On April 29, 2026, the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) issued a broadcast seeking new members to serve on the State Special Education Advisory Counsil (SSEAC) for a two-year term beginning in the fall of 2026. The SSEAC is a federally mandated body under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that advises the Commissioner of Education and the State Board of Education on the unmet needs of students with disabilities.
Purpose and Impact
The primary mission of the SSEAC is to ensure that the educational needs of students with disabilities are met through effective policy and practice. Responsibilities of the council include:
- Providing advice on unmet needs in the education of children with disabilities.
- Commenting publicly on proposed rules or regulations regarding the education of students with disabilities.
- Assisting the State in developing evaluations and reporting data to the Secretary of Education.
- Advising on the development of corrective action plans to address findings identified in federal monitoring reports.
Membership Requirements and Commitment
The NJDOE is seeking candidates to ensure a diverse and representative council.
- Composition: At least half of the council must consist of individuals with disabilities or parents of children with disabilities (ages birth through 26).
- Target Categories: Candidates are sought from various sectors, including teachers, local education officials, representatives from private schools, and individuals from transition service agencies.
- Meetings: Members must attend monthly meetings (typically the third Thursday of each month) from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., between August and June. Most meetings are held virtually, with periodic hybrid sessions in Trenton.
- Compensation: Members serve as volunteers and are not compensated for their time.
Application Process and Deadlines
All interested candidates must submit the following materials by Friday, May 15, 2026:
- 2026-2027 SSEAC Application Form
- An updated resume submitted via email to SpEdAdvisoryCouncil@doe.nj.gov.
NJEA Action Requested
Local leaders and PD chairs are encouraged to share this advisory with members who possess expertise in special education and a commitment to advocacy. This is an essential opportunity for NJEA members to have a “seat at the table” and provide a professional educator’s perspective on state-level special education policy.
For additional information, please contact the NJDOE Office of Special Education at (609) 376-9125.
As always, please reach out to the Professional Development and Instructional Issues (PDII) Division with any questions or if you require support during the application process.