Special Education Advisory Committee

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - March 23, 2026 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - February 9, 2026 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Options Program: Lisa Clarke
   2. Accommodations in Post-Secondary Education: Hilary Grieve
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent: Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg: Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton: Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children: Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County: Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent: TBD
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Support in Child Care Chatham-Kent: Stephanie Orrange
   2. Mental Health Update: Lori Brush
   3. SEA AQ Update: Jen Morrow
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - February 9, 2026 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes – January 19, 2026 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Accessible Sports Equipment: Hollie Sparling and Stephanie Orrange
   2. Right Time Right Care: Jen Morrow and Lori Brush
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent: Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg: Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton: Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children: Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County: Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent: TBD
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates: Lori Brush
   2. Project Search Chatham-Kent: Stephanie Orrange
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - January 19, 2026 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - November 17, 2025 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. CICE Program at Lambton College: Lisa Veenendaal
   2. Draft School Year Calendar: Jen Morrow
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent: Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg: Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton: Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children: Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County: Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent: TBD
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates: Lori Brush
   2. VTRA Level 1 Training: Stephanie Orrange
   3. Special Education Staffing Updates: Stephanie Orrange
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - November 17, 2025 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - October 20, 2025 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Skilled Trades EL Opportunities - Renee VanDamme Marcus, Robert Walicki
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent - Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg - Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton - Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children - Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County - Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent - TBD
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton - Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
   1. That SEAC defer the December 2025 meeting and meet in January 2026.
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates - Lori Brush
   2. Update from SERCC - Hollie Sparling/ Katie Papanyantou
   3. Special Education Presentations - Stephanie Orrange
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, December 15, 2025
    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - October 20, 2025 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - September 15, 2025 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Dr. Vince MacDonald - Multi-Year Strategic Plan
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent - Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg - Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton - Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children - Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County - Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent - TBD
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton - Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates - Lori Brush
   2. Ministry Professional Development requirements - Steph Orrange
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, November 17, 2025
    • Monday, December 15, 2025
    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

Special Education Advisory Committee Members

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - September 15, 2025 (Motion)
   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - June 16, 2025 (Motion)
2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. SEAC Regulations - Stephanie Orrange
   2. Department Objectives - Stephanie Orrange
   3. PRT Roles and Responsibilities - Stephanie Orrange
   4. Budget - Marcie Myers
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent - Kayla Murphy / Steve Stokley
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg - Patricia Peters
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton - Michelle Parks
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children - Melanie Coll
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County - Garth Lepine
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton - Kristy Bodkin
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARAISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Well Being Updates - Chris Preece / Lori Brush
   2. Update Staffing - Stephanie Orrange
   3. CTEP Classrooms with LK - Stephanie Orrange/Jen Morrow
   4. Back on Track - Stephanie Orrange/Jen Morrow
   5. Developing Your Housing Action Plan - Stephanie Orrange
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS
10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - January 19, 2026 (Motion)

      Motion by Steve Stokley and seconded by Patricia Peters to adopt the SEAC Agenda of Monday, January 19, 2026. Carried.

   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - November 17, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Steve Stokley and seconded by Melanie Coll to adopt the SEAC Minutes of Monday, November 17, 2025. Carried.

