Pupil Personnel Services
Melissa Lowell
PPS Director
mlowell@hpschools.org
Jennifer Blier
PPS Secretary
jblier@hpschools.org
What and Who We Are
Response to Intervention
Each school in the district has a Student-Based Intervention Team , commonly referred to as SBIT.
- The purpose of the SBIT is to make decisions regarding a student’s need for academic, social or physical support. Also, the team meets with teachers and staff to develop intervention strategies to improve instruction or to address other related issues.
- The interventions are monitored over time to determine the progress a child achieves. In addition, the role of the SBIT is to determine if interventions need to be offered with a greater intensity and/or frequency.
- A plan, called a Response to Intervention Plan, is developed to track the student's progress. Parents are notified in writing if a child is receiving RtI services, along with a copy of the plan. Quarterly reports of progress are provided.
Referrals to the Committee on Special Education
Mrs. Melissa Lowell
Other Resources
- Center For Autism And Related Disabilities
- Upcoming Trainings and Events with Family And Community Engagement Center
- Mid-State Family and Community Engagement Center Fall Semester Events Schedule
- Upcoming Workshops for Families
- Summer Newsletter from New York State Education Department | Office of Special Education
Center For Autism And Related Disabilities
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University at Albany continues to provide valuable resources, training, and support for New York State families, educators, and community professionals working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
CARD offers a wide range of family-focused programs, including parent education, behavior support, early intervention, executive functioning, teen social skills, mealtime support, childhood anxiety, and live webinars. These programs are designed to equip families with practical strategies and evidence‑based tools to support children and teens with autism.
Educators and community professionals can also access specialized training opportunities, such as school consultations, professional development sessions, interactive workshops, self‑study modules, and conferences. Many offerings include continuing education hours.
As part of a statewide partnership of university‑affiliated programs, CARD serves as a technical assistance, referral, and resource center, helping connect New York State residents with high‑quality, evidence‑based autism support. All programs are made possible through a grant from the New York State Education Department.
Community members can join CARD’s mailing list to stay informed about upcoming trainings and resources.
Center for Autism and Related Disabilities University at Albany 1535 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12203 Phone: (518) 442‑2574 Website: www.albany.edu/autism

Upcoming Trainings and Events with Family And Community Engagement Center
FACE Trainings for Oct, Nov & Dec
Explore free upcoming workshops offered by the Central Region Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Center. Please review the schedule below organized by month to find session details, target audiences, times, and locations.
October 2026
- Agency 101 Spotlight: ACCESS-VR
- Target Audience: Families & Educators
- Date & Time: Friday, October 9 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Format/Location: Virtual
- Details: Learn how ACCESS-VR assists students and youth with disabilities in identifying, preparing for, and pursuing career goals.
- Addressing Challenging Behaviors in Preschool
- Target Audience: Professionals
- Date & Time: Wednesday, October 21 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Format/Location: In-Person at Madison-Oneida BOCES, TriPlexus Building
- Details: Discover insights into understanding behavior, family and teacher values, the ABCs of challenging behaviors, de-escalation, and developing response plans.
- The Power of Establishing Routines with Young Children
- Target Audience: Families
- Date & Time: Tuesday, October 27 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Format/Location: Virtual via Zoom
- Details: Covers components of successful routines, teaching choices, and using visual tools or timers.
- Building Educational Organization Capacity for Family Engagement
- Target Audience: Professionals
- Date & Time: Thursday, October 29 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Format/Location: Virtual
- Details: Focuses on best practices for family engagement, building trusting relationships, and strengthening systems to support families.
November 2026
- Specially Designed Instruction: A Guide for Families and Caregivers
- Target Audience: Families
- Date & Time: Tuesday, November 3 | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Format/Location: Virtual via Zoom
- Nurturing Responsive Relationships
- Target Audience: Professionals
- Date & Time: Thursday, November 5 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Format/Location: In-Person at Jefferson-Lewis BOCES, Conf PES Large
- Family Guide to Transition Planning
- Target Audience: Families & General
- Date & Time: Tuesday, November 10 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Format/Location: Virtual
- Agency 101: Agency Spotlight – Pre-ETS
- Target Audience: Families & Professionals
- Date & Time: Friday, November 13 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- Format/Location: Virtual
December 2026
- Supporting Your Child in Work-Based Learning Experiences
- Target Audience: Families & General
- Date & Time: Thursday, December 3 | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Format/Location: Virtual
- Family Overview: Diploma & Credential Options for Students with Disabilities
- Target Audience: Families & General
- Date & Time: Tuesday, December 8 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Format/Location: Virtual
- Quality IEPs that Drive Preschool Student Success
- Target Audience: Professionals
- Date & Time: Wednesday, December 9 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Format/Location: In-Person at Herkimer BOCES, Bridge Room
Additional Information & Registration:
To register or learn more about these sessions, visit https://www.boces.com/crpc
Central region early childhood face center Workshops
Building capacity for family engagement
Ec addressing challenging behaviors in preschool
The power of establishing routines with young children
Mid-State Family and Community Engagement Center Fall Semester Events Schedule
The Mid-State Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Center at Syracuse University invites you to participate in free trainings around a variety of special education topics listed below.
