The Parents (and their Evaluators) Observation Act

In 2008, with the pro bono assistance of Attorney Robert Crabtree, MAC led a significant legislative victory with passage of H. 391, An Act to Provide Access to Information for Parents’ Evaluators. This bill ensures that parents and independent evaluators will have access to observe special education programs, providing critical information needed to participate in the special education decision making process.

MAC then participated in the group of stakeholders convened by DESE to provide input to the agency as it drafted its guidance to school districts for implementing the bill. MAC provided key leadership in gathering information and coordinating in preparation for this meeting. DESE issued a balanced Advisory, consistent with legislative intent, notifying superintendents, principals, administrators of special education, and other interested parties that parents and independent evaluators have clear rights to observe special education programs. This law and advisory will help provide parents with critical information needed to participate in the special education decision making process.

Special Education Observation Bill (S391) 
The Observation Bill Fact Sheet
The Observation Bill Technical Assistance (DESE Advisory)