Frith Appointed to State Special Education Advisory Council

Danielle Frith, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Special Education, has been appointed to the New Jersey State Special Education Advisory Council (NJ-SSEAC).

In her new role, Frith will participate in collaborative work through committees and subcommittees that examine specific issues affecting special education and develop recommendations. Her two-year term began in September and will conclude July 2028.

"I am truly honored to have been appointed to the NJ-SSEAC. I have dedicated my career to improving outcomes for students with disabilities, first as a special education teacher and educational diagnostician and now as a professor preparing the next generation of special educators and educational professionals," Frith said.

As a council member, Frith will contribute to identifying and addressing unmet needs in special education, provide input on proposed special education rules and regulations, participate in discussions related to evaluation and data reporting, and advise on the development and implementation of policies related to the coordination of services for students with disabilities.

Frith noted that her participation on the council is particularly meaningful because of the experience she brings as a faculty member in higher education preparing future special education professionals.

"Having the opportunity to bring that perspective to NJ-SSEAC creates another connection between higher education, state-level decision-making, and P-12 practice … I hope to use those perspectives to help connect policy, research, educator preparation, and the realities of practice in schools," Frith said.

"I also see this appointment as an opportunity to highlight the work being done at Monmouth University. Within the School of Education and special education department, we are preparing educators to be knowledgeable, reflective, evidence-based practitioners who can effectively support students with disabilities and their families. I am proud to bring that work and perspective with me to the council while also bringing what I learn through my state-level service back to my students, colleagues, and the University."

NJ-SSEAC advises the New Jersey Department of Education and the Commissioner of Education on special education policy, unmet student needs, and federal compliance under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).