Building Bridges for Inclusive Education

The Family Access Advocate program (formally knows as the ESE Parent Rep program) is designed to enhance the involvement and support of families with children receiving Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services in Hillsborough County. This initiative is a collaboration between the Hillsborough County Council PTA (HCCPTA), the Superintendent Advisory Council for the Education of Students with Disabilities (SAC), and the Hillsborough County SEPTA (HCSEPTA). Our goal is to improve communication, inclusion, and advocacy for all ESE families in our schools.

What is the Family Access Advocate Initiative?

The Family Access Advocate Initiative places dedicated parent representatives within local school PTAs to act as liaisons between ESE families, school staff, and the broader school community. These parent reps work to bridge gaps in communication and ensure that the needs and voices of ESE families are heard and addressed. While this program was first started to work with PTAs, the principle applies to any parent/student-led organization (PTOs, PTCs, Boosters, Student Council/Government, Advocacy Clubs, and more).

Key Goals of the Initiative

  1. Enhance Communication: Improve the flow of information between ESE families, school staff, and the PTA.
  2. Promote Inclusion: Ensure all school events and activities are inclusive and accessible to all students.
  3. Support Families: Provide a support network for ESE families to share resources, experiences, and advice.
  4. Advocate for Change: Work together to influence policies and practices that benefit ESE students at local, district, and state levels.

How the Initiative Works

1. Family Access Advocate in PTAs Each participating school will have an ESE Parent Rep who is an integral part of the PTA. These reps attend PTA meetings, engage with school ESE staff, and communicate regularly with ESE families to understand their needs and concerns.

2. Training and Resources The initiative offers training and resources to Family Access Advocate to help them effectively fulfill their roles. This includes guidance on how to advocate for ESE students, organize inclusive events, and connect families with available resources.

3. Building a Supportive Community Through regular meetings, events, and communication channels, the initiative fosters a supportive community for ESE families. This community provides a platform for parents to share their experiences and support one another.

4. Advocacy and Policy Influence Family Access Advocates work together to identify common issues and advocate for necessary changes at the school and district levels. By uniting their voices, they can drive impactful advocacy efforts.

Why This Initiative Matters

1. Improved Student Outcomes When families are engaged and supported, students perform better academically and socially. This initiative aims to ensure that ESE students have the support they need to thrive.

2. Inclusive School Environment Creating an inclusive environment benefits all students. By making PTA events and activities accessible to ESE students, we promote a culture of acceptance and understanding.

3. Empowered Families Empowering families with knowledge, resources, and a support network enables them to better advocate for their children’s needs.

Get Involved

Are you passionate about supporting ESE students and their families? Here’s how you can get involved:

  1. Become a Family Access Advocate: If you’re an ESE parent and want to take on this vital role at your local school, reach out to your school’s PTA or contact us directly.
  2. Join the Committee: Even if you can’t commit to being a rep, you can still join the committee and support the initiative in various ways.
  3. Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the initiative and the importance of inclusive education.
  4. Participate in Events: Attend training sessions, meetings, and events to stay informed and connected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need to have a child receiving ESE services to become a Family Access Advocate? A: While it is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Anyone with a passion for supporting ESE students and relevant experience can become a rep.

Q: How much time is required to be an Family Access Advocate? A: The time commitment can vary, but it generally involves attending PTA meetings, coordinating with school staff, and participating in events. On average, it may require a few hours per month.

Q: What kind of support will I receive as an Family Access Advocate? A: You will receive training, resources, and ongoing support from the HCCPTA, SAC, and HCSEPTA. You’ll also have access to a community of fellow reps to share ideas and strategies.

Contact Us

For more information or to express your interest in the Family Access Advocate Initiative, please contact us at info@hcsepta.org. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of ESE students and their families.