Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
Teaching to Diversity – Inclusion by Design Presentation
On Dec. 8, 2022 Grand Erie hosted a virtual presentation entitled Teaching to Diversity – Inclusion by Design with guest speaker Shelley Moore.
Click below to view the presentation:
ABOUT SHELLEY: Originally from Edmonton, and now based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Shelley Moore is a highly sought-after teacher, researcher, speaker and storyteller and has worked with school districts and community organizations around the world, in supporting and promoting equity for all learners. Her first book entitled, “One Without the Other” was released in July 2016 to follow up her TEDx talk. Shelley completed an undergraduate degree in Special Education at the University of Alberta, her masters at Simon Fraser University, and is currently a PhD candidate at the University of British Columbia.
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
A Guide for Parents
The following section can also be downloaded as a printable, trifold flyer by clicking the flyer image to the right.
Grand Erie District School Board believes every student has individual learning needs, and when those needs are met, the student can experience success. Some students have exceptional learning needs and may require special programs and services.
A student with exceptional needs is a learner whose behaviour, communication, intellectual, physical or multiple exceptionalities are such that he/she is considered to need special education programs as defined in the Education Act.
This brochure has been produced to inform the community, parents/guardians and educators about the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC).
What is the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)?
- SEAC is an advisory committee mandated through the Education Act as a standing committee of each school board.
- The committee reports to the school board and makes recommendations to the board regarding special education program and services.
Who is on the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)?
The SEAC of the Grand Erie District School Board is comprised of:
- representatives of up to 12 local chapters of associations which further the interests of people with exceptional needs;
- one person representing the interests of Native Students;
- board personnel;
- parents and other
What does SEAC do?
The Special Education Advisory Committee is provided with the opportunities to:
- participate in the board’s annual Special Education Plan;
- participate in the board’s annual budget process;
- review the financial statements of the board;
- make recommendations to the board regarding special education programs and service.
- a special education advisory committee of a board may make recommendations to the board in respect of any matter affecting the establishment, development and delivery of special education programs and services for exceptional pupils of the board.
When does SEAC meet?
SEAC meetings are held on a monthly basis, with a minimum of ten meetings per school year. The meetings are held at the Education Centre, 349 Erie Avenue, Brantford, and are open to the public.
What can SEAC do for me?
SEAC is a committee that represents the interests of all children with exceptional needs. Although specific children and issues are not discussed at SEAC, broad issues affecting services across the school board can be raised for discussion.
SEAC representatives have a good knowledge of special education services and programs of the school board, and can help parents to navigate through the school system.
Resources/Publications
The following resources / publications are available at your local school or at the Grand Erie board office (519) 756-6301:
- Parents' Guide to Special Education - Individual Education Plan (IEP)
- Parents’ Guide to Special Education - Identification, Placement and Review Committee (IPRC).
- Parents' Guide to Special Education - Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
- Letter: Pilot for School Based Supports
- Letter: Support for Bill 191
- Letter: Minister of Education Lisa Thompson
- Letter: Minister Lecce and Dr. Montgomery – Assistive Technology for OSSLT and EQAO
Support and Resources
How can I become involved with SEAC?
Parents, community members or members of local associations wishing representation on SEAC should write to:
How can I express my views on a Special Education Topic to SEAC?
Parents, community members or members of local associations wishing to express their views on a special education topic should write to:
Who Should I Contact with Questions about Special Education Services or Programs?
Services:
- Principal Leader of Special Education
519-756-6306, ext. 287214
Programs:
- Program Coordinator of Special Education
519-756-6306, ext. 287217