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CPAC: Parents report spotty special-education communication; call for clearer eligibility and consistent services
Summary
Westford Public Schools’ Special Education Parent Advisory Council presented survey results showing mixed satisfaction on communication, requests for clearer entry/exit criteria for IEPs and 504s, and calls for more classroom-based supports and staff planning time. The CPAC aligned recommendations with the district equity audit.
Melissa Mackey, chair of the Westford Special Education Parent Advisory Council (CPAC), presented the council’s annual parent/caregiver survey to the Westford School Committee on June 9, saying the survey seeks family feedback about how the district supports students with disabilities.
The CPAC survey, run March 18–April 4 via Google Forms, drew fewer responses than prior years. Of respondents, 88% were families of Westford Public Schools students; 80% had children on individualized education programs (IEPs) and 12% reported 504 plans. The CPAC reported a roughly 2.5% response rate relative to district special-education caseloads.
Why it matters: The CPAC told the committee that communication gaps and perceived inconsistency across schools are driving parent concerns and that those gaps can leave families unsure how to request services or whether they are missing supports.
Survey fin…
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