ESE Department Connection Weekly Newsletter
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The Department for Exceptional Student Education will provide a continuum of innovative support that helps to inspire students with disabilities to reach their highest potential as responsible, productive citizens.
Location: 805 Bill Beck Boulevard, Kissimmee, FL, USA
Phone: (407) 343-8700
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🌟 Meet our incredible team of Speech‑Language Pathologists (SLPs) with the Preschool Educational Evaluation Program (PEEP)! 🌟
This week, we’re proud to highlight Jessica Busquets, Stephany Vazquez Caraballo, and Maria Torres—the dedicated professionals who make up our PEEP SLP Team and work tirelessly to support our youngest learners.
Not pictured: Dr. Barbara De Jesus Rivera, who works closely with this team and was previously featured with the Educational Diagnostician team.
This talented group evaluates children ages 3–5, focusing on how they understand and use language, produce speech sounds, and communicate with others. Their evaluations include standardized assessments, play‑based activities, observations, and caregiver input to identify each child’s communication strengths and needs. Their work ensures families receive clear, supportive recommendations and that students are placed on the right path for early success.
✨ Fun Facts About the Team
• Jessica – A busy wife and mom of twin freshman boys at Toho, plus two energetic Goldendoodles! When she’s not driving kids to activities, she loves traveling, cruising, and relaxing at the beach.
• Maria – is celebrating her retirement year! 🎉 She’s looking forward to more time for travel, relaxation, and enjoying a well‑earned break.
• Stephany – Her latest adventure took her all the way to Australia, where she rappelled down a cliff—and even held a koala! 🐨
We’re so grateful for the expertise, compassion, and joy this team brings to our youngest learners and their families. Their work helps our department glow—and our student's shine! ✨💙
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Behavior Tip of the Week: Minimize Transitions
Explanation: Reducing the number or complexity of changes between activities, locations, or expectations.
Implementation Procedure:
*Analyze current transitions to identify problematic patterns.
*Consolidate or eliminate unnecessary transitions when possible.
*Create consistent routines for unavoidable transitions.
*Provide clear signals before transitions (visual, auditory).
*Use transition supports (visual schedules, timers).
*Allow additional processing time during transitions.
Tips:
Teach transition routines as a skill. Practice, practice, practice.
Use consistent language across all staff and settings.
Pre-teach, pre-correct, and/or, narrate expectations throughout the procedure during initial implementation and continue as needed.
Reinforce the behaviors you want to increase.
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As we move into the next phase of ESY preparation, please review the following action items and deadlines:
1. ESY Application Window
The ESY application is currently open and will remain live until April 6. Please ensure all relevant information is submitted by this date.
2. Hiring Timeline
All ESY hiring decisions will be finalized and approved by the end of April. Related Service Providers will be hired by ESE. Additional details will be shared once approvals are complete.
3. Transportation Documentation
Transportation entries in Focus must accurately match each student’s current IEP.
All transportation documentation is due by April 17th.
4. New Recommendations
If there are any new ESY recommendations, please send them directly to Jesse McHatton. This ensures we maintain accurate staffing and service allocations.
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Join us next week for our Early Learning Family Night!!!
Thursday, April 23, 2026
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Valencia College, Osceola Campus
1800 Denn John Ln., Kissimmee, FL – Building 1
This fun and informative event is designed to support families with young children (PreK-2nd grade and younger)! This district‑wide event is meant to connect families with community resources and provide strategies to support early learning at home and school.
- Meet local agencies
- Explore helpful tools and resources
- Learn ways to support your child’s success
Scan the QR code on the flyer to see the full list of exhibitors invited to participate.
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Do you know a coworker who is GLOWing—someone who radiates positivity, supports students wholeheartedly, or brings light to the work we do?
Help us highlight their impact!
