Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Special Services topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Special services parent liaison group reports $65,000 in donations and new inclusion initiatives
Summary
The special services parent liaison group reported raising roughly $65,000 this year to support staff appreciation and inclusive programs and announced a May 17 parent educator conference; the Somerville Mayor's Committee said it will award more than $20,000 in scholarships to students with differing abilities.
Representatives of the district's special services parent liaison group (SSPL) and the Somerville Mayor's Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities updated the board on a series of community-driven initiatives and resources during the April 14 meeting.
SSPL report and accomplishments Wanda Gaston and Kendra Boffman described the SSPL's work to connect families, provide resources and collaborate with district leadership. The group said it raised more than $65,000 this year to support a special education staff appreciation day (up from $10,000 the prior year) and that more than 725 teachers and staff received gifts and raffle items at the event. The SSPL also partnered with the district to purchase 15 portable communication boards to distribute across elementary schools and to two local partner parks.
Upcoming events and programs SSPL announced a SPED parent educator conference on May 17 at Ashley Ridge High School with keynote speakers, breakout sessions and a community resource fair. The group is planning inclusion initiatives including a Special Olympics swim team and expansion of unified/inclusive sports to middle schools.
Somerville Mayor's Committee Hunter Jackson, chair of the Somerville Mayor's Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities, told the board the organization will award more than $20,000 in scholarships this year to local students with differing abilities and recognizes employers who provide meaningful work opportunities. Jackson noted the committee receives no government funding and relies on community fundraising.
Board response Board members praised the SSPL and community partners, thanked volunteers and highlighted the value of parent-led partnership. Administrators and board members noted district support for SSPL efforts and encouraged public attendance at the upcoming parent conference and inclusion events.
