AN ACT RELATIVE TO BULLYING IN SCHOOLS
There are important Technical Advisories that address bullying. In May 2010, Governor Patrick signed into law comprehensive legislation to address bullying in public and non-public schools. Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010 requires school leaders to create and implement strategies to prevent bullying, and to address bullying and retaliation promptly and effectively if they occur. Sections 7 and 8 of the law have specific implications for the IEP process and for students with disabilities.
Section 7 states: 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. (G.L. c. 71B, §3, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010.)
Section 8 states: 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. (G.L. c. 71B, §3, as amended by Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010.)
ADDRESSING THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Technical Assistance Advisory SPED 2007
In July 2006, Chapter 57 of the Acts of 2006, entitled An Act To Address The Special Education Needs Of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders, took effect. This law, which amends M.G.L. c. 71B, § 3, requires that IEP Teams consider and address in the IEP discussion certain specific needs of students with disabilities on the autism spectrum.
PARENT REVOCATION OF CONSENT AND TERMINATION OF ALL SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES