Special Education Parent Advisory Council

The Mission of SEPAC

1. Advise the district on planning, development, and evaluation of all special needs programs.
2. Connect parents, guardians, and school administration on issues and questions around special education;
3. Share information concerning special education issues to all parents and guardians of children enrolled in Salem-Keizer Public Schools.
4. Provide a forum for parents and guardians and other interested citizens to maintain a dialogue with Salem-Keizer Public Schools on concerns and issues relating to the education, health, and safety of all students enrolled in special education programs.
5. To provide and promote information and educational opportunities for the community on topics related to special education services.
6.  Meet with district leadership on a regular basis.
7. Serve as an advisory group that addresses system-level challenges affecting students with disabilities and their families.

SEPAC is Not

• A place to discuss individual or unique concerns about a person or experience you are having.
• Part of a local school district, not a private or independent group. 
• A Special Education PTO or PTA, which might plan carnivals, classroom activities, dances fundraisers or other events. 
• A advocacy group which discusses systemic concerns occurring outside the school district.
• A place to cast blame, point fingers, use foul language, or promote an “us vs. them” mentality.  

• Social Hour - Prior to each meeting we have scheduled a social hour where parents can connect with other parents, exchange contact information, enjoy refreshments and icebreaker activities and share ideas. You’re welcome to participate in the social hour only, the SEPAC meeting only, or both. 
• Quick Introductions and Announcements - Expect news of upcoming events or news to share outside of the topic of discussion.
• Topic of Discussion - Please feel free to share any topic ideas via the survey at the end of the meeting. Please hold all questions, comments, and ideas until the end of the presentation. 
• Discuss and Provide Feedback - Please be courteous of those sharing and mindful of time. 
• Turning Feedback into Action- The core team will meet monthly in between SEPAC meetings to determine how to take feedback and turn it into action items. 

Below are organizations who have sensory hours, accommodations, extra support or programs geared towards individuals with special needs. They have supported our families and are true disabled community partners!

While this information was confirmed at the time of publication, please check on programs beforehand.

Activities

• Chuck E Cheese - Opens two hours early on the first Sunday of the month. Sensory Sensitive Sundays offers a quieter environment, dimmed lighting, and staff trained to support the safety and enjoyment of guests with special needs.
• Dallas Aquatic Center - Opens early Wednesday evening for adults and children with disabilities.
• Get Air Trampoline Park Salem - Offers a dedicated time for jumpers with special needs. Music is played at a lower volume and the park’s atmosphere is calmer. One parent or guardian can support jumpers on the trampoline for free and siblings can jump as well but must be more careful.
• Harpers Playground - At the Let’s All Play Place outdoor therapy and community play area, people of all abilities can come together in a safe environment that welcomes everyone.
• Little Angels Hair Salon - Hair salon geared toward children, including those with sensitivities. Movies and toys are provided as distractions and kids can pick their chair of choice.
• Northern Lights Theatre - Provides showings for those with sensory sensitivities. Lower sound, no trailers, warmer temps, lighting adjustments and a welcoming and supporting environment. 
• Salem’s Riverfront Carousel - People with disabilities are invited to ride the carousel at no cost. Visit the gift shop to get a Carousel Cares Complimentary Pass for free rides. Check schedule for sensory hours, where music (and lights upon request) is shut off for a more calm ride experience. 

Additional Resources

• Creating Opportunities -  Supporting families of children with developmental disabilities in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties.
• FACT Oregon - Peer support, trainings, and resources give families the tools and confidence to dream big for their children, and navigate disability and special education.
• PacificSource - If your child is on Medicaid, PacificSource is the Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) for Marion and part of Polk County. Contact PacificSource to learn what tools and services are available to your family.