Director's Update
What's Going On In Special Education In Bedford
Student Spotlight- The STEP Program
The students in the STEP Program at Bedford High School made an incredible contribution at the recent Veterans Free Produce Market held at VA Bedford. Their dedication and enthusiasm made a significant impact on the success of this event, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
Together, our STEP students at Bedford High School accomplished an impressive feat, assisting in the handling of 12 thousand pounds of produce for our veterans. Their hard work and commitment to service exemplify the values we strive to instill in our students, and I am immensely proud of each and every student who participated.
The veterans who benefited from their assistance were deeply appreciative of their support. The student’s presence at the market provided the veterans with not only practical help but also a sense of connection and community. The student's willingness to give their time and energy to serve others speaks volumes about their character and compassion.
I sincerely thank each student who participated in this meaningful event. Your generosity and kindness have made a positive difference in the lives of our veterans, and you should feel immensely proud of your contributions.
I also want to thank Louise D’Amato, Special Education Program Administrator at BHS, for developing the relationship with the VA. I also want to recognize the educators in the program, Victoria Breslin, Sarah Scheff, and Lisa Brecher, for teaching and supporting the students and guiding them to make choices that have a positive impact on themselves and others.
Extended School Year 2024
Extended School Year (ESY) services are designed to address the unique needs of students with disabilities during the summer months. These services are provided to ensure that children maintain the progress they have made throughout the school year and to prevent regression of skills that may occur during extended breaks from school.
Here's what you need to know about ESY services in Massachusetts:
1. Eligibility Criteria: Not every child who requires special education requires ESY Services. ESY services are available to students with disabilities who require special education and related services beyond the regular school year to receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). Eligibility for ESY services is determined by the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, based on the individual needs of the student. Approximately 20-25% of the special education students in Bedford require ESY services.
2. Purpose of ESY Services: The primary purpose of ESY services is to prevent the loss of critical skills or knowledge that would likely occur without continued instruction and support during extended school breaks. ESY services are intended to address specific areas of need identified in the student's IEP and may include academic, social-emotional, behavioral, or other related services.
3. Duration and Schedule: ESY services are typically provided during the summer months, but the duration and schedule may vary depending on the individual needs of the student.
ESY services will take place starting on July 8th for all students that are recommended. ESY will end on August 1 or August 9th depending on which program the student is recommended. Programs will be held at JGMS and BHS. Programs will begin at 8:00 am or 8:30 am depending on the program and end between 11:00 and and 1:00 pm depending on the program. Parents of students that are recommended for ESY will be notified of the dates, times and locations of their students program.
4. Content of ESY Services: ESY services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each student and may include a combination of academic instruction, therapy services, social skills development, and other related supports. The content of ESY services is outlined in the student's IEP, which specifies the goals, objectives, and services to be provided during the summer months.
5. Parental Involvement: As a parent or guardian, your involvement in the ESY planning process is crucial. You have the right to participate in IEP meetings where ESY services are discussed, and your input is valued in determining the appropriate services for your child during the summer months.
If you have questions about your child’s ESY program, I encourage you to reach out to your child's liaison or special education program administrator for further information and support.
March 15 Professional Development Day
We have a very busy day planned for the special education staff on March 15.
All special educators and related service providers will meet at Bedford High School to learn about the new IEP form. I previously shared with you that the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released a new Individualized Education Program (IEP) form to be used in our schools and districts across the state. In Bedford, we will begin using the new form starting in September of 2024.
Your child's special education team is committed to providing the best possible support and services for your child's educational journey, and our use of the new IEP form is designed to enhance that commitment.
Teaching Assistants
There are two training sessions being held for teaching assistants.
1. Teaching assistants that have not yet had the full safety care training or the de- escalation training this year will participate in a Safety Care De-escalation training at the Lane School.
2. Teaching assistants who have already been safety care trained this year will have professional development by Lisa Gurdin BCBA, LABA at JGMS in the auditorium. The presentation, “The Art of Supporting Our Students: Understanding Why We Do What We Do,” is an interactive training that will enhance staff's understanding of the reasons behind students' behavior and how they can help their students achieve their goals. The training will cover practical student support strategies that are proactive, compassionate, and student-centered and the importance of responding to behavior with consistency and predictability in the classroom. Participants will explore how to approach their work with a neurodiversity affirming approach and how to effectively flow through challenging situations. Throughout the day, participants will work in their teams to identify strategies they can implement with students immediately.
MCAS Spring 2024
As we approach the upcoming MCAS testing period, I wanted to share some essential strategies to help prepare your child for success.
While MCAS testing is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to assessing your child's progress, it's important to ensure they are as prepared as possible. Here are some strategies you can implement at home to support your child during this time:
1. Prioritize Restful Sleep: Adequate rest is crucial for cognitive function and concentration. Encourage your child to maintain a consistent sleep schedule in the days leading up to the test. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night to ensure they are well-rested and alert during testing sessions.
2.Nutritious Breakfast: Start the day off right by providing your child with a healthy, balanced breakfast. A breakfast rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can provide sustained energy and support cognitive function. Consider options such as eggs, whole grain toast, yogurt with fruit, or oatmeal topped with nuts and seeds.
3. Hydration: Make sure your child stays hydrated throughout the testing day. Dehydration can negatively impact cognitive performance and attention levels. Encourage them to drink water regularly, both before and during the test.
4. Stress Management: Help your child manage test-related stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or gentle stretching. Encourage them to focus on positive affirmations and remind them that it's okay to feel nervous—it's a natural response to testing situations.
By implementing these strategies and providing your child with the support they need, you can help them approach the MCAS testing period with confidence and resilience. Remember, your child's well-being and growth are the most important priorities, and the results of the test do not define their worth or potential.
Special Education Parent Advisory Counsel (SEPAC)
BEDFORD SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council)
SEPAC is a group of parents & caregivers of children receiving special education support and/or children with disabilities. All parents & caregivers welcome! We meet for support, education, networking and resource sharing.
Bedford SEPAC General Meetings: Virtual
Come and discuss special education programming in Bedford and how we can best support our children.
Thurs, Mar 14, 2024 at 7:30 PM with guests Jonathan Hartunian, Marianne Vines, Alex Plodzik
Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 7:30 PM with guest Marianne Vines
Thurs, May 16, 2024 at 7:30 PM
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4172275285?pwd=OTZaeHZOM3lSY1h4Z0J5SndVMTk0Zz09
Meeting ID: 417 227 5285
Passcode: 333333
Email: bedfordmasepac@gmail.com
Web: bedfordmasepac.org
Facebook group: https://www.facebook. com/groups/BEDFORDMASEPAC/