The SECAC Mission
SECAC works together to put children first.
The Committee focuses on open and honest communication, improving effectiveness and accountability, identifying systemic issues, and advocating for appropriate resources. In collaboration with Frederick County Public Schools leadership of special education, parents, FCPS staff and community members, the Committee strives to facilitate positive changes in the delivery of special education services and the success and achievements of students with disabilities.
A Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) advises the district on issues affecting students with disabilities. The Committee reviews policies, gives feedback, and helps ensure that the district remains in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The Committee listens to families, shares concerns and ideas, and provides advice to help improve special education services and supports.
What Is A Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee?
Are SECACs in the Individuals With
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?
1
Yes! The IDEA requires each state to establish and maintain an advisory panel to provide guidance on the education of children with disabilities. IDEA sets the foundation for each state to develop the framework.
The Maryland State Department of Education runs a Special Education State Advisory Committee and requires every local school system to establish a SECAC to advise local systems on the unique needs of students with disabilities.
How do SECACs operate in Maryland?
2
The Frederick County SECAC, in partnership with Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Department of Special Education leadership, typically reviews special education data and policies, provides input, helps evaluate the effectiveness of special education programs, advocates, actively listens to the community, and advises on unmet needs in FCPS.
What does the Frederick County SECAC do?
3
Does the Frederick County SECAC have
decision making authority?
4
No, the SECAC does not have decision making authority.
The SECAC’s recommendations can influence how FCPS spends funding, writes policy, staffing matters, responding to public feedback, or systemic issues.
Frederick County SECAC Membership
The SECAC is a 25 voting member committee of volunteers comprised of parents/guardians, FCPS staff, Community Members/Organizations, and high school students.
Concerning Schools Located Near Data Centers and Future Significant Industrial Development
On August 24, 2026, the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) unanimously approved a motion to submit a letter of advocacy to the Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) Board of Education (BOE) regarding the potential health and safety impacts of data center development on students and staff at Carroll Manor Elementary School (CMES), with particular attention to students with disabilities and measures to identify and mitigate potential impacts. All 22 voting members present voted in favor; zero opposed and zero abstained.
The finalized letter has been distributed through appropriate advocacy channels, including the Board of Education and relevant local, state, and federal representatives.
Illustration of a data center in close in proximity to a school
SY 2025-2026 Frederick County SECAC Advocacy
Cameras in Classrooms
SECAC has advocated for cameras in classrooms to promote safety, transparency, accountability, and trust; in partnership with FCPS sharing the commitment to protecting and supporting students with disabilities.
SECAC Annual Report to the Frederick County Board of Education
The SECAC Annual Report provides the Board of Education with a concise overview of the committee’s activities, advocacy, recommendations, accomplishments, and priorities throughout the year on behalf of students with disabilities and their families.
Day At The Legislature
Two SECAC Executive Officers attended this important event, standing alongside advocates and meeting with Frederick County elected officials to share the voices and priorities of students with disabilities and their families.