SCHOOL COMMITTEE GRANTS TEACHERS 16% PAY HIKE …KINNAS FILES PETITION TO COUNCIL IN PROTEST … WILL COUNCIL SHOW SOME SPINE AND STEP IN THE BOX FOR TAXPAYERS? … plus … COUNCIL ITEMS … and … THE REPORT THE GOBs DON’T WANT YOU TO READ: PITTSFIELD SCHOOLS ARE A DISASTER

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SCHOOL COMMITTEE GRANTS TEACHERS 16% PAY HIKE …KINNAS FILES PETITION TO COUNCIL IN PROTEST … WILL COUNCIL SHOW SOME SPINE AND STEP IN THE BOX FOR TAXPAYERS? … plus … COUNCIL ITEMS … and … THE REPORT THE GOBs DON’T WANT YOU TO READ: PITTSFIELD SCHOOLS ARE A DISASTER

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By DAN VALENTI

PLANET VALENTI News and Commentary

(FORTRESS OF SOLITUDE, TUESDAY, NOV. 13, 2012) — CAUTION: TODAY’S PLANET CONTAINS EXPLOSIVE AND SUBVERSIVE MATERIAL. THE CITY AND THE SCHOOL DEPARTMENT DO NOT WANT YOU TO BE AWARE OF THE REPORT CONTAINED AT FULL LENGTH IN OUR COLUMN. READ IT AS YOU WILL. IT’S LENGTHY, BUT IT’S AN EYE OPENER FOR HOW BAD PITTSFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS ARE RIGHT NOW. WHEN READING THIS, KEEP IN MIND THAT THE SCHOOL BOARD JUST OKAYED A NEW CONTRACT FOR CITY TEACHERS THAT GRANTS THEM A 16% PAY HIKE OVER THREE YEARS!

KINNAS PETITION CALLS ON COUNCIL TO INTERVENE IN RUINOUS TEACHERS’ PACT

Here is a word-for-word copy of a petition submitted to our Right Honorable Good Friends on the city council by Terry Kinnas, who with his relentless efforts on behalf of ordinary citizens has made him the Lonely End of the Pittsfield School Committee:

To the City Council of the City of Pitttsfield:- The undersigned respectfully

requests that the City Council, as part of its fiduciary responsibility, turn down the request for an additional appropriation to pay for the teachers’ retroactive contract. Most of the pay raises run from about 11% to 15% including steps.

The students lose at least 5 days (time) of classroom instruction.

The school choice/ charter school funds that leave Pittsfield equal about $3,200.000

The MCAS scores have not improved that much: actually some have gotten worse compared to the rest of the state.

Respectfully submitted,

Terry Kinnas

The city council meets tonight at 7:30 p.m. in chambers.

One Visionary, but the Man Needs Support

Kinnas Gets It. What a difference it would make in the body politic of Pittsfield if this visionary has support from his colleagues on the school committee and the city council. He does, but only sporadically. While his colleagues get the “Nervous Nellies,” Kinnas approaches his work with diligence, research, and a tireless work ethic on behalf of Mary Jane and Joe Kapanski.

The pay increases, compounded by steps at 16% over three years, will be given without merit. Name THE PLANET another sector of public and/or private life that hands out pay increases as a matter of rote and not based on performance. There is no other industry that can afford to be as lazy as that, but given the terror hold educators have over parents via their human shields known as The Children, teachers unions don’t care.

Fact is, the performance of Pittsfield schools steadily decreases, and yet the jellyfish on the school committee “penalizes” this with pay hike after pay hike. When you factor in the step increases, the pay raises will be between 11% and 16%. This is on top of an average teachers compensation of $70,o00 a year based on a 183-day year.

One might ask at this juncture why the city council has to rule on this? The reason is that Mayor Dan Bianchi proposes to pay for the raises by dipping into free cash (as if it’s “free”). It thus requires council approval, the same as in any appropriation. THE PLANET strongly urges the council to reject this measure and support Kinnas’ petition.

One last word on this. Mayor Bianchi’s petition to councilors for the extra cash is agenda item 8. Kinnas petition has been stuffed in the back as item 25. It would make much more sense to move Kinnas’ petition up to #7 (before the mayor’s request), to give councilors more information from the other side, which is the side taxpayers sit and stand.

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OTHER COUNCIL ITEMS OF INTEREST

The Foggy, Foggy Dews — Mayor Bianchi has several appointments on tap, including re-appointment of Warren Dews Jr. to the School Building Needs Commission. Dews provides the commission with an extra assurance of complacency and disservice. He is VP if circulation of the Boring Broadsheet. That’s like being Mitt Romney’s electoral vote counter on Nov. 6. The number keeps going south.

“Free” Cash — Bianchi wants to tap “free cash” to help fund the teachers’ steep pay raise. “Free cash”: That’s the money left over after the city funds its budget. In other words, its money they stole from taxpayers. They took it, didn’t need it, and nonetheless still kept it. As of July 1, 2012, the city had $5,672,057 in “free cash.” This doesn’t include $1,176,607 and $1,563,200 in enterprise funds for water and sewer, respectively. Altogether, that’s $8,411,864 that the city took from Mary Jane and Joe Kapanski that wasn’t needed to fund the budget. Oh, the games they play.

Open Meeting Complaint — Councilor Melissa Mazzeo filed a complaint on 10/22/12. She filed as an “individual.” She alleges that on Oct. 3, councilors Clairmont, Yon, Krol, Sherman, and Lothrop violated the law by discussing on Bill Sturgeon‘s radio show the vote of no confidence in city solicitor Kathy Degnan prior to the item being introduced in session on Oct. 9, 2012. In the supporting documents, Mazzeo calls upon Clairmont, Yon, Krol, and Lothrop to “issue a public apology.” Why does THE PLANET think such an apology isn’t forthcoming?

STATE’S ON-SITE AUDIT REPORT, ALSO WORD-FOR-WORD

You could look it up yourself, having to negotiate the city’s website, which is meant to hide school department news, but THE PLANET shall spare you that. Instead, we present as submitted the state’s report of an audit it conducted in April 2012. We shall let you read it yourself, reserving comment, except for these points:

* The state had identified serious problems with the Pittsfield Schools six years ago. Nonetheless, under the ineefectual Jake Eberwein III and a complacent school board, the city did NOTHING.

* It’s clear from the vocation section of the report that for years, the Pittsfield School Department has used the vocational program at Taconic High School as a dumping ground for what it deems academic refuse. What a shame and a crime. No wonder why Eberwein wanted an empty suit like Frank Cote to head vocational education at a hundred grand a year. Cote, incompetent and, as Contractgate seems to indicate, corrupt as well, would not prove a detriment to this cynical process.

Here is the state’s report:

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Pittsfield Public Schools

COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW REPORT OF FINDINGS

Dates of Onsite Visit: April 23-26, 2012 Date of Draft Report: July 17, 2012 Date of Final Report: October 1, 2012 Action Plan Due: October 31, 2012

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Onsite Team Members: Beth Lopez, Chairperson Marc Oldenburg, Program Quality Assurance

Tom Hidalgo, Program Quality Assurance Marnie Jain, Career Vocational Technical Education Karen DeCoster, Career Vocational Technical Education Dave Edmonds, Career Vocational Technical Education

Mitchell D. Chester, Ed.D. Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary EducationTemplate Version 120618 Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – Program Quality Assurance Services

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MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW REPORT

Pittsfield Public Schools

SCOPE OF COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEWS ………………………………………………………………. 4

COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW ELEMENTS ………………………………………………………………. 5

REPORT INTRODUCTION ……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8

DEFINITION OF COMPLIANCE RATINGS ………………………………………………………………………….. 11

LEGAL STANDARDS, COMPLIANCE RATINGS AND FINDINGS: ……………………………………… 12

SPECIAL EDUCATION ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12 CIVIL RIGHTS AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS…………. 53 CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION……………………………………………………………70

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MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW REPORT

Pittsfield Public Schools SCOPE OF COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEWS

As one part of its accountability system, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education oversees local compliance with education requirements through the Coordinated Program Review (CPR). All reviews cover selected requirements in the following areas:

Special Education (SE) • selected requirements from the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA-2004);

the federal regulations promulgated under that Act at 34 CFR Part 300; M.G.L. c. 71B, and the Massachusetts Board of Education’s Special Education regulations (603 CMR 28.00), as amended effective March 1, 2007. The 2011 – 2012 Web-based Monitoring System (WBMS) districts conducted self-assessments across all criteria.

Civil Rights Methods of Administration and Other General Education Requirements (CR) • selected federal civil rights requirements, including requirements under Title VI of the Civil

Rights Act of 1964; the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, together with selected state requirements under M.G.L. c. 76, Section 5 and M.G.L. c. 269 §§ 17 through 19.

• selected requirements from the Massachusetts Board of Education’s Physical Restraint regulations (603 CMR 46.00).

• selected requirements from the Massachusetts Board of Education’s Student Learning Time regulations (603 CMR 27.00).

• various requirements under other federal and state laws. • The 2011 – 2012 Web-based Monitoring System (WBMS) districts conducted self-assessments

across all criteria

English • selected requirements from M.G.L. c. 71A, the state law that governs the provision of education

to limited English proficient students, and 603 CMR 14.00, as well as the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. During the 2011-2012 school year, all districts that enroll limited English proficient students will be reviewed using a combination of updated standards and a self-assessment instrument overseen by the Department’s Office of Language Acquisition and Academic Achievement (OLAAA), including a request for information regarding ELE programs and staff qualifications.

Some reviews also cover selected requirements in:

Career/Vocational Technical Education (CVTE) • career/vocational technical education programs under the federal Carl D. Perkins Vocational and

Technical Education Act of 1998 and M.G.L. c. 74.

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Learner Education (ELE) in Public Schools

Districts providing Title I services participate in Title I program monitoring during the same year they are scheduled for a Coordinated Program Review. Details regarding the Title I program monitoring process are available at: http://www.doe.mass.edu/titlei/monitoring.

Team: Timing:

Criteria:

COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW ELEMENTS

Depending upon the size of a school district and the number of programs to be reviewed, a team of one to eight Department staff members conducts onsite activities over two to five days in a school district or charter school.

Each school district and charter school in the Commonwealth is scheduled to receive a Coordinated Program Review every six years and a mid-cycle special education follow-up visit three years after the Coordinated Program Review; about sixty-six school districts and charter schools are scheduled for Coordinated Program Reviews in 2011-2012, of which all districts participated in the Web-based Monitoring System (WBMS). The Department’s 2011–2012 schedule of Coordinated Program Reviews is posted on the Department’s web site at <<http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa/review/cpr/schedule.html>>. The statewide six-year Program Review cycle, including the Department’s Mid-cycle follow-up monitoring schedule, is posted at <<http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa/review/cpr/6yrcycle.html>>.

The Program Review criteria for each WBMS review, begins with the district/school conducting a self-assessment across all fifty-two current special education criteria. Program Quality Assurance through its Desk Review procedures examines the district/school’s self- assessment submission and determines which criteria will be followed–up on through onsite verification activities. For more details, please see the section on The Web-based Approach to Special Education and Civil Rights Monitoring at the beginning of the School District Information Package for Special Education and Civil Rights.

The requirements selected for review in all of the regulated programs are those that are most closely aligned with the goals of the Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 to promote student achievement and high standards for all students.

WBMS Methods: Methods used in reviewing special education programs include: Self-Assessment Phase:

• •

District/school review of special education documentation for required elements including document uploads. Upon completion of this portion of the district/school’s self- assessment, it is submitted to the Department for review. District/school review of a sample of special education student records selected across grade levels, disability categories and level of need. Additional requirements for the appropriate selection of the student record sample can be found in Appendix II: Student Record Review Procedures of the School District Information Package for Special Education. Upon completion of this portion of the district/school’s self-assessment, it is submitted to the Department for review.

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On-site Verification Phase: Includes activities selected from the following; • Interviews of administrative, instructional, and support staff consistent with those criteria

selected for onsite verification. • Interviews of parent advisory council (PAC) representatives and other telephone

interviews, as requested, by other parents or members of the general public. • Review of student records for special education: The Department may select a sample of

student records from those the district reviewed as part of its self-assessment, as well as records chosen by the Department from the special education student roster. The onsite team will conduct this review, using standard Department procedures, to determine whether procedural and programmatic requirements have been implemented.

• Surveys of parents of students with disabilities: Parents of students with disabilities whose files are selected for the record review, as well as the parents of an equal number of other students with disabilities, are sent a survey that solicits information regarding their experiences with the district’s implementation of special education programs, related services, and procedural requirements.

• Observation of classrooms and other facilities: The onsite team visits a sample of classrooms and other school facilities used in the delivery of programs and services to determine general levels of compliance with program requirements.

Note on collaborative programs and services: Where the district is a member of a collaborative approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and is a site for programs or services operated by the collaborative, interviews, student record review, and observation of classrooms are conducted for the collaborative.

Methods for all other programs in the Coordinated Program Review:

• Review of documentation about the operation of the charter school or district’s programs. • Interviews of administrative, instructional, and support staff across all grade levels. • Telephone interviews as requested by other parents or members of the general public.

• Review of student records for English learner education and career/vocational technical education: The Department selects a representative sample of student records for the onsite team to review, using standard Department procedures, to determine whether procedural and programmatic requirements have been implemented.

• Surveys of parents of English learners whose files are selected for the record review are sent a survey of their experiences with the district’s implementation of the English learner education program and related procedural requirements.

Report: Preparation:

At the end of the onsite visit, the onsite team will hold an informal exit meeting to summarize its comments for the superintendent or charter school leader and anyone else he or she chooses. Within approximately 45 business days of the onsite visit, the onsite chairperson

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will forward to the superintendent or charter school leader (and collaborative director where applicable) a Draft Report containing comments from the Program Review. The Draft Report comments for special education and civil rights are provided to the district/school on-line through the Web-based Monitoring System (WBMS). These comments will, once the district has had a chance to respond, form the basis for any findings by the Department. The district (and collaborative) will then have 10 business days to review the report for accuracy before the publication of a Final Report with ratings and findings (see below). The Final Report will be issued within approximately 60 business days of the conclusion of the onsite visit and posted on the Department’s website at <http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa/review/cpr/reports/>.

Content of Final Report:

Ratings. In the Final Report, the onsite team gives a rating for each compliance criterion it has reviewed; those ratings are “Commendable,” “Implemented,” “Implementation in Progress,” “Partially Implemented,” “Not Implemented,” and “Not Applicable.” “Implementation in Progress,” used for criteria containing new or updated legal requirements, means that the district has implemented any old requirements contained in the criterion and is training staff or beginning to implement the new requirements in such a way that the onsite team anticipates that the new requirements will be implemented by the end of the school year.

Findings. The onsite team includes a finding in the Final Report for each criterion that it rates “Commendable,” “Partially Implemented,” “Not Implemented,” or “Implementation in Progress,” explaining the basis for the rating. It may also include findings for other related criteria.

Response: Wherecriteriaarefound“PartiallyImplemented”or“NotImplemented”,thedistrictor charter school must propose corrective action to bring those areas into compliance with the relevant statutes and regulations. This corrective action plan (CAP) will be due to the Department within 20 business days after the issuance of the Final Report and is subject to the Department’s review and approval. Department staff will offer districts and charter schools technical assistance on the content and requirements for developing an approvable CAP .

