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SUMMARY:2026 Resource Fair Featuring Expert Panels and 50+ Exhibitors
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DESCRIPTION: Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) and SEEK CT (Special Education Equity for Kids of Connecticut) are proud to announce the 2026 SEEK/S.E.L.F. Resource Fair, taking place Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 2:00–5:00 p.m. at the Stamford JCC. This free, community-wide event will bring together more than 50 schools, therapeutic providers, advocates, and nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting children with learning differences and special education needs across Connecticut and beyond. For families navigating the often complex special education system, the Resource Fair offers something invaluable: clarity, connection, and community -all in one place. The Resource Fair is free to attend with advance registration: https://bit.ly/SpecialEducationLegalFundSeekResourceFair2026 Two Expert Panels Designed for Families In addition to the exhibitor hall, the afternoon will feature two in-depth panel discussions led by experienced attorneys, advocates, and school leaders. 2:30 PM - Hiring an Attorney or Advocate Families will gain practical insight into when and how to seek legal or advocacy support, what to expect during the process, and how to build an effective team. Panelists include: Attorney Dana Jonson (Law Offices of Dana Jonson) Advocate Diane Willcutts (Education Advocacy) Lara Damashek (CSE Representative, The Windward School) Bill DeHaven (Head of School, Villa Maria School) Moderated by Laura Sullivan (S.E.L.F.) 3:30 PM - Finding the Right School This session will help families evaluate educational placements, understand admissions considerations, and identify programs aligned with their child’s unique learning profile. Panelists include: Attorney Meredith Braxton (Meredith Braxton Law) Advocate Virginia Blum (Advocacy Office of Virginia Blum) Kara Ashley (Admissions Director, Eagle Hill School) Beth Sugerman (Chief Enrollment Officer, Winston Preparatory School) Moderated by Laura Sullivan (S.E.L.F.) Strengthened Mission, Stronger Community Since its founding, S.E.L.F. has worked to level the playing field for families who lack the financial resources to secure legal or advocacy support within the special education system. Through direct grants and free educational programming, S.E.L.F. has supported thousands of families statewide. “Families navigating special education often feel overwhelmed and isolated,” said Laura Sullivan, Staff Attorney at S.E.L.F. “This Resource Fair is about empowerment. It’s about giving parents real information, real access, and real relationships so they can advocate confidently and ensure their children receive the education they are entitled to. When families are informed, systems work better.” SEEK CT, a nonprofit coalition of parents, advocates, and attorneys, works to secure equitable educational access for students with disabilities across Connecticut. “Access to information is equity,” said Naomi Nova, Vice President and Conference Chair of SEEK CT. “By bringing together legal experts, school leaders, advocates, and service providers in one space, we are creating a powerful ecosystem of support. This event reflects our shared commitment to protecting the civil and educational rights of students with disabilities and strengthening outcomes for families across our state.” S.E.L.F. and SEEK are deeply grateful for the generous support of the 2026 Resource Fair sponsors. Platinum Sponsors include Wealthspire Advisors and Eagle Hill School, with Winston Preparatory School serving as Gold Sponsor. Silver Sponsors are American School for the Deaf, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, Fusion Academy, Spire School, Villa Maria School, and The Pinnacle School. Bronze Sponsors include The Windward School and Sasco River Center. Moffly Media proudly serves as the event’s Media Sponsor. Contribute Photos: Photo 1 - 2025 Resource Fair Photo 2  -  S.E.L.F. Staff Attorney Laura Sullivan and Dana Johnson About Speial Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) Founded in 2018, S.E.L.F. provides financial assistance for legal and advocacy services to families who cannot otherwise afford representation in special education matters. To date, S.E.L.F. has distributed more than $1.2 million in direct support grants and has educated thousands of parents through its free Parent Education Program. About SEEK CT SEEK (Special Education Equity for Kids of Connecticut) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to securing an excellent education as a fundamental civil and human right for students with disabilities. SEEK advocates for policy reform, equitable funding, and stronger legal protections for Connecticut’s most vulnerable learners. For media inquiries or additional information: Laura Sullivan – laura@spedlegalfund.org Jennifer Kanfer – jennifer@spedlegalfund.org https://westfaironline.com/eventer/2026-resource-fair-featuring-expert-panels-and-50-exhibitors/
URL:https://westfaironline.com/eventer/2026-resource-fair-featuring-expert-panels-and-50-exhibitors/
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