ESE Department Connection Weekly Newsletter
|
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
|
|
Our Behavior Team is made up of BCBAs and RBTs, each playing a vital role in creating supportive and effective learning environments.
What is a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst)?
BCBAs analyze behavior, develop and oversee behavior intervention plans, and use data-driven strategies to support students and staff. They collaborate closely with teams to ensure interventions are effective, ethical, and individualized.
What is a RBT (Registered Behavior Technician)?
RBTs work directly with students to implement behavior plans created by BCBAs. They provide hands-on support, collect data, and help students build important skills while encouraging positive behaviors.
Who’s on the Behavior team?
Alma Leitzsey, BCBA
Fun Fact: Alma loves to travel—she enjoys exploring new places, cultures, and experiences whenever she gets the chance.
Maricela Cedillo, RBT
Fun Fact: Maricela loves cherry Coca-Cola, Snoopy, Starbucks, traveling, and—of course—shopping!
Ashley Mayorga, RBT
Fun Fact: Ashley loves cooking for others and finds joy in seeing people enjoy the meals she prepares. Her best sellers include tacos, aguas frescas, and fresas con crema!
*Extra fun fact- Maricela and Ashley are mother and daughter!
Sheyla Vargas, RBT
Fun Fact: Sheyla is a true crime enthusiast! Nothing brings her more peace at the end of the day than unwinding with a good crime documentary before bed.
While not individually highlighted, the following are also a part of this amazing team:
- Harry Salaman-Bird, BCBA
- Sandra Savillo, BCBA
- Madison Mahlendorf, BCBA (previously featured)
- De’Shawn Wilkerson, RBT
- Laura Nieves, RBT
Together, our Behavior Team brings expertise, compassion, and consistency to everything they do. Their dedication makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and the community we serve.
Thank you, Behavior Team, for all that you do—you truly Glow! ✨
|
Our Physical Therapy Team is made up of dedicated professionals who play a vital role in helping students build strength, independence, and confidence every day.
What does a Physical Therapist do in the school setting?
In the school setting, Physical Therapists (PTs) play a vital role in supporting students with physical challenges that impact their access to education. They work collaboratively with teachers, families, and other specialists to help students improve mobility, posture, balance, coordination, and overall physical function. Whether it’s navigating the classroom, participating in school activities, or accessing specialized equipment, PTs ensure that every student has the opportunity to move, learn, and succeed to their fullest potential.
Who’s on the Physical Therapy team?
Our Physical Therapy team is comprised of Brenna Hogan and Crystal Laidley.
Brenna Hogan focuses on making therapy fun, functional, and individualized so every child feels supported and successful. Her commitment to creating meaningful, engaging sessions truly helps our students shine.
Crystal Laidley brings dedication and expertise to supporting students across the district. Her work focuses on helping students build the skills they need to safely access their educational environment and participate as independently as possible in daily school activities.
Through their expertise, compassion, and dedication, Brenna and Crystal make a meaningful impact on students across the district. Their work extends beyond therapy sessions, empowering students to overcome challenges, build independence, and gain confidence. Their commitment, collaboration, and genuine care enrich the lives of students, families, and colleagues alike. 💛
Thank you, Physical Therapy Team, for all that you do—you truly Glow! ✨
|
Behavior Tip of the Week: Sensory Break
Explanation: Planned opportunities for students to engage in sensory-regulating activities.
Implementation Procedure:
Identify specific sensory needs through observation or assessment. Consult with the OT and SLP if the student is receiving services.
Create a menu of appropriate sensory activities.
Establish a consistent schedule and routine for sensory breaks.
Teach students to recognize their sensory needs and request sensory-regulation activities.
Provide communication supports to student for requesting sensory activities.
Monitor effectiveness of different sensory activities.
Teach student to self-regulate through sensory strategies.
Tips:
Provide a visual guide to what sensory items are available at specific times during the day. Sometimes an item may be lost, broken, or unavailable due to classroom needs. Make students aware of unavailable activities prior to them requesting what is not available.
|
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. |
Please take a moment to sign up for the upcoming training:
ESY – Professional Learning to Practice
Section Number: 130454
This training is designed specifically for instructional ESY staff and will provide valuable information to support your work.
Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment!
|
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.
|
Please join us in celebrating the retirements of Dr. Miguel Espinal and Maria Torres, two remarkable professionals who have dedicated their careers to serving the children and families of the Osceola County School District.
Together, their years of service have left an incredible legacy of care, collaboration, and positive change. We are deeply grateful for all they have given to our students, families, and colleagues.
Wishing Dr. Espinal and Maria Torres joy, relaxation, and exciting new adventures in this next chapter—you will be greatly missed (especially by your PEEP team), and your impact will never be forgotten! 😊
|
The EOTO transportation team would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible SCHS Transition Class for your hard work, dedication, and positive attitude throughout the year.
To show our appreciation, EOTO surprised the class with a special luncheon celebration yesterday i — a small gesture to recognize all the effort and heart you’ve put into making this year such a success.
-message shared from Osceola School District Transportation Facebook page
|
All 18 of St. Cloud Middle’s BEST students have seen academic improvements this school year. Carrie Barley, the RCS, and Amber West, the VE teacher, have both seen huge leaps in the students’ independence as well.