Department staff will also provide ongoing technical assistance as the school or district is implementing the approved corrective action plan. School districts and charter schools must demonstrate effective resolution of noncompliance identified by the Department as soon as possible but in no case later than one year from the issuance of the Department’s Final Program Review Report.

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INTRODUCTION TO THE FINAL REPORT

A six-member Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education team visited Pittsfield Public Schools during the week of April 23, 2012 to evaluate the implementation of selected criteria in the program areas of special education, civil rights and other related general education requirements, and English learner education. The team appreciated the opportunity to interview staff and parents, to observe classroom facilities and to review the programs underway in the district.

The Department is submitting the following Coordinated Program Review Report containing findings made pursuant to this onsite visit. In preparing this report, the team reviewed extensive written documentation regarding the operation of the district’s programs, together with information gathered by means of the following Department program review methods:

• Interviews of 12 administrative staff. • Interviews of 86 teaching and support services staff across all levels. • Interview of one parent advisory council (PAC) representative. • Interviews of two parents of students in career vocational technical programs. • Interviews of 15 students in career vocational technical programs. • Interviews as requested by persons from the general public. • Student record reviews: Samples of 42 special education student records, 15 English learner

education student records and ten career/vocational technical education student records were selected by the Department. These student records were first examined by local staff, whose findings were then verified by the onsite team using standard Department record review procedures.

• Surveys of parents of students with disabilities: 50 parents of students with disabilities were sent surveys that solicited information about their experiences with the district’s implementation of special education programs, related services and procedural requirements. Nine of these parent surveys were returned to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for review.

• Surveys of parents of English Language Education (ELE) students: 15 parents of ELE students were sent surveys that solicited information about their experiences with the district’s implementation of English learner education programs, services, and procedural requirements. None of these parent surveys were returned to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for review.

• Observation of classrooms and other facilities. A sample of 20 instructional classrooms and other school facilities used in the delivery of programs and services was visited to examine general levels of compliance with program requirements.

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The report includes findings in the program areas reviewed organized under nine components. These components are:

Component I: Assessment of Students Component II: Student Identification and Program Placement Component III: Parent and Community Involvement Component IV: Curriculum and Instruction Component V: Student Support Services Component VI: Faculty, Staff and Administration Component VII: Facilities Component VIII: Program Evaluation Component IX: Recordkeeping and Fund Use

The findings in each program area explain the “ratings,” determinations by the team about the implementation status of the criteria reviewed. The ratings indicate those criteria that were found by the team to be substantially “Implemented” or implemented in a “Commendable” manner. (Refer to the “Definition of Compliance Ratings” section of the report.) Where criteria were found to be either “Partially Implemented” or “Not Implemented,” the district or charter school must propose to the Department corrective actions to bring those areas into compliance with the controlling statute or regulation. Districts are expected to incorporate the corrective action into their district and school improvement plans, including their professional development plans.

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Pittsfield Public Schools

SUMMARY OF COMPLIANCE CRITERIA INCLUDED IN THIS REPORT REQUIRING CORRECTIVE ACTION

NOTE THAT ALL OTHER CRITERIA REVIEWED BY THE DEPARTMENT THAT ARE NOT MENTIONED ABOVE HAVE RECEIVED AN “IMPLEMENTED” OR “NOT APPLICABLE” RATING.

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PROGRAM AREA

PARTIALLY IMPLEMENTED

NOT IMPLEMENTED

OTHER CRITERIA REQUIRING RESPONSE

Special Education

SE 6, SE7, SE 8, SE 29, SE 32, SE 48, & SE 55

Civil Rights and Other General Education Requirements

CR 3, CR 7, CR 9, CR 10A, CR 16, CR 22, CR 24, & CR 25

Career/Vocational Technical Education

CVTE 1, CVTE 2, CVTE 3, CVTE 4, CVTE 5, CVTE 6, CVTE 7, CVTE 8, CVTE 9, CVTE 10, CVTE 11,

CVTE 12, CVTE 13, CVTE 14, CVTE 17, CVTE 18, CVTE 20 CVTE 21, CVTE 22, & CVTE 25

Commendable

Implemented

Implementation in Progress

Not Implemented Not Applicable

DEFINITION OF COMPLIANCE RATINGS

Any requirement or aspect of a requirement implemented in an exemplary manner significantly beyond the requirements of law or regulation.

The requirement is substantially met in all important aspects.

This rating is used for criteria containing new or updated legal requirements and means that the district has implemented any old requirements contained in the criterion and is training staff or beginning to implement the new requirements in such a way that the onsite team anticipates that the new requirements will be implemented by the end of the school year.

The requirement is totally or substantially not met.

The requirement does not apply to the school district or charter school.

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SPECIAL EDUCATION

LEGAL STANDARDS, COMPLIANCE RATINGS AND FINDINGS

CRITERION NUMBER

SPECIAL EDUCATION I. ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS

Legal Standard

SE 1

Assessments are appropriately selected and interpreted for students referred for evaluation

Tests and other evaluation materials are: a. validated b. administered and interpreted by trained individuals c. tailored to assess specific areas of educational need and related

developmental needs d. selected and administered to reflect aptitude and achievement levels and

related developmental needs e. as free as possible from cultural and linguistic bias f. provided and administered in the language and form most likely to yield

accurate information on what the student knows and can do academically,

developmentally, and functionally g. not the sole criterion for determining an appropriate educational program h. not only those designed to provide a single general intelligence quotient i. are selected and administered to ensure that when a test is administered to a

student with impaired sensory, manual, or speaking skills, the test results accurately reflect the student’s aptitude or achievement level or the other factors the test purports to measure

j. technically sound instruments that may assess the relative contribution of cognitive and behavioral factors, in addition to physical or developmental factors

In interpreting evaluation data and making decisions, the district: a. uses information from a variety of sources to gather relevant functional and

developmental information, including information provided by the parent b. ensures that information obtained from these sources is considered c. ensures that the placement decision conforms with placement in the least

restrictive environment d. includes information related to enabling the student to be involved in and

progress in the general curriculum

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04 603 CMR 28.05

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

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Legal Standard

SE 2

Required and optional assessments

Required assessments: The following assessments are completed by appropriately credentialed and trained specialists for each referred student: a. Assessment(s) in all areas related to the suspected disability (ies) including

consideration of any needed assistive technology devices and services and/or

instruction in braille. b. Educational assessment by a representative of the school district, including a

history of the student’s educational progress in the general curriculum. c. Assessment by a teacher(s) with current knowledge regarding the student’s specific abilities in relation to learning standards of the Massachusetts

Curriculum Frameworks and the district’s general education curriculum, as well as an assessment of the student’s attention skills, participation behaviors, communication skills, memory, and social relations with groups, peers, and adults.

d. For a child being assessed to determine eligibility for services at age three (3), an observation of the child’s interactions in the child’s natural environment or early intervention program is strongly encouraged together with the use of current assessments from early intervention Teams to avoid duplicate testing.

Optional assessments: The Administrator of Special Education may recommend or the parent may request one or more of the following:

b. c.

comprehensive health assessment by a physician that identifies medical problems or constraints that may affect the student’s education. The school nurse may add additional relevant health information from the student’s school health records.

A psychological assessment by a certified school psychologist, licensed psychologist, or licensed educational psychologist, including an individual psychological examination. A home assessment that may be conducted by a nurse, psychologist, social worker, guidance or adjustment counselor, or teacher and includes information on pertinent family history and home situation and may include a home visit, with the agreement of the parent.

At the re-evaluation of a student, if no additional assessments are needed to determine whether the student continues to be eligible for special education, the school district recommends to the student’s parents the following: a. that no further assessments are needed and the reasons for this; and

b. the right of such parents to request an assessment.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04 (1) and (2)

34 CFR 300.304; 300.305; 300.324(a)(2)(v)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 3

Special requirements for determination of specific learning disability

When a student suspected of having a specific learning disability is evaluated, the Team creates a written determination as to whether or not he or she has a specific learning disability, which is signed by all members of the Team, or if there is disagreement as to the determination, one or more Team members document their disagreement.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.8(c)(10); 300.311

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 4

Reports of assessment results

Each person conducting an assessment shall summarize in writing the procedures employed, the results, and the diagnostic impression, and shall define in detail and in educationally relevant and common terms, the student’s needs, offering explicit means of meeting them. Assessors may recommend appropriate types of placements, but shall not recommend specific classrooms or schools. Summaries of assessments are completed prior to discussion by the Team and, upon request, are made available to the parent at least two days in advance of the Team discussion.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04(2)(c)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 5

Participation in general State and district-wide assessment programs

2. 3.

All students with disabilities whose placements are funded by the district are included in the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) and other district-wide assessment programs. The district’s IEP Teams designate how each student will participate and, if necessary, provide an alternate assessment.

The superintendent of a school district–or, for a public school program that is not part of a school district, the equivalent administrator:

b. c.

files an MCAS performance appeal for a student with a disability when the student’s parent or guardian or the student, if 18 or over, requests it, provided that the student meets the eligibility requirements for such an appeal;

obtains the consent of the parent or guardian or the student, if 18 or over, for any MCAS performance appeal filed on behalf of a student with a disability; includes in the MCAS performance appeal, to the extent possible, the required evidence of the student’s knowledge and skills in the subject at issue.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

St. 2003, c. 140, s. 119 603 CMR 30.05(2),(3),(5)

20 U.S.C. 1412(a)(16)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 6

Determination of transition services

1. The Team discusses the student’s transition needs annually beginning no later than when the student is 14 years old and documents its discussion on the Transition Planning Form.

2. The Team reviews the Transition Planning Form annually and updates information on the form and the IEP, as appropriate.

3. Reserved 4. For any student approaching graduation or the age of twenty-two, the Team

determines whether the student is likely to require continuing services from adult human service agencies. In such circumstances, the Administrator of Special Education makes a referral to the Bureau of Transitional Planning in the Executive Office of Health and Human Services in accordance with the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71B, §§12A-12C (known as Chapter 688).

5. In cases where the IEP included needed transition services and a participating agency other than the school district fails to provide these services, the Team

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

reconvenes to identify alternative strategies to meet the transition objectives. 6. The district ensures that students are invited to and encouraged to attend part or

all of Team meetings at which transition services are discussed or proposed.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L.c.71B, Sections 12A-C 603 CMR 28.05(4)(c)

34 CFR 300.320(b); 300.321(b); 300.322(b)(2); 300.324(c)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

The review of student records and staff interviews revealed that, while the district discusses the student ́s transition needs annually beginning no later than when the student is 14 years old, and documents the discussion on the Transition Planning Form, the district does not always include the form in the student’s record.

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 7

Transfer of parental rights at age of majority and student participation and consent at the age of majority

2. 3.

One year prior to the student reaching age 18, the district informs the student and the parent/guardian of the rights that will transfer from the parent/guardian to the student upon the student’s 18th birthday. The notification provided to both the student and the parent/guardian must explicitly state that all rights accorded to parents under special education law will transfer to the 18 year old.

Upon reaching the age of 18, the school district implements procedures to obtain consent from the student to continue the student’s special education program. The district continues to send the parent written notices and the parent will have the right to inspect the student’s records, but the parent will no longer have decision-making authority, except as provided below:

If the parent has sought and received guardianship from a court of competent jurisdiction, then the parent retains full decision-making authority. The parent does not have authority to override any decision or lack of decision made by the student who has reached the age of majority unless the parent has sought or received guardianship or other legal authority from a court of competent jurisdiction.

The student, upon reaching the age of majority and in the absence of any court actions to the contrary, may choose to share decision-making with his or her parent (or other willing adult), including allowing the parent to co- sign the IEP. Such choice is made in the presence of the Team and is documented in written form. The student’s choice prevails at any time that a disagreement occurs between the adult student and the parent or other adult with whom the student has shared decision-making.

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

c. The student, upon reaching the age of majority and in the absence of any court actions to the contrary, may choose to delegate continued decision-making to his or her parent, or other willing adult. Such choice is made in the presence of at least one representative of the school district and one other witness and is documented in written form and maintained in the student record.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.07(5)

34 CFR 300. 320(c), 300.520

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

The student record review and staff interviews indicated that the district does not always inform the student and parent one year prior to the student’s 18th birthday of the rights that will transfer to the student from the parent on reaching the age of majority.

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SE 8

IEP Team composition and attendance

The following persons are members of the IEP Team and may serve in multiple roles: 1. The child ́s parents. 2. A representative of the school district who acts as Chairperson and who is (1)

qualified to supervise or provide special education; (2) is knowledgeable about the general curriculum; and (3) is knowledgeable about the availability of resources of the district.

3. A representative of the school district who has the authority to commit the

resources of the district (and who may act as the Chairperson).

a. If the student may be involved in a regular education program, a regular education teacher. If the student is involved in a regular education program, a regular education teacher of the student.

b. If the student is participating in a special education program, a special education teacher of the student or, if appropriate, a special education provider for the student.

5. The student, if one purpose of the meeting is to discuss transition services or if otherwise appropriate and if he/she chooses.

6. Other individuals at the request of the student’s parents. 7. Reserved 8. An individual who is qualified to interpret the instructional implications of

evaluation results, who may be any one of the persons identified in parts 2 – 4

above. 9. Other individuals who may be necessary to write an IEP for the child, as

determined by the Administrator of Special Education.

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

10. When one purpose of the Team meeting is to discuss transition services, a representative of any public agency who may be responsible for providing or paying for transition services is invited to the Team meeting. If the representative(s) does not attend the meeting, the school district takes other steps to obtain the participation of these agencies.

11. Reserved 12. When one purpose of the Team meeting is to discuss placement, a person

knowledgeable about placement options is present at the meeting. 13. Members of the Team attend Team meetings unless:

a. b.

the parent and district agree to use alternative means, such as a video conference or a conference call, for any Team meeting OR the district and the parent agree, in writing, that the attendance of the Team member is not necessary because the member ́s area of the curriculum or related services is not being modified or discussed OR the district and the parent agree, in writing, to excuse a required Team member ́s participation and the excused member provides written input into the development of the IEP to the parent and the IEP prior to the meeting.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(21). Part 1 of this criterion is related to State Performance Plan Indicator 8. Parts 5, 10, are related to Performance Plan Indicators 13 and 14. (See http://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/spp/.)

34 CFR 300.116(a), 300.321, 300.328. See also, in the IDEA 97 regulations, 34 CFR Part 300, Appendix A, to State Question #22

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

The student record review and staff interviews indicated that at the high school level, regular education teachers do not consistently attend IEP Team meetings when required and the district did not follow the excusal process for required IEP Team members.

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Legal Standard

SE 9

Timeline for determination of eligibility and provision of documentation to parent Within forty-five school working days after receipt of the parent’s written consent to an initial evaluation or a re-evaluation, the school district determines whether the student is eligible for special education and provides to the parent either a proposed IEP and (except in cases covered by 603 CMR 28.06(2)(e)) proposed placement or a written explanation of the finding of no eligibility.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

603 CMR 28.05(1); 28.06(2)(e)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 9A

Elements of the eligibility determination; general education accommodations and services for ineligible students 1. To determine whether a student is eligible for special education, the school

district: a. provides an evaluation or re-evaluation b. convenes a Team meeting c. determines whether the student has one or more disabilities d. determines if the student is making effective progress in school e. determines if any lack of progress is a result of the student’s disability f. determines if the student requires special education and/or related services in

order to make effective progress or if the student requires related services in

order to access the general curriculum 2. If a Team determines that a student is not eligible for special education but may

be eligible for accommodation(s) for disability(ies) under Section 504, the student is referred for consideration by the district for eligibility under that regular education program.