Please click here to see the full list with descriptions of our offerings and to register for these exciting learning opportunities. If you do not need CTLE credits, you may register here.
10/14/2026 & 10/20/2026- 12:00pm-1:30pm- Positive Solutions for Families: The Pyramid Model Parent Training Modules – VIRTUAL
10/15/2025- 12:00pm-2:00pm- How to Foster and Support Self-Determination in All Students – VIRTUAL
10/21/2026- 9:30am-1:00pm- Special Education 101: Training of the Parent Member - LOCATION TBD
10/27/2026-6:00pm-7:30pm- Parent and Family Engagement within the FBA and BIP Process- VIRTUAL
11/4/2026- 4:00pm-5:30pm- Family Engagement, Communication and Culture – VIRTUAL
11/5/2026- 12:30pm-3:30pm- What is an IEP For Preschool Special Education Students for Professionals – VIRTUAL
11/18/2026-3:00pm-5:00pm- What is the IEP for Families of School Age Students - VIRTUAL
12/1/2026- 6:00pm-7:30pm- Explicit Vocabulary Instruction for Parents- VIRTUAL
12/2/2026- 12:00pm-2:00pm- Introduction to Transition Planning – VIRTUAL
12/3/2026- 1:00pm-3:30pm- Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) for the CPSE - VIRTUAL
TRAININGS ARE FREE & REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED:
Register for these exciting learning opportunities at https://tinyurl.com/facetrainings
If you have any questions, please contact us at: MidStateFACECenter@syr.edu
Upcoming Workshops for Families
Upcoming Virtual Workshops: Fall 2026
Parent and Family Engagement within the FBA and BIP Process
October 1, 2026, 12-1:30 PM, via Zoom
Join us to learn what a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) are, why they are needed, when they’re used, and how they’re created.
We’ll walk you through the process that includes how school teams support your child and most importantly, the valuable role you play every step of the way!
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.
Guardianship and Supplemental Needs Trusts
October 21, 2026, 6-8 PM, via Zoom
As children with disabilities grow into adulthood, families are often faced with important questions about decision-making, financial security, public benefits, and long-term support. This workshop will provide parents and caregivers with an overview of guardianship and alternatives to guardianship, as well as Supplemental Needs Trusts and other financial planning tools.
Participants will learn what these options are, when they may be appropriate, and what questions to consider as they plan for their child's future. The workshop will focus on empowering families to make informed decisions, rather than assuming that one approach is right for every individual.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Summer Newsletter from New York State Education Department | Office of Special Education
The following information is from the New York State Education Department | Office of Special Education.

Summer Resources for Families
Summer Learning:
- Summer Learning Ideas - National Summer Learning Association
- Resources to Support Summer Learning | NEA
- Summer Learning and After-School Enrichment Opportunities - Family Resources | National PTA
- Summer Learning for Families | NAEYC
- Summer Reading and Learning | Reading Rockets
Summer Meals:
- Summer Meals Site Finder | Food and Nutrition Administration
- Summer Meals NY - Hunger Solutions New York
- Summer Meals NYC
NYS Libraries:
Project Lifesaver is a 501 (C)(3) community-based, public-safety nonprofit organization that provides law enforcement, fire/rescue, search-and-rescue (SAR) teams, caregivers, and others with a program designed to quickly locate individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to the life-threatening behavior of wandering. To date, over 4,600 individuals have been rescued by this organization.
Operated internationally by public-safety agencies, Project Lifesaver was designed for “at-risk” individuals who are prone to wandering or eloping due to autism, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive conditions. The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide a timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children with the propensity to wander due to a cognitive condition.
To see if Project Lifesaver operates in your area or to enroll an individual,
visit the Project Lifesaver website or call 1-877-580-LIFE.
Classroom Spotlight: Brightway Living & Learning
Sensory Enhancements Across Brightway Living & Learning’s School-Age Program
Over the past 2 years, Brightway Living & Learning, formerly Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI),[i] has undertaken a comprehensive effort to strengthen sensory‑responsive learning environments across its school‑age program. Three distinct sensory spaces were designed with one goal in mind: to support regulation, engagement, and meaningful participation in the school day.
These enhancements reflect a collaborative process in which staff identified priorities, designed the spaces, received training to ensure effective use, and secured donor support to make that vision a reality.
Sensory Gym
The Sensory Gym was conceptualized by staff who recognized the importance of active, movement-based sensory experiences and developmental growth. Students jump, climb, swing, and explore a space intentionally designed to meet diverse sensory needs.
Key outcomes include:
· Increased engagement and readiness for instruction
· Improved attention and sustained participation
· Opportunities for turn‑taking, cooperative play, and social skill development
· Access to equipment appropriate for a wide range of sensory and motor needs
This active space has quickly become a favorite among students, offering a joyful outlet for energy while supporting therapeutic goals.
