Statewide Parent Advocacy Network, Inc.

Newark, NJ -- Grandparents residing in Essex County are invited to attend a conference that focuses on helping them take care of themselves, so that they are better caregivers for their grandchildren.   The “Taking Care of You!” health mini-conference will be held on Friday, May 10 from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM at The CENTRE in Newark.  Co-hosts, the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) and the Essex County Family Council, in collaboration with Grandma KARES, Inc., are excited about this opportunity for grandparents to take a few minutes for themselves and enjoy a time of learning and sharing.

In response to the National Rifle Association's release of a set of proposals to increase the number of armed personnel in schools, as a response to the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School late last year, a grassroots organization are imploring schools and districts to implement positive approaches in response to gun violence and address the impact of school safety policies on young people.  In their Joint Issue Brief, "Police in Schools Is Not The Answer," the Alliance for Educational Justice, the Dignity in Schools Campaign and the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.

On February 27, Peg Kinsell, SPAN Public Policy Director, Jennifer Halper, Senior Staff Attorney and Legislative Coordinator of Disability Rights New Jersey were joined by more than 150 parents and advocates as they discussed the proposed changes to the state special education code and how they will impact that will impact parents and students rights, as well as the quality of programs and related services for students with disabilities.  For details on the proposed changes, see the white paper developed by a coalition of parents, educators and advocates and also additional information from

The DCF Commissioner recently announced support for a Mom 2 Mom Program, a call center for families of children with disabilities experiencing stress and mental health concerns.  The role of Mom 2 Mom is to assess mental health risks and then connect families of children with developmental disabilities to mental health and other service providers.  This will meet an important need of families who have children with disabilities.  The services available through Mom 2 Mom will not include advocacy to help families access the services and supports their child and family need.

We are very saddened to hear of the tragic shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut and send our sincere thoughts and condolences. Tragic events such as this one are very challenging for families, schools and entire communities. As we try to help our children find some comfort and sense of safety in the face of such tragey, these excellent resources from The Center for School Mental Health  related to school crisis response are free and readily available:  Resources for Dealing with Traumatic Events at Schools.  You can also get useful information from the Substance