Methuen CPAC outlines workshops, outreach and vacancies as group presses for stronger special‑education communication

The Methuen Special Education Parent Advisory Council (CPAC) presented to the school committee May 12, outlining its role under state law, recent workshops and plans to expand outreach and member recruitment.

Why it matters: CPAC is the statutorily recognized parent advisory body that advises the school committee on matters that affect students with disabilities; its membership, outreach and visibility can shape family access to special‑education services and district planning.

CPAC president Nicole Perera told the committee the council’s purpose is “codified in Massachusetts general law to advise the school committee on matters that pertain to the education and safety of students with disabilities and to meet regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of the school committee's special education programs.” Perera outlined work this year, including bullying and eligibility workshops delivered in partnership with the Federation for Children with Special Needs, a “what special education programs look like” presentation with Assistant Superintendent Gina Bozek, and a recent “supporting friendship” family session focused on social connections for children with disabilities.

Accomplishments and plans: CPAC said it has improved visibility on the district website, developed parent surveys and brochures, added a QR code for quick feedback at school sites, and held monthly planning meetings with the assistant superintendent of student services. The council said it is looking to fill several officer and school‑level liaison positions (communications chair, secretary and PTO liaisons at several schools) and asked parents to volunteer. CPAC announced a repeat presentation about special‑education programs and the IEP process will be held May 20 at 6 p.m. at the Timoney School, and described planned student and teacher workshops on appreciating disability and building friendship strategies.

Funding and advocacy: Perera said CPAC will continue to advocate for expanded special‑education infrastructure and better district communications, including budgetary support to sustain program development. She noted CPAC works in partnership with school administration and urged families to participate so the council’s recommendations reflect family priorities.

Taper: Perera closed by encouraging more parent involvement: “If special education is something that is impactful to you or something that is important to you and you'd like to be more involved, the only way for the CPAC to advocate for the things that you're looking for change is by you using your voice and being making sure your voice is heard and represented.”