This inspiring success story follows a young boy who was initially misclassified in a restrictive classroom despite his exceptional talents. Through determined advocacy, he was placed in a full inclusion program—where he thrived academically and personally.

New DESE Advisory: What the End of MCAS Means for Transition Planning in IEPs

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) had issued a significant advisory that impacts graduation requirements for students with IEPs. With MCAS no longer required for graduation starting with the Class of 2026, families must shift their focus to what's next: transition planning.

In this article, we break down the new DESE policy and explain how to ensure your child’s IEP includes strong, individualized transition services. We cover what transition planning really means—including instruction, related services, job skills, daily living skills, and community experiences—and how you, as a parent, can advocate for a plan that sets your child up for long-term success.

Learn why now is the time to review your child’s IEP and make sure their transition plan is truly preparing them for life after high school.

Hiring one expert for both special education advocacy and school placement ensures a unified strategy, consistent documentation, and better outcomes for your child. In this post, Maureen Brown, M.S., explains why combining these roles saves time, reduces costs, and leads to more effective IEPs and placements.

Massachusetts has failed to ensure local school districts are providing special education students with the services and protections they are entitled to under federal law, the US Department of Education has concluded in a long-awaited review.

In a report made public Tuesday night, the Department’s Office of Special Education Programs identified 10 ways the state Education Department is not complying with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the federal law guaranteeing disabled students the right to a free and appropriate public education. Those range in scope from parents not being told the full extent of their rights to students languishing for months without needed support.

by Mandy McLaren, Boston Globe Article from 2/13/25

From Special Ed to a Full College Scholarship! 🎓

I met David at 3 years old—bright, talented, and full of potential. But because he was on the autism spectrum, he was placed in a separate classroom. We fought for full inclusion, and once there, he thrived.

🏈 Football team manager
📚 Honor Roll student
🎶 Gifted musician
👑 Homecoming runner-up

Yesterday, he texted me: "Guess what? I got a merit scholarship and full tuition to my dream college."

This is why I do what I do. Inclusion works. Keep fighting for your child—it’s worth it. 💙

#InclusionMatters #SpecialEducation #NeverGiveUp #SuccessStories #IEPAdvocacy