Special Education Family Newsletter

The Special Education Family Newsletter serves to connect families with important information, deadlines, announcements, and current stories that illustrate the work of the Special Education department at Seattle Public Schools. If you have suggestions for how to improve these newsletters, please contact Emily Nitz-Ritter (Special Education Communications Specialist) at [email protected].  
Announcements + Updates
Special Education Parent Leaders in Action!
On November 1st, parent leaders joined Special Education department leadership and Greg Abell (the founder and principal at Sound Options Group), to discuss effective parent engagement within Seattle Public Schools. Those present learned about roles within the Special Education Parent Network, shared experiences with other parents, and discussed problem-solving strategies using interpersonal communication and relationship-building. 

On November 6th, SEAAC members met to open their year-long work around defining and building equity and inclusion for students receiving special education services. Members began to envision the role of School-based Parent Liaisons, provided feedback on effective engagement with school leadership, and even started troubleshooting some common communication challenges. 

Thank you to the families who participated in these events, and to those doing the work in their school communities! Learn more about parent leadership in special education in Seattle Public Schools.
Special Education Data Shared with School Leaders
This month Nicole Fitch, Special Education Director of School-Based Services, led a professional development session for school leaders (principals and assistant principals) from around the district, highlighting the importance of effectively supporting students receiving special education services. Read more about the sessions.
Upcoming Dates
Special Education Resource Fairs
Join us for a gathering of representatives from numerous SPS departments. Use this time to ask questions, collect information, and learn face-to-face from the people who help coordinate services to support your student. Spec ial Education Directors and other staff will be onsite during this open-house style event as well, so bring your questions! Attend one or both! Childcare will be provided for both events.  
  1. Thursday, December 6th, 6:30-8:00pm - Roosevelt High School Commons
  2. Tuesday, January 22nd, 6:30-8:00pm - South Lake High School Commons

Special Education PTSA "Meet & Greet" Events
Join the Special Education PTSA for an evening to connect with other families of students receiving special education services and ask questions of SPS special education staff. Come to one or both!
Leadership Opportunities
We are currently accepting applications for SEAAC, Parent Partners, and School-based Parent Liaisons.  Learn more and apply!

Special Education PTSA:  This group provides organization and advocacy under the bylaws of Washington State PTSA. If you have any questions or want to become a member, email [email protected].
Special Education Contacts
Please visit our special education staff directory for up-to-date contact information.
Anonymous Feedback Form
The Special Education Advisory and Advocacy Council (SEAAC) invites you to submit comments and concerns that you have about special education services in Seattle Public Schools using the anonymous feedback form.
Easy Access to Information for All Families in Seattle Public Schools
To ensure information is accessible for all families in Seattle Public Schools, the district has methods for community members to request communications assistance for district sponsored programs, events, and activities. These services will be provided in an accessible format at no cost to the requester.

Seattle Public Schools Department of Special Education

2445 3rd Ave. S. Seattle 98134
206-252-0000