Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs: A Regional Approach to Special Education

Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs (SECEP) serves as a regional public school dedicated to supporting the Hampton Roads communities. These communities include Chesapeake, Franklin, Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Southampton, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. SECEP provides a formal structure that enables participating school systems to plan and operate programs tailored for children with special needs.

Organizational Structure and Governance

SECEP is governed by a Joint Board. This board consists of a lay member from each participating school system’s school board and acts as SECEP’s policy-making body. An Advisory Committee, comprising the directors of Special Education from the SECEP-participating school systems, aids in the planning of program activities.

Educational Philosophy and Approach

Instruction at SECEP is grounded in state standards and life skills. Classroom staff receive training in basic Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) competencies. ABA principles and procedures, alongside other methodologies, are used to structure and organize the educational environment to foster learning. Program staff are dedicated to maintaining a positive and safe approach to teaching and interacting with students. Behavior interventions are designed to teach desirable behaviors and reduce problematic behaviors.

Highlights from SECEP Centers

Virginia Beach SECEP

Virginia Beach SECEP demonstrated its support for the community by celebrating "Back the Blue Day". They honored law enforcement officers and thanked them for their commitment, bravery, and sacrifice.

Suffolk SECEP Center

The Suffolk SECEP Center's Climate & Culture Committee organized a food drive and holiday meal basket giveaway for families within their school community. This initiative was led by the Climate & Culture Committee, with staff members across the school coming together to support the cause. The center also celebrated its students' achievements at the Honors Awards Ceremony, welcoming proud family members to join teachers, administrators, and support staff.

Read also: Understanding Southeastern GPA

Chesapeake SECEP Center

Chesapeake SECEP Center recognizes outstanding staff members each month. Recently, they honored Mr. Douglas, a Culinary Arts teacher with 17 years of experience at SECEP, and Ms. Edwards, a Teacher Assistant in her first year with the Re-ED program, who brings over 11 years of diverse teaching experience.

Glenwood SECEP

Glenwood SECEP fosters school pride through its House system, which emphasizes teamwork and positive behavior. Students proudly wear their House of Colors T-shirts, often handmade by supportive family members.

Renaissance Academy

The Culture & Climate Committee at Renaissance Academy boosts morale and builds school spirit with the Appreciation Cart. Students and staff deliver treats to teachers, spreading positivity throughout the building.

Lake Taylor High School

Lake Taylor High School students are learning about the importance of choices and consequences. They explore how positive decisions impact their lives and proudly present examples of good choices they make daily.

tags: #southeastern #cooperative #educational #programs #overview