Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC)

SEPAC Executive Board 2026-2027

President: Ms. Michelle Sandoval

Vice President: 

Parent Coordinators: Ms. Amanda Gerdes and Ms. Alaina Devezin

Secretary: Mr. Paul Searle

Department Contact: Cindy Manthey, Program Manager

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SEPAC Mission

The mission of the Fort Bend ISD Special Education Parent Advisory Committee is to advocate for the support, respect and understanding of all children with disabilities in Fort Bend ISD.  To that end, we work to:

• Advocate for an innovative and inclusive educational environment where children with disabilities are provided with the resources necessary to reach their optimum potential.
• Advise Fort Bend ISD on the operation and development of special education programs, parent and teacher training needs, and help develop policy.
• Create a network of parents and caregivers of children with special needs to provide support and facilitate effective communication between parents, students and the school district.

 SEPAC Committees

 1. Communication:

• Advise and provide input on communications within the group and members such as newsletters and other communications as agreed upon by the SEPAC

 2. Policy/Advocacy:

• Become knowledgeable of local instructional services and personnel serving Special Education students as well as state or national laws, rules, regulations and guidelines affecting Special Education services
• Advocate for Special Education students, families, and schools to promote the awareness of the unique social and emotional needs of special education students

 3. Parent Resources/Community Outreach:

• Cultivate a strong Special Education Community in Fort Bend ISD by creating opportunities for positive interactions between families, schools, and the community
• Identify and provide needed resources for Special Education students and their families through collaboration with schools, Fort Bend ISD, and the community
• Facilitate community education within Fort Bend ISD with a focus on bridging the gap between community feedback and Fort Bend ISD actions