The state of Massachusetts has a special education law generally referred to as “Chapter 766.” Under this law, all children between the ages of three and twenty-two are entitled to receive an education at public expense. The law is intended to ensure that all children have the services and supports that they need to learn effectively and make progress in the educational curriculum.

Chapter 766 defines the special education process within the state of Massachusetts. It details the process from the moment a parent or educator suspects a disability through evaluation, the determination of whether a child is entitled to services (eligibility), the development of an individualized education plan (I.E.P.), placement of a child in an appropriate educational setting, and the process for resolving disagreements between parents and school district personnel.

Under Chapter 766, both parents and school districts are expected to understand and conform to the guidelines within the law. The law includes many timelines that are intended to ensure that children receive special education services in a timely manner. It is important that parents become very familiar with Chapter 766 or that they work with organizations like SpEdGuide in order to ensure that their children receive the services that they need to further their development.