School District and UMass Lowell plan special education training program for interns

The Lowell School Committee's Special Education Subcommittee meeting on April 29, 2025, highlighted significant strides in enhancing training for special education staff, a move aimed at improving support for students with diverse needs. The discussions centered around a new partnership with Mass General Hospital, which will provide training for school psychologists and special education teachers, particularly those working with pre-kindergarten to first-grade students. This initiative is designed to equip educators with essential skills to better address the complexities of their students' needs.

The subcommittee emphasized the importance of consistent training, noting that without it, long-term change in educational practices is challenging. Plans are in place to expand training opportunities into the summer, ensuring that all staff members are aligned in their approaches and equipped with a foundational skill set.

Additionally, the committee discussed collaboration with UMass Lowell to create internship opportunities for education students. This partnership aims to integrate interns into local schools, allowing them to gain practical experience before graduation. The initiative is expected to not only benefit the interns but also enhance the support available in classrooms.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing efforts to expand these programs to more schools within the district, building on existing successful partnerships. The subcommittee is committed to gradually implementing these changes while prioritizing the most impactful initiatives.

As the Lowell School Committee moves forward, these training and partnership efforts reflect a broader commitment to improving educational outcomes for students with special needs, ensuring that educators are well-prepared to meet the challenges they face in the classroom.