Free events in Albuquerque and Las Cruces offer learning, family activities and community connections.
Source: N.M. Publice Education Department
Image: Courtesy
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Public Education Department’s Office of Special Education will host its third annual Parent University in Albuquerque Nov. 13–14 and in Las Cruces Nov. 20–21, offering families free opportunities to learn about special education from cradle to career.
Training sessions will help families understand their child’s individualized education program, navigate the special education evaluation process and build strong family-school partnerships. Families can also explore strategies for supporting reading and math at home, promoting children’s mental health and emotional wellness, and preparing students with disabilities for graduation, college and employment. Additional sessions will cover assistive technology, transitions into preschool services and support available through New Mexico’s special education ombud.“Every child deserves opportunities to learn, grow and build a future that reflects their strengths,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla. “Parent University helps families connect with resources and with one another so they can be informed, confident partners in their children’s education.”
Receive the latest stories in your inbox every day — FREE!
Each two-day event begins with Family Fun Night, followed by a day dedicated to collaboration and learning. Food, free childcare and lodging will be provided. Families must register in advance for childcare.
Albuquerque: Nov. 13–14
Events will take place at Central New Mexico Community College’s Workforce Training Center, 5600 Eagle Rock Ave. NE.
- Family Fun Night: Friday, Nov. 13, from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
- Collaboration and learning: Saturday, Nov. 14, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Register: cvent.me/M3gEda
Las Cruces: Nov. 20–21
Events will take place at New Mexico State University’s Corbett Center Student Union, 2795 S. Locust St.
- Family Fun Night: Friday, Nov. 20, from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
- Collaboration and learning: Saturday, Nov. 21, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Register: cvent.me/8l3PQr
Family Fun Night is free and open to families of children with disabilities. Activities include a free dinner, live music, cultural performances, games, prizes, sensory-friendly haircuts and appearances by local sports mascots and athletes. Community resource tables will feature state agencies and organizations that support children with disabilities and their families.
Registration is not required for Family Fun Night. Families planning to attend Saturday’s Parent University program should register using the link for their preferred location.
To arrange free childcare, families must create a profile at ahelpinghandevents.com and use event code 9OU5 for Albuquerque or BQVZ for Las Cruces. For childcare registration assistance, call 575-756-1274.
You must be logged in to post a comment.