76th Annual SECA Conference

As of August 2024, the Texas Administrative Code introduced the eligibility category of Developmental Delay to include ages 3-9. School districts are not required to use the new Developmental Delay disability designation but may, beginning with the 2024-2025 school year. Noncategorical Early Childhood (NCEC) must no longer be used beginning with the 2025-2026 school year. Previously, Developmental Delay was not recognized for children over the age of 3 in Texas which could lead to gaps in services when transitioning from Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) to Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE). This change aims to provide more consistent support for young children who exhibit developmental delays, ensuring they receive necessary interventions during this critical period of development. This category will include students who have general delays in the 5 areas of development including cognition, communication, motor skills, adaptive behavior, and social skills. It is important for early childhood professionals to recognize and identify developmental milestones and delays so that students can be referred, evaluated for, and provided special education and related services when needed to ensure future success. This session will provide guidance for recognizing developmental delays in all areas of development as well as action steps to take to support families in the referral process when necessary.

The science of reading has created motivation to examine early literacy practices at every level. This session will explore the important pillar of phonemic awareness in the science of reading and how it applies in the early years. Participants of this session will explore developmentally appropriate ways to ensure this skill is integrated into the early learning classroom through the vehicle of play.

This session is designed to help early childhood educators foster a sense of belonging and value in their classrooms. Participants will engage in activities and discussions that emphasize the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse identities. By exploring their own multicultural selves, educators will gain a deeper understanding of diversity and empathy, essential for creating inclusive environments. The session will highlight how recognizing individual identities and providing individualized support can enable full participation and potential achievement for all children. Emphasis will be placed on the significant role teachers play through their words, actions, and attitudes, and the importance of intentional efforts to create positive feelings and inclusive practices. Strategies for promoting a sense of identity and belonging will be shared, along with reflections on the lasting impact educators have on children's lives. Participants will leave with actionable commitments to implement changes in their classrooms, ensuring that every child's social, emotional, and cognitive development is supported.

This professional development program offers a comprehensive exploration of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma-sensitive pedagogy and socio-emotional learning. Participants will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to create a supportive and empowering learning environment that fosters resilience and social-emotional development in students. Through engaging sessions and collaborative activities, educators will acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to implement trauma-informed practices and cultivate a holistic approach to education that addresses the diverse needs of students in today's educational landscape.

Classroom teachers make awesome music teachers! Supercharge your music time with techniques to enhance student engagement and receive a free library of music and movement activities to take home with you. We will have fun with some great music, while also getting into educational content by comparing music education to language immersion and focusing on getting family members on board as partners in your teaching. Also like a language program, we will consider music vocabulary and how exposure to a large variety of musical styles and elements at this critical time in development is essential for children to understand and enjoy music of a variety of styles and from different cultures.