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.
What is the continuum of services for special education?
As we continue to work on our multi-year plan to strengthen our continuum of special education services, we want to hear from the voices of our stakeholders.
During the October 7, 2026 Board of Education meeting, special education leadership shared data related to our increase in students with disabilities.
The continuum of special education services is the range of supports, instruction, and learning settings available to meet a student’s individual needs. It includes both the help a student receives and where that help is provided. Special education is not one classroom or a one-size-fits-all program.
Please take a moment to share your voice so we can use your feedback to ensure that your perspective is reflected in this important work.
THE SURVEY WILL CLOSE: October 21, 2026.
2026 General Election Board of Education Candidate Forum
This forum provides an opportunity to hear directly from the 8 Candidates to learn more about their views on issues affecting students with disabilities, their families, and educators.
The SECAC created an Ad Hoc Subcommittee to develop and distribute a questionnaire to the 2026 Primary Election BOE Candidates to better understand their stance on Special Education in Frederick County
The SECAC does not endorse any Board Of Education Candidate or political party.
BOE Primary Candidate Forum, May 2026
Hood College’s Whitaker Campus Commons
Image from left: SECAC Chair Jamie Shopland (2024-2026) gives forum’s opening remarks.
BOE Candidates Present: Casey Day, Jess Douglass, Heather Fletcher, Nathan Foltz, David Migdal, Shelley Potter, Dean Rose, Rosenbloom, and Chad Wilson Sr.
BOE Candidate Rae Gallagher is not pictured, but was in attendance.
The SECAC does not endorse any Board Of Education Candidate or political party.
Regarding the FCPS Draft Policy 124: Artificial Intelligence and the SECAC's Submission of Disability Rights And Accessibly Recommendations
Concerning Schools Located Near Data Centers and Future Significant Industrial Development
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.
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.