Harvard SEPAC
Harvard SEPAC
and Parent Support Group
 
 

Our Mission:

Connect, Advocate, Include.

The mission of the Harvard SEPAC is to create an inclusive community of students, parents, educators and district employees that fosters support and respect for children with special needs. Our practice involves partnering with the school committee and district leaders to plan, develop and evaluate special education programs and support families by creating a network that provides education, connection and communication. 

Our main priorities are strengthening our community through inclusion, and promoting an open, positive, collaborative relationship between special education district employees and parents. Additionally we strive to work with Harvard Public Schools to ensure that students’ needs under Massachusetts Special Education regulations and other applicable laws are being met. 

 
 
 
 
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Purpose and Function

Working in partnership with the school committee and district leaders to plan, develop, evaluate and provide feedback on special education programs.

Serving as a liaison between families receiving special education services and district leaders.

Creating a support network for families in the special education community to allow for communication, connection and shared resources.

Promoting a community culture of awareness, understanding, acceptance and inclusion of children and families with unique needs through educational programs, community events and maintenance of an open-dialogue with our school district.

Learn More

 
 

Our Impact

The Harvard SEPAC is rapidly growing. We are a community of parents, caregivers, concerned community members, and educators that care deeply about the students with special needs in Harvard. We represent students with a variety of different needs, from severe physical and cognitive differences to hearing loss, and “invisible diagnoses” such as ADHD and dyslexia. We are committed to bringing educational workshops and speakers to the community to help spread awareness about better serving these children, as well as reduce the stigma surrounding special education.

 

122

students on ieps in Harvard by June 2021

According to the most recent data from pupil services.

 

38%

nearly 38% of students with IEPS have “invisible disabilities” in 2018

Students dealing with the effects of learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, and other differences that aren’t as visible face a unique set of difficulties with peers and educators.

 
 

14%

Of students with IEPs were out of district in 2018

Out of district placements meet the needs of students whose physical, sensory, medical, emotional, cognitive, or other needs could not be met in the general education classrooms of Harvard Schools.

 

Our Programs

The SEPAC is proud to support the Harvard Special Needs Parent Support Group. Both have very important different roles in the community.

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“

October 2019

Being a parent to children with special needs is incredible. Incredibly rewarding, exhausting, and you can’t do it alone. I’m so glad I’ve found this community of parents in Harvard who want to support each other and improve special education.

- Aspen Ference, Co-chair of the SEPAC, and mom of three special needs boys

 

 

Get Involved

Our organization cannot function without a thriving, engaged body of parents, caregivers, educators, and community members.

 

Sign Up for an event

Please join us at a SEPAC meeting or Parent Support Group Event!

Volunteer opportunities

It takes a village to run the SEPAC.