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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. October is a month full of safety recognition; this month we have compiled some helpful safety tips to use this season both in school and at home. Keep reading to find resources and ways we can assist you and your family. | | |
Friendship School Visit
Our Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) team had the opportunity to tour SDCOE’s Friendship School last month. Friendship School supports students ages 3 to 22 who have extensive needs. We are grateful for the informative tour we received and were touched and impressed seeing their staff members' dedication to their students.
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CalECSE (California Early Childhood Special Education Network) Symposium
Our ADR team also attended the 3rd Annual CalECSE Symposium this month. They delivered an insightful presentation on building partnerships through Alternative Dispute Resolution. We're so glad we could participate in 'reaching new heights!'
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Special Olympics Southern California’s Unified Champion Schools Professional Development Training
The ADR team attended a professional development session on Special Olympics Southern California’s Unified Champion Schools, a program that empowers youth, engages educators, and builds school communities rooted in acceptance and inclusion.
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Deaf Blind Training at Clearview Elementary School
Tanya Gonzalez Guerrero, our teacher for the visually impaired, facilitated an impactful professional development training where staff had the unique opportunity to experience what it’s like to be deaf and blind. Through interactive activities and guided reflection, participants gained a deeper understanding of the challenges individuals with sensory impairments face in daily life. The session fostered empathy, awareness, and practical strategies for creating more inclusive and supportive learning environments.
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Staff Highlight
Each year at our Annual Art Exhibition and District Awards Recognition, we celebrate exceptional staff members who go 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.
Efrain Bobadilla is an exceptional and invaluable member of the Friendship School team. In his role as a student attendant, he carries out a wide range of responsibilities that are essential to the daily operations and overall success of Friendship's school community. Though he often works quietly behind the scenes, Efrain’s presence is felt in countless meaningful ways. He consistently ensures that both students and staff have the support, resources, and environment they need to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally. His dedication, reliability, and thoughtful approach make him not only a key contributor but also a deeply respected and appreciated part of the Friendship School family.
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Fall Festivities — Tips for Celebrations, Inclusivity and Safety
It is always fun to celebrate festivities with your community. If you are planning to host a party this season, here are some tips to ensure your party is inclusive, fun, and safe for all children and families attending:
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- Send invitations to parents letting them know the details of when the event will be, what to expect.
- If there is food present, be sure to label all options and stay away from allergens. If guests are encouraged to bring food to share, ask families to bring pre-packaged goods that have a lower likelihood of cross contamination.
- Games and activities should include activities that do not require fine motor skills or physical exertion. Consider setting up an arts and crafts activity with sensory friendly materials.
- Set up a sensory safe space for kids who may need a break. This can be in a separate room, or a quiet corner near the party. It can include softer lighting, noise-canceling headphones, and quiet fidget toys or books.
- Remember to be inclusive! Holidays are different for everyone, and not all partygoers may participate the same way.
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National School Bus Safety Week — Oct. 20 to 24
National School Bus Safety Week falls on the third week of October. School bus transportation is one of the safest forms of transportation for students, and it is important to keep it that way. We would like to highlight safety protocols that you can review and practice with fellow parents and children to make sure everyone can stay safe both on and off the bus.
Off the bus:
- As parents, it is important that you lead the way with road safety.
- Role-play how to wait for the bus, walk safely to the door, and use the handrail when boarding.
- Inform the bus driver or transportation staff about your child’s needs — such as communication methods, medical alerts, or calming strategies.
On the bus:
- A small picture schedule or social story can help your child understand and follow bus routines.
- Talk about what to expect on the bus — where to sit, how to stay buckled or seated, and how to use an inside voice depending on your child's needs and abilities.
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White Cane Safety Day — Oct. 15
Also known as Blind Americans Equality Day, this day is dedicated to celebrating the achievements and abilities of blind individuals. The white cane, a mobility tool used by the blind, is an important symbol of independence. With the assistance of this tool, blind people have the capability to participate and give back to their communities independently. Let today remind us to celebrate the abilities and successes achieved by blind people in a sighted world and to honor the many contributions being made by the blind and visually impaired.
The Braille Institute is a helpful organization to visit for more information on resources for those who are blind or visually impaired. They are hosting local and virtual events to celebrate White Cane Safety Day with activities such as festive walks, a cane repair shop, entertainment and lunch. For more information on the event or general resources, visit their website.
