This collection of resources and examples of district work was compiled to support efforts to improve awareness and understanding of the impact of poverty, race, and culture on student outcomes.
Book Recommendations:
Tests & Assessment Tools For ELL-SWDs: English as a Second Language Proficiency, Spanish, & Other Languages
Examples of district activities and work to support the educational needs of all students with a specific focus on economically disadvantaged students
The Commissioner's Weekly Update: Superintendents, assistant superintendents, principals, and charter school leaders will receive the weekly email update automatically. For others wishing to receive this update please subscribe.
Early Warning Indicator System (EWIS) With the Early Warning Indicator System (EWIS), the state provides tools for districts to identify students at risk of not meeting important academic goals spanning first grade through high school graduation and beyond. This e-learning module is designed to provide a detailed, step-by-step guide to the Early Warning Implementation Cycle.
Prevention of Physical Restraint and Requirements if Used Training about the new regulatory requirements under 603 CMR 46.00 Prevention of Physical Restraint and Requirements if Used.
Educator Effectiveness Guidebook for Inclusive Practice Created by Massachusetts educators, this Guidebook includes tools for districts, schools, and educators that are aligned to the MA Educator Evaluation Framework and promote evidence-based best practices for inclusion following the principles of Universal Design for Learning, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, and Social and Emotional Learning.
Low-Foundations for Inclusive Practice: Educator and Foundations for Inclusive Practice Developed to help educators be more effective in inclusive settings. These courses are self-paced and are one way to earn the 15 professional development points in "effective schooling for students with disabilities and instruction of students with diverse learning styles" that are required to renew a professional license.
Comprehensive System of Personnel Development Training Project A series of modules that have been designed to supplement ongoing professional development activities provided to personnel that work with students with disabilities: Module One: Massachusetts IEP Process, Module Two: A Principal's Role and Special Education in Massachusetts, Module Three: Transition From Adolescence Into Adulthood in Massachusetts, Module Four: The Transition Planning Process, and Module Five: Specific Learning Disabilities: Eligibility Determination under IDEA 2004.
IEP Team Leader Online Training Modules The Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) developed a series of modules designed for educators and families. Module topics include: Family Engagement, Diversity, Writing a Coherent IEP. Transition Planning, Monitoring Progress, and Legal Considerations.
Safe & Supportive Schools Providing a safe and supportive learning environment is a key to helping students develop essential skills and knowledge necessary for college and career readiness. A wide range of services and supports are needed to establish and maintain these learning environments. This web page outlines a number of Department of Elementary and Secondary Education programs and related resources that can help school districts and communities build safe and supportive learning environments for all students.
SfSS Blueprint The Systems for Student Success (SfSS) is a blueprint for school improvement that focuses on system structures and supports across the district, school, and classroom to meet the academic and non-academic needs of all students.
PBIS : PBIS (positive behavioral interventions and supports) is a framework for organizing the implementation of evidence-based practices across a multi-tiered support system.
Special Education Headlines, Resources, Professional Development Opportunities, Regulations, and Documents
Massachusetts Charter Schools: Best Practices Archives The goal of the "Keeping the Promise" dissemination and replication project is to document and disseminate best practices from five high performing charter schools serving high need communities.
Migrant Education The Migrant Education Program is a state administered federally funded program operated by EDCO Collaborative that serves children of migratory agricultural workers and fishers.
Homeless Assistance The Office for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth works to ensure the enrollment, attendance and the opportunity to succeed in school for homeless children and youth. It provides technical assistance and guidance to school districts and families. This Office collaborates with other state agencies and community providers to support homeless families and their students. Questions regarding the Massachusetts implementation of McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Assistance Act and/or individual cases are always accepted.
English Language Learners The Office of English Language Acquisition and Academic Achievement (OELAAA) manages federal and state funds for English Language Learners (ELLs). It provides technical assistance and professional development opportunities to increase the capacity of Local Education Associations (LEAs) to serve ELLs. It also coordinates DESE ELL initiatives and ELL policy development.
Last Updated: November 3, 2022
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education 135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149
Voice: (781) 338-3000 TTY: (800) 439-2370
Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.