Special Education Legal Fund (S.E.L.F.) and Special Education Equity for Kids of Connecticut (SEEK CT) announce the 2026 SEEK/S.E.L.F. Resource Fair, taking place Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 2:00–5:00pm 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.
Laura Sullivan and Dana Johnson. Contributed photo
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/
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.
2:30pm- 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.)
3:30pm – 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.)
2025 Resource Fair. Contributed photo
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.”