Special Education Advisory Committee

In accordance with Ontario Regulation 464/97, SEAC may make recommendations to the Board of Trustees on any matter affecting the establishment, development, and delivery of special education programs and services for exceptional pupils. Before the Board makes a decision on a recommendation, SEAC is provided the opportunity to be heard.

Within TVDSB, SEAC fulfills its mandate by:

• Making recommendations to the Board on special education programs and services;
• Participating in the annual review of the Special Education Plan; and
• Participating in the annual budget process as it relates to special education.

SEAC is composed of:

• Representatives from local associations that support the interests and well-being of exceptional children or adults, and their alternates;
• Up to three Trustees of the Board;
• Additional community members appointed by the Board; and
• Where applicable, representatives of Indigenous interests, as outlined in Regulation 464/97.

The current membership term is November 15, 2026 to November 14, 2030, aligned with the term of the Board of Trustees.

Applicants for community or additional member positions must meet eligibility requirements, including being eligible to vote for a TVDSB trustee and not being an employee of the Board. These requirements are detailed in the application form.

SEAC membership may be of interest to individuals who:

• Have lived experience, professional experience, or community involvement related to special education;
• Are interested in contributing a community perspective to Board-level discussions;
• Are able to engage respectfully in collaborative discussions that may include differing viewpoints; and
• Can commit to regular meeting attendance and preparation.

Meeting Schedule (to be confirmed):

The SEAC meeting schedule for the 2026–2030 term will be posted once approved. Dates will be added here and shared with appointed members.

• SEAC meets at least ten (10) times during each school year, with additional meetings scheduled as required.
• Meetings are open to the public.
• Meetings are typically held at the TVDSB Education Centre, 1250 Dundas Street, London, Ontario, with an online participation option available for members who cannot attend in person.
• Meeting dates are set annually based on staff and member availability and typically alternate between Monday and Tuesday afternoons and evenings.

Members are expected to attend meetings regularly and prepare in advance by reviewing agendas and materials.

The proposed meeting dates can be found on the TVDSB Board calendar. 

SEAC members are expected to:

• Attend meetings regularly and participate actively in discussions;
• Review agendas and materials in advance of meetings;
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate respectful conduct;
• Share perspectives informed by lived experience, organizational mandates, or community connections; and
• Act in an advisory capacity, recognizing that SEAC provides recommendations to the Board rather than making decisions. 

•  New members are required to participate in committee orientation within 60 days of appointment.
• Members receive initial and ongoing training related to special education, Ministry and Board policies, and are provided with a SEAC Committee Handbook.

Serving on SEAC provides an opportunity to:

• Contribute community and lived experience perspectives;
• Advise the Board on matters that directly impact students with special education needs;
• Participate in meaningful dialogue with trustees, staff, and community representatives; and
• Support the continuous improvement of special education programs and services within TVDSB.

As part of the nomination process, applicants are asked to respond to short questions about their understanding of SEAC’s role, their readiness to participate in advisory discussions, and the experience or perspective they would bring to the committee.

Interested individuals and organizations are invited to complete the SEAC Nomination Form and submit any required supporting documentation, including a letter of appointment.

Accommodations are available throughout the nomination process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

For questions about the application or nomination process, please contact Board Services at boardservices@tvdsb.ca.