Celebrate and consider reform for the future! 

We mark the anniversary of the nation's first federal special education law--December 2, 1975 as a day to reflect and reform. 

 Where were we when President Gerald Ford signed the ground-breaking legislation?  And, where are we now?  We have come a long way and now provide access to education for all children, including children with disabilities. 

And, where do we need to be tomorrow?  We take the day to honor progress and celebrate students with disabilities--and their parents, teachers and schools. And, we dialogue and plan for the future for all students in our schools and for appropriate reforms.

We are proud to share the fact that in 2007, the Special Education Day Committee (SPEDCO) was a runner-up winner in the Better Government Competition, with its proposal, "Four Proposals to Reform Special Education."   www.pioneerinstitute.org. 

SpedEx, on of the proposals, is the innovative dispute resolution pilot program, funded and supported by the Massachusetts DOE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education).  For information, please visit the DOE website: www.doe.mass.edu/bsea/Spedx.html.

SpedEx is up and running!  We plan for its success.

SPEDCO members made a presentation about SpedEx at the 2008 CASE  Conference in Myrtle Beach.  It was well-received and generated much interest.

Another proposal that grew out of recent Special Education Day celebrations is PROCEDURES LITE. It provides parents and schools who work well together a way to focus on the child's program and bypass procedures with a written agreement. Of course, either party can end PROCEDURES LITE and opt back into the procedures set out by federal and state laws.  For information, please write to info@specialeducationday.com.

Please visit this website for updates about SPEDCO and Special Education Day in Massachusetts.  If you wish to host a celebration in your state, we are happy to provide encouragement and assistance. Let us hear from you! If you wish additional information or wish to participate or contribute, please email:  info@specialeducationday.com.

May our reforms succeed and move special education forward!