2026 General Election Frederick County Board Of Education Candidate Forum
SECAC invites members of the public to attend the 2026 General Election FCPS Board of Education Forum!
In May 2026, SECAC hosted a forum with FCPS Board of Education candidates prior to the primary election, providing an opportunity to hear their perspectives and priorities regarding special education.
As we approach the General Election, the SECAC is hosting this forum for the community to reconnect with the 8 candidates and provide an opportunity for the community to hear more about their current perspectives and priorities related to special education within FCPS.
Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. The forum will begin at 7:00 p.m.
*The SECAC does not endorse any Board Of Education Candidate or political party.
Partners For Success Family Resource Center Open House
Please join us for the 2026-2027 FCPS Special Education Family Resource Center Open House! Enjoy a trick-or-treating experience while exploring resource tables, connecting with peers & staff, and participating in raffles/give aways and more!
SECAC will have an information table and be joining in the fun!
For more information, please CLICK HERE to access the official Partners For Success event flyer!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speaker: Jeanyne Gembarski - Guiding Eyes For The Blind
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
Caregiver Event
Join SECAC as we partner with A Mother’s Rest, Terrace Guest House & Respite Inn in celebration of November being National Family Caregivers Month!
Space is limited! Be sure to CLICK HERE to reserve your spot for this wonderful opportunity!
Give yourself permission to pause, breathe, and focus on you for a little while. We hope you’ll join us!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speakers: Amanda Adams, Hub Coordinator Behavioral Health Services Division Frederick County Health Department & Adam Schlager Director, Family Support Services, MHA
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
SECAC Annual Report to the Frederick County Public Schools Board of Education
The SECAC Annual Report provides a brief overview of the committee’s work and accomplishments during the school year. It highlights key activities, recommendations, advocacy efforts, community input, and priorities for the coming year.
*NOTE: There is no SECAC Business Meeting held in December. SECAC Members are strongly encouraged to attend the FCPS BOE meeting this evening.
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speaker: Julie DeRohner Family & Community Engagement Liaison LLCBasal Therapies & Preschool
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speakers: Robert Walsh and Evan Routzahn, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. (Family Resource, Information & Education Network for Down Syndrome)
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
2027 SECAC Annual Resource Fair
Join SECAC as we connect with 60+ Resources for a fun, family experience! This description will be updated as we enter 2027.
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speakers: Frederick County Parks & Recreation and City of Frederick Parks & Recreation
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speaker: Neil Lichter, Program Director Pathfinders for Autism
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speaker: TBD
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
SECAC Monthly Business Meeting
Guest Speaker: Dr. Cheryl Dyson, Superintendent, Frederick County Public Schools.
The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee holds regular public meetings throughout the year. The SECAC welcomes citizens at these meetings concerning education matters of community interest.
See how you can participate at our meetings and how your voice can make a difference!
Second Annual Summer Community Listening Series
Join the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee at the Brunswick Branch Library! Share experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools!
*These sessions will not address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services.
Second Annual Summer Community Listening Series
Join the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee at the Myersville Community Library! Share experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools!
*These sessions will not address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services.
Second Annual Summer Community Listening Series
Join the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee at the Urbana Regional Library! Share experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools!
*These sessions will not address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services.
Second Annual Summer Community Listening Series
Join the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee at the Walkersville Branch Library! Share experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools!
*These sessions will not address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services.
Champions of Special Education
It is with great enthusiasm that the SECAC celebrates Champions of Special Education. This special event honors dedicated individuals and teams whose commitment, advocacy, and compassion make a meaningful difference in the lives of students, their families, and their communities.
Because of the impact they make each day the SECAC is truly honored to celebrate them and their incredible work!
2026 Board of Education Candidate Forum
Join the Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) for an important community conversation focused on the future of special education in our schools. The SECAC invites you to hear directly from candidates about their priorities, perspectives, and commitment to supporting students with disabilities and their families.
The evening will feature:
Opening remarks by SECAC Chair, Jamie Shopland
Moderation by SECAC Treasurer, Jenn Wheat
Eight confirmed candidates participating in a structured forum and discussion
This is a valuable opportunity for families, educators, and community members to engage with candidates and better understand where they stand on critical special education issues.
Important Note: The Frederick County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee is a nonpartisan body and does not endorse any candidate or political party. This forum is intended solely to inform and engage the community.
Annual Special Education Resource Fair
Join us for our Annual Special Education Resource Fair, a free, family-friendly event designed to connect families, educators, caregivers, and community members with the information and support they need to help every child thrive.
This year’s fair brings together even more local service providers, therapists, advocacy organizations, assistive technology experts, and school system partners—all in one place. Whether you’re looking to understand available services, explore new tools, or meet others navigating similar journeys, you’ll find valuable resources for every age and stage.
What to Expect:
Dozens of exhibitors offering programs and services to students with disabilities
Information on IEPs, and family supports
Activities for children and youth in a sensory-friendly environment
Opportunities to ask questions and connect with experts
Everyone is welcome. Come explore, learn, and build community—we’re here to support every learner.
Annual Commendations & Recommendations to Frederick County Board of Education
SECAC Annual Commendations & Recommendations Presentation to the Board of Education
Each year, the Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) presents its Annual Commendations and Recommendations to the Board of Education. This important report lifts up what is working well for students with disabilities and their families, while also outlining meaningful opportunities for improvement across Frederick County Public Schools.
