The Special Needs Advisory Council (SNAC) is organized to ensure that parents, school staff, and community professionals come together to promote a shared decision-making process to plan and implement educational programs for students with special needs.  Special needs students are those who have IEP's or 504 plans, those who are medically fragile, and those who are being considered for eligibility for special education within the Exceptional Children's Programs.

The Council functions as an advocate for children with disabilities in the school system.  The major focus of the Council is system-wide issues as opposed to individual concerns.  Individual concerns should be directed to the Exceptional Children's Programs Office.  The purpose of the SNAC is to work collaboratively on the improvement of the quality of education for children with special needs in Union County Public Schools (UCPS).

Special Needs Advisory Council Activities:

• Serve as an avenue of public input for the improvement of special education and increase school and community awareness concerning children with special needs and their families.
• Advocate for effective, coordinated, and comprehensive programs.
• Provide workshops, learning opportunities, and information to parents and the school community concerning issues and programs for students with special needs.
• Connect families with community agencies (e.g. mental health, vocational rehabilitation, etc.) and resources.
• Make recommendations for needed improvements to the school system with regards to EC students and programs.
• Communicate appreciation and support to those serving individuals with special needs.

The EC Director will present the Council's recommendations concerning issues, policies, and programs to the superintendent as appropriate.