Sensory Hallway
What began as a creative idea has grown into one of the most beloved features of the school. The Sensory Hallway incorporates tactile, visual, and auditory elements.
The Sensory Hallway offers:
· Sensory‑based “brain breaks” that promote emotional regulation
· Improved focus and smoother transitions
· Increased independence and confidence during movement through the building
· A positive, engaging sensory experience embedded within daily routines
The hallway has already made a noticeable impact, transforming what was once a routine transition into moments of exploration and regulation.
Soft lights, soothing sounds, and tactile materials create a space where students can slow down, breathe, and reconnect with themselves. Inside this room, students enjoy:
· Watching the gentle glow of fiber‑optic strands
· Listening to the bubbling of the sensory water tube
· Exploring calming tactile materials
· Practicing strategies for self‑regulation and emotional balance
This space has become essential for helping students learn how to manage big feelings, build coping skills, and return to the classroom ready to participate.
A Collaborative, Student‑Centered Initiative
The development of these sensory spaces reflects Brightway’s commitment to creating environments that promote dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation in inclusive, supportive environments. Staff leadership and donor support played essential roles in creating high‑quality sensory environments that align with program goals and evidence‑based practices.
If you would like to learn more about our sensory initiatives,
please contact Michelle Sciara at michelle.sciara@brightwayny.org.
[i] Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), is in the process of changing its corporate
name with NYSED to Brightway Living & Learning.
Do you have a classroom or school program you would like us to spotlight in the OSE newsletter?
The Office of Special Education is looking for best practices from schools serving students with disabilities to spotlight in upcoming newsletters. Submissions are accepted on an ongoing basis. If you are interested in sharing a success story in any of the following areas, please submit your story via email to the Office of Special Education at SPECED@nysed.gov.
· Building classroom community
· Differentiated instruction
· Diversity, equity, and inclusion in the classroom
· Mindfulness and Positive Behavioral Supports
· Anything the district is inspired to share with the field
You will need to include the following information in your submission:
· Subject: Special Education Classroom Spotlight Submission
· Local Education Agency Name
· Teacher Name
· Photo(s) of the best practice in action
1-3 paragraphs describing the best practice and highlighting any results since its implementation.
The 2026 Special Olympics at the New York State School for the Blind (NYSSB)
The New York State School for the Blind recently marked its second year participating in the Special Olympics, an event that has become a highlight of the school year. Joining several area schools for the event, students competed in races, relays, long jump, and Young Athletes activities.
Students connected with peers from other schools, encouraged one another, and celebrated each accomplishment—big and small. NYSSB students enjoyed an unforgettable day filled with excitement, teamwork and achievement, laughter, friendship, and celebration.
Whether crossing the finish line, cheering on teammates, or trying something new, each student embraced the spirit of the Special Olympics with confidence and pride, making this year’s Special Olympics a truly memorable experience.
The Youth Advisory Panel is Recruiting!
The Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) consists of 10 to 15 youth who are currently attending high school and are receiving special education services through an individualized education program.
YAP was established to advise the OSE on proposed policies related to the education of students with disabilities. Panel members engage in facilitated discussions with NYSED staff on policy issues relating to the education of students with disabilities, and share their concerns and recommendations for future policy consideration. Their participation serves to advise NYSED from a first-hand perspective on ways to improve the quality of special education services and student outcomes.
Nominations for YAP membership are accepted on an ongoing basis and kept on file for any openings while the student remains eligible. A youth may be nominated by a parent, teacher, employer, or other adult familiar with the individual. Youth who are 18 years of age or older may nominate themselves. Members are appointed for a two-year term, and the YAP meets virtually three times per year.
· NYSED's Youth Advisory Panel
Upcoming Events, Dates, and Deadlines for School Districts
Virtual Training: The Impartial Hearing Reporting System (IHRS)
A Helpful How-To for School District Staff
The NYSED Office of Special Education is hosting virtual trainings on IHRS for school districts outside of New York City. These sessions support district staff in managing special education due process complaints and entering data into IHRS.
IHRS Basics Training covers:
· impartial hearing timelines;
· monitoring late cases and implementation of impartial hearing officer decisions;
· IHRS navigation and help features; and
· entering and managing data relating to case records, hearings, mediation, and case closure.
IHRS Advanced Training includes a brief review of Basics plus:
· adding new IHRS users;
· appointing hearing officers out of rotation; and
· amendments and closure types.
IHRS Basics Training Dates (same training offered on both dates):
· July 22, 2026 (10:00 am-12:00 pm)
· September 16, 2026 (1:00 pm-3:00 pm)
IHRS Advanced Training Dates:
· October 15, 2026 (1:00 pm-3:00 pm)
Pre‑registration is required. To register for trainings, the school district staff must log in to the NYSED's Application Business Portal and access IHRS. For reasonable accommodations, contact specedih@nysed.gov or (518) 473‑0170 at least two weeks in advance. Live Zoom captioning will be available.
Questions about the upcoming virtual training for the Impartial Hearing Reporting System may be directed to specedih@nysed.gov.
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