HCPSSGet to Know Howard County SECAC
February 23rd, 2026
The following article was prepared in collaboration with Howard County SECAC.
The Howard County Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) brings families, educators, and community members together to strengthen special education in Howard County.
At its heart, SECAC is a collaborative forum where lived experience, professional insight, and community voices come together in service of students with disabilities. It is a space where concerns are shared, ideas are explored, and meaningful dialogue helps shape a more responsive and inclusive special education system within HCPSS.
While SECAC serves as an advisory role to the Superintendent and Board of Education, its impact extends well beyond meetings. Members actively contribute to the HCPSS community by participating in key system committees, providing feedback on policies and initiatives, and elevating perspectives that might otherwise go unheard. Through this work, SECAC helps ensure that family and stakeholder voices remain part of district conversations and decision-making processes.
Committee Leadership
- Darria Wise, Co-Chair
- Melanie D. Lamar, Co-Chair
- Dianne Henry, Vice-Chair
- Jeannie Leoutsakos, Secretary
- Dawn Allen, Past Co-Chair
Building Knowledge. Strengthening Community.
Throughout the year, SECAC hosts events and discussions designed to inform, empower, and connect the community. Recent initiatives have included:
- A session focused on understanding learning disabilities, including the “3 D’s”: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyscalculia
- An Individualized Education Program (IEP) advocacy night featuring local advocates supporting families navigating the special education process
- Guidance on Extended School Year (ESY) services
- A special presentation by Guy Stephens from the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint
- Open forums encouraging collaboration between families and HCPSS
These events reflect SECAC’s commitment to fostering transparency, shared learning, and collective problem-solving across the Howard County community.
Celebrating Those Who Go Above and Beyond
SECAC’s annual Gladiator Awards recognize HCPSS staff members who go above and beyond in supporting students with IEPs.
This celebration honors educators, service providers, and school-based professionals whose dedication and advocacy make a meaningful difference in the lives of students with disabilities. It is an opportunity for the community to publicly recognize excellence in special education and celebrate partnership in action.
Be Part of the Work
SECAC thrives because of the voices at the table. Parents, caregivers, educators, advocates, and community members are encouraged to attend monthly meetings, share perspectives, and become active participants in strengthening special education in Howard County.
Whether you are new to special education or have years of experience, your voice matters.
To learn more, view meeting schedules, or get involved, visit: howardcountysecac.com
Together, we can continue building a stronger, more collaborative, and more responsive special education community within HCPSS.