This past October, the CAPSES Board of Directors gathered in Sacramento at the CAPSES office.
During our time together we continued our strategic planning session, focusing on fortifying its leadership, advocacy efforts, and member engagement. Below is a summary of the discussions, action items, and insights shared over the two-day meeting.
CAPSES outlined a framework emphasizing key attributes to guide the board moving forward:
Creativity: Harnessing innovative thinking
Competence: Ensuring expertise in leadership
Cohesion: Strengthening unity among members
Growing and Engaging MembershipCAPSES emphasized the need to communicate its advocacy efforts with our membership, including our behind the scene efforts in informing decision-makers of key challenges such as rising costs through cost analysis, sharing regional data, meeting with different departments (such as DOF and DOJ) and others.
CAPSES efforts will include outreach to potential members, particularly in underrepresented regions, and emphasized the importance of regional reps in addressing local challenges. A survey will be developed to prioritize member concerns, whether state-level or region-specific issues.
Legislative and Policy Updates
CAPSES discussed recent legislative changes and their implications for special education, including restraint and seclusion, mental health, WAI funding, drug use, school safety, and others.
Financial Planning
The board discussed financial scenarios for the future as critical for the success and longevity of CAPSES. With effective financial planning, we ensure that resources are allocated strategically to support the mission while maintaining operational efficiency. By prioritizing financial health, CAPSES can focus on delivering impactful programs, expand our reach, and fulfilling our mission without compromising their future viability.
Regions
Regional representatives provided updates on local issues, including challenges with master contracts, mental health needs, and collaboration with public schools. Regional reports included Sacramento, San Diego, L.A., Orange County, Peninsula South Bay, North Bay, and NPAs.
CAPSES’ board session highlighted the organization’s commitment to advocacy, member support, and financial sustainability. By addressing both immediate challenges and long-term goals, CAPSES aims to strengthen its impact on special education in California.
CAPSES continues to champion the interests of NPSs and NPAs, ensuring that students with special needs receive the high-quality education and services they deserve.
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