Overview
Research tells us that increasing a family's engagement in their children's education is one way to increase student success. CPAC continues to be a resource to families and schools to help build positive relationships at the individual, school or district level.
School district staff are encouraged to call CPAC to talk about how we can support their efforts to increase family engagement in their children's learning. Families are also encouraged to call to find out how they can become more effectively involved in their child's education.
Effective Conversations
CPAC Parent Consultants are available to help when a dispute arises between a family and school staff. The Parent Consultant will determine on a case-by-case basis if the situation can be helped through our assistance through phone calls and meeting participation with all parties. Some disputes may require alternative solutions depending upon the underlying issues. Families and school staff may both request our assistance. For more information, refer to our Effective Conversations Brochure.
Special Education Advisory Councils (SEAC)
Last year, in partnership with the Connecticut State Department of Education, the Connecticut
Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) piloted a program to support the development of Special
Education Advisory Councils (SEACs) in three Connecticut school districts. This year we are
continuing this work to support other districts develop a SEAC. While other states have
legislatively mandated such councils for every district, Connecticut law does not require these
councils at the district level. District participation in this SEAC Program, requires a commitment
from district leadership to work collaboratively with the council, and Boards of Education agree
to receive advisory reports from the council to support their decision making on matters relate to
students with disabilities and special education.
SEAC presentation video
Go to our SEAC Page
Working Together: Supporting Family and School Collaboration
CPAC is available to help school districts create a comprehensive outreach plan for families with children receiving special education services. CPAC will be partnering with districts across the state to help their leadership teams create comprehensive plans for providing families with needed information while also gathering feedback from families to improve services for students with disabilities. For more information, refer to our Working Together Brochure.