Trenton, May 6, 2016 – Governor Chris Christie today recognized the achievements of the state’s 250,000 children who receive special education instruction and the work of the teachers, parents, school administrators and others who support them by proclaiming “Special Education Week in New Jersey,” May 8-14, 2016. In his proclamation, the Governor “calls upon all residents 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 disabled, and their parents.” The New Jersey School Boards Association and ASAH, an organization representing private special education schools, have sponsored Special Education Week since 1985. The theme for Special Education Week 2016 is “Making Dreams Happen.” More than 232,500 students receive special education instruction in the state’s public and private schools, while 18,000 children are served through preschool and early intervention programs. The Governor’s proclamation praises the “public school districts and private schools (that) 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.” On May 16, NJSBA and ASAH will recognize 10 public and private schools for their special education programming through the “Innovations in Special Education” awards.

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The New Jersey School Boards Association is a federation of the state’s local boards of education and includes the majority of New Jersey’s charter schools as associate members. NJSBA provides training, advocacy and support to advance public education and promote the achievement of all students through effective governance. ASAH  is a professional organization of more than 145 private schools and agencies in New Jersey that provide highly specialized services to more than 11,000 children and adults with special needs.