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About Us

Special Education

Special Education Director

Natalia Kierul

Director of Special Education

 

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Allison Leahy

Assistant Director of Special Education

Special Education Department

The Acton-Boxborough Regional School District is committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment for students with disabilities.  Serving over 800 students, our Special Education Department provides a robust continuum of supports, from comprehensive related services to Learning Center and Specialized Program resources.  Our team collaborates closely with families and educators to personalize support plans that maximize each student's potential.  

Our programs are designed to promote access and equity, ensuring that students can thrive in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) possible and participate meaningfully in the general education curriculum.  We emphasize student-centered practices that encourage the development of independence, self-determination, and advocacy skills, enabling students to take an active role in their learning journey.  With a focus on differentiated instruction, multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), and inclusive practices, we aim to empower each student to achieve academic and personal success, preparing them for lifelong learning and fulfillment within and beyond the school setting. Read our Program Guide to learn more! 

Homebound/Hospitalized

Please visit Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education DESE website for important information and Forms for the required forms.  

504 Plan Information

At Acton-Boxborough, we are committed to ensuring that every student has equitable access to learning and school life.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law that protects the rights of students with disabilities. Through a 504 plan, students may receive accommodations and supports that help them fully participate in classroom instruction, activities, and assessments.

📘 Parent Resource:
We’ve created a Basic Guide to Section 504 Plans to help families understand the process, eligibility, and what supports may look like in our schools.
👉 Click here to review the Parent Guide

📘 Learn more about Section 504 and how eligibility is determined on the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website:
➡️ DESE: Section 504 Information

If you have questions or would like to discuss your child’s potential eligibility for a 504 plan, please contact: Shannon Dandridge, Section 504 Coordinator.

Acton-Boxborough SEPAC

We look forward to another collaborative year with Acton-Boxborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (AB SEPAC). Per Massachusetts law, the SEPAC’s role is to advise the district on the education and safety of children with disabilities and participate in program planning, feedback, and development. Meeting dates and more information can be found at AB SEPAC You can contact the AB SEPAC at abrsdsepac@gmail.com.

PowerSchool

Parents of students with IEPs and 504 Plans can find their student's documents in the PowerSchool Parent Portal.

Restraint Policy

Each school has a team of professionals trained in restraint accoring to the policies and procedures established by ABRSD. The district provides yearly training to staff to keep everyone current. Please review our Restraint Policy (JKAA).

 

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