The city honored SSEPAC with a special citation at its latest meeting, acknowledging the tremendous job the organization does in supporting the student population in the community.

By The Times Staff

The journey of nurturing children with special needs starts with inclusion.

The Somerville Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SSEPAC) received a citation for its steadfast commitment and dedication to defending the rights of Somerville student learners.

“Over the past year, the group was revitalized,” said At-Large City Councilor Kristen E. Strezo at the City Council meeting on December 11.

In addition to the citation, the group spoke about the launch of its new 501(c)(3) charitable organization called Friends of Somerville SEPAC (FoSSEPAC), a nonprofit organization recently formed for the purpose of raising funds to help the group with its goals of “empowering and supporting families in the community.”

Councilor Strezo thanked the team for creating an inclusive environment in the community. “Their lives have changed in such a positive way because of your presence, because of your advocacy.”

The group’s mission is to “facilitate communication between students, parents, community members, administrators, and the School Committee, for the purpose of improving the quality of district-wide special education policies, programs, and practices,” according to their website.

The parent-led group helps facilitate Individualized Education Programs for students needing specialized instruction and 504 Plans that provide accommodations for students with disabilities, explained Councilor Strezo.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the Somerville SEPAC,” said Jessica Perez Adams, a parent representative on the team.

“This public recognition is so meaningful, and we see it as one step of what we hope will be many toward full inclusivity in our city,” said Meredith Brown, a parent of two Winter Hill students, one of whom is going through the IEP process now.

“We’re also excited to launch our new fundraising organization, the Friends of Somerville SEPAC and its board,” said Charlotte Walker, an East Somerville Community School SEPAC representative and parent of two children with learning and sensory differences.

“Through this new 501(c)(3), we’ll be able to provide financial support for expanded Somerville SEPAC programming and collaborations, like workshops for families and school staff alike, expanding outreach and community initiatives,” said Walker. “We’re encouraged by this momentum and remain committed to working together to fulfill the important promise of equity that Somerville has made.”

Your donation powers the Somerville SEPAC’s mission to provide workshops, advocacy, and community support.

The Friends of Somerville SEPAC (FoSSEPAC) website: https://somervillesepac.wixsite.com/sepac/fossepac