The presentation reflects months of listening to families, educators, and service providers, as well as reviewing trends, data, and lived experiences. Together, the commendations and recommendations highlight both progress made and the work still needed to ensure every student receives the support, inclusion, and resources they deserve.
What the Annual Report Includes:
Commendations celebrating effective programs, staff, and initiatives
Recommendations to strengthen special education services, communication, and outcomes
Input from families, school staff, and community partners
A roadmap for collaboration between SECAC and FCPS leadership
This presentation is a cornerstone of SECAC’s mission: promoting transparency, elevating family voices, and advocating for high-quality, equitable services for all students with disabilities. We invite the community to follow this work and stay engaged as we continue partnering with the school system to build a stronger, more inclusive future for every learner.
Community Listening Series @ Urbana Regional Library Natelli Community Room
Purpose
To engage families, educators, students, and community members in meaningful conversations about the experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). These sessions will inform SECAC’s recommendations to the Board of Education and support inclusive policy development and advocacy.
Focused on gathering input related to special education, accessibility, equity, and family support within FCPS.
Location
The Anthony Natelli Community Room at the Urbana Regional Library is located on the ground level, just inside the lower entrance from the large parking lot, across from the Senior Center.
Approach
Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes)
Community Conversation Guiding Question (45 Minutes): What has your experience been like navigating special education in FCPS?
Interactive Feedback Activity (25 minutes)
Closing & Next Steps (10 minutes)
Privacy Language
These sessions are not intended to address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services. Individuals with specific concerns regarding the actions of staff members are encouraged to contact the Office of Special Education Leadership directly at SpecialEducation@fcps.org. To reiterate, personal information about students, staff members, and school names should not be disclosed during the listening session.
Community Listening Series @ C. Burr Artz Community Room
Purpose
To engage families, educators, students, and community members in meaningful conversations about the experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). These sessions will inform SECAC’s recommendations to the Board of Education and support inclusive policy development and advocacy.
Focused on gathering input related to special education, accessibility, equity, and family support within FCPS.
Approach
Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes)
Community Conversation Guiding Question (45 Minutes): What has your experience been like navigating special education in FCPS?
Interactive Feedback Activity (25 minutes)
Closing & Next Steps (10 minutes)
Privacy Language
These sessions are not intended to address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services. Individuals with specific concerns regarding the actions of staff members are encouraged to contact the Office of Special Education Leadership directly at SpecialEducation@fcps.org. To reiterate, personal information about students, staff members, and school names should not be disclosed during the listening session.
Community Listening Series @ Thurmont Regional Library Community Room
Purpose
To engage families, educators, students, and community members in meaningful conversations about the experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). These sessions will inform SECAC’s recommendations to the Board of Education and support inclusive policy development and advocacy.
Focused on gathering input related to special education, accessibility, equity, and family support within FCPS.
Approach
Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes)
Community Conversation Guiding Question (45 Minutes): What has your experience been like navigating special education in FCPS?
Interactive Feedback Activity (25 minutes)
Closing & Next Steps (10 minutes)
Privacy Language
These sessions are not intended to address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services. Individuals with specific concerns regarding the actions of staff members are encouraged to contact the Office of Special Education Leadership directly at SpecialEducation@fcps.org. To reiterate, personal information about students, staff members, and school names should not be disclosed during the listening session.
Community Listening Series @ Brunswick Community Room
Purpose
To engage families, educators, students, and community members in meaningful conversations about the experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). These sessions will inform SECAC’s recommendations to the Board of Education and support inclusive policy development and advocacy.
Focused on gathering input related to special education, accessibility, equity, and family support within FCPS.
Approach
Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes)
Community Conversation Guiding Question (45 Minutes): What has your experience been like navigating special education in FCPS?
Interactive Feedback Activity (25 minutes)
Closing & Next Steps (10 minutes)
Privacy Language
These sessions are not intended to address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services. Individuals with specific concerns regarding the actions of staff members are encouraged to contact the Office of Special Education Leadership directly at SpecialEducation@fcps.org. To reiterate, personal information about students, staff members, and school names should not be disclosed during the listening session.
Advocacy Success & Beyond
Join SECAC for a free online event with Rene Averitt-Sanzone of The Parents' Place of Maryland. Topics covered will include advocacy tips for Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meetings and beyond as well as strategies for summer.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ijV4PFxoS_O_6-Dgzmu4xw#/registration
Community Listening Series @ Middletown Library Meeting Room B
Purpose
To engage families, educators, students, and community members in meaningful conversations about the experiences, needs, and priorities of students with disabilities in Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). These sessions will inform SECAC’s recommendations to the Board of Education and support inclusive policy development and advocacy.
Focused on gathering input related to special education, accessibility, equity, and family support within FCPS.
Approach
Welcome & Introductions (10 minutes)
Community Conversation Guiding Question (45 Minutes): What has your experience been like navigating special education in FCPS?
Interactive Feedback Activity (25 minutes)
Closing & Next Steps (10 minutes)
Privacy Language
These sessions are not intended to address issues involving individual personnel matters, complaints, or concerns that identify specific students, staff members, schools, cases currently under appeal, or any form of advertising or solicitation of products or services. Individuals with specific concerns regarding the actions of staff members are encouraged to contact the Office of Special Education Leadership directly at SpecialEducation@fcps.org. To reiterate, personal information about students, staff members, and school names should not be disclosed during the listening session.