What is the DCRSD Special Education Parents Advisory Council?

A SEPAC is a Special Education Parent Advisory Council. Every public school district in Massachusetts is required to establish a SEPAC

Special education parent advisory councils (PACs) have tremendous potential to have a positive impact on special education programs in a school district. PACs can provide invaluable activities for parents, and add an important voice to a school district's dialogue and decision-making. (from Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education March 2010)

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An effective SEPAC takes the teamwork of the IEP process one step further, putting parents in the role of advisors who use their family’s experiences, unique perspectives and expertise to influence decisions and help shape programs and policies at the local level. An effective SEPAC is more than a meeting - it is an approach and a mindset that truly values the advice of parents. When parent advisors are valued and engaged through a local SEPAC, they can work together with school district staff and community leaders to improve education, not only for those with disabilities, but for all children. (from SPAN Parent Advocacy Network)