I have to say I hate the idea of segregating special education parents and teachers from general ed parents and teachers. There's too much segregation as it is, and I'd much rather see people working together for ALL students. If a PTA is ignoring special ed, tell them so -- publicly, in a meeting -- and ask them why; it seems it would be a difficult position to defend.
Connecticut now has another new Special Education PTO. Glastonbury SEPTO was formed just a week ago. Starting as Glastonbury SEPTA in 2007, this group was a PTA affilliate but decided to disassociate from PTA because they got tired of sending the state PTA dues money and getting nothing in return. Several other SEPTA groups in Connecticut are considering the same move.
Not to bump this post, but just in case anyone is wondering about Special Education PTO. Three SEPTO groups just started up in Connecticut. One is in my home town of Bristol and the other two are in Shelton and New London. All three SEPTOs are community wide organizations and not associated with a specific school. Starting a SEPTO is easier than you might think. All you need is a core group of commited parents. If anyone is interested in learning what it takes to start a SEPTO I would be happy to share my experiences.
