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 Sarah McKenney, our School Relations Specialist and District Medicaid Specialist—she someone who wears many hats and brings a whole lot of heart to the ESE Department!
As our School Relations Specialist, Sarah serves as the department’s parent liaison, working every day to build positive, meaningful connections between families, schools, and our ESE team. She organizes parent trainings and department events, manages our social media and webpage, and creates the newsletters that keep everyone informed and engaged. If it helps families feel supported and connected, Sarah is likely behind it.
In her role as District Medicaid Specialist, Sarah plays a vital behind‑the‑scenes part in ensuring our district receives essential Medicaid reimbursement for student services. She oversees documentation and compliance, manages billing and data systems, collaborates with staff across multiple departments, and ensures everything aligns with state and federal Medicaid guidelines. Her attention to detail and commitment to accuracy help the district receive the funding to support those services.
✨ Fun Fact:
Sarah began her journey in the district at just 17 years old as a substitute teacher! She interviewed for a paraprofessional position on her 18th birthday and later earned her bachelor’s in psychology, her master’s in Elementary Education, and her specialist degree in Educational Leadership. She’s been a teacher, Dean, Instructional Coach, Learning Resource Specialist, and now proudly calls the ESE Department her home.
We’re so grateful for the passion, experience, and warmth Sarah brings to our team. She truly helps our department glow! 🌟
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The behavior tips that will be shared for the remainder of the school year are related to "sensory and movement".
Behavior Tip of the Week: Allow Movement
Explanation: Incorporating opportunities for appropriate physical movement to address restlessness and sensory needs.
Implementation Procedure:
Observe student to identify the frequency of movement.
Provide scheduled movement opportunities based on the frequency identified through observation.
Identify appropriate movement opportunities and boundaries.
Teach specific movement options (stretching, standing work, movement breaks).
Establish clear expectations for when/how movement is appropriate.
Provide visual cues or signals for movement opportunities.
Reinforce appropriate use of movement options.
Adjust options based on student response and needs.
If the student receives OT services, consult with the Occupational Therapist
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District compliance specialists are still in the process of reviewing the ESE Tab in FOCUS to ensure there are no errors and that students are rolling to the correct locations. If an administrator or RCS notices an error, they should contact their district compliance specialist directly. |
The collaboration of public and private instructional personnel (PIP) shall be designed to enhance but not supplant the school district’s responsibilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The school, as the local education agency, shall provide therapy services to meet the expectations provided in federal law and regulations and state statutes and rules. Collaboration of public and private instructional personnel will work to promote educational progress and assist students in acquiring essential skills, including, but not limited to, readiness for pursuit of higher education goals or employment. Where applicable, public and private instructional personnel shall undertake collaborative programming. Coordination of services and plans between a public school and private instructional personnel is encouraged to avoid duplication or conflicting services or plans.
For the purpose of implementing this subsection, a school district may not impose any requirements beyond those requirements specified in this subsection or charge any fees:
The provision of private instructional personnel by a parent does not constitute a waiver of the student’s or parent’s right to a free and appropriate public education under IDEA.
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If you have any changes to ESY recommendations, please send Jesse McHatton an email and update Focus. |
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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Neptune Middle School is deeply saddened by the passing of Nathan after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He loved being challenged in the classroom and truly valued the time he spent learning alongside his friends. Teachers consistently praised his determination, resilience, and intelligence, which left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His strength and spirit will continue to inspire our school community. He will be deeply missed by both staff and students.
-Kacie Rosario,
RCS NPMS
During this difficult time, we ask that you keep Nathan and his family in your thoughts and prayers The GoFundMe will remain open for the time being.
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. |
Date: June 9, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (EST)
Detailed Agenda:
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11:00 - 11:25 am ET - Setting Up Novice Teachers For Success, presented by Emily Ippolito
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11:25 - 11:45 am ET - Early Childhood Whole Child Approach Overview, presented by Nancy Farr
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11:45 am - 12:00 pm ET - User Experience Session with Brockton Public Schools, featuring Dr. Dianne Davis & Michelle Zine
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12:00 - 12:30 pm ET - Is it Friday Yet? Moving Beyond Survival Mode in Education, presented by Megan Wollenburg
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12:30 - 1:00 pm ET - K-12 Whole Child Approach, presented by Melissa Weisong
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If you’re planning for Summer Professional Learning and are still deciding on a track, now is a great time to take a closer look at your options.