Check out the Facebook reel at this link:
|
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! ✨🌟
|
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.
|
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:
|
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:
-
11:00 - 11:25 am ET - Setting Up Novice Teachers For Success, presented by Emily Ippolito
-
11:25 - 11:45 am ET - Early Childhood Whole Child Approach Overview, presented by Nancy Farr
-
11:45 am - 12:00 pm ET - User Experience Session with Brockton Public Schools, featuring Dr. Dianne Davis & Michelle Zine
-
12:00 - 12:30 pm ET - Is it Friday Yet? Moving Beyond Survival Mode in Education, presented by Megan Wollenburg
-
12:30 - 1:00 pm ET - K-12 Whole Child Approach, presented by Melissa Weisong
|
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.
|
The 2026 Apraxia Kids National Conference is taking place July 9-11, 2026 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
The annual Apraxia Kids National Conference is the longest-running and only major conference focusing on the speech, language, learning, and life needs of children of all ages with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). This unique event brings together families, professionals, researchers, educators, SLPs and future SLPs, young adults with CAS, and others who are seeking the most up-to-date evidence-based information from renowned speakers from around the world.
*This information is being shared from a third party not affiliated with the district or district professional learning.
|
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.
|
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!
|
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!
|
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
|
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
|
The PEEP team recently celebrated the retirement of two of their team-- Dr. Miguel Espinal and Ms. Maria Torres! |
Meet Daniel!
Daniel is one of our AMAZING cafe rockstars! And… he was one of Ms. Trivino’s and Sandra’s exceptional students, a Phoenix! Imagine the smiles when they saw Daniel in the cafe and made the connection! “Little Daniel!?!” Lots of hugs and proud tears!
Our staff’s connections with our students is always setting them up for success!
Keep SOARing Daniel! The sky is the limit!
-shared from FRES Facebook
|
Congratulations to Ms. Bratton who was selected as Teacher/Staff of the week for Osceola High School!
|
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
|
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
|
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
|
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.
|
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.
|
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.
|
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! 🌟
|
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
|
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
|
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
|
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:
|
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
|
Friday, May 15, 12 Noon via ZOOM
Wandering and Drowning Prevention
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. PALS will be sponsoring survival swimming lessons later this summer, learn more about the plan at this noon-time session! Register: https://WDP26.eventbrite.com
Thursday, May 21st, 6:30 PM via ZOOM
Vacation Tips and Tricks for Traveling with a Child with ASD
A road trip, going by plane, or a journey by train with your family member with ASD can be a recipe for coming back and needing a vacation. It doesn’t have to be! Learn some planning basics and tips for having a safe and good trip.
First Monday of the Month, at 6:30 PM via ZOOM
Breathe and Be: A Mindfulness Skill Lab
Open to all who want to practice mindfulness. Children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult.
Monthly meeting to include a 30-minute didactic lesson followed by mindful practice for the month.
Give yourself permission to carve out this time for no interruptions, space to sit or lye down and engage in the practice.
This program meets the First Monday of Every Month on Zoom from 6:30-7:30PM beginning on February 2nd, 2026.
Tuesday, June 2nd, at 6:30 PM via ZOOM
The Effective Use of Video-Based Intervention to Help Behavioral Responses
Join this video-based training to help improve behavioral responses.
This training introduces three video-based interventions—Video Modeling, Video Self-Modeling, and Video Prompting/Task Analysis—with applicable use across a variety of environmental settings. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of each video-based intervention, learn how to select the most appropriate one for a given social scenario and/or to assist in meeting the behavioral needs of an individual, as well as learn how to apply each of the selected video-based interventions. Examples of each type of intervention will be shared, analyzed, & discussed during this presentation.
|
Saturday, June 6th, at 9:30 AM, in-person
The Perils of Social Media & Online Activity for ASD
Learn how online activities can permanently impact all aspects of the life of an individual with ASD
Presented by Lori Smith, Esq., attorney with Zimmerman Kiser Sutcliffe, 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 and yourself from personal and legal peril through actions on electronic media, including gaming platforms, Minecraft, roblox, chat rooms and other places in cyber-space. This is a parents/caregivers only event, as Lori will be sharing scary outcomes and tips for safeguarding your child/adult with ASD.
Limited seating available for this in-person event.
|
Tuesdays, 6:00 PM ZOOM
Just For Dads!
|
Wednesdays, 6:30 PM ZOOM
Support Group for Black Families of Individuals with ASD
Thursday, May 14th
6:30 PM ZOOM
Support Group for Parents of Young Children with ASD
Wednesday May 27th
6:30 PM ZOOM
|
miércoles, 20 de Mayo 12:00 PM
Preparándose para el verano (Bocado de almuerzo)
Se pregunta qué hacer con sus hijos este verano para ayudarles a prepararse para el próximo año escolar, evitando —o reduciendo al mínimo— la regresión en las habilidades que ya han adquirido? Acompáñenos para descubrir formas de apoyar a su hijo este verano, estableciendo una rutina y combinando actividades de trabajo estructuradas con la diversión propia de la temporada. Abordaremos diversas opciones de actividades, la definición y el trabajo en objetivos específicos, así como la importancia de fomentar la rutina y la estructura para nuestros estudiantes con TEA. registrese: https://ppev.eventbrite.com
|
Check out PALS events here:
|
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
|
|
|
|
