We strive to improve services and support a positive culture by promoting programs and fostering communication.

Collaborate
All Massachusetts school districts are required by state law [Chapter 71B, Section 3] to establish a parent advisory council on special education. We maintain an open dialogue with our school district to address our mandated, joint responsibilities. To accomplish this, we:

• Meet regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of the district’s general education and special education services, policies, and programs
• Advise school committees on matters and programs that involve the education, health, and safety of students with special needs
• Interact with other SEPACs, school councils, PTOs, and the community at large to increase representation on matters related to education, and social/emotional development.

Inform
We help parents understand the special education process and their role as members of their child’s special education team. We do this by:

• Sponsoring an annual basic rights seminar for parents to learn their legal rights and protections under state and federal laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and other safeguards that ensure that all students receive a Free Appropriate Public Education
• Hosting community-wide educational seminars on topics of interest delivered by national and local subject matter experts

Support
We offer opportunities for parents to connect with other parents to share experiences, exchange information, and to learn from each other. We do this by:

• Serving as a general support network and resource for parents and guardians to help their children grow with our schools and community
• Providing a forum for asking questions, receiving answers, discussing concerns, and sharing resources and advice