SEA-PAC information and Mini-Grant recipients - IAASE March 7, 2022 Blog

 SEA-PAC membership information 

Greetings all,

Over the last few years, the Special Education Association Political Action Committee (SEAPAC) has been struggling with membership and funding. In order for the work of SEAPAC to continue, it is imperative that we attain high membership each and every school year.  


You may ask, "What does SEAPAC do for me?" Well, if you recall, we have had some pretty pesky education bills that have been submitted and discussed in our  Illinois legislative chambers. SEAPAC plays an important role in educating, providing access and representing the organization with members of the General Assembly.  Our main purpose is to raise awareness for IAASE and the impact proposed legislation has on special education.  By raising and distributing funds, you are helping to advocate for the political goals of the members of IAASE.


IAASE is an organization of over 1300 members. Think of the impact we could make if every one of our members becomes a SEAPAC member!    


To make becoming a member easier, we have subscribed to Givebutter.  Givebutter does charge a 3.6% processing fee, so if you would like to pay by check, please route them to Melissa Taylor at 100 Paddock Road Belleville IL 62223.  If you are comfortable using Givebutter, just use the camera on your phone to open the QR below!



The cost is $20 annually but you are welcome to give more! 


IAASE is well-respected by our legislators and they have come to view the organization as the voice of special education. By supporting SEAPAC, the efforts of IAASE can be continued.


If you have any questions about SEAPAC, please reach out to Lea Anne Frost at lfrost@d64.org 



IAASE Blog Mini Grant Recipients 21-22 SY


In February, we showcased the first four recipients. Below are the remaining four project summaries.  I hope you have enjoyed their projects and it inspired you to look for the mini grant applications in the fall.  



Continuum of Literacy Skills for Students Who Require Intensive Supports

Eisenhower Cooperative

Kristy Piwnicki

The grant will be used to form a committee of staff members who will develop a framework for

developing a skill sequence that will allow teachers to measure incremental student growth. Committee members will receive a stipend for participating in the project after school hours and throughout the summer. A comprehensive scope and sequence of literacy-based skills will be developed using materials from established literacy curricula and will extend the scope so that the sequences will include the supporting components of the general skills.



Mindful Engagement with Virtual Reality

Cook County School District 154

Megan Drangsholt

The grant will be used to purchase virtual reality units as well as Therapeutic Listening Software and training. Initially, the equipment will be assigned to a student receiving homebound instruction to allow them to be able to participate in a variety of learning experiences that can be incorporated into literacy instruction. The project will also include a small group of students who need extra support with managing their stress, anxiety, depression and self-regulation. Eventually, virtual reality will be used to enhance units of study.



Creating a Student-Run Pet Treat Business

Transition Program

Southwest Cook County Cooperative

Alison Mensing

The grant will be used to create a small business in which students will gain experience in sanitation, marketing, purchasing, manufacturing, packaging, selling, delivery, bookkeeping/accounting, inventory and customer service. Students will make dog and cat treats from scratch using veterinarian approved recipes and sell the treats to customers that include Transition students, family members and staff members.



Gaining Independence Through Delicious Project Based Learning: Central Perk Coffee Cart

Central School District 51

Sarah Cox

The grant will be used to purchase new coffee makers and an air fryer as well as other supplies for the coffee cart. Students currently have a successful business and the grant will allow them to offer new items such as hot cider and hot chocolate. They also intend to offer a small selection of homemade baked goods that they will bake using the air fryer. The customers include school and administrative office staff.


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