Duval County Public Schools - Every Student. Every Day.

Join Us at ESEAC – Empowering Voices, Shaping Futures!

The Exceptional Student Education Advisory Committee (ESEAC) is a team of parents, educators, community service providers and student support agency representatives. We collaborate in partnership with the Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Exceptional Education and Student Services (EE/SS) Department.

Our Purpose:
The Exceptional Student Education Advisory Council (ESEAC) serves as a collaborative platform for families, educators, and community members to provide meaningful input and strategic advice to the Duval County Public Schools Exceptional Education and Student Services (EE/SS) Department. Through open dialogue and collective problem-solving, ESEAC supports the department's mission of enhancing instructional services, educational opportunities, and support for students with diverse needs.

Our Mission:
Aligned with the mission of the Duval County Public Schools EE/SS Department, ESEAC is committed to:

• Advocating for the needs and rights of students with disabilities.

• Strengthening partnerships between families, schools, and the community.

• Promoting integrated practices to ensure quality education and equitable access for all students.

• Supporting the continuous improvement of services for students with exceptionalities.

Join Us:
The ESEAC sponsors four general meetings throughout the school year which are open to the public. Your voice matters! By participating in ESEAC, you contribute to shaping policies and practices that impact the lives of students with exceptional needs. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

Submit an application to become an ESEAC member today!

Amy Boyle, Chairperson

Christine Stephens, Vice Chairperson

Lara Nezami, Past Chair

Emily Bradford, Secretary

Kathy Powell, Membership Co-Chair

Melba Ande, Membership Co-Chair

Michelle Tetschner, Membership Co-Chair

Charlotte Temple, Historian

Henry Schmitges, Parent Liaison

Amy Valentine, DCPS EE/SS Executive Director

Meredith Fredeking, DCPS EE/SS Director  

Jason Merkison, DCPS EE/SS Director  

September 23, 2025: Meeting Link

January 13, 2026: Meeting Link

March 24, 2026: Meeting Link

May 12, 2026: Meeting Link

Meetings will be virtual from 12 noon -1:30 PM

August 26, 2025 (9:00 - 10:30)

November 18, 2025 (9:00 - 10:30)

February 24, 2026 (9:00 - 10:30)

April 14, 2026 (9:00 - 10:30)

2023-2024 Recordings

September 7, 2023
Topic: State of the District
Presenter: Amy Valentine, EESS Executive Director
Recording Link

November 16, 2023
Topic: ESE Procedures and Placement
Presenters:
Mia Espinoza, Supervisor, Admissions and Placement
Jamie King, Supervisor, School Psychology
Recording Link

February 22, 2024
Topic: Planning for Post-Secondary Transition
Presenter: Ellisa Hayes
Recording Link

May 16, 2024
Topic: End of Year Updates
Presenter: Amy Valentine, EESS Executive Director 
Recording Link