The Annual Campaign for the FCSN is the core of our fundraising program. Annual gifts support the current organization’s year’s operations and all aspects of programs and services not covered by state and federal funding. Your generosity helps fulfill our mission to provide information, support, and assistanceRead more →
Special Education Placement Options What is Available By Law Range of Educational Placements About Private Placements Considering a Placement Change? Coping with Placement Parent Stories Additional Resources About Us What are Special Education Private Schools? By law, public schools are required to provide a Free Appropriate PublicRead more →
Where do transition goals go in the Individualized Education Program (IEP)? View/Download a copy of the Transition Planning Form (TPF) View/Download a copy of the Massachusetts Individual Education Program Transition services are defined by federal law (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA) as a "coordinated set ofRead more →
What changes when my child turns 18? In Massachusetts, at the age of 18, a student is legally considered to be an adult even if they have a disability. This is called the “age of majority”. In the eyes of the law, they assume adult rights andRead more →
What is a Chapter 688 referral (“Turning 22” Law)? Chapter 688 is a law in Massachusetts addressing the needs of young adults with severe disabilities as they end their public-school education and transition into the adult service system. It requires a planning process to start at leastRead more →
FEDERAL SPECIAL EDUCATION LAWS REQUIRING AND DEFINING TRANSITION SERVICES FEDERAL SPECIAL EDUCATION LAWS REQUIRING AND DEFINING TRANSITION SERVICES Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq. In IDEA (2004), Congress stated as follows: “Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in noRead more →
Timelines Many families and transition-aged students can find the post-secondary transition process overwhelming. There is a lot to consider. There can be a lot of uncertainty navigating the possibilities of what life after high school will look like. Some families find using a transition timeline helps themRead more →
How can I help my child plan for life after high school? Helping a student with disabilities plan and prepare for life after high school is called the post-secondary transition process. In Massachusetts, students receiving special education services are eligible for post-secondary transition planning and supports whenRead more →
Special Education Placement Options What is Available By Law Range of Educational Placements About Private Placements Considering a Placement Change? Coping with Placement Parent Stories Additional Resources About Us Range of Educational Placements School districts are required to offer a range or continuum of school placements forRead more →