Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC)

SEAC Purpose

The role of the Academy District 20 Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) is to support and shape the quality of services provided to children with disabilities.

The committee's work is crucial, with benefits that directly support our students. By increasing involvement, enhancing communication, and fostering stronger relationships among stakeholders, the SEAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring that students with special needs receive the most appropriate education possible. The Academy District 20 SEAC offers suggestions to enhance performance indicators and improve services for students with disabilities. As collaboration across the district improves, programming for both students with and without disabilities strengthens, paving the way for improved student achievement.

The Special Education Department in Academy District 20 fully embraces the mission statement for SEAC committees set forth by the Colorado Department of Education. Our mission is to actively represent children/youth with disabilities and influence decisions made on their behalf to enhance the quality of educational services provided.

SEAC Membership

Being part of our Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) is an opportunity to increase student success, address systemic concerns, build trust, connect resources, and foster positive relationships. We hope that you will consider applying to become a member of SEAC.

We recognize that becoming a member in our SEAC represents a significant commitment of your time, but we think you'll find it rewarding! Our focus is on identifying and developing ideas and solutions regarding specific areas of concerns as identified by our members.

When we have openings in our council, we'll post an announcement calling for applications. Membership is typically filled by the end of September each year.

Membership Expectations

• Engaging with the District

  • Learn about the school district’s structure and policies

  • Attend all SEAC meetings

  • Read and respond to coordinator emails between meetings

  • Represent SEAC on other district committees (e.g., budget, hiring, interagency, building, curriculum)

• Focusing on Systems-Level Change

  • Prioritize systemic improvements over individual student issues

  • Help identify challenges and recommend solutions

  • Support the district in developing effective family engagement strategies

• Collaborating with Others

  • Work respectfully and collaboratively with fellow members

  • Practice active listening

  • Share your knowledge, perspective, and expertise

  • Contribute your personal skills (e.g., writing, organizing, photography) to SEAC activities

• Representing Your Stakeholder Group

  • Represent a specific group (e.g., disability group, age group, school building)

  • Regularly connect with families in your group

  • Listen to their needs, ideas, and concerns

  • Identify service gaps and bring them to SEAC

  • Find a way to report back to your group