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
|
|
This edition's spotlight shines on Dr. Elizabeth Coneo, one of our newest Physical Therapists serving students across the district.
As a school-based Physical Therapist, Dr. Coneo works with students to improve their mobility and access to educational environments. She collaborates with teachers, families, and other service providers to develop strategies that support each student's functional independence and success in the school setting. Her responsibilities include evaluating students, providing direct therapy services, and helping ensure students can safely and effectively navigate their educational day.
Fun Fact: Dr. Coneo is a new mom! Her son will turn one in December, and she shares that watching him grow and learn has been the greatest joy and most rewarding adventure of her life.
We are excited to welcome Dr. Coneo to the ESE team and grateful for the expertise, compassion, and dedication she brings to supporting student success. Thank you for helping light the way for our students each day! 💡🌟
|
Behavior Tip of the Week: Social Skills Training
Explanation: Educational/Classroom management strategies with a focus on teaching new skills and behaviors to replace problematic ones.
Implementation:
- Conduct social skills assessment to identify specific skill deficits.
- Prioritize 1-2 target skills based on functional importance.
- Develop structured lessons with clear modeling and practice opportunities.
- Implement in small group settings (2-6 students).
- Incorporate reinforcement for skill use.
- Plan for generalization across settings and people.
- Monitor progress and adjust instruction as needed.
Tip: A district adopted social skills curriculum contains resources for the explicit teaching of social skills. As an intervention, these lessons can be presented again or supplemented to extend the use in an intervention setting.
|
Tip on Avoiding FTE Errors: IEP Services Do Not Match the Student Schedule
Error examples:
- IEP states 300 minutes/week of special education services, but the student schedule only reflects 150 minutes/week.
- IEP states the student receives 30 minutes per week of language therapy, but the student schedule does not include a language therapy course code or therapy minutes.
- ESE services are delivered but incorrect course numbers are assigned.
How to avoid it:
Conduct a schedule-to-IEP reconciliation and verify all service minutes can be documented through the master schedule and teacher/therapist schedules.
|
Date and Time:
Saturday, October 3
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Registration begins at 8:30 AM)
Event Overview:
2026 Championing SUCCESS in Education is a comprehensive professional learning opportunity designed to enhance educators' knowledge and understanding of teaching and supporting students with Down syndrome. Participants will gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and evidence-based approaches to create inclusive learning environments and promote positive outcomes for students. Topics will include:
-
AI in the Classroom: Practical Tools for Teachers
-
Behavior Strategies That Work: Understanding Behavior & Building Success
-
Executive Functioning: Building Skills for Learning & Independence
- Medical Challenges & Their Impact on Learning and Development
-
Neurodevelopmental Strategies: Improving Learning & Student Outcomes
-
Begin With the End in Mind: Building Skills Today for Independence, Employment & Life After School
-
Leave Ready for Monday: Practical Strategies, Plans & Tools You Can Use Right Away
Their goal is to ensure that educators are well-supported and informed by the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida, providing valuable resources, education, and support for teaching students with Down syndrome.
Highlights:
- FREE Breakfast and Lunch!
- FREE Make and Take Charts – Choose 2!
- FREE Childcare (must sign up in advance)!
- EARN 3 CEU Points!
Registration Fee:
$10, which includes morning refreshments and lunch. Scholarships are available upon request. Please contact Fay.Warfle@dsfflorida.org.
Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to enhance your teaching skills and support your students with Down syndrome! Be sure to SHARE this opportunity with other teachers in your area, thank you!
This event is not a district sponsored event!
|
ESY Tip: Think Beyond Academics and include:
- Communication skills
- Social-emotional skills
- Behavior supports
- Functional and adaptive skills
Remember: Students can be eligible for ESY services for a specific area. They do not have to come every day for the allotted schedule.
|
Please help us spread the word to families across the district about our upcoming 2nd Annual ESE College and Career Readiness Parent Night on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00–7:30 PM. The event will be held at Gateway High School, 93 Panther Paws Trail, Kissimmee, FL 34744, and will begin promptly at 5:00 PM.
This districtwide event is designed to help students with disabilities and their families begin planning for life after high school. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local agencies and organizations that provide supports and services related to postsecondary education, employment, independent living, self-advocacy, community engagement, and adult services. Families will also gain valuable information and resources to support successful transition planning and help students prepare for their future goals.
We encourage all schools to share this opportunity with their ESE families. It's never too early to start planning for the future!
Parents are asked to RSVP using the following link:
Flyers for the event are included below in PDF format and may be shared with families, staff, and community partners. We appreciate your support in helping us connect families with these valuable resources and opportunities. We look forward to welcoming families from across the district for an evening of learning, networking, and planning for future success.
|
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.
|
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! ✨🌟
|
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. |
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:
|
Join Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County for Accommodations in the Classroom, a FREE, in-person professional development opportunity designed to give educators practical strategies they can use to help every child participate and succeed.
Participants will learn how to identify and implement appropriate classroom accommodations while building consistent support between the classroom, families, and other service providers.
When:
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
1950 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy., 2nd Floor, Kissimmee, FL 34744
|
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!
|
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
|
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
|
Students in Ms. Castro’s classroom at Flora Ridge are always eager for center time! From the moment transitions begin, students excitedly move to their learning stations and dive right into their work. The high level of engagement and enthusiasm is evident throughout each rotation. When center time comes to an end, students often ask for additional time so they can continue learning and participating in the activities. Ms. Castro has created an engaging classroom environment that motivates students to actively participate and look forward to learning each day. 🌟📚 |
Students in Ms. Restrepo’s classroom at Flora Ridge are seen below actively engaged in reading centers, working on targeted skills designed to support their individual learning goals. With the support of their paraprofessionals, students remained focused and motivated as they participated in meaningful learning activities and earned tokens toward breaks and rewards. The collaborative classroom environment and structured supports helped create a productive and positive learning experience for all students. 🌟📚 |
Mr. Peter’s 4th-grade students are seen below engaged and laser-focused during a recent reading lesson, demonstrating the impact that intentional scaffolds and instructional strategies can have on student success. Students remained actively involved in learning while building their reading skills, and their hard work continues to be reflected in their progress and achievement. A unique feature of the classroom is the use of “mini Mr. Peters” placed throughout the lesson to provide students with visual reminders and helpful tips, encouraging independence and helping them stay on track. |
Mrs. Cock’s classroom was a hub of engaged learning during this week's walkthroughs! Small groups were running smoothly with students actively rotating between teacher-led instruction, Mr. Kay’s station, independent work, and Progress Learning assignments. Throughout the classroom, students were engaged in rich discussions, tackling challenging questions, and demonstrating perseverance as they worked toward their goals. It was exciting to see these Goal Getter students making meaningful progress each day. Kudos to Mrs. Cock, Mr. Kay, and the entire classroom team for fostering a structured and supportive learning environment where student success continues to thrive! 🌟 |
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
|
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
10/3: Sheyla Vargas
10/5: Maria Pagan
10/10: Demitriis Leirzsey
10/12: Veronica Nigaglioni
10:17: Larissa Silfa-Velez
10/18: Milagros Torres
10/21: Sang Tran Ponce
10/22: Alexandra Charles
10/28: Jill Stanton
|
|
|
|