Submit a staff shout-out recognizing someone who is:
⭐ Making a difference for students
⭐ Spreading positivity
⭐ Helping others shine
⭐ Going the extra mile
Your shout-out may be featured in an upcoming newsletter so we can continue celebrating the amazing people who make our department sparkle. Let’s keep the GLOW going! ✨🌟
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Our department would like to share a difficult update regarding Nathan Navarro, a former student who recently withdrew from Neptune Middle School. Nathan and his family are currently navigating an extremely challenging time, and they have asked that this information remain confidential and for staff awareness only.
Nathan has bravely fought cancer for nine years, beginning when he was just six years old. After exhaustive and courageous treatment efforts, his family and medical team have reached the heartbreaking point where no further curative options are available. Nathan’s care has now transitioned to palliative and hospice support, with the focus centered on comfort, dignity, and meaningful time together as a family.
The family has created a GoFundMe to help lessen some of the financial burdens they are facing. If you feel moved to support them, any contribution—large or small—is deeply appreciated. Participation is completely optional.
During this difficult time, we ask that you keep Nathan and his family in your thoughts and hearts.
GoFundMe Link:
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PM Wells Center for Academic Excellence serves 32 students - each one bright, resilient, and full of potential. Our students are a unique and special mix of students with autism, learning difference or trauma-related behaviors that need a dedicated place with small classes, additional support and flexibility. And this year, the School District of Osceola County has a created a place where these students have found their home.
These students learn differently, but they show up every day ready to try again. They thrive when given structure, patience, and support and what they need most is a classroom where they feel safe, capable, and valued. With your help, we can give them the tools and environment they need to keep growing and believing in themselves and to create a safe, supportive environment where students are seen for their strengths, not their struggles—and where hope replaces exclusion.
Dr. Torres has created a Donors Choose campaign "The Last Chance Store: Where Good Choices Finally Pay Off" and would love our help in getting it funded!
Let's help give these students some positive rewards. PBIS incentives help them practice self-control, build confidence, and experience success. These small rewards reinforce positive choices and restore hope in school.
You can access the campaign to donate using this link:
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Each year, the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) conducts a survey designed to provide FDOE and the United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), with information on how well Florida’s schools are partnering with parents and promoting parent involvement in their child's education. The survey is open to all parents of children with an individual educational plan (IEP) receiving ESE services from preschool age through grade 12 and is not intended for parents of students receiving only gifted services through an educational plan (EP). All states must collect this data as part of their State Performance Plan, as required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The 2025-26 ESE Parent Survey is currently open and will close on June 15, 2026. The survey can be completed on the web or mobile phone by visiting 2025-26 ESE Parent Survey.
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The Family Network on Disabilities ( FND PEN) recently organized an ESE Parent Survey Virtual Conference to help families understand the purpose and importance of the FLDOE ESE Parent Survey. The sessions explain why the survey matters and encourages parents to participate so their voices can help shape services for students with disabilities.
The flyer includes several valuable resources, such as:
✅ A YouTube playlist with recordings of the ESE Survey Conference sessions
✅ A direct link to complete the ESE Parent Survey
✅ Additional tools and supports for families of students with disabilities
📄 View the flyer and access all resources here:
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The Bureau of Exceptional Student Education and Student Services (BEESS) Weekly Memo provides current action and informational items related to trainings, jobs, conferences, resources and other information relevant to students with disabilities. "The Buzz" can be accessed using this link: BEESS Weekly Memo and then simply click on the date for the corresponding week. |
Please see the information below regarding the Human Trafficking Awareness Training that has been made available through Safe Schools (Vector). This training is required for all employees per the Florida Department of Education and State Statute (Section (s.) 1006.481, Florida Statutes (F.S.)).
Kindly note that you may have already received, or may soon receive, an automated email from the Vector K12 website regarding this training.
- The target date for making the training available to all employees is March 1, 2026.
- If you have already received an automated Vector K12 email, completed the 60-minute training, and received a certificate of completion then you have already met the DOE requirement.
- The required completion date for 9 and 10-month employees is May 1, 2026.
- The required completion date for 12-month employees is June 30, 2026.
- The training is available in English and in Spanish (subtitled).
