SPAN Parent Advocacy Network, Inc.

08/28/2026

As part of a specialized graduate-level certification program designed to train professionals to teach people with disabilities how to travel safely, students navigate an airport while blindfolded.

“Special education professor and program coordinator Amy Parker said there is hidden work for people with disabilities when traveling. She said orientation and mobility specialists play an important role in helping people travel safely and confidently,” the article reads.

There are just 12 programs nationwide that train people to teach those who are blind, visually impaired or deafblind. Part of the process is learning the hidden work of travel for people with disabilities.

08/26/2026

Transition planning works best when young people have a real voice in shaping what comes next.

In this YETI podcast episode, Michael, Elizabeth, and Billy talk about starting with a young person’s strengths and interests, building self-advocacy skills in everyday life, and how adults can listen more intentionally to youth and families throughout the transition to adulthood.

🎙️ Watch the video podcast: https://tinyurl.com/mu83nsvb

08/26/2026

On August 26, Women’s Equality Day recognizes the 1920 certification of the 19th Amendment, which established a constitutional protection against denying the right to vote on the basis of s*x. This was a major step in American history, although many women continued to face barriers to the ballot.

SPAN honors all women, including women with disabilities, mothers, caregivers, and advocates, whose leadership strengthens families and communities. Their voices matter in decisions that affect children and youth and in building systems grounded in fair treatment and access.

Learn more about the history of Women’s Equality Day: https://nationalwomenshistoryalliance.org/resources/commemorations/womens-equality-day/

08/25/2026

How are faring? Find out on August 26 with the release of ACNJ’s latest data publication, 2026.

Special guest Roger León, Superintendent of Newark Public Schools, will join us to offer remarks following a presentation of data highlights by ACNJ Data Analyst Alena Siddiqui. Join us and share! Register now at acnj.org/newark-kids-count-2026/ .

Prudential Newark Board of Education Annie E. Casey Foundation

08/25/2026

: Self-advocacy is an important skill for the transition to adulthood. Learning to speak up for your needs, choices, and rights can build confidence, strengthen decision-making, and help young adults participate more fully at school, work, in health care, and throughout their communities.

This video shares practical strategies for developing an assertive approach to self-advocacy and using these skills in everyday situations.

Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTMtE3TU3is&t=83s

08/24/2026

: Babies and toddlers learn about themselves and the world through responsive, caring relationships.

ZERO TO THREE’s tips help families and caregivers support social-emotional development through nurturing interactions, careful observation, safe exploration, and age-based guidance.

These everyday moments can help young children build trust, communicate, learn, and manage emotions over time.

Learn more: https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/tips-for-promoting-social-emotional-development/

08/21/2026

How Do Parent Engagement and Parent Involvement Impact Latino School Success?

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lGmVF0dLuA

08/21/2026

Writing skills are getting more attention in school, according to a recent article in the Hechinger Report.

“Younger children struggle with basic sentences, spelling and punctuation, leading to problems later on in school when they’re expected to produce more complex works,” the article reads.

Rather than leave teachers on their own, one district has embraced a structured approach

08/20/2026

We’re proud to announce the three extraordinary leaders we’ll honor at SPAN’s 2026 End of Summer Soirée! ✨

🏆 Senator Andy Kim — Community Impact Award
🏆 Giancarlo Vicari — Youth Leadership Award
🏆 Emily Pecot — Parent Champion Award

Each of our honorees represents something at the heart of SPAN’s work: stronger communities, empowered families, and the power of every voice to make a difference.

Join us on Friday, September 18, from 6:00–9:30 PM at the Princeton Marriott at Forrestal as we celebrate their leadership—and the families and communities who inspire our work every day.

🎟️ Attend the Soirée or become a sponsor. Your support helps SPAN expand access to training, resources, and individualized support for families navigating education, healthcare, and disability systems.

And because this is SPAN’s only fundraising event of 2026, your participation makes this evening—and its impact—even more meaningful.

Learn more, purchase tickets, or explore sponsorship opportunities today:
spanadvocacy.org/soiree-2026

Come celebrate with us—and help ensure that families shouldn’t have to figure things out alone.

08/19/2026

What helps young people see what’s possible after high school? Real-world experience, good information, and the right support can make a big difference.

In this YETI podcast episode, Jake, Elizabeth, and Dawn talk about work experiences and Pre-Employment Transition Services, clear up common misunderstandings about Vocational Rehabilitation, and explore the barriers that can make it harder for youth to participate—and the practical supports that can help them stay engaged.

🎙️ Watch the video podcast: https://tinyurl.com/4ha5w7f2