Pictured L-R are Jennette Mejias, Vito Borello and Johan Mora-Valverde.

Advocating for Family Engagement on

Capitol Hill

On September 10th, Jeannette Mejias, Program Director, Family Engagement Programs, Johan Mora-Valverde, Policy Coordinator, and Vito Borrello, Executive Director, NAFSCE, participated in National Hill Day in Washington, D.C.

Together, they advocated on behalf of NAFSCE and the National Alliance for Family Engagement in Education, emphasizing the critical role of family engagement in shaping equitable education policy. Their efforts directly impact programs such as Statewide Family Engagement Centers (SFECs), IDEA Parent Training and Information Centers, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, and Full-Service Community Schools (FSCS)—all of which rely on strong family-school partnerships to support student success.

This collective advocacy helps ensure that family engagement remains a national priority.

NJ Family Engagement Hub Hosts First Annual Advisory Committee Retreat 

On September 13, 2025, the New Jersey Family Engagement Hub held its first Annual Advisory Committee Retreat at the FEA Conference Center.

Led by facilitator Debra Jennings, Strategist and Consultant to the Hub, the retreat centered on meaningful dialogue to strengthen family engagement across New Jersey. From the “Recipe for Family Engagement” activity to Café Conversations, participants engaged in deep reflection, connection, and forward-thinking strategies to advance the Hub’s mission.

As Co-Directors Jeannette Mejias and Dr. Lanisha Makle Ridley affirm, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead

This retreat marked a powerful step in building a statewide movement rooted in collaboration, connection, and family voice.

Interested in learning more or joining our Advisory Committee? Click here to get involved https://njfehub.org/

National Service Dog Month

September is National Service Dog Month! Service dogs are dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.

This month is dedicated to raising awareness and educating the community about service dogs that provide greater independence and support to their partners.

To learn more about National Service Dog Month and many of the things that canine companions are trained to do, click here.