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Volume 49

May 2026

South County SELPA Insights is a monthly newsletter full of information and resources brought to you by the South County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) team. May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month we are spreading awareness on tools that can support your students' mental health, and tips on identifying how your students may be feeling. Keep reading to find resources and ways we can assist you and the families you serve.

SELPA Highlights

2026 Art Exhibition and District Awards Ceremony

We are happy to share that our 18th Annual Art Exhibition and District Awards Ceremony, "Splash of Imagination," went swimmingly! Over 250 students, families, staff, and community members came together to celebrate our student artists and recognize staff for the 2025-26 school year. We received over 500 pieces of artwork created by students with special needs, ranging from colorful paintings to class aquariums.

We would like to thank all of the students, teachers and staff who participated and provided their time, supplies, and expertise when working with students. We are thankful for staff members and Community Advisory Committee (CAC) volunteers who provided their time and donated materials in support of the Sensory Room and event. We look forward to seeing you again next year!

Friendship School Wheel-A-Thon

Friendship School’s annual Wheel-A-Thon was a huge success, with students completing 573 total laps around the blacktop and raising more than $3,000 to support the school’s specialized student services. Our staff was happy to attend as volunteers and cheer students on throughout the event.

Friendship School is a special education school in Imperial Beach that offers individualized support services to students with extensive needs. Congratulations to Friendship students and staff on a fun and successful fundraiser!

Student Services Parent Workshop Department of Rehabilitation

This month our team had the pleasure of hosting a parent workshop alongside the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). This workshop highlighted the ways in which DOR partners with families and communities to support the talents, independence, and future success of individuals aged 16 to 21 with disabilities. We are happy to offer parents in South County training opportunities and spaces to ask questions, helping them best support their students.

2026 South County Community Schools Resource Summit

South Bay Union School District (SBUSD) hosted this year's South County Community Schools Resource Summit where educators from 47 community schools and five member districts attended a day of educational sessions and an outdoor resource fair, where educators could connect with local agencies. Our team was happy to host an informational table and connect with attendees on free services we offer to both parents and educators.

Chula Vista Elementary School District's (CVESD) "You, Me, and Your Student's IEP" Event

Last month, CVESD hosted their last "You, Me, and Your Student's IEP" event of this school year at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary. Our team members hosted a table to share information with parents alongside volunteers from the Community Advisory Committee (CAC).

Staff Highlight

Every month, we highlight an exceptional staff member who goes above and beyond. This is our opportunity to showcase their incredible work and share their stories, including what inspired them to work with students with disabilities. This month, we would like to recognize Marcus Jackson of our very own South County SELPA's Equity, Disproportionality and Design Team (ED&D).



As a member of the ED&D team, Marcus develops Compliance Improvement Monitoring (CIP) processes that help districts prevent inequitable outcomes for students based on special education related indicators. He also supports schools with the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), inclusion, belonging, and culture and climate through coaching and training. Marcus has been focused on supporting special education students since his early career when he met a student struggling to find secondary education options out of his high school special education program. Soon after, Marcus joined the Counseling and School Psychology program at San Diego State University and has since provided guidance and built programs to help students reach their goals, and surpass them. Marcus’ favorite motivational quote, "Every student has the ability to succeed," reflects the dedication and care he has provided to countless students within our community.

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to come together and support mental wellness while creating space for real conversations that help connect individuals and communities to resources. When caregivers and schools work together, it makes a meaningful difference in helping young people feel supported, build resilience, and be ready to learn.

This year’s theme, “More Good Days, Together,” reflects the importance of connection and supporting one another so students and families can thrive. Since 1949, Mental Health America has led this effort each May, encouraging communities across the country to prioritize well-being and help create more good days for everyone. Keep reading for information that can help you support your students with special needs and be aware of helpful resources and practices.

Communication and Sensory Needs

Meet your student where they are with communication and sensory needs. You can use visuals, simple phrases, or augmentative tools. To help with sensory issues, adjust lighting, noise, and touch to prevent overwhelm and help regulation.

Routines and Consistency

Find routines that best fit your students and classroom and stick to them as much as possible. Consistency helps to reduce anxiety and builds safety. Keep an eye out for changes in socializing, appetite, academic performance, or withdrawal. Taking action early is helpful.

Skills and Resources

Teach small coping skills. Deep breaths, fidgets, short breaks, or a sensory-safe corner can make a big difference. You may even print easy-to-follow graphics for breathing exercises or checklists, see the linked resources below for printables.

Collaboration

Collaborate with parents, other educational professionals, and trusted adults in your student's life to create coordinated support. Plan for crises by having clear steps and contacts if your student becomes severely distressed.

Support for Your Students and Yourself

Encourage social connections and attendance of communal spaces. Peer time, inclusive groups, or supported play can all help boost feelings of belonging and resilience. Educators can benefit from connecting with fellow educators and utilizing SDCOE's supports and virtual wellness center.



Resources for Educators:

Resources for Teachers and Coaches — The Kids Mental Health Foundation

Mental Health Supports — San Diego County Office of Education

Virtual Wellness Center — San Diego County Office of Education

Miracle League San Diego

Congratulations to Miracle League of San Diego (MLSD) on a successful and fun-filled spring season which concluded on May 17. Registration for players is currently closed, but volunteer buddies are always wanted. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the Miracle League website to learn more and sign up.

The Miracle League Spring Season Home Run Derby Fundraiser at Padres Park and Bell Middle School raised over $15,000 for the program! MLSD provides children and adults with special needs the opportunity to play baseball in an organized league. With the dedication of hundreds of volunteers and buddies, they create a community and family where everyone can connect and enjoy playing baseball.



Be sure to follow Miracle League of San Diego on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with their latest postings.

Free American Sign Language (ASL) Classes at Davila Day School

Davila Day School is offering a free ASL class on their campus every Wednesday from 3:45 to 5 p.m. Parents, siblings, and community members interested in learning to sign are welcome! Childcare is available during class meetings. Registration is not required for this event.

For more information visit the Davila Day School website.

Schedule:

• Q4 April 8 to May 27

Location:

Davila Day School

415 Smith Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910

What is the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)?

The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) is a team of parents and other individuals with a personal or professional interest in securing appropriate services for students with special needs. Any parent, educator, or community member is welcome to attend meetings.

Thanks to the CAC for supporting our 18th Annual Art Exhibition and District Recognition Awards. Your generosity in volunteering your time, sharing thoughtful suggestions, and helping gather donations played a vital role in making this year’s event even more successful and impactful.

To join the CAC or access more information, see the CAC webpage.

Follow the @southcountyselpacac on Instagram for news and updates.

Upcoming CAC Meetings

May 21

Time: 9 to 11 a.m. (in-person)

Location: South County Regional Education Center at 800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950

Please park on the top level of the parking structure. This will be the last meeting of the 2025-26 school year.

Diagnostic Center Training On-Demand Series 2025-26

This on-demand training series includes five webinars tailored to specific topics. They are available at any time and at your own pace after registration. See below for the different options available to you and click on title links to register or see more information about each webinar.

B-2 Behavior is Communication with Margot Johnson

B-5 What should I do?! Effective Strategies for Paraeducators to Support Positive Student Behavior with Margot Johnson

M-12 Mental Health Foundation Series with Tim Halphide

S-1 Reading Between the Lines with Andrea Abrishami

S-5 Being a Para Pro of Inclusive Education with Nicole Ward

Resource for Educators

We would like to share a useful resource with educators working with children with special needs to help clarify the different types of support students may receive. This resource was created by High Quality IEPs, the Department of Rehabilitation, and the Department of Developmental Services. Titled "Understanding the Difference between the Individualized Education Program (IEP), Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE), and the Individual Program Plan (IPP)," this resource will define each type of plan and highlight how they support learning, independence, and employment.

View the document here

May 29 — Greg Rogers Elementary End of the Year Event and Resource Fair

Time: 4 to 7 p.m.

Location: Greg Rogers Elementary at 510 E Naples St., Chula Vista, CA 91911

Join Greg Rogers Elementary in celebrating the end of the school year and enjoy a resource fair as well.

June 1 and 3 — Camp Sunrise by Chula Vista Therapeutics

Time: 9:30 a.m. to noon

Location: Veteran's Park Community Center at 785 E Palomar St., Chula Vista, CA 91911

Join Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Department for a day full of sports, games, music, movement, exercise and fun! Bring a snack and drink for each day and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. This event is free and is intended for students 18 years and older.

Registration

June 2 and 4 — Camp Sunrise by Chula Vista Therapeutics

Time: 10 a.m. to noon

Location: Veteran's Park Community Center at 785 E Palomar St., Chula Vista, CA 91911

Join Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Department for a day full of sports, games, music, movement, exercise and fun! Bring a snack and drink for each day and wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. This event is free and is intended for students 18 years and older.

Registration

June 5 — Good Vibes Gathering by Chula Vista Therapeutics

Time: 5 to 7 p.m.

Location: Veteran's Park Community Center at 785 E Palomar St., Chula Vista, CA 91911

Join Chula Vista Parks and Recreation Department for a night of lively dancing, games, and plenty of fun! Enjoy positive energy, good vibes, and refreshments. Get ready and come over to relax, laugh, and connect with friends in a welcoming atmosphere. This event is free but does require registration. Intended for students 18 years and older.

Registration

June 20 — Fleet Science Center Accessibility Mornings

Time: 9 to 10 a.m.

Location: Fleet Science Center at 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

On the third Saturday of every month, the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park opens their doors one hour before the public is allowed to enter for a sensory-friendly experience. This features a special film screening of a documentary at 10 a.m. with house lights on and the soundtrack volume low. Admission is free for one visitor and an accompanying guest, and noise-cancelling headsets are available.