3. When the student does not need any direct services, the Team makes a finding of no eligibility and appropriate services are provided through the district’s general education program.

4. When the student’s lack of progress is due to a lack of instruction in reading or mathematics or limited English proficiency or social maladjustment, or is due to an inability to meet the school discipline code but is not due to a disability, the district makes a finding of no eligibility for special education and may refer the student to a more appropriate instructional program or support service.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(1) and (2)

4 CFR 300.8; 300.306

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 10

End of school year evaluations

If consent is received between 30 and 45 school working days before the end of the school year, the school district ensures that a Team meeting is scheduled so as to allow for the provision of a proposed IEP or written notice of the finding that the student is not eligible no later than 14 days after the end of the school year.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(1)

34 CFR 300.323

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 11

School district response to parental request for independent educational evaluation If a parent disagrees with an initial evaluation or re-evaluation completed by the school district, and the parent requests an independent educational evaluation, the district implements the following requirements: 1. All independent educational evaluations funded by the district are conducted by

qualified persons who are registered, certified, licensed or otherwise approved and who abide by the rates set by the state agency responsible for setting such rates. Unique circumstances of the child are justified when an individual assessment rate is higher than that normally allowed.

2. The school district has procedures to offer parents the option of participating in an income eligibility program for free or reduced cost independent educational evaluations that are equivalent to the types of assessments done by the school district.

3. The district extends the right to a publicly funded independent educational evaluation (only if cost shared or funded for state wards or for students receiving free or reduced cost lunch) for sixteen (16) months from the date of the evaluation with which the parent disagrees.

4. If the parent is requesting an evaluation in an area not assessed by the school district, or if the student does not meet or the parent does not choose to share the financial documentation regarding the income eligibility standards for free or reduced cost independent educational evaluation, then the school district responds in accordance with the requirements of federal law by paying for the independent educational evaluation or, within five school days, proceeding to Special Education Appeals to show that its evaluation was comprehensive and appropriate. Where the Department’s Special Education Appeals finds that the school district’s evaluation was comprehensive and appropriate, the school district does not pay for the independent educational evaluation requested by the

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parent. 5. Whenever possible, the independent educational evaluation is completed and a

written report sent no later than thirty (30) days after the date the parent requests the independent educational evaluation. If publicly funded, the report is sent to the parents and to the school district. The independent evaluator’s report summarizes, in writing, procedures, assessments, results, and diagnostic impressions as well as educationally relevant recommendations for meeting identified needs of the student. The independent evaluator recommends appropriate types of placements but does not recommend specific classrooms or schools.

6. Within ten (10) school days from the time the school district receives the report of the independent educational evaluation, the Team reconvenes and considers the independent educational evaluation (which may be publicly or privately funded) and whether a new or amended IEP is appropriate.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04(5)

34 CFR 300.502

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 12

Frequency of re-evaluation

When the student’s needs warrant it or a parent or teacher requests it, the school district, with parental consent, conducts a full re-evaluation consistent with the requirements of federal law, provided that: a. a re-evaluation is conducted every three years unless the parent and district

agree that it is unnecessary and b. a re-evaluation is conducted no more frequently than once a year unless the

parent and district agree otherwise. The district implements re-evaluation procedures in all cases where it is suspected that a student is no longer eligible for special education, except that no re-evaluation is required before the termination of eligibility because a student has graduated with a regular high school diploma or exceeded the age of eligibility.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04(3)

34 CFR 300.303; 300.305(e)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 13

Progress Reports and content

2. 3.

Parents receive reports on the student’s progress toward reaching the goals set in the IEP at least as often as parents are informed of the progress of non-disabled students. Progress report information sent to parents includes written information on the student’s progress toward the annual goals in the IEP.

Where a student’s eligibility terminates because the student has graduated from secondary school or exceeded the age of eligibility, the school district provides the student with a summary of his or her academic achievement and functional performance, including recommendations on how to assist the student in meeting his or her postsecondary goals.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.07(3)

34 CFR 300.305(e)(3); 300.320(a)(3)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 14

Review and revision of IEPs

1. 2.

At least annually, on or before the anniversary date of the IEP, a Team meeting is held to consider the student’s progress and to review, revise, or develop a new IEP or refer the student for a re-evaluation, as appropriate. Amendments to the IEP. In between annual IEP meetings the district and parent may agree to make changes to a student’s IEP, documented in writing, without convening a meeting of the Team. Upon request, a parent is provided with a revised copy of the IEP with the amendments incorporated.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.04(3)

34 CFR 300.324(a)(4), (6) and (b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CRITERION NUMBER

SPECIAL EDUCATION II. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION AND PLACEMENT

Legal Standard

SE 15

Outreach by the School District (Child Find)

The district has annual or more frequent outreach and continuous liaison with those groups below from which promotion or transfer of students in need of special education may be expected, or which would include students in need of special education:

1. professionals in community 2. private nursery schools 3. day care facilities 4. group homes

5. parent organizations 6. clinical /health care agencies 7. early intervention programs 8. private/parochial schools 9. other agencies/organizations 10. the school or schools that are part of the district, including charter schools 11. agencies serving migrant and/or homeless persons pursuant to the McKinney-

Vento Education Act for Homeless Children

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.111; 300.131; 300.209

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 16

Screening

The school district conducts screening for three and four year olds and for all children who are of age to enter kindergarten. Such screening is designed to review a child’s development and to assist in identification of those children who should be referred for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education services.

Participation in the screening program for three and four year olds is optional on the part of the parents.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.03(1)(d)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 17

Initiation of services at age three and Early Intervention transition procedures

The school district encourages referrals from the Department of Public Health, other agencies, and individuals for young children when or before the child turns two-and-one-half years old in order to ensure continuity of services and to ensure the development and implementation of an IEP for eligible children by the date of the child’s third birthday in accordance with federal requirements. The district implements procedures to ensure the effective transition of young children with disabilities from Early Intervention Programs through participation in transition planning conferences arranged by such programs.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(7)(b)

34 CFR 300.101(b); 300.124; 300.323(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 18A

IEP development and content

1. Upon determining that the student is eligible for special education, the Team, including the parent(s), develops an IEP at the Team meeting.

2. The IEP is completed addressing all elements of the most current format provided by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

3. The school district ensures that the IEP will not be changed at a higher administrative level within the district.

4. Whenever the IEP Team evaluation indicates that a student’s disability affects social skills development, or when the student’s disability makes him or her vulnerable to bullying, harassment, or teasing, the IEP must address the skills and proficiencies needed to avoid and respond to bullying, harassment, or teasing.

5. For students identified with a disability on the autism spectrum, the IEP Team must consider and specifically address the skills and proficiencies needed to avoid and respond to bullying, harassment, or teasing.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(3); G.L.c. 71 B, section 3, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010

IDEA-97: 34 CFR Part 300, Appendix A, Question #22

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 18B

Determination of placement; provision of IEP to parent

1. At the Team meeting, after the IEP has been fully developed, the Team determines the appropriate placement to deliver the services on the student’s IEP .

2. Unless the student’s IEP requires some other arrangement, the student is educated in the school that he or she would attend if the student did not require special education.

3. The decision regarding placement is based on the IEP, including the types of related services that are to be provided to the child, the type of settings in which those services are to be provided, the types of service providers, and the location at which the services are to be provided.

4. Reserved 5. Immediately following the development of the IEP, the district provides the

parent with two (2) copies of the proposed IEP and proposed placement along with the required notice, except that the proposal of placement may be delayed according to the provisions of 603 CMR 28.06(2)(e) in a limited number of cases.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(6) and (7); 28.06(2)

34 CFR 300.116; 300.325

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 19

Extended evaluation

If the Team finds a student eligible for special education and finds the evaluation information insufficient to develop a full or partial IEP, the Team, with the parents’ consent, agrees to an extended evaluation period.

2. 3.

The extended evaluation period is not used to deny programs or services determined to be necessary by the Team. If, prior to the extended evaluation, the Team determines that sufficient information is available to determine, in part, necessary annual goals and services, the Team writes a partial IEP that, if accepted by the parent, is immediately implemented by the district while the extended evaluation is occurring. The extended evaluation period is not used to allow additional time to complete the required assessments. If the parent consents to an extended evaluation, the Team documents their findings and determines what evaluation time period is necessary and the types of information needed to develop an IEP. The Team may decide to meet at

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intervals during the extended evaluation, but in all cases reconvenes promptly to

develop an IEP when the evaluation is complete. 4. The extended evaluation may extend longer than one week, but does not exceed

eight school weeks. 5. The extended evaluation is not considered a placement.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(2)(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 20

Least restrictive program selected

1. The program selected is the least restrictive environment for students, with consideration given to any potential harmful effect on the student or on the quality of services that he or she needs.

2. If the student is removed from the general education classroom at any time, the Team states why the removal is considered critical to the student’s program and the basis for its conclusion that education of the student in a less restrictive environment, with the use of supplementary aids and services, could not be achieved satisfactorily.

3. The district does not remove an eligible child from the general education classroom solely because of needed modification in the curriculum.

4. If a student’s IEP necessitates special education services in a day or residential facility or an out-of-district educational collaborative program, the IEP Team considers whether the student requires special education services and support to promote the student’s transition to placement in a less restrictive program.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3 603 CMR 28.06(2)

34 CFR 300.114-120

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 21

School day and school year requirements

1. The Team routinely considers the need for an educational program that is less than or more than the regular school day or school year, including extended day, or year, and/or residential services and indicates on the IEP why the shorter or longer program is necessary.

2. The daily duration of the child’s program is equal to that of the regular school day unless the Team states that a different duration is necessary to provide a free appropriate public education to the child. In this case the Team specifies the daily duration of the program and states the reason for the different duration on the IEP.

3. Specialized transportation schedules do not impede a student’s access to a full school day and program of instruction.

4. An extended day or year program is identified if the student has demonstrated or is likely to demonstrate substantial regression in his or her learning skills and/or substantial difficulty in relearning such skills if an extended program is not provided.

5. If residential services are required, the IEP clearly specifies the reasons for such determination and how such services will be coordinated with the day education services provided to the student. Additionally, the annual goals and services on the student’s IEP reflect the comprehensive nature of the educational program required.

6. Camping or recreation programs provided solely for recreational purposes and with no corresponding IEP goals or specially designed instruction are not to be considered for extended year programs.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 69, § 1G 603 CMR 28.05(4)(d) and (5)(c)

34 CFR 300.106

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 22

IEP implementation and availability

2. 3.

Where the IEP of the student in need of special education has been accepted in whole or in part by that student’s parent, the school district provides the mutually agreed upon services without delay. At the beginning of each school year, the district has an IEP in effect for each eligible student within its jurisdiction.

Each teacher and provider described in the IEP is informed of his or her specific responsibilities related to the implementation of the student’s IEP and the

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specific accommodations, modifications, and supports that must be provided for

the student under it 4. The school district does not delay implementation of the IEP due to lack of

classroom space or personnel, provides as many of the services on the accepted IEP as possible and immediately informs parents in writing of any delayed services, reasons for delay, actions that the school district is taking to address the lack of space or personnel and offers alternative methods to meet the goals on the accepted IEP. Upon agreement of the parents, the school district implements alternative methods immediately until the lack of space or personnel issues are resolved.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(7)(b); 28.06(2)(d)(2)

34 CFR 300.323

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

SPECIAL EDUCATION III. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Legal Standard

SE 24

Notice to parent regarding proposal or refusal to initiate or change the identification, evaluation, or educational placement of the child or the provision of FAPE 1. A student may be referred for an evaluation by a parent or any person in a

caregiving or professional position concerned with the student’s development. 2. When a student is referred for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special

education, the school district sends written notice to the child’s parent(s) within 5 school days of receipt of the referral, along with the district’s notice of procedural safeguards. The written notice meets all of the content requirements set forth in M.G.L. c.71B, §3, and in federal law, seeks the consent of the parent for the evaluation to occur, and provides the parent with the opportunity to express any concerns or provide information on the student’s skills or abilities and to consult regarding the evaluators to be used.

3. For all other actions, the district gives notice complying with federal requirements within a reasonable time.

4. The school district provides the student’s parent(s) with an opportunity to consult with the Special Education Administrator or his/her designee to discuss the reasons for the referral and the nature of the proposed evaluation

5. The district provides parents with an opportunity to consult with the Administrator of Special Education or his/her designee regarding the evaluators to be used and the proposed content of all required and optional assessments

6. The school district does not limit a parent’s right to refer a student for timely special education evaluation because the district has not fully explored and/or

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SPECIAL EDUCATION III. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Legal Standard

attempted some or all of the available instructional support programs or other interventions available in general education that may be described in the district’s curriculum accommodation plan, including any pre-referral program.

7. The school district refuses to conduct an initial evaluation only when the circumstances of a student make clear that there is no suspicion of a disability and that there is no concern about the student’s development.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3; 603 CMR 28.04(1)

34 CFR 300.503; 300.504(a)(1)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 25

Parental consent

In accordance with state and federal law, the school district obtains informed parental consent as follows: 1. The school district obtains written parental consent before conducting an initial

evaluation and before making an initial placement of a student in a special education program. Written parental consent is obtained before conducting a reevaluation and before placing a student in a special education placement subsequent to the initial placement in special education.

2. The school district obtains consent before initiating extended evaluation services.

3. The school district obtains consent to the services proposed on a student ́s IEP before providing such services.

4. A parent is informed that consent may be revoked at any time. Except for initial evaluation and initial placement, consent may not be required as condition of any benefit to the child.

5. When the participation or consent of the parent is required and the parent fails or refuses to participate, the attempts to secure the consent of the parent are implemented through multiple attempts using a variety of methods which are documented by the district. Such efforts may include letters, written notices sent by certified mail, electronic mail (e-mail), telephone calls, or, if appropriate, TTY communications to the home, and home visits at such time as the parent is likely to be home. Efforts may include seeking assistance from a community service agency to secure parental participation.

6. If, subsequent to initial evaluation and initial placement and after following the procedures required by the regulations, the school district is unable to obtain parental consent to a re-evaluation or to placement in a special education program subsequent to the initial placement, the school district considers with

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the parent whether such action will result in the denial of a free appropriate public education to the student. If, after consideration, the school district determines that the parent ́s failure or refusal to consent will result in a denial of a free appropriate public education to the student, it seeks resolution of the dispute through the BSEA.

7. If the parent has given consent for special education services and then, at any time following, revokes his/her consent to the student ́s special education services in writing, the district is obligated to discontinue all special education services and may not use mediation or request a due process hearing to obtain agreement or a ruling requiring the continuation of services, consistent with federal regulation. If a parent revokes consent in writing, the district must act promptly to provide written notice to the parent/guardian of the district ́s proposal to discontinue services based on the revocation of consent, as well as information on how the parent can obtain a copy of his/her right to procedural safeguards. The district must provide the notice a reasonable time before the district intends to discontinue the services.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.07(1) This criterion is related to State Performance Plan Indicator 8. (See http://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/spp/.)

