Special Education

We are lucky in Massachusetts. Only seven states have legislation to require school districts to support a local special education parent advisory council (or SEPAC), and these councils are not required under federal law. Massachusetts regulations also require the district to provide an annual workshop for families informing them of their basic rights and responsibilities.

In some ways everything is new, and in others not much. The first thing to emphasize is that the law has not changed! What is new is the Individualized Education Program (IEP) form itself, which has been thoughtfully updated to better serve families, educators, and students. 

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of students with special needs, becoming a Special Education Surrogate Parent (SESP) might be the perfect opportunity for you. An SESP gets to know a child who is experiencing state custody in the Child Welfare system, in order to represent their interests on the IEP team. In other words, they step into the role otherwise filled by a parent by serving as the educational decision-maker for the child. 

As we reflect on Commissioner Jane Ryder’s retirement, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible partnership we have enjoyed with her and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).