Information

July 18 — Child Development Associates (CDA) Annual Back to School Resource Fair

Time: 10 a.m. to noon

Location: 5473 Kearny Villa Road, San Diego, CA 92123

This year’s theme, “Every Child Has a Superpower”, celebrates strength, talents, and potential of the children and families in our community. CDA's goal is to bring together trusted community partners to share valuable programs, services, and resources that help families thrive. The event will include engaging, family friendly activities and the distribution of 400 backpacks with school supplies to help prepare children for a successful school year. Backpacks will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

July 18 — Fleet Science Center Accessibility Mornings

Time: 9 to 10 a.m.

Location: Fleet Science Center at 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

On the third Saturday of every month, the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park opens their doors one hour before the public is allowed to enter for a sensory-friendly experience. This features a special film screening of a documentary at 10 a.m. with house lights on and the soundtrack volume low. Admission is free for one visitor and an accompanying guest, and noise-cancelling headsets are available.

Information

July 25 — Chula Vista Elementary School District's 5th Annual Community Expo

Time: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: 84 East J St., Chula Vista, CA 91910

Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) families are invited to attend this year's Community Expo where CVESD will showcase their programs, provide resources, and connect with community members. Attendees will enjoy interactive activities for children, free food as supplies last, and access to resources.

Aug. 4 — Coronado Union School District Ice Cream Social

Time: 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Location: Coronado Unified District Office at 201 Sixth St., Coronado, CA 92118

Coronado Unified School District (CUSD) families are invited to attend an ice cream social at the district office. Come by to enjoy free ice cream, meet other new families, and have a chance to get to know your area military and civilian community resources.

Aug. 6 — South County Special Education Resource Fair

Time: 10 a.m. to noon

Location: South County Regional Education Center at 800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950

We’re excited to welcome over 30 organizations offering valuable resources, information, and support for families.

Sept. 26 — San Diego Regional Center's (SDRC) 4th Annual SDRC Resource Fair

Time: 9 a.m.

Location: San Diego Convention Center, Hall B at 111 West Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

Join SDRC for a welcoming and inclusive event that brings together the individuals they serve, their families, service providers, community partners, and SDRC staff. At this resource fair you can learn about and explore vendors, services, and attend eight breakout sessions. The first 800 cars (non-exhibitors only) will receive free parking, and the first 800 individuals attending will receive free lunch!

Registration

May 22 — Behavioral Health Resource Directory for K-12 Schools Premiere

Time: 10 to 10:30 a.m.

Location: Virtual

Audience: School staff

Join SDCOE’s Student Wellness and School Culture Department for the launch of our new Behavioral Health Resource Directory for K-12 Schools! Attend one of the informational sessions to learn how to navigate this easy-to-use platform designed to help school staff quickly identify mental health and substance use resources available to any student in San Diego County. Registration

May 28 — Behavioral Health Resource Directory for K-12 Schools Premiere

Time: 2:30 to 3 p.m.

Location: Virtual

Audience: School staff

Join SDCOE’s Student Wellness and School Culture Department for the launch of our new Behavioral Health Resource Directory for K-12 Schools! Attend one of the informational sessions to learn how to navigate this easy-to-use platform designed to help school staff quickly identify mental health and substance use resources available to any student in San Diego County. Registration

June 2 — Intellectual Wellness Webinar

Time: 3 to 4 p.m.

Location: Virtual

Audience: All SDCOE Staff

This webinar will cover the definition of intellectual wellness, strategies to support intellectual wellness, and resources to enhance intellectual wellness. This webinar is part of the SDCOE’s commitment to staff mental health and wellness and is an activity of Workplace Mental Health Standards.

Registration

June 16 — Intellectual Wellness Webinar

Time: 10 to 11 a.m.

Location: Virtual

Audience: All SDCOE Staff

This webinar will cover the definition of intellectual wellness, strategies to support intellectual wellness, and resources to enhance intellectual wellness. This webinar is part of the SDCOE’s commitment to staff mental health and wellness and is an activity of Workplace Mental Health Standards.

Registration

Aug. 26 — Woodcock-Johnson V Presented by the South County SELPA and Riverside Insights

Time: Session 1 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. or Session 2 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Location: South County Regional Education Center at 800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950

Audience: School psychologists, RSP, special education teachers

We invite you to join us to learn about the new features of the Woodcock-Johnson V

(WJV), a comprehensive, digital-first assessment for ages 4 to 90+ that measures

cognitive abilities, academic achievement, and language skills. Based on updated,

post-pandemic norms, the WJ V features 17 new tests, 9 new clusters, and enhanced

digital administration, including a virtual test library.

Please only register for one of the session options.

Session 1 registration

Session 2 registration

Sept. 9 to 11 — 10th Annual Wellness Together Conference

Location: San Diego Convention Center at 111 Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101

Audience: Educators, workplace leaders, mental health professionals, and policymakers

The Wellness Together Conference connects educators, workplace leaders, mental health professionals, and policymakers to strengthen hope, resilience, belonging, and engagement for the next generation. College students may attend for free.

Registration

If you have any questions or comments on the SELPA Insights newsletter, please contact our team at scselpaadr@sdcoe.net.

Get up-to-the-minute information about what's happening at South County SELPA.