Advise the BPS on matters that pertain to the education and safety of students with disabilities;
Meet regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of the school District’s special education programs.
Advocate for the appropriate supports and special education services necessary to meet the individual needs of children with disabilities.
Hold monthly SpedPac meetings to discuss important updates from BPSʼs Office of Special Education and Student Services;
Educate parents and caregivers through training and workshops on special education matters and issues.
Boston SpedPac Priorities (just a few):
Expand Qualified, Effective Inclusive Schools and Programs Throughout BPS SpedPac is working with the District to increase inclusive opportunities throughout the District for special education students. The law requires that students with disabilities must be educated, to the maximum extent possible, in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) with their non-disabled peers. Over 46% of BPS SPED students are still in substantially separate settings (with only disabled peers).
Effective, Equitable Transition Planning, Services, and Vocational Opportunities MA Law requires Transition services to start at age 14, sooner if determined appropriate. SpedPac is working with the District to expand effective transition options for middle and high school; including more vocational opportunities, and student centered transition planning.
