WHO WE ARE

About SEAC

The Shakopee Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) is the official advisory body for special education in Shakopee Public Schools, operating through the Director of Special Services on behalf of every student in the district who receives special education services. Established to ensure that the voices of families and community members are heard at the district level,

SEAC serves as a vital bridge between the families who live this experience every day and the administrators and educators who shape how services are delivered. Our work is grounded in the district's compelling vision — to "change until all of our systems measurably work for each and every student" — and we take that charge seriously.

SEAC represents a broad and diverse community. Shakopee Public Schools currently serves more than 1,400 students with disabilities, spanning every stage of development from infants receiving early intervention services through young adults in transition programs up to age 22. That range reflects the full arc of a life shaped by special education — and SEAC is here for all of it. Whether your child is just beginning an evaluation, navigating an IEP, managing a 504 plan, or preparing for life after high school, SEAC is a space where your perspective matters and your experience informs how the district grows.
Meetings are held approximately three times during the school year, with two sessions held virtually and one held in person. All meetings are open to any family in the Shakopee district — no prior experience, no ongoing commitment, and no special standing required. You are welcome to attend once or every time. SEAC also organizes community events throughout the year, including an annual spring gathering, to create informal opportunities for families to connect with one another and with district staff outside of a formal meeting setting. Because connection matters as much as advocacy — and sometimes the most important thing a family needs is simply to know they are not alone.

1,400+

students served in Shakopee

Birth - 22

our full community

3x

per year - your voice at the table

"The purpose of the Special Education Advisory Council is to act as an advisory body to the District through the Director of Special Services on behalf of students receiving special education services."

Frequently asked questions

What that means for families?

In plain terms, SEAC is a group of parents, caregivers, and community members who meet with district leadership to ensure students with disabilities are being served well.

Whether your child has an IEP, a 504 plan, or is navigating an evaluation, SEAC is a space where your experience shapes how the district improves.

Who we serve?

SEAC represents all learners with disabilities in the Shakopee district — that's more than 1,400 students. Our community spans:

  • Infants and toddlers receiving early intervention (birth–2)
  • Preschool and elementary students (ages 3–10)
  • Middle and high school students (ages 11–18)
  • Transition-age young adults (ages 18–22)
How often do we meet?

SEAC meets approximately three times during the school year. Two meetings are held virtually and one is held in person. All meetings are open to families — no prior experience or commitment required.

What is our connection to the school district?

SEAC operates through the Director of Special Services at Shakopee Public Schools. We work in partnership with district leadership, not independently from it.

CONTACT
Director of Special Services: Julie Fred jfred@shakopee.k12.mn.us