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History
History
In Massachusetts, the establishment of a Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) in every school district is a legal mandate. This requirement stems from Massachusetts state law, specifically Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, which emphasizes the rights and needs of students with disabilities. The law mandates that all school districts establish a SEPAC and encourages parental participation in the special education process.
The primary objective is to ensure that children with special needs receive appropriate educational opportunities and that their rights are protected. By having a SEPAC in place, the school district ensures a platform for parents and guardians of students with special needs to voice concerns, provide input, and collaborate with educators and administrators on special education policies, programs, and practices.
Who we are
Who we are
The DRSEPAC board is composed exclusively of dedicated parents, each with children who have special needs within the K-12 districts we serve. While balancing our professional careers and domestic responsibilities, we voluntarily devote our time and energy to the SEPAC. We are driven by a shared commitment to bettering the community for all children. The board members represent the heart and soul of our organization, consistently advocating for the well-being and success of all children's education.
Meet the Board
Christina Grandy de Oliveira
President
Christina Grandy de Oliveira
President
Christina's unwavering commitment to advocating for children with special needs stems from her deep love for her two children. Her current role at Bristol Aggie provides her with the flexibility to prioritize her children's care while remaining actively involved in the community. Christina's firsthand experience navigating the special education system and her service as a committee member on the Dighton Commission on Disability equip her with the knowledge and skills necessary to be a powerful voice for families within our district. Her dedication to ensuring every child receives the support they need makes her an invaluable addition to our board.
Tracy Lancellotta
Vice President
Tracy Lancellotta
Vice President
Tracy is a mother of two children on IEPs, she recently transitioned from a leadership role within the Girl Scouts to focus her energy on advocating for students and families through DRSEPAC. Her professional experience working for the South Coast Educational Collaborative further strengthens her understanding of the unique needs of diverse learners. Tracy's passion, coupled with her firsthand experience and professional expertise, makes her a valuable asset to our board as we work to foster a more inclusive and equitable educational environment for all.
Becky Ferreira
Treasurer
Becky Ferreira
Treasurer
Becky is a parent of three children in the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. Her perspective as a parent is at the heart of her involvement with SEPAC. As the parent of a child with autism who requires significant support, Becky understands firsthand the joys, challenges, questions, and uncertainty that can come with navigating special education.
She is passionate about helping create a supportive community where families feel welcomed, informed, and connected, and where parents can learn from and support one another. Becky also brings her background in accounting to her role as Treasurer, helping support the financial and organizational needs of SEPAC.
Robert Owens
Digital Coordinator
Robert Owens
Digital Coordinator
Robert is full-time scientist specializing in biochemistry and immunoassays. Their daughter is on an IEP in the Rehoboth school district. He is committed to leveraging his skills and insights to empower families and foster a more inclusive learning environment for all students.
School Liaisons
Eliza Couture
Dighton School Committee Liaison
Eliza Couture
Dighton School Committee Liaison
School committee member of the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District. Eliza was previously the liaison when we were the Regional SEPAC and will continue to do so for DRSEPAC.
Lori Lesniak
Rehoboth School Committee Liaison
Lori Lesniak
Rehoboth School Committee Liaison
Lori is a busy mom of seven children, with students at PRES, BMS, and one heading off to high school. A former board member of DRSEPAC, Lori is passionate about advocating for children with special needs and is excited to support the community.
Dr. Marie-Juanita DiGioia Director of Special Education
Dr. Marie-Juanita DiGioia Director of Special Education
See her profile here: https://www.drregional.org/page/special-education
School Liaisons
Emily Hess
PRES Liaison
Emily Hess
PRES Liaison
Emily is a mom to four boys and a DR Alumna. She is a homeschooling mom turned public school mom and formerly worked as a music therapist, so she has experience with a variety of educational modes and advocacy opportunities.
Melisa Johnson
BMS Liaison
Melisa Johnson
BMS Liaison
Melisa is a passionate special education teacher with over 20 years of experience. She has two children with IEPs at Beckwith Middle School and a particular interest in supporting students with dyslexia. Melisa is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment for all students.
Michelle Swartz
DES/DMS Liaison
Michelle Swartz
DES/DMS Liaison
Michelle is a mom of three and a passionate advocate for children with disabilities and complex medical needs. She is dedicated to supporting families, connecting them with resources and advocating for inclusive education where every child's voice is heard.
Open Position
DR High School Liaison
Open Position
DR High School Liaison
Please contact us if you are interested in joining the DRSEPAC Board!
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