2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. CICE Program at Lambton College: Lisa Veenendaal
      • March 28, 2026 - Open House (CICE application fees will be paid by the college on this date)
      • Applications focus on abilities rather than disabilities - Students apply through Ontario Colleges and the process also includes an interview
      • There are no barriers - applicants could have an OSSD, OSSC or COA, or be an adult learner
      • Students need to have a desire to be in the program and not require supervision during breaks
      • Students are fully integrated into life at Lambton College
      • 40 students (20 first-year & 20 second-year) in the program supported by 20 staff (coordinator/field liaison, faculty, learning specialists, field supervisors, etc.)
      • Highly individualized program customized to a student’s interest and their level of ability
      • 1 hour of tutoring for each class with a learning specialist (i.e. to review, complete assignments, modify and/or accommodate material)
      • Students choose an area of specialization (i.e. child care), an elective and foundational CICE courses (i.e. self-advocacy skills, transition planning, job coaching, etc.)
      • Students receive transportation training to help them to learn to travel to placements independently
      • Student’s courses include homework, assignments and tests to help to prepare them for the world of work
      • Students manage their personal care, communication (email/phone) and medication
      • Graduates report increased employability skills, employment opportunities, higher confidence and independence
      • Alumni regularly participate in Lambton College activities after graduation
      • To help students to prepare to apply for CICE: set academic expectations, give assignments/ tests/ etc., work on literacy and math skills (no test is required for admission), practice using email, practice time management and self-regulation skills, pursue volunteer and work experience if possible, etc.
      • January 21, 2026 - Information Night for applicants and their families (5-7 pm), an additional date will be scheduled in the Spring
      • CICE is open to hosting SCCDSB staff for program tours and information sessions
   2. Draft School Year Calendar: Jen Morrow
      • Labour Day is September 7, 2026 but the school year must include 194 days before the end of June
      • Proposed calendar: September 8, 2026 - June 29, 2027 for students, with 2 PA days for staff before Labour Day (Thursday, September 3, 2026 and Friday, September 4, 2026)
      • Calendar will be shared with trustees at the February board meeting, and once approved, must be submitted to the Ministry for final approval by March 1, 2026
      • Draft calendar aligns with co-terminus boards (LKDSB and The Conseil scolaire catholique Providence)
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent: Steve Stokley
      • January 28, 2026 at 6-7:30 pm - Book launch for updated Safe and Secure: Seven Steps on the Path to a Good Life With Disabilities
      • To take place at 1019 Park Avenue West in Chatham (old Parkview Restaurant), in partnership with the Children’s Treatment Centre
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg: Patricia Peters
      • CLW is celebrating 70th anniversary this year
      • Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 2-6 pm - Career Fair, including onsite interviews
      • Valentine’s Day Dance details to be announced soon
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton: Michelle Parks
      • N/A
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children: Melanie Coll
      • N/A
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County: Garth Lepine
      • N/A
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent: TBD
      • N/A
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: Kristy Bodkin
      • Summer Camp registration details to be announced soon
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES

   N/A

5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)

   N/A

6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates: Lori Brush
      • In December, SCCDSB staff (including social workers, CYWs, SLPs, ABA team, consultants, etc.) received twelve hours of trauma-informed training facilitated by Life Seasons
      • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy training is ongoing for all team members
      • Right Time, Right Care Memorandum of Understanding between board and community agencies is close to being finalized
      • A Youth Summit being planned for the Spring to address gaps identified in school climate surveys
      • Increased staffing complement in secondary schools to respond to increase in referrals - each secondary school now has a full-time social worker and CYW
   2. VTRA Level 1 Training: Stephanie Orrange
      • March 14-15, 2026: two-day Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) training will be offered by Kevin Cameron at the CEC
      • Registration links to be posted via SchoolCashOnline ($400 fee)
   3. Special Education Staffing Updates: Stephanie Orrange
      • A fourth Registered Behaviour Analyst (RBA) has been hired to join the ABA team
      • A posting for a Psychologist, a new position, closes this week
      • Board plans to hire two additional teachers for the Collaborative Support Team in the Spring, when supply teacher levels improve
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
   • EQAO results were recently shared; the results were good but there is room for improvement and next steps
   • OCTSCA conference was recently attended by SCCDSB trustees
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

   N/A

9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS

   N/A

10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

    Motion by Steve Stokley and seconded by Melanie Coll to adjourn the SEAC meeting of Monday, January 19, 2026, at 6:20 p.m. Carried.

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - November 17, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Patricia Peters and seconded by Steve Stokley to adopt the SEAC Agenda of Monday, November 17, 2025. Carried.

   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - October 20, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Melanie Coll and seconded by Michelle Parks to adopt the SEAC Minutes of Monday, October 20, 2025. Carried.

