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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This edition's spotlight shines on Elvis Polanco, Elementary District Program Specialist! Elvis plays a vital role in supporting schools across the district by promoting high-quality instructional practices, ensuring compliance with ESE regulations, and improving outcomes for students with disabilities. Through coaching and technical assistance, Elvis works closely with teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators to strengthen ESE programs and support student success.
In addition to providing guidance on standards-aligned curriculum, accommodations, access points, and specially designed instruction, Elvis conducts classroom visits, observations, and program reviews to monitor instructional effectiveness and compliance. Elvis also assists schools with the development and implementation of Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) and facilitates professional learning opportunities focused on ESE programs, behavior supports, inclusive practices, and instructional strategies. Through dedication, expertise, and a collaborative approach, Elvis helps ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.
Fun Fact: When not supporting schools and students, Elvis enjoys entertaining guests, dancing, and listening to music. One of the most rewarding aspects of the role is the opportunity to visit classrooms throughout the district and witness innovative teaching practices and student successes firsthand. Every week brings new opportunities to celebrate the incredible work happening in classrooms across Osceola County! 🎶🕺✨
Thank you, Elvis, for your commitment to supporting students, educators, and families throughout the district. Your leadership, knowledge, and dedication help strengthen ESE services and create positive outcomes for students every day. We appreciate all that you do and the difference you make in the lives of students and staff. 🌟
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Behavior Tip of the Week: DRA (Differential Reinforcement of Alternative Behavior)
Explanation: Increasing reinforcement of an alternate desired behavior that serves the same function as the problem behavior.
Implementation:
Identify the function of the problem behavior through a functional behavior assessment.
Select an appropriate replacement behavior that serves the same function.
Clearly define both behaviors (problem and replacement).
Establish a reinforcement schedule for the replacement behavior.
Reduce reinforcement for the undesirable behavior.
Monitor and adjust based on student response.
Tip: The alternate behavior is the replacement behavior on a BIP and must address the function of the behavior targeted for reduction.
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Tip on Avoiding FTE Errors: Matrix Documentation
Error examples:
*Matrix Level entered in Focus doesn't match the Matrix level in PEER.
*Matrix Level IV (254) or V (255 does not match the FEFP code in Focus.
How to avoid it:
*Run a comparison between PEER and Focus Reports prior to survey week.
*Audit Matrix Levels IV and V prior to survey week.
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ESY Tip: Use a Regression/Recoupment Tracker Document:
- Skills before breaks
- Skills after breaks
- Time needed to regain mastery
Remember: Now is the perfect time to prepare for data collection. We have 9 student holidays before Winter Break.
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Project SEARCH Gaylord Palms is pleased to introduce its newest group of interns representing the Osceola County School District at Gaylord Palms.
These interns are participating in a school-to-work transition program designed to help students develop valuable workplace skills, gain real-world work experience, and prepare for future employment opportunities. As part of the program, each intern has already begun learning the skills and responsibilities associated with their first job experience.
Project SEARCH extends its appreciation to all departments and team members for their continued support in providing meaningful learning opportunities for these interns as they build skills and confidence in the workplace.
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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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The following email was received from a parent...
On August 10, I nervously dropped off my newly 5-year-old "not-so-baby" boy for his first day of kindergarten. As you can imagine, he was feeling scared as we made our way through the car loop.
Standing by was a woman ready to open the door and welcome students as they arrived. After confirming his grade level and helping him out of the car, she gently asked if he knew how to get to the cafeteria. Without lifting his head, he shook it "no." He turned back, blew me a kiss, and then reached for her hand.
Later that day, I learned it was Rebecca Palmer who greeted him. With patience and compassion, she took him by the hand, spoke to him in a reassuring voice, and guided him toward the building all while warming this anxious momma heart.
We were just one family among countless passing through the car loop on one of the busiest mornings of the school year. Yet, at that moment, my son was her only focus. She didn't rush or hurry him along. Instead, she offered him the kindness, comfort, and reassurance he needed during a very big moment in his young life.
No one truly knows the burdens others may be carrying. As a parent, I was especially concerned because my son has dealt with separation anxiety since the unexpected loss of his grandmother, who cared for him during our workdays. Sending him off to kindergarten felt even more overwhelming for us.
She didn’t know I’m an SDOC member nor what we may have gone through. But I wanted to express how much Ms. Palmer's presence and understanding meant that morning. While she may have simply been doing her job, the grace and compassion she showed will be cherished in my memories whenever I think back to this milestone of his first day of kindergarten.
A quick photo I captured in that moment.
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Do you know a coworker who is Lighting the Way—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 are Lighting the Way across our department and district. Let’s keep the light shining bright! ✨🌟
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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. |
The contact information below has not yet been updated. Once a revised contact list is received, it will be shared. |
Get ready for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration! Our September Professional Learning Day will feature a variety of sessions designed to empower educators, spark new ideas, and strengthen instructional impact. From innovative teaching practices to meaningful networking opportunities, you'll find valuable experiences that support your professional growth. Join colleagues from across the district as we learn, share, and lead together.
Register now in MyPGS and be part of a day dedicated to excellence in education!
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This section highlights upcoming District Professional Learning opportunities, important certification renewal information, and other key updates to support your professional growth and success. Be sure to check back for valuable resources, deadlines, training opportunities, and important announcements.
Links to Professional Learning Newsletters:
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Registration is located on the FDLRS Action Website - register now
Below you will find the PDF of the flyer as well as electronic access to the flyer is also available. |
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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SeaWorld Orlando offers Florida certified K-12 classroom teachers a SeaWorld Florida Teacher Card FREE.
Research and education are key pillars to the foundation of what SeaWorld does every day. In recognition of the importance SeaWorld places on education and the critical role educators play in shaping the knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the next generation of global citizens, SeaWorld will offer free admission for Florida certified K-12 classroom teachers to amplify their educational efforts both in and out of the classroom. The SeaWorld Florida Teacher Card is valid for unlimited admission to SeaWorld® Orlando through September 2, 2027.
Just pre-register online using the ID.Me process to receive your SeaWorld Florida Teacher Card eVoucher. To take advantage of this offer, select the Teacher ID button in the top-right, select "Sign up" and then enter an e-mail address (personal e-mail address recommended) and a password.
If you are already "pre-registered" simply go to
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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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Shared from Osceola High Schools Facebook page...
Congratulations to Alex, a Kowboy Kourier student, on earning a position as a Teaching Assistant! His hard work, dedication, and positive attitude have led to this exciting achievement. We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see all you accomplish in your new role!
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Today we represented our favorite teams' colors or jerseys! |
Full pdf of schedule in attachments |
9/1: Maricela Cedillo
9/2: Arlene Berger
9/5: Marines Martinez
9/12: Carmen Hernandez
9/23: Misha Santiago
9/24: Sheidalisse Clavell
9/28: Lynette Garcia
9/28: Elizabeth Bronson
9/29: Morgan Music
9/30: Sarah McKenney
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