SPAN The Bridge Newsletter pictorial graphic.  Your weekly access to SPAN news, resources and events.

February 21, 2024 | Issue 118 (View newsletter as webpage) Para leer este boletín en Español, haga clic aquí

Important News

NCIT logo

SPAN Becomes an Official Member of the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers


SPAN Parent Advocacy Network is proud to have become one of the first official members of the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT) when they recently launched a membership drive.


The NCIT is an education and advocacy movement committed to ensuring that every child prenatal to three and their families have what they need to thrive. As members, we are committed to advancing promising prenatal-to-three policies to create and expand systems of support for families—reaching every parent and child at or before birth. We know that when we support babies in their earliest years, they grow into healthy kids who are confident, empathetic, and ready for school and life—and our communities, workforce, and economy become stronger and more productive.


Learn more about NCIT here.


To learn more about SPAN's Early Childhood initiatives, click here.

Resources

Si Si Pueda Radio logo advertising episode with Jeannette Mejias

SPAN's Jeannette Mejias Appears on CATA Radio Show

On February 6, 2024, Jeannette Mejias, Director of the Family Engagement Program at SPAN, shared the importance of families connecting with their parent centers and understanding the resources and information available to advocate for their children's needs on the CATA radio show.


The Spanish language CATA radio show "Si Se Puede" discusses social justice, labor rights, immigrant rights, food justice, occupational health and safety, and more. You can listen to it on RadioCATA every second and fourth Tuesday of each month.


In Bridgeton, NJ, tune in to 102.5 FM or listen on their website by clicking here.



Celebrating Black History: A Focus on Disability

NJCDD Celebrating Black History Month graphic showing Senator Singleton

Throughout Black History Month, the NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) is celebrating the contributions of Black Americans with disabilities who made a significant impact on our world.


The campaign is part of their Disability in Focus Blog and includes a timely message from New Jersey Senator Troy Singleton, an acting and founding member of the New Jersey Legislative Disability Caucus.


To access the NJCDD blog series and hear Senator Singleton's message, click here.


Upcoming Events


SPAN offers a variety of learning opportunities for families and the professionals who work with them.


Highlighted Event This Week

SPAN Resource Parent logo

SPAN Resource Parent (SRP) In-Person Training Registration Now Open


Six Wednesdays

9:30 am - 2:30 PM EST

Beginning March 13

In-Person


Location:

Hackensack UMC

Fitness & Wellness

Maywood, NJ


During SRP training, participants learn about education and civil rights laws and regulations, as well as the special education process and strategies for working with the school team to ensure appropriate educational programs and related services for children and youth. Attendee parents, individuals, young adults, and professionals are provided with extensive training and ongoing support to help them understand the dynamics of the systems that serve children with disabilities and special healthcare needs.


The SRP course is provided via six weekly five-hour sessions. Individuals who complete the entire training series receive a compilation of useful local, state, and national resources and will then be prepared to share information with families about issues or concerns they may have about their child’s education and development.


For more information on the dates and requirements, topics covered, and to register, click here.

See all of SPAN's upcoming events with details and registration links here 

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SPAN Youth Hub image, which includes an image of a young woman's reflection in a window.

Reflect and Adjust


Read our latest youth blog post, "Reflect and Adjust," on self-reflection and how to adjust your priorities and routine for personal growth. 


To access the post, click here.

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