34 CFR 300.300

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 25A

Sending of copy of notice to Special Education Appeals

Within five calendar days of receiving a notice that a parent is requesting a hearing or has rejected an IEP, proposed placement, or finding of no eligibility for special education, the school district sends a copy of the notice to Special Education Appeals.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.08(3)(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 25B

Resolution of disputes

Within 15 days of receiving notice that a parent has made an official hearing request to Special Education Appeals, the district convenes a meeting with the parent(s) and the relevant member(s) of the IEP Team, including a representative of the district with decision-making authority, to try to resolve the dispute. The resolution session may be waived if the district and the parents agree in writing to do so or if they agree to use mediation instead.

If the dispute is resolved at the resolution session, the parent(s) and a representative of the district with the authority to do so sign a legally binding agreement, enforceable in state or federal court. Any party may void this agreement within three business days of the signing.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.510

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 26

Parent participation in meetings

1. The district ensures that one or both parents of a child are members of any group that makes decisions on the educational placement of their child.

2. The Administrator of Special Education notifies parent(s) in writing of any Team meeting early enough to ensure that they have an opportunity to attend.

3. The district schedules the meeting at a mutually agreed upon time and place; and documents such efforts.

4. If neither parent can attend, the district uses other methods to ensure parent participation, including individual or conference telephone calls, or video conferencing.

5. In cases where the district, after reasonable efforts, is unable to obtain the parents’ participation in Team meeting discussions and decisions, the district conducts the Team meeting and documents its attempts to facilitate the parents’ participation.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(21)

34 CFR 300.322; 300.501

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 27

Content of Team meeting notice to parents

The parent notice of any Team meeting states the purpose, time and location of the meeting as well as who will be in attendance.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.322(b)(1)(i)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 29

Communications are in English and primary language of home

Communications with parents are in simple and commonly understood words and are in both English and the primary language of the home if such primary language is other than English. Any interpreter used in fulfilling these requirements is fluent in the primary language of the home and familiar with special education procedures, programs and services. If the parents or the student are unable to read in any language or are blind or deaf, communications required by these regulations are made orally in English with the use of a foreign language interpreter, in Braille, in sign language, via TTY, or in writing, whichever is appropriate, and all such communications are documented.

If the district provides notices orally or in some other mode of communication that is not written language, the district keeps written documentation (1) that it has provided such notice in an alternate manner, (2) of the content of the notice and (3) of the steps taken to ensure that the parent understands the content of the notice.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.07(8)

34 CFR 300.322(e); 300.503(c)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Student record review and staff interviews indicated that communications are not always provided in both English and the primary language of the home if such primary language is other than English.

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SE 32

Parent advisory council for special education

1. The school district has established a district-wide parent advisory council on special education.

2. Membership on the council is offered to all parents of children with disabilities and other interested parties.

3. The parent advisory council duties include but are not 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.

4. The parent advisory council has established by-laws regarding officers and operational procedures.

5. The parent advisory council receives assistance from the school committee without charge, upon reasonable notice, and subject to the availability of staff and resources.

6. The school district conducts, in cooperation with the parent advisory council, at least one workshop annually within the district on the rights of students and their parents and guardians under the state and federal special education laws.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3; 603 CMR 28.03(1)(a)(4); 28.07(4)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and the document review indicated that while the district conducts at least one workshop annually within the district on the rights of students and their parents under the state and federal special education laws, there is no district-wide parent advisory council (PAC) with officers and established bylaws.

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SPECIAL EDUCATION IV. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Legal Standard

SE 33

Involvement in the general curriculum

1. Reserved 2. Reserved 3. At least one member of all IEP Teams is familiar with the general curriculum

and is able to discuss an eligible student’s appropriate access to the general

curriculum. 4. In the IEP the district documents the student’s participation in the general

curriculum.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(4)(a) and (b)

34 CFR 300.320(a)(1)(i) and a(2)(i)(A); 300.321(a)(4)(ii)

CRITERION NUMBER

SE 34

CRITERION NUMBER

SE 35

SPECIAL EDUCATION IV. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Rating:

Implemented

Legal Standard

District Response Required:

Legal Standard

Continuum of alternative services and placements

The district provides or arranges for the provision of each of the elements of the IEPs of students in need of special education from the ages of three through twenty-one, ensuring that a continuum of services and alternative placements is available to meet the needs of all students with disabilities, and takes all steps necessary to ensure compliance with all elements of the IEPs, including vocational education.

State Requirements Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.05(7)(b) 34 CFR 300.109; 300.110; 300.115

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

Legal Standard Assistive technology: specialized materials and equipment

1. 2.

Specialized materials and equipment specified in IEPs are provided. The school district provides evidence that assistive technology is considered for each eligible student and—if the student needs it in order to receive a free, appropriate public education–described in the IEP and provided by the district.

State Requirements Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.105; 300.324(a)(2)(v)

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

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SE 36

IEP implementation, accountability and financial responsibility

1. Reserved. 2. The district oversees in an ongoing manner the full implementation of each in-

district and each out-of-district IEP it proposes which has been consented to by a

child’s parents. 3. Reserved.

4. The district provides all programs and services without expense to the child’s parents.

5. Each time the school district proposes to access the parent’s private insurance to support the costs of IEP implementation, the school district obtains the parent’s consent and informs the parents that their refusal to permit the school district to access their private insurance does not relieve the district of its responsibility to ensure that all required services are provided at no cost to the parents.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(3)

34 CFR 300.17(a); 300.101-104; 300.154

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 37

Procedures for approved and unapproved out-of-district placements

Individual student program oversight: The school district monitors the provision of services to and the programs of individual students placed in public and private out-of-district programs. Documentation of monitoring plans and all actual monitoring are placed in the files of every eligible student who has been placed out-of-district. To the extent that this monitoring requires site visits, such site visits are documented and placed in the students’ files for review. The duty to monitor out-of-district placements is not delegated to parents or their agents, to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, or to the out-of- district placement.

Student right to full procedural protections: The school district retains full responsibility for ensuring that the student is receiving all special education and related services in the student’s IEP, as well as all procedural protections of law and regulation. Any Team meetings conducted during the time that a student is enrolled in the out-of-district program are initiated by the school district in coordination with the out-of-district placement.

Preference to approved programs: The school district, in all circumstances, first seeks to place a student in a program approved by the Department pursuant to the requirements of 603 CMR 28.09. Preference is also given to approved

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programs located within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts if the choice of such program is consistent with the needs of the student and the choice of such program complies with LRE requirements. When an approved program is available to provide the services on the IEP, the district makes such placement in the approved program in preference to any program not approved by the Department.

4. Written contracts: The school district enters into written contracts with all public and private out-of-district placements. At a minimum, such contracts meet the content requirements of 28.06(3)(f)(1-5).

5. Use of unapproved programs: A school district that places a student in a program that has not been approved by the Department according to the requirements under 603 CMR 28.09 ensures that such programs and services are provided in appropriate settings by appropriately credentialed staff able to deliver the services on the student’s IEP. Students placed by the school district in such programs are entitled to the full protections of state and federal special education law and regulation.

6. Placement documentation: The following documentation is maintained by the school district pursuant to its placement of children in unapproved out-of-district programs: a. Search: The Administrator of Special Education documents the search for

and unavailability of a program approved by the Department. The

Administrator places such documentation in the student record. b. Evaluation of facility: The Administrator of Special Education or his/her

designee thoroughly evaluates the appropriateness of any unapproved facility prior to placement of the student in such program. Such evaluation determines whether the unapproved facility can appropriately implement the student’s IEP in a safe and educationally appropriate environment. Such evaluation additionally determines whether the unapproved facility can and will provide the student with all the rights that are accorded to the student under state and federal special education law. Such evaluation is documented in detail and placed in the student record for review. To the extent that this evaluation requires a site visit, such site visits are documented and placed in the student record for review. The duty to evaluate the appropriateness of any unapproved facility is not delegated to the parents or their agents or the proposed unapproved facility.

c. School district approval to operate a private school in Massachusetts: If services in an unapproved program are provided in a school setting, the Administrator of Special Education ensures that such school has received approval from the local school committee under M.G.L. c.76, §1 and a copy of such approval is retained in the student record.

d. Pricing: Pursuant to the requirements for Compliance, Reporting and Auditing for Human and Social Services at 808 CMR 1.00, the Administrator obtains pricing forms required to set program prices for programs receiving publicly funded students. Such pricing forms are completed by the proposed placement and document that the price proposed

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for the student’s tuition is the lowest price charged for similar services to

any student in that program. e. Notification of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education:

Prior to placement, if the Team determines that placement in such facility is appropriate, the Administrator notifies the Department of the intent to place the student and the name and location of the proposed placement. In addition, the Administrator forwards the notice of proposed placement and completed pricing forms to the Department along with the information on the proposed terms of the contract that will govern such placement and documentation of a monitoring plan pursuant to 603 CMR 28.06(3)(b). The district maintains any documentation of the Department’s objections to such placement and the steps the district has taken in regard to such objection. The district maintains documentation of the approved price for publicly funded students as set by the state agency responsible for setting program prices.

f. Out of state programs: If out-of-district programs are provided in a placement outside of Massachusetts, and such school has not received approval by the Department under 603 CMR 28.09, the Administrator of Special Education ensures that such school has received approval from the host state.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 76, s. 1 603 CMR 18.00; 28.02(14); 28.06(2)(f) and (3); 28.09 808 CMR 1.00

34 CFR 300.2(c)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 38

Special education services in institutional settings (SEIS)

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education responsibility: In cases where the Department provides certain special education services to eligible students in certain facilities operated by or under contract with the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Youth Services, County Houses of Corrections, or the Department of Public Health, the Department retains the discretion to determine, based upon resources, the type and amount of special education and related services that it provides in such facilities.

School district responsibility: 1. The district implements its responsibilities to students in institutional settings by

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acting on requests for evaluation, issuing proposed IEPs in a timely manner, and providing special education and/or related services in accordance with state and federal law.

2. Where a student’s IEP requires a type or amount of service that the facility does not provide, it remains the responsibility of the parent’s school district to implement the student’s IEP by arranging and paying for the provision of such service(s).

3. The parent’s school district coordinates with the state agency to ensure that the student receives an evaluation, an annual review, and special education services as identified at a Team meeting convened by the parent’s school district.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(9)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 39A

Procedures used to provide services to eligible students enrolled in private schools at private expense whose parents reside in the district 1. The district conducts child find activities–comparable to those for public school

students–for all students enrolled at private expense in private schools in the

district. 2. The district consults with private schools in accordance with federal

requirements. 3. The district provides or arranges for the provision of an evaluation for any

private school child whose parent resides in the district who is referred for evaluation. The evaluation may take place in the public school, the private school, or an appropriate contracted facility; as part of its consultation with the private school, the district ensures that a representative of the child’s private school is invited to participate as a member of the Team pursuant to §28.05. The district provides an IEP for any such private school child who is found eligible for special education and/or related services.

4. The district provides special education and/or related services designed to meet the needs of eligible children who are attending private schools at private expense and whose parents reside in the district, and does so according to a properly developed IEP. The district provides to such children genuine opportunities to participate in a public school special education program consistent with state constitutional limitations.

5. In providing or arranging for the provision of the special education and/or related services described by the child’s IEP, the district ensures that special

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education services funded with state or local funds are provided in a public school facility or other public or neutral site. When services are provided using only federal funds, services are provided on public or private school grounds. When the child attends a private school located outside of the district, the district makes reasonable efforts to provide or arrange for the provision of services for the child in the community where the school is located.

6. The district does not withdraw or withhold services from a child whose parents reside in the district solely because the district has met the spending requirements of federal law.

7. Special education services and/or related services for a private school child whose parents reside in the district are comparable in quality, scope, and opportunity for participation to those provided to public school children with needs of equal importance.

8. An expedited special education evaluation, which is limited to a child’s physician statement unless there is a clear indication of the need or unless the parents request additional evaluation, is conducted and services provided to eligible students whose parents reside in the district within 15 calendar days of the district’s receipt of the child’s physician statement.

9. The district calculates the proportionate share of Federal Special Education Entitlement funds (Fund Code 240) required to be spent on eligible private school students (including all eligible students attending private school in the district whether their parents reside in the district, in another Massachusetts district, or out of state) and documents the spending of at least this amount of federal entitlement funds (Fund Code 240) on one or more of the eligible private school students attending private school in the district whose parents reside in the district or out of state.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, section 2 603 CMR 28.03(1)(e)

34 CFR 300.130-144; 300.300(d)(4)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 39B

Procedures used to provide services to eligible students who are enrolled at private expense in private schools in the district and whose parents reside out of state 1. The district conducts child find activities–comparable to those for public school

students–for all students enrolled at private expense in private schools in the

district. 2. For students enrolled at private expense in private schools in the district and

whose parents reside out of state, the district consults with the private schools in accordance with federal requirements. It conducts evaluations and determines eligibility in accordance with state and federal requirements.

3. The district calculates the proportionate share of Federal Special Education Entitlement funds (Fund Code 240) required to be spent on eligible private school students (including all eligible students attending private school in the district whether their parents reside in the district, in another Massachusetts district, or out of state) and documents the spending of at least this amount of federal entitlement funds (Fund Code 240) on one or more of the eligible private school students attending private school in the district whose parents reside in the district or out of state.

4. If the district provides services to any eligible private school student from out of state, it does so using an individual services plan.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(7); 28.04; 28.05(2)

34 CFR 300.130-144; 300.301-311

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 40

Instructional grouping requirements for students aged five and older

1. 2. 3.

The size and composition of instructional groupings for eligible students receiving services outside the general education classroom are compatible with the methods and goals stated in each student’s IEP. Instructional grouping size requirements are maximum sizes and the school district exercises judgment in determining appropriate group size and supports for smaller instructional groups serving students with complex special needs. When eligible students are assigned to instructional groupings outside of the general education classroom for 60% or less of the students’ school schedule, group size does not exceed a. 8 students with a certified special educator, b. 12 students if the certified special educator is assisted by 1 aide, and c. 16 students if the certified special educator is assisted by 2 aides

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4. For eligible students served in settings that are substantially separate, serving solely students with disabilities for more than 60% of the students’ school schedule, the district provides instructional groupings that do not exceed a. 8 students to 1 certified special educator or

b. 12 students to 1 certified special educator and 1 aide. 5. After the school year has begun, if instructional groups have reached maximum

size as delineated in paragraphs 3 and 4 of this criterion, the Administrator of Special Education and the certified special educator(s) providing services in an instructional group may decide to increase the size of an instructional grouping by no more than two additional students if the additional students have compatible instructional needs and then can receive services in their neighborhood school.

6. In such cases, the Administrator provides written notification to the Department and the parents of all group members of the decision to increase the instructional group size and the reasons for such decision. Such increased instructional group sizes are in effect only for the year in which they are initiated.

7. The district takes all steps necessary to reduce the instructional groups to the sizes outlined in paragraph 3 or 4 of this criterion for subsequent years. Such steps are documented by the district.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(6)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 41

Age span requirements

The ages of the youngest and oldest child in any instructional grouping do not differ by more than 48 months. A written request for approval of a wider age range is submitted to the Commissioner of Education in cases where the district believes it is justified. Such requests are implemented only after approval of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(6)(f)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SE 42

Programs for young children three and four years of age

General requirements: 1. The school district ensures programs are available for eligible children three and

four years of age. Such programs shall be developmentally appropriate and

specially designed for children ages three and four years. 2. Where at all possible the school district accepts referrals from the Department of

Public Health, other agencies, and individuals for young children when or before the child turns two-and-one-half years old in order to ensure continuity of services and to ensure the development and implementation of an IEP for eligible children by the date of the child’s third birthday in accordance with federal requirements.