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San Diego County Sheriff's Office: Blue Envelope Program
The Blue Envelope Program is designed to promote inclusivity and serve as an enhanced communication awareness tool between law enforcement and community members. It serves those diagnosed with a condition or disability that might require additional accommodations or awareness during a law enforcement interaction. This includes those with autism spectrum disorder, dementia, anxiety, and more.
Members of the community can readily display the Blue Envelope logo or present a Blue Envelope upon contact with law enforcement or other community service personnel. The Blue Envelope-branded products can contain the individual's identification, contact information or pertinent vehicle operating documents such as the vehicle registration and proof of insurance. This allows the officer to be informed of a community member's disability and helps ensure all necessary documentation is prepared if needed.
Participating community members can go to a local Sheriff's Office branch to receive materials. These include the Blue Envelope, an information card, stickers, and more. To see more program information including participating branch locations, visit the San Diego Sheriff's Office website.
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Coffee and Conversations Parent Support Group
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.
Upcoming Meetings
Oct. 21
Located at the South County Regional Education Center
800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950
Dec. 16
Located at the Professional Development Center
680 L St., Suite C, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Feb. 24
Located at the Professional Development Center
680 L St., Suite C, Chula Vista, CA 91911
April 28
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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Fall Parent IEP Academy
Our Fall Parent IEP Academy begins on Oct. 15. If you are interested in understanding the IEP process more, or you want to feel confident that you have the necessary tools to fully participate in your child’s IEP, please join us! This is a free, virtual academy with four Zoom sessions. Dates include Oct. 15, 22, 29, and Nov. 5. Sessions are available in both English and Spanish.
Register.
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Miracle League San Diego
The fall season is currently running until Nov. 16.
Player registration for this season has closed, but Miracle League is always searching for more volunteer buddies and coaches. Register as a buddy or coach or view available locations.
The Miracle League is raising money to refresh Engel Family Field in San Dieguito Park. After nearly two decades of use, there are necessary updates that must be made for safety. To learn more or to contribute to the Engel Family Field Capital Campaign please visit the Miracle League Website.
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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 welcomed! 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 encourage parents to actively participate in becoming knowledgeable, empowered, and effective partners in the development and implementation of learning experiences for students with exceptional needs.
To join the CAC or access more information, see the CAC webpage.
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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 SCREC:
800 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950
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Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Corner
The Alternative Dispute Resolution Team has a new staff member! We would like to officially welcome Kendra Sales to our South County SELPA office. Kendra grew up in San Diego and is excited to give back to her community in her first position in education as a Special Education Resource Assistant on the ADR team.
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Communication Tips
Research demonstrates that parent/family involvement significantly contributes to improved student outcomes.
If you do not participate in meetings, it is important to be honest with the school about why you’re not participating. Even though these conversations might be difficult, they could lead to changes that make your participation more possible.
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Oct. 15 — Alternative Pathway to a Diploma Meeting with SUHSD
This meeting will be at 5 p.m. at the Professional Development Center at 680 L St., Suite C, Chula Vista, CA 91911. The Alternative Pathway to Diploma offers students with significant cognitive disabilities a path to earn a diploma while remaining eligible for special education services up to age 22. If you would like to learn more about this program, please join this meeting. There is no registration required.
Oct. 15 to Nov. 5 — Fall Parent IEP Academy
Meetings will be virtual on Zoom every Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m.
Registration
Oct. 18 — 11th Annual FERIA Partnership Conference
This conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Otay Ranch High School. It is designed for Spanish-speaking Latino parents with children with special needs and educators working with special education English Learners in a general and/or special education setting. There will be presentations demonstrating evidence-based research practices, strategies and applications that will result in increased parental involvement, high expectations, and achievement for all students. There will also be a series of workshops provided in Spanish and simultaneous translations in English.
Information and registration.
Oct. 18 and 19 — Camp Hope, Free Grief Camp
For children ages 7 to 17 years old who have experienced the recent death of a loved one and are coping with grief. This is a chance to share memories, express feelings, make new friends, and have fun with peers. Information and registration.
Oct. 30 — African American Support Group Resource Fair
This resource fair will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Park de la Cruz Recreational Center at 3911 Landis St., San Diego, CA 92105. Hosted by Self Determined Futures LLC, this event will include guidance with transportation, disability services and in-home support, food assistance, health and wellness, and more. They are also serving dinner. Register using their form.
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.
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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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