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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. November is Assistive Technology Awareness Month; this month we are sharing an overview of what assistive technology is and how it benefits students with special needs. Keep reading to find resources and ways we can assist you and your family. | | |
FERIA Partnership Conference
Families, Educators, Resources, IHEs, and Agencies working together = Student SUCCESS
Our Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) team had the opportunity to attend this year's FERIA conference at Otay Ranch High School. We were thrilled to see how many parents and family members participated in the resource fair as well as many workshops available. We thank FERIA for hosting and are excited to return to share resources next year!
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You, Me, and Your Student's IEP series with CVESD
Chula Vista Elementary School District (CVESD) began their You, Me, and Your Student's IEP for families with students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). During the events families are able to learn practical ways to support their student, ask questions, and hear about community resources available.
We are so glad we were able to attend to offer resources and connect with families with questions. If you are a CVESD parent that was unable to attend this session, see two more opportunities approaching below. We hope to see you there!
Jan. 22, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the CVESD District Office, 84 East J St.
April 28, 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary, 1790 Santa Christina Ave.
Food and childcare are provided!
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Staff Highlight
This month in honor of Assistive Technology Month we would like to highlight Jerry Voelker, School Psychologist and District Assistive Technology Specialist at Chula Vista Elementary School District. Jerry has been making an impact in Special Education since 2004.
"I was drawn to this field because I am passionate about serving the students in our community, working with the dedicated educators in the district, and improving my own knowledge when collaborating with educational advocates to support the student."
Mr. Voelker helps maximize accessibility for children with disabilities. He does this by supporting the evaluation of students, consulting with and training staff and parents, customizing tools for students' particular needs, and troubleshooting technical issues. One of his most rewarding moments working with a student was seeing them "use their personal power" to overcome school related fears. Though the student initially struggled, they were able to work through their fear and succeed.
Alongside academics, Jerry values volunteering and caring for nature, "A fun fact about me is that I enjoy volunteering and cleaning up our local beaches with the Surfrider Foundation and I Love a Clean San Diego."
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Assistive Technology Awareness Month
Assistive technology, referred to as AT, includes devices or software that is specifically designed to assist people with disabilities. AT empowers individuals to be able to complete tasks that could otherwise be difficult, or even impossible. It is an important aspect of education because it ensures students with different needs have access to necessary resources for a proper education. Keep reading to learn about common types of assistive technology in education and tips on learning how to use them at home if your child requires them.
Types of assistive technology with examples:
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Mobility Aids:
- Wheelchairs
- White canes
- Braces
- Prosthetic limbs
- Walkers
- Scooters
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Communication Aids:
- Text-to-speech software
- SMART boards
- Hearing aids
- Braille
- Video calling with captions or ASL
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Sensory Aids:
- Regulation tools such as bands under chairs
- Fidget toys
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Weighted blankets
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It is important to understand the use of assistive technology at home. As a parent, you may feel less equipped to use technology your child receives. Here are some tips on learning how to use an assistive technology tool.
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Explore the tool's capabilities – visit the tool's website and look at the 'features list' or description to learn about all of its capabilities, and what it cannot do.
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Use reference guides and video tutorials – you can find videos directly from manufacturers under 'support' or 'how to use', as well as AT specialists and educators on YouTube. Read manuals if they are included.
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Keep it consistent – Use the same device, settings, and apps your child uses at school to avoid confusion.
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Let your child take the lead – Encourage them to use the tool independently whenever possible.
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Coffee and Conversations Parent Support Group
Our first sessions of our parent support group were fantastic. We appreciate all of the parents and guardians who came to join us and had an open conversation about acceptance for our first topic. New parents are always welcomed and encouraged to join us, please continue reading for more information on our upcoming meetings.
Would you like to connect with other parents in our community? We urge you to join our new parent support group beginning this month! We will have both English and Spanish options available, and all meetings will be from 9 to 10:30 a.m. All sessions will include a short informative workshop as well as time to connect.
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Upcoming English Meetings
Dec. 16
Feb. 24
April 28
All English meetings are located at the Professional Development Center
680 L St., Suite C, Chula Vista, CA 91911
All meetings are from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
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Upcoming Spanish Meetings
Dec. 18
Feb. 26
April 30
All Spanish meetings are located at Nicoloff Elementary school multi-purpose room.
1777 Howard Ave., San Ysidro, CA 92173
All meetings are from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
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Parent IEP Academies
Our fall Parent IEP Academy was a great success. Thank you to all of the parents and guardians that joined us for our four sessions! If you are interested in understanding the IEP process more, wish to participate more in your child's IEP, or have specific questions, consider joining our upcoming academies. The winter session begins Jan. 21, and the spring session begins April 2. All meetings are virtual in English and Spanish from 10 to 11 a.m.
