Special Needs Education Support

Advocates for Autism of Massachusetts 781-891-6270; www.afamaction.org – Public advocacy organization offering resources regarding autism spectrum disorder. Click “links” for support centers in your area. The Arc of Massachusetts 781-891-6270; www.thearcofmass.org - The Arc of Massachusetts provides education and systems advocacy to consumers, families, human services organizations, the public, legislators, other public officials, and the executive branch. Asperger’s Autism Network of New England 617-393-3824; www.aane.org – The Asperger / Autism Network (AANE) works with individuals, families, and professionals to help people with Asperger Syndrome and similar autism spectrum profiles build meaningful, connected lives. Autism Services Association, Inc. (ASA) 781-237-0272; www.autismservicesassociation.org - Autism Services Association (ASA) provides community employment services, supported employment, Day Habilitation Program, and other clinical supports to young adults and adults with autism and other challenging developmental disabilities. Federation for Children with Special Needs 617-236-7210; 800-331-0688 (in Mass.); www.fcsn.org – Advocacy, resources and information for parents and professionals. Learning Disabilities Worldwide 978-897-5399; www.ldworldwide.org – This professional organization (for researchers, educators, clinicians and others) has a “parents” section on its website with current articles. MAAPS: Massachusetts Association of Approved Special Education Schools 781-245-1220; www.maaps.org – MAAPS represents 81 member schools serving approximately 6,800 children with special needs from Massachusetts and other states and countries. MAAPS’ mission is to represent private special education schools in their goal of providing the highest quality education to students with special needs Massachusetts Branch of The International Dyslexia Association 617-650-0011; www.ma.dyslexiaida.org – Information and links to resources, such as recommended reading for parents and kids, as well as professional development workshops. Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing 617-740-1600; www.mass.gov/mcdhh – Services for deaf and hard of hearing, including interpreting, case management and technology. Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education 781-338-3000; www.doe.mass.edu – The State’s education website offers information on special education, standardized testing, public schools and related topics.