Welcome to the Burlington Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) . We are a parent volunteer community that fosters connection, support and education for the parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. In an effort to do this, we fulfill a variety of crucial roles that include, but are not limited to, acting as liaison between parents and school district administration, advising the school district on the unique needs and perspectives of the special education community and providing parents with resources and support in navigating the world of special education. It is our goal to prioritize and protect the equal opportunities of the special needs population in all arenas of our schools and community.
Every district within Massachusetts is required by state law to establish a SEPAC. The law that governs this organization requires that we fulfill both an advisory and participatory role working with the school district and community. If you would like to learn more about this, please visit the links below.
The Federation for Children with Special Needs
MASSACHUSETTS STATUTE
Chapter 71B: Section 3 & 1C
https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXII/Chapter71B/Section3
The school committee of any city, town, or school district shall establish a parent advisory council on special education. Membership shall be offered to all parents of children with disabilities and other interested parties. The parent advisory council duties shall include but not be limited to: advising the school committee on matters that pertain to the education and safety of students with disabilities; meeting regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of the school committee's special education programs. The parent advisory council shall establish by-laws regarding officers and operational procedures. In the course of its duties under this section, the parent advisory council shall receive assistance from the school committee without charge, upon reasonable notice, and subject to the availability of staff and resources.
Massachusetts Regulation 603 CMR 28:07 (4)
https://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr28.html?section=07
Our board of directors is comprised of volunteer parents and caregivers who are elected annual. Membership is open to all parents and caregivers of students attending Burlington Public Schools.
Joining SEPAC provides parents with a supportive network of individuals with a shared experience. We work together to be a positive voice for special education within our community.
Our current board members include Elizabeth Orfanos, Laura Borisow and Kathy Cashman. Please consider joining our board and contributing to the crucial role we play in our community. Elections are held annually in June.
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