Governor Jon S. Corzine last week issued a proclamation declaring May 14-20 as “Special Education Week in New Jersey.”

Special Education Week in New Jersey recognizes the achievements of the state’s 235,000 students with special needs and the commitment of their parents and teachers. The New Jersey School Boards Association and ASAH...serving the private special education community since 1974 have sponsored Special Education Week since 1985.  The theme for Special Education Week 2006 is “Reaching Beyond Boundaries.”

“The public school districts and the private schools of New Jersey make a major contribution to the public welfare by preparing thousands of exceptional persons to participate as citizens of this state and as members of society,” reads Governor Corzine’s proclamation. “I call upon all citizens to recognize the achievements of New Jersey’s special education students and the outstanding contributions made by educators, school board members, schools and agencies for the handicapped and parents toward quality education for the exceptional citizens of our state.”

“Governor Corzine’s interest and support illustrate how highly our state values the accomplishments of its special education students,” said Patti J. Pawling, NJSBA president.

A program to usher in Special Education Week will take place on May 12 in Somerset. The event will include an awards ceremony for the ten schools recognized for creative special education programming through the fifth annual Innovations in Special Education program.