2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Skilled Trades EL Opportunities: Renee VanDamme Marcus
      • Tech Trucks were set up at both high schools and at the CEC, providing students with opportunities to explore and learn about various skilled trades. The trucks supported SHSM and STEM programming and offered valuable hands-on activities that connected directly to curriculum goals.
      • Board staff assisted in running the tech simulators, giving students meaningful, real-world learning experiences close to home. The truck is fully funded by the Ministry and is accessible to all students, including those with diverse needs.
      • Students were able to participate in a wide range of experiential learning activities including welding, automotive work, cake decorating, and electrical trades, among others.
      • The Tech Trucks arrived with two volunteers, who spoke highly of our students’ engagement, enthusiasm, and respect throughout the visit. Overall, this was a very positive and enriching experience for both staff and students.
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent: Steve Stokley
      • N/A
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg: Patricia Peters
      • The Community Living float was in the Christmas parade this weekend. They had a lot of supported individuals participating.
      • Accessible Van - getting closer to the goal thanks to everyone who is helping
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton: Michelle Parks
      • The next meeting is tomorrow, November 18, 2025.
      • Story Shifters is hosting a session tomorrow. For more information, contact Michelle Parks.
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children: Melanie Coll
      • The Secret Santa Shop is underway and we have had more than enough volunteers. Thank you for spreading the word.
      • Changes in Complex Special Needs Funding - Melanie will share the information by email
      • CSP planners will be heading up the program and supporting families with funding needs.
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County: Garth Lepine
      • N/A
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent: TBD
      • N/A
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton: Kristy Bodkin
      • N/A
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES

5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)

   That SEAC defer the December 2025 meeting and meet in January 2026.
   Motion By Patricia Peters and seconded by Melanie Coll to defer the December 2025 meeting and meet in January 2026. Carried.

6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates: Lori Brush
      • Our Real Talk Series has launched, beginning with a focus on what kindness means to students. A video featuring their perspective was created and shared with school teams.
      • Our team is working to strengthen connections with parents and build their capacity to support this work. To help increase engagement, students are directing key messages to parents, fostering a more meaningful and collaborative approach.
   2. Update from SERCC: Hollie Sparling, Katie Papanyantou
      • The conference included an informative half-day session titled “Leading with AI: Practical Tools for Special Education Coordinators & Consultants” delivered by the Future Design School. During this session, the team began developing an AI tool to support PRTs in reviewing and auditing IEPs to ensure alignment with Ministry and SCCDSB guidelines.
      • The conference also featured a dynamic Building Inclusive Schools presentation by Sara Vadovic. Participants met in small groups to discuss current ‘hot topics’ in education, including bus safety, IEP modifications, and the transfer of SEA equipment between boards.
      • Anne Elliott, Ministry of Education Field Officer, provided Ministry updates. She noted that the rollout of the new Kindergarten curriculum has been paused by the Minister of Education to ensure it is accompanied by a comprehensive package of teaching resources. Kindergarten will remain play-based but will formally be referred to as a curriculum for the first time, creating a clear continuum with the Grade 1 Language and Math curricula.
   3. Special Education Presentations: Stephanie Orrange
      • Special Education Professional Development:
        • NTIP Presentations: May, November, December 2025
        • Specialist Teachers (French, Music, and Physical Education): October 2025 PD Day
        • Program Resource Teachers: Michael Jacques, Guest Speaker
        • Education Assistants, Special Education Department, and Specialists: Shelley Moore's presentation on inclusivity in schools
      • Preschool Transitions:
        • For all parents with children starting school in September 2026:
          • Chatham-Kent Schools: November 20, 2025 at 6:00–7:30 PM. Childcare is available on-site. Pre-registration is required.
          • Sarnia: December 4, 2025 at 6:00–7:30 PM. Session is virtual only.
          • Contact Pathways and Chatham Treatment Centres to register.
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
   • Presentation from St. Angela Merici Catholic School
   • Purchase offer made for former St. Ursula Catholic School site in Chatham-Kent
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

   N/A

9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS

   N/A

10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

    Motion by Michelle Parks and seconded by Melanie Coll to adjourn the SEAC meeting of Monday, November 17, 2025, at 6:09 p.m. Carried.

