The 2002 OSEP National Conference was held on Monday, November 4th at 9:00 a.m. and concluded on Wednesday, November 6th at 12:30 p.m. Over 500 people attended the fall 2002 conference to discuss a variety of issues and strategies related to serving children, ages birth to six, with special needs and their families. Additionally, there were a series of pre-conference meetings on Sunday, November 3, including the ICC Seminar. Post-conference meetings, included the Pacific TA Meeting on November 7.

• Gain better understanding of research findings and practices
• Further the goals of the US Department of Education by including all children and leaving no child behind
• Build relationships/linkages with others to promote collaborative work, parental options, and innovative programs
• Acquire resources that will lead to implementing successful evidence-based practices as well as high educational standards
• Gain a sense of confidence, energy, and achievement for continued work on early childhood issues

The 2002 Conference met the needs of a variety of audiences involved in planning and delivery services to young children with special needs and their families. Participants included:

• State Part C coordinators and staff
• OSEP and other federal agency staff
• ICC members and staff
• FICC members
• Section 619 coordinators and staff
• National/regional/state TA providers
• Early Childhood Projects staff
• Family members of children with special needs
• Others in the early childhood community

The conference was sponsored by the US Department of Education, Office of Special Programs (OSEP). It was planned collaboratively with a Conference Planning Committee representing diverse interests and perspectives and the National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC).