So…what is a SEPAC, anyway?

Connecting Families, Supporting Students, and Strengthening Schools

If you are a parent or caregiver of a child with a disability, you may have heard of SEPAC, but what does SEPAC really mean? In this post, we break down what a SEPAC is, why it matters, and how it benefits your family and school community.

What is a SEPAC?

SEPAC stands for Special Education Parent Advisory Council and every district in Massachusetts must have one. More than a legal requirement, SEPACs serve as vital connectors between families, schools, and districts, working together to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

What Does a SEPAC Actually Do?

A SEPAC’s primary responsibility is to advise the school committee on issues affecting the education and safety of students with disabilities, including those on IEPs, 504 plans, or who have other learning or health needs. In doing so, SEPACs elevate the voices and experiences of parents and caregivers, identify what is working well and where improvements are needed in special education, share valuable resources, build connections among families, and collaborate with school leaders to enhance student outcomes. SEPACs do not handle individual complaints or advocate for specific students. Instead, they focus on broader policies and programs that can impact many students at once.

A Collaborative Role

A strong SEPAC acts as a partner to school districts—collaborating to find solutions and build better programs for everyone. As part of this process, SEPACs work closely with superintendents, district administrators, special education directors, and school committees to maintain open, productive communication. This kind of collaboration means districts hear from parents early on, can solve problems before they grow, and build trust in the process. When SEPACs and districts work together, everyone benefits from stronger communication and decision-making.

Why SEPACs Matter for All Students

While SEPACs focus on supporting students with disabilities, the positive changes they help create often benefit the entire school community. Inclusive practices and strong support systems help every student thrive.

Get Involved

Attend a meeting, join a workshop, share your feedback, or even serve on the SEPAC board. Your voice matters! SEPACs are strongest when families with different perspectives get involved. When families, districts, and school committees work together to support students with disabilities, school communities become more inclusive, responsive, and supportive for everyone.