During the week of May 1, 2023 the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Office of Public School Monitoring (PSM) will conduct a Tiered Focused Monitoring Review of the Lowell Middlesex Academy Charter School. The Office of Public School Monitoring reviews each district and charter school every three years to monitor compliance with federal and state special education and civil rights regulations. Areas of review related to special education include student assessments, determination of eligibility, the Individualized Education Program (IEP), Team process, and IEP development and implementation. Areas of review related to civil rights include bullying, student discipline, physical restraint, and equal access to school programs for all students.
Parent outreach is an important part of the review process. Prior to the review, the chairperson from the Office of Public School Monitoring will send an online survey to all parents of students with disabilities receiving services. The survey focuses on key areas of their child’s special education program. Survey results will contribute to the activities of the onsite review and the development of the final report.
The chairperson will also conduct a Parent Orientation meeting to explain the review process and provide parents with an opportunity to ask questions. The Parent Orientation is scheduled for
During the onsite review, the Office of Public School Monitoring will interview the chairperson(s) of the district’s Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC). Other onsite activities may include interviews of district staff and administrators, reviews of student records, and onsite observations. After the conclusion of the review, the public will be able to access the report at http://www.doe.mass.edu/psm/tfm/reports.
A Parent Orientation will be held on April 12 at 3:30 for parents/designated adults who are interested in learning more about the visit. Please contact Dr. McCarthy at mccarthys@middlesex.mass.edu or 978-656-3400 for Zoom information if you would like to join this meeting. Additionally, parents and other interested individuals may call Talia Buonopane, Public School Monitoring Chairperson, at (781) 338- 3763 to request additional information, or contact Dr. McCarthy, the district coordinator, at 978-656-3400 with questions or concerns.