3. Where appropriate, the school district elects, consistent with federal requirements to use the format and services of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), if appropriate, for an additional year as a means of transitioning eligible children to public school services.

4. Where appropriate the Team allows a child to remain in a program designed for three and four year old children for the duration of the school year in which the child turns five years old (including the summer following the date of the child’s fifth birthday).

Types of Settings:

Inclusionary programs for young children are located in a setting that includes children with and without disabilities and meet the following standards:

a. b.

Services in such programs are provided in the home, the public school, Head Start, or a licensed childcare setting. For public school programs that integrate children with and without disabilities, the class size does not exceed 20 with 1 teacher and 1 aide and no more than 5 students with disabilities. If the number of students with disabilities is 6 or 7 then the class size does not exceed 15 students with 1 teacher and 1 aide.

Substantially separate programs for young children are located in a public school classroom or facility that serves primarily or solely children with disabilities. Substantially separate programs adhere to the following standards: a. Substantially separate programs are programs in which more than 50% of

the children have disabilities. b. Substantially separate programs operated by the district limit class sizes to 9

students with 1 teacher and 1 aide.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(7)

34 CFR 300.101(b); 300.124(b); 300.323(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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SPECIAL EDUCATION V. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Legal Standard

SE 43

Behavioral interventions

For a student whose behavior impedes their learning or the learning of others, the Team considers the student’s behavior including positive behavioral interventions and the possible need for a functional behavioral assessment.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.324(a)(2)(i)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 44

Procedure for recording suspensions

The district has a procedure to record the number and duration of suspensions from any part of the student’s program, including suspensions from special transportation prescribed by the IEP.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.530 IDEA 2004 Final Regulations, Analysis of Comments and Changes, Federal Register 71 (14 August 2006): 46715

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 45

Procedures for suspension up to 10 days and after 10 days: General requirements

1. 2.

Any eligible student may be suspended up to 10 days in any school year without implementation of procedures described in criterion SE 46 below. After a student with special needs has been suspended for 10 days in any school year, during any subsequent removal the public school provides sufficient services for the student to continue to receive a free and appropriate public education.

The school provides additional procedural safeguards for students with disabilities prior to any suspension beyond 10 consecutive days or more than 10

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cumulative days (if there is a pattern of suspension) in any school year.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 76, §§ 16-17

34 CFR 300.530-300.537

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 46

Procedures for suspension of students with disabilities when suspensions exceed 10 consecutive school days or a pattern has developed for suspensions exceeding 10 cumulative days; responsibilities of the Team; responsibilities of the district 1. A suspension of longer than 10 consecutive days or a series of suspensions that

are shorter than 10 consecutive days but constitute a pattern are considered to

represent a change in placement. 2. Prior to a suspension that constitutes a change in placement of a student with

disabilities, district personnel, the parent, and other relevant members of the Team, as determined by the parent and the district, convene to review all relevant information in the student’s file, including the IEP, any teacher observations, and any relevant information from the parents, to determine whether the behavior was caused by or had a direct and substantial relationship to the disability or was the direct result of the district’s failure to implement the IEP-“a manifestation determination.”

3. If district personnel, the parent, and other relevant members of the Team determine that the behavior is NOT a manifestation of the disability, then the district may suspend or expel the student consistent with policies applied to any student without disabilities, except that the district must still offer:

services to enable the student, although in another setting, to continue to participate in the general education curriculum and to progress toward IEP goals; and as appropriate, a functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention services and modifications, to address the behavior so that it does not recur.

4. Interim alternative educational setting. Regardless of the manifestation determination, the district may place the student in an interim alternative educational setting (as determined by the Team) for up to 45 school days a. on its own authority if the behavior involves weapons or illegal drugs or

another controlled substance or the infliction of serious bodily injury on another person while at school or a school function or, considered case by case, unique circumstances; or

b. on the authority of a hearing officer if the officer orders the alternative

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placement after the district provides evidence that the student is

“substantially likely” to injure him/herself or others. Characteristics. In either case, the interim alternative education setting enables the student to continue in the general curriculum and to continue receiving services identified on the IEP, and provides services to address the problem behavior.

5. If district personnel, the parent, and other relevant members of the Team determine that the behavior IS a manifestation of the disability, then the Team completes a functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plan if it has not already done so. If a behavioral intervention plan is already in place, the Team reviews it and modifies it, as necessary, to address the behavior. Except when he or she has been placed in an interim alternative educational setting in accordance with part 4, the student returns to the original placement unless the parents and district agree otherwise.

6. Not later than the date of the decision to take disciplinary action, the school district notifies the parents of that decision and provides them with the written notice of procedural safeguards. If the parent chooses to appeal or the school district requests a hearing because it believes that maintaining the student’s current placement is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or others, the student remains in the disciplinary placement, if any, until the decision of the hearing officer or the end of the time period for the disciplinary action, whichever comes first, unless the parent and the school district agree otherwise.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.530-537

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 47

Procedural requirements applied to students not yet determined to be eligible for special education

If, prior to the disciplinary action, a district had knowledge that the student may be a student with a disability, then the district makes all protections available to the student until and unless the student is subsequently determined not to be eligible. The district may be considered to have prior knowledge if:

a. b. c.

The parent had expressed concern in writing; or The parent had requested an evaluation; or District staff had expressed directly to the special education director or other supervisory personnel specific concerns about a pattern of behavior

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demonstrated by the student. The district may not be considered to have had prior knowledge if the parent has not consented to evaluation of the student or has refused special education services, or if an evaluation of the student has resulted in a determination of ineligibility.

2. If the district had no reason to consider the student disabled, and the parent requests an evaluation subsequent to the disciplinary action, the district must have procedures consistent with federal requirements to conduct an expedited evaluation to determine eligibility.

3. If the student is found eligible, then he/she receives all procedural protections subsequent to the finding of eligibility.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.534

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 48

FAPE (Free, appropriate, public education): Equal opportunity to participate in educational, nonacademic, extracurricular and ancillary programs, as well as participation in regular education All students receiving special education, regardless of placement, shall have an equal opportunity to participate in and, if appropriate, receive credit for the vocational, supportive, or remedial services that may be available as part of the general education program as well as the non-academic and extracurricular programs of the school. Programs, services and activities include, but are not limited to: 1. art and music 2. vocational education, industrial arts, and consumer and homemaking education 3. work study and employment opportunities 4. counseling services available at all levels in the district 5. health services 6. transportation 7. recess and physical education, including adapted physical education 8. athletics and recreational activities 9. school-sponsored groups or clubs 10. meals

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.06(5)

34 CFR 300.101 – 300.113

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

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Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

See CVTE 5.

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SE 49

Related services

For each student with special education needs found to require related services, the school district provides or arranges for the provision of transportation and such developmental, corrective, and other supportive services as are required to assist a student to benefit from special education or to access the general curriculum, and includes:

1. speech-language pathology and audiology services 2. psychological services 3. physical therapy 4. occupational therapy

5. recreation, including therapeutic recreation 6. early identification and assessment of disabilities in children 7. counseling services, including rehabilitation counseling 8. orientation and mobility services (peripatology) 9. medical services for diagnostic or evaluation purposes 10. school health services, including school nurse services 11. social work services in schools 12. parent counseling and training, and 13. interpreting services.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(18)

CFR 300.34; 300.323(c)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

SPECIAL EDUCATION VI. FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Legal Standard

SE 50

Administrator of Special Education

The school district has an appointed person to be its Administrator of Special Education. The Administrator supervises all special education for the school district and ensures compliance with all federal and state special education laws. The Administrator of Special Education is appropriately licensed or holds a current waiver for an appropriate license or otherwise demonstrates that he or she has the qualifications to perform all of the duties of the Administrator. As appropriate, and in accordance with the requirements of M.G.L. c.71B, §3A, the Administrator may designate other school district personnel to carry out some of the duties of the

CRITERION NUMBER

SE 51

CRITERION NUMBER

SE 52

SPECIAL EDUCATION VI. FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Legal Standard

Administrator.

State Requirements Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3A; 603 CMR 28.03(2)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

Legal Standard

Appropriate special education teacher licensure

Except at Commonwealth charter schools, individuals who design and/or provide direct special education services described in IEPs are appropriately licensed.

State Requirements Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71, s. 38G; s. 89(qq); 34 CFR 300.18; 300.156 603 CMR 1.07; 7.00; 28.02(3)

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

Legal Standard

Appropriate certifications/licenses or other credentials — related service providers Any person, including non-educational personnel, who provides related services described under federal special education law, who supervises paraprofessionals in the provision of related services, or who provides support services directly to the regular or special classroom teacher is appropriately certified, licensed, board-registered or otherwise approved to provide such services by the relevant professional standards board or agency for the profession.

State Requirements Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(3),(18) 34 CFR 300.34; 300.156(b)

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

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SE 52A

Registration of educational interpreters

Providers of interpreting services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing must be registered with the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.02(3),(18)

34 CFR 300.34; 300.156(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 53

Use of paraprofessionals

1. Reserved 2. Persons employed as paraprofessionals and assistants do not design instruction

for students with disabilities but are expected to implement instruction under the supervision of an appropriately certified or licensed professional who is proximate and readily available to provide such supervision.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.156

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 54

Professional development

1. 2.

The district considers the needs of all staff in developing training opportunities for professional and paraprofessional staff and provides a variety of offerings. The district ensures that all staff, including both special education and general education staff, are trained on:

a. b.

state and federal special education requirements and related local special education policies and procedures; analyzing and accommodating diverse learning styles of all students in order to achieve an objective of inclusion in the regular classroom of students with diverse learning styles;

methods of collaboration among teachers, paraprofessionals and teacher assistants to accommodate diverse learning styles of all students in the

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regular classroom; 3. The district provides in-service training for all locally hired and contracted

transportation providers, before they begin transporting any special education student receiving special transportation, on his or her needs and appropriate methods of meeting those needs; for any such student it also provides written information on the nature of any needs or problems that may cause difficulties, along with information on appropriate emergency measures. Transportation providers include drivers of regular and special education vehicles and any attendants or aides identified by a Team for either type of vehicle.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 38G , 38Q and 38Q 1⁄2 603 CMR 28.03(1)(a); 28.06(8)(b) and (c)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

SPECIAL EDUCATION VII. SCHOOL FACILITIES

Legal Standard

SE 55

Special education facilities and classrooms

The school district provides facilities and classrooms for eligible students that 1. maximize the inclusion of such students into the life of the school; 2. provide accessibility in order to implement fully each child’s IEP; 3. are at least equal in all physical respects to the average standards of general

education facilities and classrooms; 4. are given the same priority as general education programs in the allocation of

instructional and other space in public schools in order to minimize the

separation or stigmatization of eligible students; and 5. are not identified by signs or other means that stigmatize such students.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

603 CMR 28.03(1)(b)

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

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Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and facility observations indicated that five sub-separate classrooms located on the first floor at the Crosby School are clustered together representing students from kindergarten through fifth grade and do not maximize the inclusion of the students into the life of the school. Three classrooms designated for the Adolescent Support Program at Pittsfield High School are clustered together, and at Taconic High School, there are three resource rooms clustered together at one end of a hallway. Placement of these special education classrooms does not maximize the inclusion of the students into the life of the school.

In addition, some special education spaces at Pittsfield High School, Taconic High School, Crosby Elementary School, and Conte Elementary School were identified by signs or other means that might stigmatize special education students.

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SPECIAL EDUCATION VIII. PROGRAM PLAN AND EVALUATION

Legal Standard

SE 56

Special education programs and services are evaluated

Special education programs and services are regularly evaluated.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

M.G.L. c. 71B, section 2

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

SE 59

Transfer of student records

When a student with an IEP transfers from school district to school district, whether both of those districts are within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or not, 1. any Massachusetts school to which the student is transferring takes reasonable

steps to promptly obtain the student’s records, including the IEP, from the

former school, and 2. any Massachusetts school from which the student is transferring takes reasonable

steps to promptly respond to the new school’s request for records.

State Requirements

Federal Requirements

34 CFR 300.323(g)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

LEGAL STANDARDS, COMPLIANCE RATINGS AND FINDINGS

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CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS II. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION AND PLACEMENT

Legal Standard

CR 3

Access to a full range of education programs

All students, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness, have equal access to the general education program and the full range of any occupational/vocational education programs offered by the district.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(a),(b); EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31, 106.34, 106.35; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4; Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130; IDEA 2004: 20 U.S.C. 1400; 34 CFR 300.110; NCLB: Title III, Part A, Sec. 3121(c)(1)(C); Title X, Part C, Secs. 721, 722(g)(4); Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; M.G.L. c. 71A, s. 7; c. 76, s. 5; 603 CMR 26.03

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

See CVTE 5.

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CR 6

Availability of in-school programs for pregnant students

1. 2.

Pregnant students are permitted to remain in regular classes and participate in extracurricular activities with non-pregnant students throughout their pregnancy, and after giving birth are permitted to return to the same academic and extracurricular program as before the leave.

The district does not require a pregnant student to obtain the certification of a physician that the student is physically and emotionally able to continue in school unless it requires such certification for all students for other physical or emotional conditions requiring the attention of a physician.

Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.40(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS III. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Legal Standard

CR 7

Information to be translated into languages other than English

Important information and documents, e.g. handbooks and codes of conduct, being distributed to parents are translated into the major languages spoken by parents or guardians with limited English skills; the district has established a system of oral interpretation to assist parents/guardians with limited English skills, including those who speak low-incidence languages.

School or program recruitment and promotional materials being disseminated to residents in the area served by the school or program are translated into the major languages spoken by residents with limited English skills.

Title VI; EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f); M.G.L. c. 76, s. 5; 603 CMR 26.02(2)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

While the district translates handbooks into the major language spoken in the district, document review and staff interviews indicated that school or program recruitment and promotional materials being disseminated to residents in the area served by the school are not consistently translated into the major languages spoken by residents with limited English skills.

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CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS IV. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Legal Standard

CR 7A

School year schedules

Before the beginning of each school year, the school district sets a school year schedule for each school. The school year includes at least 185 school days for students in grades 1-12 at each elementary, middle, and secondary school in the district, and these schools are in operation for at least 180 days a year for these students.

The school district ensures that unless his or her IEP or Section 504 Accommodation Plan provides otherwise, each elementary school student is scheduled for at least 900 hours of structured learning time a year and each secondary school student is scheduled for at least 990 hours of structured learning time a year, within the required school year schedule. Where the school district operates separate middle schools, it designates each one as either elementary or secondary.

Where the school district sets a separate school year and school day schedule for kindergarten programs, it provides at least 425 hours of structured learning time a year. If the district schedules two sessions of kindergarten a day, it ensures equal instructional time for all kindergarten students.

M.G.L. c. 69, § 1G; 603 CMR 27.03, 27.04

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

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CR 7B

Structured learning time

The school district ensures that its structured learning time is time during which students are engaged in regularly scheduled instruction, learning, or assessments within the curriculum of core subjects and other subjects as defined in 603 CMR 27.02 (including physical education, required by M.G.L. c. 71, s. 3). The district’s structured learning time may include directed study (activities directly related to a program of studies, with a teacher available to assist students), independent study (a rigorous, individually designed program under the direction of a teacher, assigned a grade and credit), technology-assisted learning, presentations by persons other than teachers, school-to-work programs, and statewide student performance assessments.