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - October 20, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Michelle Parks and seconded by Melanie Coll to adopt the SEAC Agenda of Monday, October 20, 2025. Carried.

   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - September 15, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Steve Stokley and seconded by Michelle Parks to adopt the SEAC Minutes of Monday, September 15, 2025. Carried.

2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Dr. Vince MacDonald - Multi-Year Strategic Plan
      • The current strategic plan has been in place since 2019. The new plan will remain in place for the next three years. To ensure everyone has a voice, focus groups within the board and community groups will be invited to have input. Questions asked will focus on current practice and needs with respect to all people served within the board. The community survey will be shared on October 27, 2025. It will be open for input for two weeks. Everyone can respond to the survey.
      • The goal is for the first draft of the new strategic plan to be completed for review at the end November 2025. The final draft will be presented to the Trustees in March 2026.
      • Input sought from SEAC members tonight focused on: What are you most proud of and, what is SCCDSB doing well regarding special education? What do you hope to see completed within the next three years regarding special education?
      • Responses from SEAC members are as follows:

      • Question #1 - What are you most proud of and, what is SCCDSB doing well regarding special education?

        • Communication is amazing.
        • The board is very progressive regarding new ideas and listening to community agencies/partnering, etc. Changes are made to help students and partners.
        • Partnering agencies see the board as very progressive and innovative. Views the board as building inclusive opportunities for students; new ideas always considered.
        • Appreciates the mental health initiatives and approach to a trauma informed model with regard to mental health and wellbeing. Views the board as being proactive with mental health for staff and students. SCCDSB is a safe and inclusive place where everyone belongs.
        • Appreciates the senior team who puts things together for the board and makes all the above happen for staff and students.
        • Acknowledges the social emotional learning focus groups to ensure adults are well so that students are well.

      • Question 2 - What do you hope to see completed within the next 3 years regarding special education?

