Special Education Parent Advisory Council

Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)

Dear Gill-Montague Families:

Please consider this an open invitation to be a part of our GMRSD Special Education Parent/Guardian Advisory Council (SEPAC). SEPACs are typically comprised of parent/guardian volunteers. They are intended to be a place of support for parents/guardians of children who receive any type of special education services or accommodations in school, such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a 504 accommodation or an out-of-district placement.

What is SEPAC?

SEPAC is the acronym for Special Education Parent Advisory Council. The SEPAC is a volunteer organization of families of children with disabilities in the Gill-Montague Regional School District as well as students out of district. We are federally mandated to exist under Massachusetts Special Education Law and are charged with “advising the district 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 district’s special education programs.” 603 CMR 28:07(4)

Gill-Montague SEPAC Brochure

Typical Roles & Goals of SEPACs

Forward the understanding of, respect for, and support of all children with special education needs.
Promote a network of parents/guardians of children with special education needs and provide a forum for families to share information, challenges, and successes.
Advise the Student Servcies Director on the development of special education programs, parent/guardian and teacher training needs, and to help develop procedures and practices.
Promote communication between parents/guardians, staff, and administration.
Promote communication and programs within the community that seek to encourage understanding, acceptance and inclusion of children with special education needs.
Provide informational forums to parents/guardians as often as possible including an annual Parents Rights in Special Education Workshop.

Interested in the GMRSD SEPAC?

Please contact the Student Services and Family Engagement office by calling (413) 863-7508.