Carolyn Hayer with Guardian of Community Awardee, NJ Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin

New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin Honored at SPAN's End of Summer Soiree

On Friday evening, September 26, SPAN presented New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin with its Guardian of the Community Award at our annual End of Summer Soirée, recognizing his dedication to protecting children, youth, families, and the professionals who serve them.

Attorney General Platkin was honored for his leadership in:

• Promoting anti-bias initiatives for K–12 students
• Advancing youth justice reform
• Protecting students with disabilities and their civil rights
• Providing guidance to prevent discriminatory school discipline
• Engaging the community in all aspects of his work

SPAN also applauds his role in defending New Jersey programs and families through nearly 33 multi-state lawsuits, including actions protecting students with disabilities from federal policy changes. His advocacy demonstrates unwavering courage and a steadfast commitment to the rights of the communities SPAN serves.

SPAN also presented its Parent Champion Award to Susan Coll-Guedes, M.Ed. at the event. Susan's award will be profiled in next week's newsletter.

For more on the Soiree and to see photos from the event, click here.

October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month (DSAM)

Join us in supporting the Down syndrome community during this special month. October a month to raise awareness and celebrate the many abilities of those in the Down syndrome community. DSAM seeks to break down barriers and focus on promoting advocacy for people with Down syndrome. 

Key aspects of Down syndrome awareness month include:

• Promoting acceptance and inclusion
• Focusing on abilities
• Debunking stereotypes and myths
• Advocacy and support

To learn more, including how to get involved, click here.

Register Now for SPAN's Early Childhood Conference

Registration is now open for SPAN's Second Early Childhood Conference, taking place virtually October 28, 29 and 30.

Highlights include:

• Inspiring Opening Panel: parents sharing their advocacy stories.
• Workshops on: Early Intervention, Healthy Child Development, Self Care, & Tools for Meetings.
• Practical Strategies: Learn ways to go from Meltdowns to Moments of Connection.
• Family Data Leaders Preview Series: Discover how quality data supports young children.

To register, click here.

Any questions? Contact childcare@spanadvocacy.org.