Welcome to the Hingham Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)!
What is the Hingham SEPAC?
The Hingham SEPAC is a public, non-profit organization that provides information to parents and advocates for children in the Hingham Public Schools (HPS) special education program. Since 1986, Massachusetts special education law (Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws) requires all public school districts to maintain a Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) open to all parents and guardians of students with disabilities and other interested parties. The SEPAC works with the Director of Student Services, School Committee, Superintendent and teachers to promote a successful educational environment for our children. The SEPAC endeavors to ensure that all children have fair and equal access to educational opportunities, and that our schools are safe, nurturing, and challenging learning environments.
Who should be involved?
• Parents and guardians of students with disabilities who receive special education services from the Hingham Public Schools.
• Parents who suspect their child may have a disability that affects their learning.
• Parents who are just learning about the special education process and IEPs or who already have a child on an IEP.
• Parents of children receiving "Early Intervention" services who will be transitioning to the HPS system when their child turns 3 years old.
Why should you get involved?
• The SEPAC holds regular public meetings and events to provide information, support, and resources relevant to special education,
our students and their families.
• By participating, you will have a voice regarding programs that could affect your child.
• You will learn to advocate more effectively for your child and better understand our district's special education system.
• You will have the opportunity to network with and benefit from the experiences of other special education parents.
When are the meetings?
Hingham SEPAC meetings are held in the morning on the second Tuesday of each month. Special events and presentations are typically held in the evenings. Details of meetings and events are listed on our Calendar of Events. Also watch for announcements in the SEPAC newsletters and HPS school newsletters.
Your participation makes us more effective advocates for our special needs children.