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Only the 60-minute course (English or Spanish) is required, not the 3-minute micro-course you may find available.
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Registration for the Summer Endorsement Courses began on April 1st and closes on April 20th!! |
The complete list of Summer Professional Learning opportunities will be shared in an upcoming Monday 5 Employee Newsletter! Registration for Summer Professional Learning will open on April 22nd. |
Empower Your Practice: Free Professional Learning for Florida Educators
Are you looking to strengthen your ability to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities? The BEESS Portal to Professional Learning Alternatives (PLA) offers free, flexible, and high-quality online courses designed specifically for Florida teachers and paraprofessionals.
Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned educator, PLA courses provide:
- Self-paced and facilitated options to fit your schedule
- In-service points for certification renewal
- Evidence-based strategies to support inclusive practices
- Specialized modules on autism, assistive technology, behavior support, structured literacy, and more
Courses are developed by experts and supported by the Florida Department of Education’s Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services (BEESS), ensuring content that is both relevant and impactful.
Explore offerings like:
- Positive Behavior Support
- Technology for Varied Learners
- Differentiating Instruction
- Supporting Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
Visit https://fl-pla.org to register and start learning today. Your growth supports student success!
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FIN collaborates with all districts, schools, and IDEA- funded state projects to provide customized services and supports ensuring all students with disabilities have the same educational, social, and future opportunities as their peers.
- Inclusion practices resources
- Co-teaching support materials
- MTSS & problem-solving facilitation guides
- Videos and online modules
- Leadership tools for inclusive models
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The Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) is a statewide network of support for families, educators, and school districts, working together to help every child with a disability reach their full potential.
Through a network of Associate Centers across the state, FDLRS offers high-quality services, training, and resources to families and school personnel in every Florida school district. Whether you’re a parent seeking support, a teacher looking for professional learning, or a district leader supporting Exceptional Student Education (ESE) programs , FDLRS is here to help.
- Professional development courses
- Instructional strategy videos
- MTSS & intervention supports
- Parent training resources
- Child Find information
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Ms. J’s Transition class and Ms. Johnson’s ESE class helped kick off an early birthday celebration for Coach Z! |
Ms. Garcia’s Transition Class jumped in to support SCHS' Drama Department by helping prepare the concession stand for the production of The Addams Family. |
Do you have amazing events and activities happening on your campuses? Let us help you share the wonderful things you are doing. Please send pictures and a brief description of the events and activities to Sarah McKenney at Sarah.McKenney@osceolaschools.net
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The FDLRS Early Literacy training is designed to help parents understand the foundational skills young children need as they begin learning to read. The training provides practical, easy‑to‑use strategies that families can use at home to support early language, vocabulary, and pre‑reading development.
Learning Goals for the Training:
*Parents will learn how to locate the Florida’s B.E.S.T Standards for their child’s grade level.
*Parents will understand the 6 Essential Components of Reading and be able to apply them.
*Parents will learn reading strategies to work with their children at home by participating in reading engagement activities
Please RSVP to receive the Teams link to attend the training.
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Families of PreK–2nd grade students and younger, this evening is just for you! Join us for a fun and informative Early Learning Family Night designed to support, celebrate, and empower our youngest learners and their families! This special event will bring together a variety of community partners who provide early learning, developmental, and family resources across Osceola County.
We’re excited to share that the following agencies will be in attendance:
Early Steps, Early Learning Coalition, Happy Noggins, Healthy Start Coalition, Osceola Health Department, PEEP, R.I.S.E. Up Osceola, UCF CARD, and VPK/Early Childhood Learning —with even more agencies invited to participate!
Families will have the chance to explore resources, ask questions, participate in activities, and take home helpful tools to support early learning and development.
We can’t wait to see you there for an evening of connection, learning, and fun!
*This event is geared towards students PreK-2nd and younger
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Osceola Interagency Transition Team Information Presentations
The following link provides access to a number of organizations within our community that provide resources to families of students with disabilities.
Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities FES-UA
Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities – Roadmap to Family Resources
The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) offers a helpful Program Roadmap designed to support individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and the families and caregivers who assist them. This guide provides a simple overview of key state programs and includes direct links to additional information, services, and next steps.
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The Family Network on Disabilities ( FND PEN) recently organized an ESE Parent Survey Virtual Conference to help families understand the purpose and importance of the FLDOE ESE Parent Survey. The sessions explain why the survey matters and encourages parents to participate so their voices can help shape services for students with disabilities.
The flyer includes several valuable resources, such as:
✅ A YouTube playlist with recordings of the ESE Survey Conference sessions
✅ A direct link to complete the ESE Parent Survey
✅ Additional tools and supports for families of students with disabilities
📄 View the flyer and access all resources here:
We’re grateful to FND for creating and sharing these supports for families! 🌟
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We value your voice!
Please take a moment to complete our Parent Input Survey: 2026–2027 Parent Trainings & Workshops. Your feedback plays an important role in helping us plan meaningful trainings, workshops, and family events for the upcoming school year.
Your insight truly helps us better support our families—thank you in advance for sharing your thoughts!
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The CASE program is looking for participants!! As long as the students are clients of Vocational Rehabilitation, there is no cost to them. VR will pay for everything. VR will also help the students find employment after they graduate from the program. Contact Sullymar Reices-Irazarry at 407-344-5080 or SCAN the QR code for more information. |
ACCESS is a comprehensive post-secondary transition program tailored for students with intellectual disabilities. This individualized program is designed to provide the technical skills, employability skills, and real-world experience necessary to prepare for integrated competitive employment in the student’s chosen career field. |
My Digital Counselor is an official Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) vendor providing comprehensive vocational evaluation services for students and individuals with disabilities. We collaborate with agencies, schools, and service providers to support informed academic and career planning through accessible, person-centered evaluations.
We offer both virtual and in-person services and provide:
- Comprehensive vocational evaluations
- Functional, academic, and cognitive assessments
- Career exploration and goal clarification
- Clear, actionable reports to support education, VR services, and employment planning
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Florida Heiken Children's Vision Program is providing no cost eye exams and glasses for children. Applications can be submitted on any internet enabled smart phone/tablet/computer using the following link: www.floridaheiken.org
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Since 1998, The Annual Family Café has brought Floridians with all types of disabilities together for three days of information, training, and networking each June. With a great range of individual breakout sessions, a packed Exhibit Hall with dozens of vendors, and a series of special events including Keynote speakers and The Annual Summit on Disabilities, The Annual Family Café offers attendees exposure to resources on a grand scale, unprecedented access to policy-making officials, and a chance to network with other individuals with disabilities and their families.
The 28th Annual Family Cafe is set for June 12-14, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Orlando. Online registration will be available beginning February 14, 2026.
For more information visit
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Abilities Expo is coming October 9-11, 2026, to the Osceola Heritage Park Event Center
Three days. One roof. Endless access to the latest products, technologies and resources for the disability community! Get ready for an accessible climbing wall, a ton of adaptive sports, info-packed workshops & more. It’s an epic day out & FREE, so register today.
For more information please visit:
You can register for this FREE event by visiting:
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Monday, April 6th
6:30 PM via ZOOM
Wandering and Drowning Prevention
Just last month, Orlando lost another child with ASD to drowning. Drowning is the #1 cause of death for children with ASD. Learn about the new supports to prevent drowning coming out of this legislative session and how you can protect your child from drowning due to elopement.
Middle School Parents: Time to register!
