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Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP)

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The individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that every state establish and maintain a Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP) that advises the Idaho Department of Education on the education and related services for children with disabilities (ages birth through 26).

The responsibilities of Idaho’s SEAP, as defined in the IDEA Section 1412 (a) (21):

  • Advise the State educational agency of unmet needs within the State in the education of children with disabilities;
  • Comment publicly on any rules or regulations proposed by the State regarding the education of children with disabilities;
  • Advise the State educational agency in developing evaluations and reporting on data to the Secretary under section 1418 of this title;
  • Advise the State educational agency in developing corrective action plans to address findings identified in Federal monitoring reports under this subchapter; and;
  • Advise the State educational agency in developing and implementing policies relating to the coordination of services for children with disabilities.

Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP) – Membership Application

The Idaho Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP) is seeking applicants interested in serving as members of the panel. SEAP provides guidance and input to support the improvement of special education services and outcomes for students with disabilities across the state.

Individuals interested in applying for membership may complete the application at the link below. Additional information regarding the purpose of SEAP, member roles, and associated activities is available within the application here.

Application Deadline: April 30 at 6:00 PM (MT)

For questions regarding the application process, please contact our office.

Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP) Meeting

The Special Education Advisory Panel (SEAP) announces an open meeting. This meeting will be held on May 18th, 2026, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm in Boise, Idaho. This meeting is open to the public and includes an opportunity for public comment.

Agenda will be posted soon.

Address:
Joe R. Williams (JRW) Building
East Conference Room
700 W State St, Boise, ID 83702

If you have any questions, please contact Lily Phillips (208)332-6896 or email at lphillips@sde.idaho.gov.

Panel Members

The membership of the panel includes select organizations that are specifically focused on the needs of individuals with disabilities, parents of children with disabilities (ages birth through 26), and individuals with disabilities. Parents of children with disabilities and individuals with disabilities are vital members that represent a majority of the panel. The goal of the composition of the panel is to include all major stakeholders who can provide resources and support for individuals with disabilities.

If you would like to serve on SEAP, please complete and submit an application form. In Idaho, advisory panel members are appointed by the State Superintendent of Public Instruction (IDAPA 08.02.03.109.08). Panel members serve for a three year term.

Additional Information

To access additional information, click the appropriate + sign below

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I serve on the panel for more than one term?

Yes, a member can serve on SEAP for two consecutive terms. At the end of the initial three year term, a member must reapply for reappointment for a second three year term.

Do I receive payment for being a panel member?

No, SEAP members serve without compensation but the state will reimburse panel members for reasonable and necessary expenses for attending meetings and performing duties (e.g., travel).

What are the basic activities conducted at SEAP Meetings?

Examples of items commonly included on a SEAP agenda include:

  • Approval of meeting minutes
  • Public comment
  • State and federal updates from the Director of Special Education
  • Report on Results-Driven Accountability (RDA)
  • Report on State Performance Plan (SPP)
  • Group or sub-committee reports
  • Action items for annual priorities
What is the purpose of the annual report?

An annual report outlines advice to the Idaho Department of Education of priority areas that were addressed by the panel during the previous year. It serves to inform state officials and the public of the activities conducted by the panel. It outlines those areas of need within the state that are viewed as priorities in the education of children with disabilities.

Meeting Membership
Meeting Materials and Schedule
2025-2026 School Year
2024-2025 School Year
2023-2024 School Year
2022-2023 School Year
2021-2022 School Year
2020-2021 School Year
2019-2020 School Year

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Contact

Julie Whitman
SEAP Chair
wittmanjk@gmail.com

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