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Student services launches program review; proposes in-district cohort for severe K–2 needs
Summary
Interim student-services leader Anne Marie outlined a DESE-aligned IEP rollout, a comprehensive program review scheduled for mid-January, reinvigorated CPAC outreach, and a plan to pilot an in-district K–2 cohort (3–5 students) using ABA principles to reduce expensive out-of-district placements.
Anne Marie, the interim student-services lead, told the committee the district is implementing DESE’s new IEP format and has contracted a comprehensive program review expected to include records reviews and on-site visits in mid-January. "DESE rolled out, a new IEP, so we are rolling with that," she said, and described the review as a chance to assess enrollment trends, specialized programs and staff support models across K–12.
She proposed creating an in-district cohort for K–2 students with higher support needs (targeting 3–5 students) built on ABA-informed instruction, individualized supports and integration with general-class activities where possible. The district will pilot behavior-analysis software for 30 days with targeted teachers and consult neighboring districts for site visits; Anne Marie explained repatriating some out-of-district students could be possible if the program meets identified needs. Committee members discussed staffing, BCBA consultation, costs of out-of-district tuition and how the program review will inform next steps.