The Bureau of Standards and Instructional Support (BSIS) is hosting the 2026 Standards and Instructional Support Summer Professional Learning Events. Offered in collaboration with the Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services and the Bureau of Student Achievement through Language Acquisition, these events continue BSIS’s statewide professional learning series that began in 2020.
Florida educators and school leaders will come together for explicit, systematic professional learning focused on Florida’s state academic standards and effective instructional practices.
*This information is being shared from a third party not affiliated with the district or district professional learning.
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Calling All Educators! Join the National Down Syndrome Congress for a one-day conference designed to empower educators who support students with Down syndrome, autism, and other intellectual and developmental support needs. Gain practical, research-based strategies you can implement right away in your classroom!
Includes:
- 7 professional hours certificate
- Breakfast & lunch
- Optional CEUs
- Behavior strategies that work
- Literacy & reading development
- Access for all learners
- Integrating AI in education
- Curriculum planning & design
- Medical considerations in the classroom
- Effective math instruction
When: Friday, July 24
Where: Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek (Disney area)
Part of the NDSC Annual Convention
Registration: $150 (Scholarships available l this opportunity is made possible through our FOUNDATION Magic of Inclusion partnership with the Orlando Magic
For more information about scholarships, please contact: Camille.Gardiner@DSFFlorida.org
*This information is being shared from a third party not affiliated with the district or district professional learning.
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Now in its third year, Imagination Day 2026 is an online PD event hosted by Disney Imagination, designed to support K-12 teachers and classroom instruction across the country.
Event Details:
Who: K-12 teachers, administrators, and school staff members
What: Free online PD with a certificate of attendance distributed post-event
Where: Online (advance registration required)
When: July 29, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM ET OR watch a recording post-event for up to 30 days
Why Attend: Explore imaginationpowered learning concepts from Disney professionals, gain inspiring and applicable classroom strategies, and receive a confirmation of attendance for professional development hours at a time that works best for you!
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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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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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This training will outline essential strategies for fostering independence in children with disabilities. Participants will learn how tailored instruction, structured routines, collaboration, and intentional support can promote self‑regulation and greater independence.
*This training is not able to be recorded
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This parent training focuses on the critical role self‑determination and self‑advocacy skills play in student success. Families will learn why these skills are essential for all students and how they are taught and supported in school. The training also explores practical strategies for reinforcing self‑determination across a variety of learning environments, helping parents' partner effectively with educators to support their child’s independence, confidence, and decision‑making skills.
In order to attend the training, you must register to receive the Zoom link.
*This training is not able to be recorded
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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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Assessing health care transition readiness is a key component of preparing adolescents and young adults for the move to adult-oriented health care. Using a standardized transition readiness assessment helps clinicians understand a young person’s skills, knowledge, and confidence in managing their own health care. These assessments support meaningful conversations about health priorities, identify areas where additional guidance is needed, and promote the gradual development of independence in areas such as scheduling appointments, managing medications, and communicating with providers.
Beginning in early adolescence and continuing through the transition period, readiness assessments allow clinicians, youth, and families to work together to develop and adjust care plans that support a successful transfer to adult care. Sharing transition readiness information with receiving adult clinicians ensures continuity, highlights areas where ongoing support may be needed, and helps adult providers tailor their approach during early visits.
Effective transition readiness tools are brief, age‑appropriate, easy to understand, and accessible in languages commonly used by the patient population. When used consistently, they play an important role in promoting smooth, coordinated transitions and supporting young adults as they take on greater responsibility for their health care.
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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:
We’re grateful to FND for creating and sharing these supports for families! 🌟
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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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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
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Tuesdays, 6:00 PM ZOOM
Just For Dads!
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Wednesdays, 6:30 PM ZOOM
Support Group for Black Families of Individuals with ASD
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No further information available at this time |
Check out a list of the PALS events here:
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Full pdf of schedule in attachments |
5/2: Barbara De Jesus Rivera
5/4: Isabel Papp
5/11: Susan Simo
5/11: Hilary DeLuca
5/14: Jessica Busquets
5/16: Torina Woodie
5/25: Amarilis Forty
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