Location: North East Elementary or Virtual
This presentation will provide an overview of the new IEP form, including key additions, changes, and what families should know when reviewing IEP documents. Participants will also learn strategies for establishing and maintaining positive communication with school teams while protecting themselves through clear documentation and professional follow-up. The session will include guidance on preparing for and participating in IEP meetings, along with a worksheet focused on Maryland IEP timelines. Additional resources will be shared to help families stay organized, informed, and confident throughout the special education process.)
October 15
Executive Functioning - What is it and How Does it Impact your Child’s Learning?
Amy Zembriski, Pediatric Speech Therapist and Executive Functioning Coach - Specializing in Neurodiversity Affirming Speech Therapy
Location: North East Library or Virtual
This presentation will provide an overview of executive functioning and how it impacts a child’s ability to learn, complete tasks, manage time, stay organized, regulate emotions, and function successfully at school and at home. Participants will gain a better understanding of common executive functioning challenges and how they may affect academic performance, independence, behavior, and daily routines. The session will offer practical strategies and tools parents can use to support the development of executive functioning skills in their students. Additional resources will be shared to help families encourage growth, build confidence, and promote long-term success.)
November 19
Making Room at the Table - Accessible Holidays at Home
All New and Prospective SECAC Members and Families are Welcome to Join!
Location: North East Elementary or Virtual
As families gear up for the holidays, this session covers simple, practical ways to make your home and traditions more accessible — from sensory-friendly lighting and seating to adapting routines, décor, and mealtime for kids with physical, sensory, or developmental needs. Leave with ideas you can use this season, not just theory.
December
No Meeting - Happy Holidays! See you in the New Year!
January 21
New Year Reset - Combatting Burnout and Enhancing Wellness
Teri Lyle-Riggs
Join us for a supportive session focused on wellness, restoration, and rebalancing after the busy holiday season. The holidays can be joyful, but they can also bring stress, exhaustion, and emotional demands for families. This meeting will give parents and caregivers time to pause, reconnect with their own well-being, and learn practical strategies for restoring balance at home and within themselves. Participants will leave with simple tools and resources to support wellness, reduce stress, and start the new year feeling more grounded and refreshed.
February 18
Mental Health & Behavioral Health
[TBD]
[TBD]
March 18
Financial Planning for Special Needs Families
Liz Yoder - Certified Financial Planning® Professional
Join us for a session with a Certified Financial Planning® Professional, providing families of individuals with special needs — across all age groups, with an emphasis on school-aged children — with high-level financial planning and transition resources. Whether you're just starting to think ahead or already have a plan in place, you'll leave with practical next steps for securing your child's future.
A guest speaker or topic, almost every month.
April 15
Insurance Denials and Appeals - How to work through them and who can help?
[TBD]
[TBD]
May 20
Summer Resources Fair
All New and Prospective SECAC Members and Families are Welcome to Join!
Join us for a Summer Resource Fair designed to help families connect with community organizations, programs, and services that can support students throughout the summer months. Families will have the opportunity to learn about local resources, activities, supports, and opportunities that promote learning, engagement, wellness, and fun while school is out. This event is a great way to gather helpful information, ask questions, and connect with organizations that can help children and families have a successful and supported summer.