The district ensures that its structured learning time does not include time at breakfast or lunch, passing between classes, in homeroom, at recess, in non- directed study periods (study halls), participating in optional school programs, or receiving school services such as health screening, speech, or physical and occupational therapy, except where those services are prescribed by a student’s IEP or Section 504 Accommodation Plan.

The hours spent in any type of structured learning time are verified by the school district. Where the school district counts independent study or a school-to-work program as structured learning time, it has guidelines that explain clearly how hours spent by students are verified.

M.G.L. c. 69, § 1G; 603 CMR 27.02, 27.04

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CR 7C

Early release of high school seniors

When the school district schedules the early release at the end of the year of the senior class of a high school, it does so in a way that conforms with Board of Education requirements under 603 CMR 27.05, ensuring that neither the conclusion of the seniors’ school year nor graduation is more than 12 school days before the regular scheduled closing date of that school.

M.G.L. c. 69, § 1G; 603 CMR 27.05

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CR 8

Accessibility of extracurricular activities

Extracurricular activities sponsored by the district are nondiscriminatory in that: 1. the school provides equal opportunity for all students to participate in intramural

and interscholastic sports; 2. extracurricular activities or clubs sponsored by the school do not exclude

students on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or homelessness.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(a), (b); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31, 106.41; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4,104.37(a), (c); Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130; NCLB: Title X, Part C, Sec. 721; Mass. Const. amend. art 114; M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.06

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CR 9

Hiring and employment practices of prospective employers of students

The district requires employers recruiting at the school to sign a statement that the employer complies with applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination in hiring or employment practices and the statement specifically includes the following protected categories: race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, religion and sexual orientation.

Prospective employers to whom this criterion applies include those participating in career days and work-study and apprenticeship training programs, as well as those offering cooperative work experiences.

Authority: M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.07(5)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Document review and staff interviews indicated that the work site agreement signed by employers does not state that the employer will comply with all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination in hiring practices.

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CR 10

Anti-Hazing Reports

The principal of each secondary school in the district issues a copy of M.G.L. c. 269 §§ 17 through 19, to every student enrolled full-time, and every student group, student team, or student organization, including every unaffiliated student group, student team, or student organization, and a copy of the school’s anti- hazing disciplinary policy approved by the school committee.

Each secondary school files, at least annually, a report with the Department certifying

b. c.

Its compliance with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams, or organizations, and every full-time enrolled student, of the provisions of M.G.L. c. 269 §§ 17 through 19; Its adoption of a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing; and

That the hazing policy has been included in the student handbook or other means of communicating school policies to students.

Authority: M.G.L. c. 269, ss. 17-19

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS V. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Legal Standard

CR 10A

Student handbooks and codes of conduct

a. The district has a code of conduct for students and one for teachers. b. The principal of every school containing grades 9-12 prepares, in

consultation with the school council, a student handbook containing the student code of conduct and distributes it to each student annually, as well as to parents and school personnel; the school council reviews and revises the student code of conduct every year.

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Legal Standard

c. The principal of every school containing other grades distributes the district’s student code of conduct to students, parents, and personnel annually.

d. At the request of a parent or student whose primary language is not English, a student handbook or student code of conduct is translated into that language.

2. Student codes of conduct contain: a. procedures assuring due process in disciplinary proceedings and b. appropriate procedures for the discipline of students with special needs and

students with Section 504 Accommodation Plans. 3. Student handbooks and codes of conduct reference M.G.L. c. 76, s. 5 and

contain:

b. c.

a nondiscrimination policy that is consistent with M.G.L. c. 76, s. 5, and affirms the school’s non-tolerance for harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or sexual orientation, or discrimination on those same bases;

the school’s procedure for accepting, investigating and resolving complaints alleging discrimination or harassment; and the disciplinary measures that the school may impose if it determines that harassment or discrimination has occurred.

Section 504; M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H; 603 CMR 26.08

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Student handbooks do not consistently reference M.G.L. c. 76, s.5 and do not contain a nondiscrimination policy that is consistent with M.G.L. c. 76, s. 5 and affirms the district’s non- tolerance for harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or sexual orientation, or discrimination on those same bases.

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CR 10B

Bullying Intervention and Prevention

1. Public schools (including charter schools and collaboratives) must amend school handbooks to include an age-appropriate summary of their new Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan.

2. School and district employee handbooks must contain relevant sections of the

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Legal Standard

Plan relating to the duties of faculty and staff. 3. Each year all school districts and schools must give parents and guardians annual

written notice of the student-related sections of the local Plan. 4. Each year all school districts and schools must provide all staff with annual

written notice of the Plan. 5. All schools and school districts must implement, for all school staff, professional

development that includes developmentally appropriate strategies to prevent bullying incidents; developmentally appropriate strategies for immediate, effective interventions to stop bullying incidents; information regarding the complex interaction and power differential that can take place between and among a perpetrator, victim and witnesses to the bullying; research findings on bullying, including information about specific categories of students who have been shown to be particularly at risk for bullying in the school environment; information on the incidence and nature of cyber-bullying; and internet safety issues as they relate to cyber-bullying.

M.G.L. c. 71, s. 37H, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010. M.G.L. c. 71, s. 37O(e)(1) & (2). M.G.L. c. 71, s. 370(d).

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CR 11A

Designation of coordinator(s); grievance procedures

1. 2.

The district has designated one or more staff persons to serve as coordinator(s) for compliance with its responsibilities under Title IX, Section 504, and (if it employs 50 or more persons) Title II. The district has adopted and published grievance procedures for students and for employees providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints alleging discrimination based on sex or disability.

Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.8; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.7; Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.107

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

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CR 12A

Annual and continuous notification concerning nondiscrimination and coordinators

If the district offers vocational education programs, it advises students, parents, employees and the general public before the beginning of each school year that all vocational opportunities will be offered regardless of race, color, national origin, sex or disability. The notice includes a brief summary of program offerings and admission criteria and the name(s), office address(es), and phone number(s) of the person(s) designated under CR 11A to coordinate compliance under Title IX and Section 504.

In all cases, the district takes continuing steps to notify applicants, students, parents, and employees (including those with impaired vision or hearing), as well as unions or professional organizations holding collective bargaining or professional agreements with the district, that it does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. This notice, also, includes the name(s), office address(es), and phone number(s) of the person(s) designated under CR 11A to coordinate compliance under Title IX and Section 504. Written materials and other media used to publicize a school include a notice that the school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.6(d); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.8(a), 106.9; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.8; M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.02(2)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CR 13

Availability of information and academic counseling on general curricular and occupational/vocational opportunities Students from linguistic, racial, and ethnic minorities; males; females; homeless students; and students with disabilities all receive, in grades 7-12, the same information and academic counseling as other students on the full range of general curricular and any occupational/vocational opportunities available to them.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(a), (b); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31, 106.36; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4, 104.37(b); Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130; NCLB: Title III, Part A, Sec. 3121(c)(1)(C); Title X, Part C, Sec. 721; Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; M.G.L. c. 71A, § 7; c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.03

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CR 14

Counseling and counseling materials free from bias and stereotypes

To ensure that counseling and counseling materials are free from bias and stereotypes on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, and homelessness, all counselors: 1. encourage students to consider programs of study, courses, extracurricular

activities, and occupational opportunities on the basis of individual interests,

abilities, and skills; 2. examine testing materials for bias and counteract any found bias when

administering tests and interpreting test results; 3. communicate effectively with limited-English-proficient and disabled students

and facilitate their access to all programs and services offered by the district; 4. provide limited-English-proficient students with the opportunity to receive

guidance and counseling in a language they understand; 5. support students in educational and occupational pursuits that are nontraditional

for their gender.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(a), (b); EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31, 106.36; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4, 104.37; Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130, 35.160; NCLB: Title III, Part A, Sec. 3121(c)(1)(C); Title X, Part C, Sec. 721; Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; M.G.L. c. 71A, § 7; c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.04, 26.07(8)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CR 15

Non-discriminatory administration of scholarships, prizes and awards

Scholarships, prizes and awards sponsored or administered by the district are free of restrictions based upon race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disability. Schools may post or print information regarding private restricted scholarships as long as no preferential treatment is given to any particular scholarship offered and as long as the school does not endorse or recommend any such scholarship nor advise or suggest to a particular student that he or she apply for such a scholarship.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3; Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31, 106.37; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4(b)(1)(v); Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130(b)(1)(v); Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.07(7)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CR 16

Notice to students 16 or over leaving school without a high school diploma, certificate of attainment, or certificate of completion

2. 3.

Within ten days from a student’s fifteenth consecutive unexcused absence, the school provides written notice to students age 16 or over and their parents or guardians. The notice is in English and the family’s native language and states that the student and the parent or guardian may meet with a representative of the district within ten days from the date the notice was sent. At the request of the parent or guardian, the district may consent to an extension of the time for the meeting of not longer than fourteen days.

At the meeting the participants discuss the reasons that the student is leaving school and alternative educational or other placements. The student and parent or guardian are told that attendance is voluntary after the student turns 16 but are also informed of the student’s right to return to school. Any district serving students in high school grades sends annual written notice to former students who have not yet earned their competency determination and who have not transferred to another school a. to inform them of the availability of publicly funded post-high school

academic support programs and b. to encourage them to participate in those programs. At a minimum, the district sends annual written notice by first class mail to the last known address of each such student who attended a high school in the district within the past two years.

M.G.L. c. 76, §§ 5, 18; St. 1965, c. 741

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

While the district provides appropriate written notice to students age 16 and over within ten days from a student’s fifteenth consecutive unexcused absence in English and in the family’s native language, the district does not send annual written notice to former students who have not yet earned their competency determination and who have not transferred to another school to inform them of the availability of publicly funded post-high school academic support programs and to encourage them to participate in those programs.

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CR 17A

Use of physical restraint on any student enrolled in a publicly-funded education program 1. The district has developed and implemented staff training at least annually on

the use of restraint consistent with regulatory requirements. Such training occurs within the first month of each school year and, for employees hired after the school year begins, within a month of their employment.

2. The district administers physical restraint on students only when needed to protect a student and/or a member of the school community from imminent, serious, physical harm. The district implements restraint procedures consistent with Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regulations in order to prevent or minimize any harm to the student as a result of the use of physical restraint.

3. The district has developed written procedures regarding appropriate responses to student behavior that may require immediate intervention. Such procedures are annually reviewed and provided to school staff and made available to parents of enrolled students.

4. The district has developed and implemented reporting requirements and procedures for administrators, parents and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education consistent with the regulations.

5. The district has developed and implemented any applicable individual waiver procedures consistent with the regulations.

M.G.L. c. 71, § 37G; 603 CMR 46.00

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VI. FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Legal Standard

CR 18

Responsibilities of the school principal

1. Instructional support. The principal in each of the district’s schools promotes instructional practices responsive to student needs and ensures that adequate instructional support is available for students and teachers. Instructional support includes remedial instruction for students, consultative services for teachers, availability of reading instruction at the elementary level, appropriate services

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CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VI. FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Legal Standard

for linguistic minority students, and other services consistent with effective educational practices and the requirements of M.G.L. c. 71B, §2. The principal consults with the Administrator of Special Education regarding accommodations and interventions for students. Such efforts and their results are documented and placed in the student record. Additionally, when an individual student is referred for an evaluation to determine eligibility for special education, the principal ensures that documentation on the use of instructional support services for the student is provided as part of the evaluation information reviewed by the Team when determining eligibility.

2. Curriculum Accommodation Plan. The principal implements a curriculum accommodation plan developed by the district’s general education program to ensure that all efforts have been made to meet the needs of diverse learners in the general education program. The plan assists the regular classroom teacher in analyzing and accommodating diverse learning styles of all children in the regular classroom and in providing appropriate services and support within the general education program including, but not limited to, direct and systematic instruction in reading and provision of services to address the needs of children whose behavior may interfere with learning. The plan includes provisions encouraging teacher mentoring and collaboration and parental involvement.

(The plan may be part of a multi-year strategic plan.) 3. Coordination with special education. The principal with the assistance of the

Administrator of Special Education coordinates the delivery and supervision of

special education services within each school building. 4. Educational services in home or hospital. Upon receipt of a physician’s written

order verifying that any student enrolled in a public school or placed by the public school in a private setting must remain at home or in a hospital on a day or overnight basis, or any combination of both, for medical reasons and for a period of not less than fourteen school days in any school year, the principal arranges for provision of educational services in the home or hospital. Such services are provided with sufficient frequency to allow the student to continue his or her educational program, as long as such services do not interfere with the medical needs of the student. The principal coordinates such services with the Administrator for Special Education for eligible students. Such educational services are not considered special education unless the student has been determined eligible for such services, and the services include services on the student’s IEP.

M.G.L. c. 71, § 38Q 1⁄2; 603 CMR 28.03(3)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VI. FACULTY, STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION

Legal Standard

CR 18A School district employment practices

District employment practices in general are free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. The district’s employee recruitment is aimed at reaching all groups, including members of linguistic, ethnic, and racial minorities, females and males, and persons with disabilities.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(c); EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(d); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.51-106.61; Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.11- 104.14; Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.140; Mass. Const. amend. art 114

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

Legal Standard

CRITERION NUMBER

CR 20 Staff training on confidentiality of student records

The district trains school personnel on the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, M.G.L. c. 71, s. 34H, and 603 CMR 23.00 and on the importance of information privacy and confidentiality. FERPA: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99; M.G.L. c. 71, § 34H; 603 CMR 23.00, esp. 23.05(3)

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

Legal Standard

CRITERION NUMBER

CR 21 Staff training regarding civil rights responsibilities

The district provides in-service training for all school personnel at least annually regarding civil rights responsibilities, including the prevention of discrimination and harassment on the basis of students’ race, color, sex, religion, national origin and sexual orientation and the appropriate methods for responding to it in the school setting.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3; EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.31-106.42; M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.00, esp. 26.07(2), (3)

Rating: Implemented District Response Required:

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CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VII. SCHOOL FACILITIES

Legal Standard

CR 22

Accessibility of district programs and services for students with disabilities

In at least one facility within the district, the district makes available and entirely accessible to students with disabilities all educational and vocational programs and services offered at each level (preschool, elementary and secondary).

Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.21,104.22; Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.149, 35.150; Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; 603 CMR 28.03(1)(b)(1)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

See CVTE 5.

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Legal Standard

CR 23

Comparability of facilities

Where the district provides separate facilities for members of a specific group, those facilities are comparable to those offered other students in the district, including: 1. separate facilities for disabled, limited-English-proficient or pregnant students

that are comparable to the facilities for other students in the district; 2. Reserved.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(b)(2); Title IX: 20 U.S.C. 1681; 34 CFR 106.33, 106.40(b)(3); Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.34(c); Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; 603 CMR 28.03(1)(b)

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VIII. PROGRAM PLAN AND EVALUATION

Legal Standard

CR 24

Curriculum review

The district ensures that individual teachers in the district review all educational materials for simplistic and demeaning generalizations, lacking intellectual merit, on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin and sexual orientation.

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS VIII. PROGRAM PLAN AND EVALUATION

Legal Standard

Appropriate activities, discussions and/or supplementary materials are used to provide balance and context for any such stereotypes depicted in such materials.