Tuesdays, April 7-May 12 , 6:30 PM ZOOM
The Loving Push Book Group: Middle School Edition
Middle School Parents--In this “must read” book, Dr. Temple Grandin partners with psychologist and autism specialist, Dr. Debra Moore, to outline the “must-dos” for parents to help their child with autism build hope, motivation, and success! We will discuss reactions to the book, strategies outlined, and how to put all of this into practice with your own child. Register: https://TLP2026.eventbrite.com
April 13, 2025
6:30 PM ZOOM
What's that Smell? Puberty & Hygiene in ASD
Join us for a presentation and discussion about what makes puberty even more challenging for parents of tweens and teens with ASD. Learn how to talk to your tween or teen child about these issues and strategies to promote good hygiene and independence. Register: https://HandP.eventbrite.com
Wednesday April 15th
6:30 PM Zoom
Potty Primer
Need ideas with potty training? Participants will receive an overview of toilet training for young children with autism spectrum disorder. Prerequisite skills will be covered along with readiness signs, data collection, and research proven techniques Register: https://pp4895.eventbrite.com
Monday April 20th
6:30 PM Zoom
Using Token Economies to Support Behavior and Responsibility
This interactive training introduces participants to the Token Economy System, a positive behavior support strategy commonly used with children on the autism spectrum. Attendees will learn how token economies reinforce desired behaviors, increase motivation, and support skill development in home, school, and therapy settings. Register: https://te4896.eventbrite.com
Tuesday, April 21
6:30 PM Zoom
Building Independence Through Chores
Join us online for a fun and interactive session all about helping kids gain independence by mastering everyday chores. We’ll share tips, tricks, and creative ideas to make chores less of a hassle and more of a confidence booster. Perfect for parents looking to empower their little helpers! Register: https://chores0426.eventbrite.com
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Monday, April 27th
6:00 PM Zoom
Being Prepared for Summer
Parents, Are you wondering what to do with your children this summer to help them prepare for next school year with minimal to no regression in skills they’ve already learned? Join us for this webinar training to learn ways you can support your child this summer by setting up a routine and combining structured work activities with summer fun. We will discuss activity options, setting and working on specific goals and the importance of developing routine and structure for our students with ASD. Register: https://summercard26.eventbrite.com
Saturday, June 5th at 9:30 AM at 3280 Progress Drive, Orlando, FL 32826
The Perils of Online Activity for ASD
This seminar is a must-see for all parents of tweens, teens or adults with ASD who use the internet. Learn the pitfalls, ways to protect your child or adult with from personal and legal peril, and ways you can end up in jail or worse through actions on social media, gaming platforms, chat rooms and other places in cyberspace. Parents/Caregivers only! Register: https://perils26.eventbrite.com
April 28th
6:00 PM Zoom
More Than Words Orientation
If your child is ages 5 and under, nonverbal or has verbal language up to the simple sentence level you can work directly with a Hanen trained SLP in this 12-week caregiver program. It includes a pre-program consultation, 8 virtual classroom sessions, and 3 individualized in-person (or virtual if requested) home visits.
Tuesday April 28th
6:30 PM Zoom
My Autism Journey
Please join us for a panel discussion led by adults with autism as they share their autism journey with you. Sometimes it is difficult for parents of young children with autism to envision a picture of their child’s future. The adults we will be hearing from have a very strong and inspiring message for parents of young children with autism. Register: https://apd4893.eventbrite.com
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Thursday, April 9th
6:30 PM ZOOM
Support Group for Parents of Young Children with ASD
Thursday, Mar 25th
6:30 PM ZOOM
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Grupo de Apoyo- LATINOS UNIDOS POR EL AUTISMO
8 de abril 18:30 PM ZOOM
21de abril 11:30 AM ZOOM
ETAPAS DEL DESARROLLO Y CRECIMIENTO en los niños con trastorno del espectro autista (TEA)
Esta presentación ofrece una descripción general de los etapas del desarrollo en niños con trastorno del espectro autista (TEA), destacando los patrones de crecimiento típicos y atípicos en la comunicación social, las habilidades motoras y las conductas adaptativas. Los padres comprenderán cómo el TEA puede influir en el momento y la naturaleza de estos hitos, y aprenderán estrategias para promover la participación y la independencia en cada etapa.
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Check out a list of the PALS events here:
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Full pdf of schedule in attachments |
4/8: Greisy Diaz
4/24: Maria Diaz
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