Community advocates demand improved support for special education and adult programs

A powerful plea for enhanced support for special education took center stage at the Acton-Boxborough School Committee meeting on April 17, 2025. Amanda Bailey, a passionate advocate for families with special needs, delivered an emotional address urging the community to prioritize collaborative planning for students transitioning to adulthood.

Bailey emphasized the urgent need for resources, funding, and options for adult programs and housing, stating, "Our children need collaborative, early, person-centered planning through the special education process for life after high school." She highlighted the exhaustion and overwhelm many families face, calling for shared advocacy and respite services. Her remarks resonated deeply, as she paraphrased Jordan Levine, stressing the importance of awareness and acceptance in combating ableism and addressing unmet needs.

The meeting also saw committee members expressing solidarity with Bailey's concerns. One member voiced their horror at recent comments made by a state secretary, acknowledging Bailey's tireless efforts on behalf of families. "The amount of work and effort that you put in on behalf of our kiddos and families with special needs is truly just unbelievable," they stated, underscoring the critical role of advocacy in the community.

As the meeting concluded, the call for action was clear: the Acton-Boxborough community must come together to ensure that all children, especially those with special needs, receive the support and resources they deserve as they transition into adulthood. The committee's commitment to addressing these issues will be vital in shaping a more inclusive future for all students.