Newtown’s Special Education Parent Teacher Organization (SEPTO) held its first meeting on October 18 at Newtown High School’s Lecture Hall, and SEPTO President Jennifer Strychalsky said, “It went really well.”

The group has already scheduled its second meeting for November 8, at 6:30 pm, in C.H. Booth Library’s meeting room, 25 Main Street. Rae Suba, a pediatric occupational therapist of Child Play Clinic LLC of Westport, will speak at the November meeting.

“We’re very excited to have her come,” said Ms Strychalsky, adding that the presentation will help parents, as there are many children with different kinds of sensory issues. “... Many people can benefit from this presentation.”

At the group’s first meeting, Special Education Consultant Kevin Daly oversaw a mock PPT (Planning and Placement Team) meeting. Afterwards, an informational session was held, and Ms Strychalsky said parents shared what they would like the SEPTO to help provide, like monthly support meetings and working collaboratively with local PTAs.

The SEPTO’s board was also announced at the meeting. Along with Ms Strychalsky, Liza Mecca will serve as vice president, Margaret Keayes will serve as treasurer, and Brenda McRae will serve as secretary.

When asked what she is looking forward to from her new group, Ms Strychalsky said, “I’m most excited about [helping] parents who may not have any other resources.”

Newtown SEPTO’s goal is to support families by helping children with special needs reach their greatest potential while fostering collaboration between parents and educators.

Ms Strychalsky said she hopes the group helps parents find support in others going through the same processes and empowers parents with the knowledge they need “to travel through the special education process, which can be confusing.”

Yearly dues for joining the SEPTO are $15 for families and $5 for staff members. Dues go toward funding insurance, fliers, and some presenters, according to Ms Strychalsky.

For more information about the meeting or Newtown SEPTO, e-mail newtownctsepto@gmail.com.