M.G.L. c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.05(2)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

According to staff interviews and the document review, the district does not have a process to ensure that individual teachers in the district review all educational materials for simplistic and demeaning generalizations, lacking intellectual merit, on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin and sexual orientation, and provide appropriate activities, discussions and/or supplementary materials to provide balance and context for any such stereotypes depicted in such materials.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and documentation review indicated that the district does not evaluate all aspects of its K-12 program annually to ensure that all students, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, limited English proficiency, sexual orientation, disability, or housing status, have equal access to all programs, including athletics and other extracurricular activities.

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Legal Standard

CR 25

Institutional self-evaluation

The district evaluates all aspects of its K-12 program annually to ensure that all students, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, limited English proficiency, sexual orientation, disability, or housing status, have equal access to all programs, including athletics and other extracurricular activities. It makes such changes as are indicated by the evaluation.

Title VI: 42 U.S.C. 2000d; 34 CFR 100.3(b)(2); EEOA: 20 U.S.C. 1703(f); Section 504: 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4(b)(4); Title II: 42 U.S.C. 12132; 28 CFR 35.130(b)(3); NCLB: Title III, Part A, Sec. 3121(c)(1)(C); Title X, Part C, Sec. 722(g)(1)(J)(i), 722(g)(7); Mass. Const. amend. art. 114; M.G.L. c. 71A, § 7; c. 76, § 5; 603 CMR 26.07(1),(4)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required:

Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

CIVIL RIGHTS METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION (CR) AND OTHER RELATED GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS IX. RECORD KEEPING

Legal Standard

CR 26A

Confidentiality and student records

1. In accordance with federal and state requirements, the district protects the confidentiality of any personally identifiable information that it collects, uses or maintains.

2. The district maintains and provides access to student records in accordance with federal and state requirements.

FERPA: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99; M.G.L. c. 71, § 34H; 603 CMR 23.05, 23.07

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required:

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CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION

LEGAL STANDARDS, COMPLIANCE RATINGS AND FINDINGS

CRITERION NUMBER

CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION I. ASSESSMENT OF STUDENTS

Legal Standard

CVTE 1

Career guidance and placement services, including career assessments and assistance with the development of a four-year career plan, are provided in order to assist each student enrolled in a career/vocational technical education program in making the transition to the workforce, postsecondary education, and/or apprenticeship programs.

Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4(d), Perkins Section 135

Definition: A career assessment is a formal assessment instrument that helps the student evaluate his/her career interests..

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and a review of documentation indicated that career assessments are completed at Taconic High School; however, there was no evidence of a process to utilize these assessments in the development of a four year plan or to provide guidance in the selection of a career/vocational technical education program. Career assessments are not conducted for all career/vocational technical education students at Pittsfield High School, nor is there evidence of a process to utilize any assessments. There is no evidence that a four year career plan is in place for any students enrolled in career/vocational technical education programs at either Taconic High School or Pittsfield High School.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

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Legal Standard

CVTE 2

MCAS and/or other academic assessment results are used to design instructional and support services. Perkins Section 135, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4)

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Education Programs at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

A review of documentation and interview indicated that MCAS and/or other academic assessment results are not always used to design instructional and support services. Interviews find that expectations for students enrolled in the career/vocational technical education programs (CVTE) are not the same as for

non- CVTE students.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and a review of documentation indicated that safety & health are the only knowledge and skills addressed in all programs. There is no formalized system to ensure that all programs are addressing the frameworks or assessing students.

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CVTE 3

The district assesses students for the acquisition of safety & health, technical that includes embedded academic, employability, management & entrepreneurship, and technological knowledge and skills. Perkins Section 135, M.G.L. c.74 Section 2, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (4)

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION II. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION AND PROGRAM PLACEMENT

Legal Standard

CVTE 4

Information concerning career/vocational technical education programs is provided to students and to their parents/guardians. Such information shall include admission requirements for career/vocational technical programs; specific programs/courses that are available; employment and/or further education and registered apprenticeship opportunities. Perkins Section 135, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (4) (6).

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/

Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Education Admission Policies at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/admissions/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Staff interviews and a review of documentation indicated that the district admission policy is not published. The Pittsfield High School Student Handbook references the admission policy but does not include the policy or indicate where the policy can be obtained. The Pittsfield High School 2011-2012 Program of Studies references the exploratory program and includes the career exploratory grading sheet. There is no reference to the admission policy in either Taconic High School’s Student Handbook or the 2011-2012 Program of Studies. The Pittsfield High School 2011-2012 Program of Studies includes a paragraph regarding cooperative education; however, information on the cooperative education program requirements and application process is not published.

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CVTE 5

All individuals including those who are members of special populations are provided with equal access to career/vocational technical education programs, services and activities and are not discriminated against on the basis of their status as members of special populations or race, color, gender, religion, national origin, English language proficiency, disability, or sexual orientation. Perkins Sections 122 & 135, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4) (6 (7), M.G.L.c.76, Section 5.

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Education Admission Policies at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/admissions/ Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex and Handicap in Vocational Education Programs (34 CFR, Part 100, Appendix B at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/admissions/ Massachusetts Special Education Regulations 603 CMR 28.10 6) (c) at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr28.html?section=all#start Massachusetts General Law Chapter 76, Section 5 at http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-pt1-toc.htm Massachusetts Access to Equal Educational Opportunity Regulations 603 CMR 26.00 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr26.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

A review of documentation and data showed a disproportionate enrollment by students with disabilities in the Chapter 74 vocational technical education horticulture program. While students with disabilities participate in the Chapter 74 exploratory program, during the final selection process, some students with disabilities are advised to choose the horticulture program even when other programs have openings. In addition, the Automotive Technology and the Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing programs are not wheelchair accessible. Staff interviews and a review of documentation indicated that safety & health are the only knowledge and skills addressed in all programs. There is no formalized system to ensure that all programs are addressing the frameworks or assessing students.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

A review of documentation and data showed that the district is not using its admissions policy for placement of all students. See CVTE 5.

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Legal Standard

CVTE 6

This criterion applies only to Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education. The district uses its Department-approved admission policy and an appropriate application for admission. Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4). M.G.L. c. 76 Section 5.

References:

Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex and Handicap in Vocational Education Programs (34 CFR, Part 100, Appendix B at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/admissions/ Massachusetts Special Education Regulations 603 CMR 28.10 6) (c) at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr28.html?section=all#start

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 76, Section 5 at

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-pt1-toc.htm

Massachusetts Access to Equal Educational Opportunity Regulations 603 CMR 26.00 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr26.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 7

This criterion applies only to districts with five or more Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education programs. Ninth graders admitted to Chapter 74-approved vocational

technical education participate in the district’s Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education exploratory program for a minimum of one-half of the school year. The program provides for students to explore at least one program that would prepare them for a career nontraditional for their gender if the district has program(s) that prepare students for careers that would be nontraditional for their gender. Students receive appropriate safety training while exploring programs. The time exploring each program should be sufficient to allow the student to be adequately assessed. The time should be sufficient to allow the student to become aware of the program requirements and the opportunities for employment and further education/training extended by the program. Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4). M.G.L. c. 76 Section 5.

References:

Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Education Programs at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/manual.doc

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that neither the Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education exploratory program at Taconic High School or at Pittsfield High School meets the minimum one-half year requirement. In 2008, the district was approved to run a revised exploratory program at Pittsfield and/or Taconic High School for a one-year period, after which they were required to submit a report on the revised exploratory program. No report has been submitted and the exploratory programs continue to run at a deficit of the required minimum of one-half of the school year.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that not all of the career/vocational technical education programs meet the standards and accompanying measures in the Massachusetts Perkins IV

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Legal Standard

CVTE 8

The programs in which students are enrolled meet the Perkins IV definition of career and technical education as contained in Appendix A (Massachusetts Perkins IV Career and Technical Education Program Checklist) of the Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual. Perkins Sections 3 & 135

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Secondary Postsecondary CVTE Linkage Consortium Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/techprep/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Career and Technical Education Program Checklist. There is no system in place to ensure that career and technical education programs in which students are enrolled meet the Perkins IV definition of career and technical education.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that the district reports students enrolled in non Chapter 74 programs that do not meet the Perkins IV definition of career and technical education and in Chapter 74 Exploratory Programs that do not meet the minimum one-half year requirement. See CVTE 7 and 8.

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CRITERION NUMBER

CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION III. PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Legal Standard

CVTE 9

The district accurately reports student data in the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Student Information Management System (SIMS) and the Career/Vocational Technical Education Graduate Follow-up Report. Perkins Section 113, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.05

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ SIMS Version 2.0 Data Handbook at http://www.doe.mass.edu/infoservices/data/sims/ Instructions for School Districts in Reporting Students Enrolled in Career/Vocational Technical Education Programs at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/data/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Secondary Postsecondary CVTE Linkage Consortium Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/techprep/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 10

Representatives of business/industry; organized labor (union); colleges(s); parent(s)/guardian(s); student(s); representative(s) from registered apprenticeship program(s) (only required if the occupational field of the program has a registered apprenticeship program) are involved in the development, implementation, and review of career/vocational technical programs. Representation is race, linguistic, disability, and nontraditional by gender inclusive, and if not, there is a plan (formal recruitment process) to make it inclusive. Perkins Section 135, M.G.L. c.74 Section 6, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (1)

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education

Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Career/Vocational Technical Education Advisory Committee Guide at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/resources/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that several program advisory committees are missing required representation. Documentation submitted by the district did not include a program advisory committee roster for all programs; of those submitted several indicated only 3-5 members and postsecondary representation was missing from the majority of rosters submitted. One program does not have a program advisory committee in place at all. Program advisory committee minutes indicate that most committees meet twice a year (including those without membership rosters).

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CRITERION NUMBER

CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION IV. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION

Legal Standard

CVTE 11

Programs are structured so that students acquire safety & health, technical that includes embedded academic, employability, management & entrepreneurship, and technological knowledge and skills. Perkins Section 135, M.G.L. c. 74 Section 2, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (4) 4.06

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html

Massachusetts Vocational Technical Education Frameworks at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/frameworks/

Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Cooperative Education at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Career Plan Website at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cd/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Secondary Postsecondary CVTE Linkage Consortium Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/techprep/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that not all programs are aligned to the frameworks. There is no formalized system to ensure that every chapter 74 program is teaching all strands of the vocational technical education frameworks. In addition, disparities between programs were noted in classroom observations as well as program advisory committee meeting notes. Refer to CVTE 3.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation indicated that not all programs have linkages with postsecondary education, including registered apprenticeship. Further, interviews and a review of documentation indicated that expectations for students enrolled in the career/vocational technical education programs are not the same as for non-CVTE students, particularly regarding assistance with postsecondary planning. See also CVTE 2.

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Legal Standard

CVTE 12

Linkages between secondary and postsecondary education including registered apprenticeship programs exist through, at a minimum, articulation agreements that are annually reviewed and approved. Perkins Section 135, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (4)

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 13

(Note: This criterion applies only to Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education.)

Cooperative Education is implemented in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Child Labor Bulletin 101 – Child Labor Requirements in Nonagricultural Occupations under the Fair Labor Standards Act WH – Revised March 2001, Code of Federal Regulations Title 29 (CFR 29) Parts 570.50 (c) (1) & 570.51-570.68, M.G.L. c. 74 Sections 1& 2A, M.G.L. c.149, Sections 1, 62 & 62A, M.G.L. c. 152, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(7) 4.10(3), (Chapter 385 of the Acts of 2002

References: Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Cooperative Education at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/ Massachusetts General Law Chapter 149 at

at http://www.state.ma.us/legis/laws/mgl/gl-149-toc.htm Code of Federal Regulations Title 29 (CFR 29) at http://www.dol.gov/dol/allcfr/ESA/Title_29/Part_570/29CFR570.50.htm MA Worker’s Compensation Insurance per M.G.L. c. 152 at http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-152-toc.htm Advisory of CORI Law: Mandatory Criminal Record (CORI) Checks – Education Laws and Regulations at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/advisory/cori.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews, documentation, and review of student cooperative education records indicated that cooperative education is significantly out of compliance with the Vocational Technical Education Regulations:

• The majority of the cooperative education agreements were missing required information including signatures, proof of workers’ compensation insurance, technical skills to be attained during coop, and on several agreements, the name of the supervisor at the cooperative education placement.

• CORI consent by employer or documentation of work permits were not in all students’ folders. • There was no evidence that students are required to meet the standard of academic or

employability skills prior to participating in cooperative education. • Interviews and a review of documentation indicated no standard preparation/orientation prior to

students’ placement on coop, including safety and health. • As noted in the prior CPR, some students are placed in cooperative education to remove them

from the classroom. • Employers have contacted the school to complain about students’ lack of preparation resulting in

a reduction of placement opportunities. • While site specific safety reviews are conducted prior to placement, no evidence or

documentation is maintained in the student file. • In one case, a student conducted work in violation of child labor laws. • Students’ academic and technical competency attainment is not documented and work is not

always relevant to the students’ programs of study. • There is not a uniform published description of the requirements for participation in Cooperative

Education, or how to apply, available to all Pittsfield Public School students. Only the Pittsfield High School Program of Studies includes a paragraph describing the Cooperative Education Program and requirements, but only references grade and graduation requirements for placement.

A review of student records revealed that cooperative education agreements are used for placement of students enrolled in non Chapter 74 programs. See CVTE 14.

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Legal Standard

CVTE 14

Non-cooperative education (unpaid) work-based learning such as internships and job- shadowing is implemented in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and policies. Perkins Section 135, M.G.L. c. 74 Section 2A, M.G.L. c. 152, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4), Chapter 385 of the Acts of 2002

References: Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html MA Worker’s Compensation Insurance per M.G.L. c. 152 at http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-152-toc.htm Advisory of CORI Law: Mandatory Criminal Record (CORI) Checks – Education Laws and Regulations at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/advisory/cori.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews and a review of documentation, including student records, indicated that non-cooperative education (unpaid) work-based learning such as internships and job-shadowing are not carried out in compliance with the Vocational Technical Education Regulations. Several students enrolled in Chapter 74 programs participate in the district’s paid work-based learning program (run separately from the cooperative education program) in lieu of cooperative education. See CVTE 13.

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 15

(Note: This criterion applies only to Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education.)

Unpaid off-campus construction and maintenance projects are appropriately implemented per the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Education Regulations. Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.06; M.G.L.c.142, Section 3A.

References:

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required: No

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

The district does not currently have an alternative education program at either Pittsfield High School or Taconic High School.

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 16

The needs of students in alternative education are addressed (if the district has alternative education). Perkins Section 122 Note: Alternative Education is an instructional approach under the control of a school committee that is offered to “at-risk” students in a nontraditional setting. “At-risk” students may include those who are pregnant/parenting teens, truant students, and suspended or expelled students, returned dropouts, delinquent youth, or other students who are not meeting local promotional requirements. Alternative Education may operate as a program or as a separate self-contained school. Alternative Education does not include private schools, home schooling, school choice, General Educational Development (GED), or gifted and talented programs. Alternative Education also does not include programs exclusively serving students receiving special education services or career/vocational technical education.

References: Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Webpage http://www.doe.mass.edu/alted/faq.html?faq=general

Rating: Not Applicable

District Response Required: No

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 17

Activities are provided to prepare students, including students that are members of special populations, for high skill, high wage, or high demand occupations that will lead to self-sufficiency.

Perkins Section 135; Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03(4).

