PAC
Every year, Rising Tide invites new members to join our Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC).  Our membership is open to parents (or guardians) of children with special needs and anyone interested in special needs education.   The Parent Advisory Council acts as a resource for families, providing support, networking and information about disabilities and the special education process.  

The goal of Rising Tide’s SEPAC is to encourage open communication, understanding and mutual respect among all students, parents, and the greater community.  We aim to provide a helpful network for parents including access to current resources, training, and emotional support.

Education Laws and Regulations 603 CMR 28.00: Special Education

603 CMR 28.07 (4) Parent Involvement

(4) Parent advisory participation. Each school district shall create a district wide parent advisory council offering membership to all parents of eligible students and other interested parties. The parent advisory council duties shall include but not be limited to: advising the district on matters that pertain to the education and safety of students with disabilities; meeting regularly with school officials to participate in the planning, development, and evaluation of the school district's special education programs. The parent advisory council shall establish by-laws regarding officers and operational procedures, and, in the course of its duties, the parent advisory council shall receive assistance from the district without charge, upon reasonable notice, and subject to the availability of staff and resources. The district shall conduct, in cooperation with the parent advisory council, at least one workshop annually within the school district on the rights of students and their parents and guardians under state and federal special education laws.  (See MGL c71B, 1C and 3)

If you have any questions regarding Rising Tide’s Special Education Parent Advisory Council, please contact Erin Preston, #508-747-2620 x240.

November 21, 2008
Parent Advisory Council Meeting
Agenda - High School Approval,Transition Planning, Parent’s Rights Presentation , Workshops/Seminars/Research 

Minutes:
Mrs. Crafts, head of school, joined the PAC meeting to discuss updates about the high school approval.  The state approved Rising Tide’s proposal to expand to a high school this past week.  The high school will be an extension of Rising Tide so the charter will be amended to include the higher grades.  The school is working towards adding a ninth grade for the fall of 2010 as they are exploring facility options and program development. 

Mrs. Preston reviewed the transition planning changes that will be made for students that will be 14 years or older during their IEP period.  The group discussed high school options that will prepare students for their post-secondary goals.

Given guidance from the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the PAC members reviewed ideas for a parents’ right presentation.  The PAC decided to arrange the presentation for January 21st, 2009.  After review of the rights in regards to evaluations, eligibility, and services, the PAC discussed issues to highlight for parents that are new to special education procedures.

To involve more parents, members of the PAC volunteered to call parents about upcoming meetings and Rising Tide will post more information on the website.