      • More parent involvement.
      • Student home and parish triangle; improve all three working together more
      • Peer Mentors - would like to see more of this
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent - Steve Stokley
      • October 20, 2025 family network - make chicken pot pies, do baking, share experiences; will be held at 101 Stewart Street, Chatham at 6 p.m.
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg - Patricia Peters
      • N/A
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton - Michelle Parks
      • The committee has always been under the umbrella of the Family Counselling Centre and are now in process of applying for their own charity status.
      • Safe Talk training is offered free of charge. If interested, email Michelle who will have their coordinator make arrangements.
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children - Melanie Coll
      • Family engagement coordinator is hosting an event in collaboration with both treatment centres in Sarnia as well as the Children’s Treatment Centre of Chatham-Kent. The event is “Positive Advocacy Strategies for School”. Parents can gather information as to how to be better prepared to support their kids in school meetings. It will take place for Pathways families in person on November 3, 2025. There is also a virtual option.
      • Hosting the annual Secret Santa Shop. It will be open in Sarnia from November 14-23, 2025. They are in need of many volunteers. Students can get volunteer hours to play Santa’s elves if they are interested. Adults can volunteer as Santa's elves as well. Information can be found on their website.
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County - Garth Lepine
      • On the weekend the DSAO had our Down Right Inspiring conference. Keynote speaker was Adelle Purdham, educator at Trent University, writer and mother of daughter with Down Syndrome, she summarized exerts from her book, 'I Don't Do Disability and Other Lies I've Told Myself,' and DSAO launched its EducAide program for parents to navigate IPRC/IEP.
      • Cliff Erickson Fundraising Show on November 21, 2025 (info will be sent out).
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent - TBD
      • N/A
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton - Kristy Bodkin
      • November calendar for centre based group respite comes out this week
      • Hoping to run a holiday day camp during the holiday break over Christmas. The dates being looked at are December 22, 23, 29, 30, and 31, 2025.
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES
5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)
6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Wellbeing Updates - Lori Brush
      • SEL & Collaborative Inquiry process - 6 groups of administrators from all our schools met where the big idea explored was “How do we build and maintain safe, inclusive, accepting learning environments?” All students have a space and place where their voices are heard.
      • EKAN Adult Professional Learning Series - Ezhi Kendmang Anishnaabe Naadziwin (EKAN): Sharing the Knowledge of the People. Three land-based learning sessions designed to increase understanding of Anishinabek, increase self-awareness, and strengthen skills.
      • Upcoming Training for Staff:
        • Trauma & Resilience Specialist 2 day training where 35 people are being trained in trauma and resilience education on December 15-16, 2025.
        • Suicide Risk Assessment training
        • Right Time Right Care referral process training for SCCDSB and Linck
        • Eating Disorders - Weight Stigma training
      • Parent Engagement - Parents were asked what they wanted to learn more about. The top three responses were: managing stress and anxiety; positive relationships and managing conflict; and managing digital technology. Work is being done on how to get this information to parents.
      • Staff are busy in schools. Compared to this time last year, there has been an increase in Common Referrals by 66.35% and in Self Referrals by 44%.
   2. Ministry Professional Development requirements - Stephanie Orrange
      • The Ministry has shared the following topics of professional development that must be completed by staff members of the board:
        • Keeping Schools Safe - November 21, 2025 PD day
        • Tackling Racism - October 10, 2025 PD day
        • Artificial Intelligence - September 19 and October 10, 2025 PD days
        • School Resource Officer Program - reminding school staff about police and board protocols and what the partnership looks like; also lock down and bomb drill requirements. Additional information will be shared with all schools.
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
   • Recent regional meeting where the discussion focused on how to protect the Trustee position
   • Participating in the work being done on the new strategic plan
   • Working with new Student Trustees
   • The last Board meeting was held at the new Sacred Heart Catholic School, Sarnia
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
   • Brenda Rumble asked if we are familiar with “Partners for Planning”? If not, would you like the site? It is a local support resource for those caring for others with disabilities. Community Living CK is associated with them as well.
   • Brenda to look into a contact who could present to SEAC. Brenda can connect them with Stephanie Orrange.
   • Michelle asked if SEAC can support protecting trustees with the MOE.
9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS

10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, November 17, 2025
    • Monday, December 15, 2025
    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

    Motion by Melanie Coll and seconded by Steve Stokley to adjourn the SEAC meeting of Monday, October 20, 2025 at 6:20 p.m. Carried.

SPECIAL EDUCATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

1. CALL TO ORDER
   1. Welcome & Opening Prayer
   2. Adoption of SEAC Agenda - September 15, 2025 (Motion)

      The order of agenda items was revised so the budget presentation was first.
      Motion by Steve Stokley and seconded by Brenda Rumble to adopt the SEAC Agenda of Monday, September 15, 2025. Carried.

   3. Review of SEAC Minutes - June 16, 2025 (Motion)

      Motion by Melanie Coll and seconded by Brenda Rumble to adopt the SEAC Minutes of Monday, June 16, 2025. Carried.