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

A review of documentation including student records as well as classroom observations and interviews indicated that not all programs provide activities to prepare students, including students that are members of special populations, for high skill, high wage, or high demand occupations that will lead to self-sufficiency (see CVTE 12 and CVTE 13). No evidence of curriculum reviews was provided and (see CVTE 2 and CVTE 3) and cooperative education records indicated placements requiring repetitive or unrelated work (see CVTE 13). In addition, each day several students enrolled in CVTE programs were observed roaming hallways and off task and/or undirected during class time.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Interviews indicated that in one program an unlicensed teacher delivers instruction and supervises

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 18

Staff in career/vocational technical education programs are appropriately licensed or are working under a current Department-issued waiver. Perkins Section 135, M.G.L. c. 74 Section 18, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (5) 4.07 and M.G.L. c. 71 Section 38G, Regulations for Educator Licensure and Preparation Program Approval 603 CMR 7.00

References: Massachusetts General Law Chapter 74, Section 18 at http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-74-toc.htm Massachusetts General Law Chapter 71, Section 38G at http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-71-toc.htm Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Education Programs at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/manual.doc Chapter 74 Guide for Preliminary Vocational Technical Teacher Licensure at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/licensure/prelimguide.doc Chapter 74 Guide for Professional Vocational Technical Teacher Licensure at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/licensure/profguide.doc Chapter 74 Guide for Vocational Technical Administrator and Cooperative Education Coordinator Licensure at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/licensure/admin_cecguide.doc Chapter 74 Guide for Vocational Technical Educator License Renewal at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/licensure/renewalguide.doc Regulations for Educator Licensure and Preparation Program Approval 603 CMR 7.00 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr7.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

students on equipment.

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 19

Staff in career/vocational technical education programs acquire professional development. Perkins Section 135, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (5) 4.07 and M.G.L. c. 71 Section 38G, Regulations for Educator Licensure and Preparation Program Approval 603 CMR 7.00

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 74, Section 18 at

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-74-toc.htm

Massachusetts General Law Chapter 71, Section 38G at

http://www.mass.gov/legis/laws/mgl/gl-71-toc.htm

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Regulations for Educator Licensure and Preparation Program Approval 603 CMR 7.00 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr7.html

Chapter 74 Guide for Vocational Technical Educator License Renewal at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/educators/e_license.html?section=voc

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required: No

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 20

Career/vocational technical education instructional facilities meet current occupational standards. Perkins Section 135; Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (3) (4) (7)(8)

References: Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Career/Vocational Technical Education Safety Guide at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/safety/guide.doc NIOSH Safety Checklist Program for Schools at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/safety_health.html

Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Cooperative Education at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Not all instructional facilities and equipment used for career/vocational technical education meet current occupational standards, i.e., are generally comparable to facilities in applicable operating business and industries. The Office for Career/Vocational Technical Education sent a Safety Survey Report to Superintendent Eberwein on May 4, 2012.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 21

Career/vocational technical education instructional equipment meets current occupational standards. Perkins Section 135; Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (3) (4) (7)(8)

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Career/Vocational Technical Education Safety Guide at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/safety/guide.doc

NIOSH Safety Checklist Program for Schools at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/safety_health.html

Chapter 74 Manual for Vocational Technical Cooperative Education at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/programs/

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

CRITERION NUMBER

CAREER/VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL EDUCATION V. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

Legal Standard

CVTE 22

The district uses the Perkins Act Core Indicator of Performance outcomes and (if applicable) Chapter 74 outcomes to improve programs and the outcomes for students. Perkins Section 113, Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.05

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/

Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html Massachusetts Perkins Accountability Workbook – Secondary http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/acctworkbook_sec.pdf

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Beyond improvements in safety, interviews and review of documentation showed minimal effort to improve programs and outcomes for students based on findings in the last Coordinated Program Review. Fifteen out of twenty career/vocational technical education findings from the 2006 Coordinated Program Review have still not been addressed.

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CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 23

Perkins Local Plans and Standard Contract Forms and Application for Program Grants are appropriately designed, amended, and locally monitored. Perkins Sections 113 and 201

References: Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Grants for Schools: Getting Them and Using Them, A Procedural Manual at http://finance1.doe.mass.edu/Grants/procedure/manual.html Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) at http://www.ed.gov/policy/fund/reg/edgarReg/edgar.html OMB Circular A – 87 HTTP://WWW.WHITEHOUSE.GOV/OMB/CIRCULARS/A087/A087- ALL.HTML

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required: No

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 24

The district uses Perkins funds in accordance with statutory fund-use rules, including supplement not supplant provisions. Perkins Sections 135

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

References:

Carl D. Perkins Career & Technical Education Improvement Act of 2006 at

http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Massachusetts Perkins IV Manual at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/perkins/ Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR) http://www.ed.gov/policy/fund/reg/edgarReg/edgar.html OMB Circular A – 87 HTTP://WWW.WHITEHOUSE.GOV/OMB/CIRCULARS/A087/A087- ALL.HTML

Rating: Implemented

District Response Required: No

CRITERION NUMBER

Legal Standard

CVTE 25

(Note: This criterion applies only to Chapter 74-approved vocational technical education.) The district has adequate financial resources to enable the programs to meet current industry and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards with respect to facilities, safety, equipment, and supplies. Vocational Technical Education Regulations 603 CMR 4.03 (8)

References: Chapter 74 Selected Sections & 603 CMR 4.00 Vocational Technical Education Regulations and Guidelines at http://www.doe.mass.edu/cte/laws.html

Rating: Partially Implemented

District Response Required: Yes

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Findings

Review of program advisory committee meeting minutes indicated that the district does not have adequate financial resources to enable the programs to meet current industry standards.

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This Coordinated Program Review Final Report is also available at: http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa/review/cpr/reports/. Profile information supplied by each charter school and school district, including information for individual schools within districts, is available at http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/.

WBMS Final Report 2012

File Name: Last Revised on: Prepared by:

Pittsfield CPR Final Report 2012 October 1, 2012 DBL/DLP

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November 13, 2012 36 Comments

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FPR

11 years ago

Wow Dan,

The wheel on my mouse is now wore plumb out. Probably the longest article I’ve ever seen you post.

Two points:

Yes the “free money” surplus is money that was taken from the people and should be given back to them in the form of a tax cut — not to be used for any other purpose.

If you go into McDonald’s and your total comes to say $5.95 and you hand the cashier a $20 bill, they don’t have the right to say we will use the difference to fund Ronald McDonald house. Its your money. Same as if Pittsfield took too much taxes from you, its your money.

Second point is the Government never did nor should ever have anything to do with education. One parent should work and the other – Teach, your children well. The Government has no business in the education of the children.

Home schooling is becoming more and more popular as parents become disgruntled with the school system and how its run. Its the parents responsibility to educate their own children. Who would have the best interest in doing so?

Do you realize that they could cut people’s taxes in half by eliminating the school department, teachers, principles, superintendents and schools?

danvalenti

Author

11 years ago

Excellent comments, FPR. The $5.95/$20 bill analogy is perfect. Every penny of free cash should be returned to the taxpayers.

Pittfield Pete

Reply to danvalenti

11 years ago

In my opinion, this report highlights the failings of our Pittsfield Public Schools. Along with all the other failings, the worst part of this is some of our students , (miniors in our community) are having thier Civil Rights violated.

Is it too much to ask to have basic Civil Rights of students be met in our schools? ( esp’ ‘ considering the amout of money the city invests in our schools)

In my opinion, it looks like the ship’s Capitan jumped ship long before the crew discovered the ship was sinking. Thanks Jake! I am sure you found day land while the rest of the city bails water we took in on your watch.

Ron Kitterman

11 years ago

A great piece Dan, but aren’t we doubling down on this ? This is going to be bigger than the fillabuster Mr. Smith goes to Washington if Terry reads half the information.

AMBROSE

Reply to Ron Kitterman

11 years ago

filibuster

Dead to Rights

11 years ago

An eye opener DV.

Kevin

11 years ago

We learned through the housing crisis that costs cannot keep going up, up ,up or things crash down, several of our unions such as the Teacher’s and Nurses do not get this. They want 3-5% every year and threaten to walk out if they do not get it. YAY Collective Bargaining…………while it lasts!

Pittfield Pete

Reply to Kevin

11 years ago

Ron

Let’s not forget the UEP turning down 10-20 million dollars for our city’s schools when the town is pure broke. We need more details on this Dan. Is it really true? If so I am truly speechless- ‘ What happened to , We’re all about the children UEP ?

tito

11 years ago

Hey Dan thanks for the War and Peace version. Remember me to get my Garbage Man a nice Xmas present, he was by himself today, is Allied Waste scaling down? Where is OSHA, who’s next police and fire?

dusty

11 years ago

Gee, has Alf read this report? Anyone else on the council? I doubt it and I doubt if they would care if they did. We call these people “dead wood” where I come from. Lazy and shiftless school committee people….if they don’t want to help they need to get out of the way so others can step in and do the job.

danvalenti

Author

Reply to dusty

11 years ago

DUSTY
That’s a good question. Did the school committee and the council read this report. The thing is, the report identified a number of systemic flaws that have been in place for years and years … with nothing being done about it. Nonetheless, taxpayers keep having to fund rote pay increases for school department employees. Something’s wrong with that picture.

Dave

11 years ago

Only in Pittsfield does a report like this come out, and in the same breath we have the gall to use “free cash” to fund raises!
I understand the report was more of an indictment of the administration and not the teachers but give me a break. This is a perfect example of what Mitt Romney was talking about. The majority of the electorate is the public sector so we must appease them at all costs. I am going to file a pettion to rename the line item from “free cash” to “overtaxed monies taken from the city taxpayers to be used at the whim of the administartion”

ambrose

Reply to Dave

11 years ago

betcha a dollar you don’t file that petition

Reply to ambrose

11 years ago

if Dave is who I think he is, don’t make that bet more than you vcan afford tito…..

Reply to JB

11 years ago

oops ambrose….sorry tito!

danvalenti

Author

Reply to Dave

11 years ago

DAVE
I will support that petition 100%.
The irony was not lost on you or others: this indictment from the state at the same time the city dips into free cash to fund inflated and unmerited pay raises.

Pittfield Pete

Reply to Dave

11 years ago

I just read Dr. Noseworthy’s piece in response to the UEP refusing to help in a possible 20 million grant for our schools. Below is a quote from his public statement.

On Oct. 21 Ms. Yates requested that a copy of the 195-page document be sent to every member of her Unit A bargaining group. This was unprecedented and created logistical problems. She also made herself available for a meeting on Oct. 22. At that meeting the administration was represented by Superin tendent Noseworthy and six individuals involved in writing the grant. Ms. Yates brought five members of the U.E.P. executive board. Ms. Yates had read an earlier draft with which she had been provided; she was given the final version at the meeting. The meeting did not go well. Administrative concerns for achievement gaps, the need for supports both in professional development and modern technology and the incredible impact the influx of $20 million could have on a city such as ours fell on deaf ears.

‘One teacher emphasized that she did not want to be told what to teach or how to teach it. Another twice denounced individualized instruction as more work for teachers and a third stated that using technology meant more work for him. From the day we first informed the union of our intent to move forward, there was absolutely no effort for collaboration what soever. Instead of offers of how we could work together there were excuses framed around the fixed timeline. ‘

In my opinion, these people who made such statements should be identified. They freely felt it was within their rights to deny oppertunities for city’s schools and students. Such a bold, ‘ intitled decision should not be made behind the secret iron curtain of the union. If you were bold enough to make such a decision, and deny the help our students need, then be bold enough to step forward and identify yourselves and defend your shameful actions and words to the public.

At the very least such small minded and selfish people should not be educating our youth. What a sorry selfish lot the UEP is.

joetaxpayer

11 years ago

The students lose 5 days of instruction. Is this on top of the nine half days that they get to count as a full day. If they want these raises than the should do there developement on there own dime and own time.Gov’t only knows how to throw money at problems, wish it was that simple.

ambrose

Reply to joetaxpayer

11 years ago

than the should do there development on there own dime (sic)- Joe, you have every right to be pissed whoever didn’t educate you

joetaxpayer

Reply to ambrose

11 years ago

Thanks for caring amby, but maybe you should grade your own posts.

Scott

11 years ago

Teachers should get paid on their performance and the quality of students they produce. Being in a union must be nice paid vacations, sick days and all federal holidays Heck you don’t even have to do a good job like in the private sector to get a raise. Not saying all the teachers do a poor job and they have their work cut out for them I’m sure with the mentality they deal with surrounding Pittsfield. Why is it then that people continue to send their kids out of the district even Pittsfield school and other gov’t employees??? How is it possible to make less but pay your employees more??? When you figure that out let me know so I can incorporate and start cutting myself checks.

Joe Blow

11 years ago

Dan, you lost me on today’s post. Does anyone have the cliff notes?

tito

11 years ago

I pulled my index finger from scrolling down.

joetaxpayer

11 years ago

Dan, as much as I agree with Terry, he will get no support. 78% voted for Obama this is his kinda spending. Go moonbats!

tito

11 years ago

So the Mayor says to fund the raises with free cash because it’s prudent, wonderful.

danvalenti

Author

Reply to tito

11 years ago

TITO
Exactly WHAT is the wonderful aspect the mayor didn’t say.

tito

11 years ago

So the Mayor says to fund the raises with free cash because it’s prudent, wonderful. Congrats go Barry and Christine! Christine is the best Councilor.

tito

11 years ago

Krol, Mazzeo and Lothrop are posturing for political purposes, that is very clear.

FPR

11 years ago

Just wondering……..

Is Pittsfield Pete, Terry Kinnas?

I’m not saying that’s good or bad……… Just wondering?

Terry Kinnas

Reply to FPR

11 years ago

No.

FPR

Reply to Terry Kinnas

11 years ago

Thanks, no offense intended.

Scott

11 years ago

Well they approved the raises and the “free cash” will take care of it the first year. I’m sure Mr. Mayor will come up with a brilliant solution to pay for it in years after like raising tax on everyone.

FPR

11 years ago

Yes, in future years, the city council will say “We have no choice” “We have to raise taxes” to fund the teacher’s salaries.

Tax and spend. If the “free money” is there, spend it. If you fall short, raise taxes. A kindergartner could run the city of Pittsfield with that formula.

Dead to Rights

11 years ago

What a folly to approve teachers raises negotiated by the school committee with free cash, money that by and rights should be refunded to taxpayers. Clairmont made great poiont when he noted how the city returns more than a million each year from departments that don’t spend all their budget but the schools next to nothing. As long as Pittsfield refuses proper school reform it is doomed. It is 70 per cent of the budget.

billy

11 years ago

The council needs to grow a pair .The leadership role on voting against the use of free cash was led by Yon and Clairmont.It baffles me how during a time where neither state or federal government has no money ,that the school department feels no civic responsibility to lessen the burden on a all ready burdened tax payer.I find it shameful that they speak the children and the community as if they have been a partner in helping either one.The children are not being served as shown in the states assesment of our schools.The community is not being served by the lack of fiscal leadership by the majority of the school committee,as well as a majority of the council and the mayor. The tax payer is not a endless atm machine. The teachers need a longer school year,pay per profomance,no work to rule and they need to be taken of the municipal system and compete with charter schools.the current system makes them lazy and fat and non competitive. It was also shameful about losing 20 million dollars. where was the mayor on that one?

danvalenti

Author

Reply to billy

11 years ago

BILLY
I agree. The School Department has only taken, taken, taken. They (the administration and the teachers’ union,with the approval of the school committee) have stolen from taxpayers while performance keeps going down. As you point out, “The taxpayer is not an endless ATM machine.”