Register.
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Miracle League San Diego
The fall season recently came to an end in November. Spring season will run from March 7 through May 17 with no games Easter weekend. Registration is open now until Jan. 31, with Early Bird registration open until Dec. 15. If you are interested in becoming a buddy or coach, you can also register on the same site page.
The Miracle League successfully raised the $310,000 needed to proceed with their project to refresh Engel Family Field in San Dieguito Park. This park will be named Padres Park moving forward. Thank you to everyone who helped them meet their goal!
Be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook at Miracle League of San Diego to stay up to date with their latest postings.
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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! They also have childcare available during class meetings.
2025-26 Schedule:
- Q2 Oct. 8 to Dec. 10
- Q3 Jan. 14 to March 11
- Q4 April 8 to May 27
Davila Day School campus:
415 Smith Ave., Chula Vista, CA 91910
For more information visit the Davila Day School website.
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What is the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)?
The CAC is a team of parents and other individuals with a personal or professional interest in securing appropriate services for students with special needs. We would like to introduce the current 2025 members below and recognize them for their time and contributions.
To join the CAC or access more information, see the CAC webpage.
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Coronado Unified School District
Erika Lowery, parent
Chula Vista Elementary School District
Rosemary Lowry, chairperson and parent
Noelle Cravens, parent
Jade Bautista, parent
Stephanie Kenyon, parent
National School District
America Ellis, parent
Marjam Lopez, parent
Shelby Carswell, special education teacher
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San Ysidro School District
Jacqueline Chan, secretary and parent
Consuelo Carranza, general education teacher
Maricela Cali, special education teacher
South Bay Union School District
Melissa Dolo, chairperson-elect and parent
Elizabeth Alvarado, secretary and parent
Linette Salome, special education teacher
Sweetwater Union High School District
Sally Sachrison, parent
Erika Avery, special education teacher
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Upcoming CAC Meetings
Nov. 18
6 p.m. (virtual)
Registration is required. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Feb. 17
9:30 a.m. (in-person)
April 21
9:30 a.m. (in-person)
In-person meetings are located at the South County Regional Education Center at
800 National City Blvd., 91950
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Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Corner
Request a meeting instead of trying to resolve complex issues during drop-off, pick-up, or over brief conversations.
Start by sharing concerns directly and respectfully with teachers, aides, or case managers.
Come prepared with notes, examples, and possible options.
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Communication Tips
Use a calm tone and positive body language.
Clearly express your concerns or requests using facts and examples.
Give every meeting participant a chance to share their perspective fully before responding.
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Nov. 19 — SBUSD Reach Out to Families Resource Center Community Health and Resource Fair
The South Bay Union School District's Reach Out to Families Resource Center (ROTFRC) is hosting a Health and Resource Fair located at their resource center at 1237 Elder Ave., Imperial Beach, 91932. The fair will be held from 1 to 3:30 p.m. and will showcase community resources while children can enjoy creative activities. There will also be opportunity drawings with prizes.
Dec. 2 — San Diego Regional Center Employment Services Conference
This will be the first Employment Services Conference hosted by the SDRC, held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Sharp Prebys Learning Center at 8695 Spectrum Center Blvd., San Diego, CA 92123. This free event is designed to help individuals and families learn about employment programs and meet potential employers. The conference will include workshops, networking, and job opportunities. Information and registration.
Dec. 3 — SDCOE Blood Drive
9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the San Diego County Office of Education Main Campus West parking lot, 6401 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA 92111. Join our blood drive and save lives! Participants will receive an exclusive "Yeti" themed T-Shirt. Participants must register for a time slot.
Jan. 22 — CVESD You, Me, and Your Student's IEP Series
9 to 10:30 a.m. at the CVESD District Office, 84 East J St.
A free event for Chula Vista Elementary School District families. Attend to learn practical ways to support your student, learn about their IEP, ask questions, and hear about community resources available. Food and childcare are provided.
April 22 — 18th Annual Art Exhibition and District Recognition Awards
The 2026 Art Exhibition will begin at 3:30 p.m. at the South County Regional Educational Center (SCREC) at 800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950. The official theme for this year is Deep Sea Dreams! We are excited to see the art pieces students prepare this school year.
April 28 — CVESD You, Me, and Your Student's IEP Series
3:30 to 5 p.m. at Sonia Sotomayor Elementary, 1790 Santa Christina Ave.
A free event for Chula Vista Elementary School District families. Attend to learn practical ways to support your student, learn about their IEP, ask questions, and hear about community resources available. Food and childcare are provided.
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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.
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