2. PRESENTATIONS
   1. Budget – Marcie Myers
      • Marcie walked SEAC through the approved budget for Special Education for the 2025-2026 school year (typically shared at June SEAC meeting but Ministry funding was delayed)
      • The budget is balanced and there is no deficit for 2025-2026
      • All collective agreements and settlements have been settled
      • Benchmarks per pupil and differentiated needs amount benchmarks have increased
      • Higher students enrolment increased funding in many areas
      • Increases in salaries due to new collective agreements
      • There is an increase in secondary resource teacher positions and the budget includes funding for a south ProjectSEARCH
      • Three additional EAs were hired in the elementary panel, one additional RBA was hired for the ABA team, and more CDA staff were hired
      • Cooperative Education Transportation funding has increased
      • Autism Additional Qualifications course funding is available in the budget
      • A contingency fund is in place to address the needs of new students
      • Transition Navigator funding has been renewed
   2. SEAC Regulations – Stephanie Orrange
      • We are mandated to review the rules and regulations for SEAC with committee members annually
      • Areas reviewed: Membership, Orientation and Training, Rules and Procedures for SEAC meetings, and the Primary Role of SEAC members
   3. Department Objectives – Stephanie Orrange
      • Every year the special education department shares the department objectives for the school year with SEAC. Some items are new and others carry over from the previous year
      • Objectives this year include: IEP Review, Removing Barriers for Students with Disabilities (Ministry funded) funding renewed (Diversity Kits, Rick Hansen Foundation PD Opportunities for Secondary Schools, Inclusive Support and Recreation kits), Implementation of Lifeskills Review Recommendations (further support meaningful integration, Transition Navigator Position, Continued Support of Structured Literacy, EA Training/ Resource Development (Google Classroom, training)
   4. PRT Roles and Responsibilities – Stephanie Orrange
      • The Roles and Responsibilities documents for both Elementary and Secondary PRTs were shared with SEAC, highlighting ongoing responsibilities throughout the school year, as well as specific monthly items to focus on - collaborating with classroom teachers, collaborating on programming, IPRC processes, personal care plans, meetings and communication with families, in-school assessments
      • PRTs provide direct service to Tier 2 and Tier 3 students
      • Fall is a very busy time for PRTs as they work on IEPs, individualized programming, SEA equipment, French exemption applications, and Personal Care plans
3. ASSOCIATION REPORTS
   1. Community Living Chatham-Kent – Steve Stokley
      • Kayla Murphy is no longer on the board; board will meet again end of September and confirm their SEAC representative
      • 15 students attended the summer program, which included paid employment in the morning and volunteer opportunities in the afternoon
      • Options Program update - All but one student have a co-op placement at this time; additional students may be admitted to the program in January
   2. Community Living Wallaceburg – Patricia Peters
      • September 26, 2025 - Maple City Golf Tournament
      • September 16, 2025 - Local Board of Director, Chris Taylor, will receive the National Jason Ray Award, to be awarded at the National Community Living Conference
      • September 18, 2025 @ 6:00 p.m. - Annual General Meeting
      • September 30, 2025 @ 10 a.m. - Annual Healing Walk in partnership with Walpole Island First Nation and the Municipality of Chatham-Kent
   3. Suicide Prevention Committee Sarnia-Lambton – Michelle Parks
      • N/A
   4. Pathways Health Centre for Children – Melanie Coll
      • Summer programs are wrapping up and the Lifelong Learning Program and school-based services have started
      • Mustang Sally Rally event returned on September 13, 2025 after a hiatus and was a very successful and warmly received event
   5. Down Syndrome Association of Lambton County – Garth Lepine
      • Funding has been secured for a Speech Camp again this year
      • November 21, 2025 – fundraiser featuring guitarist Cliff Erickson at the Sarnia library
      • October 18, 2025 - Down Syndrome Association of Ontario 2025 Conference in Parry Sound, ON with a “Down Right Inspiring” theme
   6. Learning Disabilities Association of Chatham-Kent – TBD
      • N/A
   7. Community Living Sarnia-Lambton – Kristy Bodkin
      • This year was the biggest summer camp yet with 83 children registered
      • Centre-based respite activity group resumed this Fall and is available for any children who have a developmental disability or physical disability
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS AND BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES

   N/A

5. NEW BUSINESS (Motion)

   N/A

6. INFORMATION ITEMS
   1. Mental Health and Well Being Updates – Chris Preece
      • Noelle’s Gift is seeking sponsors for each school’s Noelle’s Gift Closet
      • This is Chris Preece’s last SEAC meeting before she retires; Lori Brush has been working with her this month to successfully transition into the Mental Health Lead role
      • Multi-tiered system of mental health support in school focuses on promotion, prevention and early intervention, where community mental health partners provide more intensive support
      • Tier 1 - prevention; Tier 2 - supporting students with emerging issues; Tier 3 - assessment and treatment services, referrals to community supports; Tier 4 - intensive services, community-based and in-home treatment or in-patient live-in treatment (Linck for Chatham-Kent, St. Clair Child and Youth for Sarnia-Lambton)
      • SCCDSB does short-term clinical counselling
      • SCCDSB well-being team includes Social Workers, Attendance Counsellors, Child & Youth Workers
      • Adopted a comprehensive approach to Social Emotional Learning for adults and students; SEL promotes mental health and is a preventative evidence-based approach that supports mental health early, reduces behaviour challenges, strengthens relationships, builds resilience, and increases academic success by approximately 10%
      • This year there is a Principal Learning Network for a collaborative SEL inquiry
      • Suicide Protocols help build capacity in school staffs by providing a framework of three questions that can be asked by any staff (non-clinicians)
      • A learning module entitled “Crisis to Connection: Building Safe Response to Big Behaviours” has been developed by well-being, CST and ABA teams, and it can be used a debriefing tool
      • Key findings of School Climate Data reflect provincial trends: increase in bullying, higher levels of cyber bullying, disordered eating and mental health concerns (worrying about their families and appearance) in secondary schools
      • Goals based on key findings include increasing student awareness of mental health supports in system, working with Religion departments to understand that our relationships with God support mental health, enhancing family support awareness, parent mental health literacy, student wellness committee action plans, and expanding SEL across the board
   2. Update Staffing – Stephanie Orrange
      • Funding is in place to investigate a ProjectSEARCH location in Chatham-Kent
      • Additional hires: 3 additional EAs, 3 additional CYWs, 1 SW, 1 RBA (ABA team)
      • SLP team now includes 2 permanent; one SLP is on maternity leave but no replacement could be secured so an additional 1.8 CDAs were hired
   3. CTEP Classrooms with LK – Stephanie Orrange/Jen Morrow
      • New Ministry guidelines for Care, Treatment, Education Programs (CTEP) in partnership with LKDSB
      • SCCDSB runs the ATC in partnership with TLC (no longer need to apply for funding annually)
      • Additional $150,000 in funding ensures access to four other CTEPs administered by the LKDSB: JMSS Day Treatment (Gr. 7-12), Northern Day Treatment (Gr. 7-12), Rebound Youth Justice Program (Gr. 7-12), Rebound Mental Health Program (Gr. 7-12), Crossroads (formerly Transitions II - Gr. 9-12)
   4. Back on Track – Stephanie Orrange/Jen Morrow
      • The YMCA is funding this alternative suspension program that is new to Chatham-Kent (Gr. 7-12)
      • In Sarnia-Lambton, a similar program has been in place for several years in partnership with Rebound (Gr. 3-12)
   5. Developing Your Housing Action Plan – Stephanie Orrange
      • 10-week facilitated Crafting Your Individualized Housing Action Plan workshop for families to gain practical tools, expert guidance, and a supportive space to take real steps toward helping their family members create a home of their own
      • This workshop runs from September 23-December 2, 2025 @ 6:30-8:30 p.m. with 6 whole-group sessions, 3 facilitation sessions, and 1 consultation
7. REPORTS FROM THE BOARD
   • Brief meeting included details of one school sale and one school renovation
8. QUESTIONS ASKED BY COMMITTEE MEMBERS

   N/A

9. PRESENTATIONS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS

   N/A

10. FUTURE MEETING DATES
    • Monday, October 20, 2025
    • Monday, November 17, 2025
    • Monday, December 15, 2025
    • Monday, January 19, 2026
    • Monday, February 9, 2026
    • Monday, March 23, 2026
    • Monday, April 13, 2026
    • Monday, May 11, 2026
    • Monday, June 15, 2026
11. CLOSING PRAYER
12. ADJOURNMENT (Motion)

    Motion by Patricia Peters and seconded by Steve Stokley to adjourn the SEAC meeting of Monday, September 15, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. Carried.