Commonwealth Announces Investment for Special Education Programs

For Immediate Release: Contact: Alicia DelVento

07/16/2020 Alicia.DelVento@mahouse.gov


Commonwealth Announces Investment for Special Education Programs
$16.1 Million to Support COVID-19 Incurred Costs

(BOSTON) - On Monday, July 13, Governor Baker announced that $16.1 million in relief funds will be allocated to 32 special education residential schools across the Commonwealth to address unanticipated COVID-19 related costs. These funds are in addition to the $3 million in relief funds provided in April, and will bring special education residential schools in line with residential and congregate-care facilities, which received similar relief funds during the earlier days of this pandemic.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commonwealth's educational institutions have endured significant challenges, especially special education residential schools, which have remained open throughout. These schools have purchased personal protective equipment (PPE), implemented new cleaning and sanitation routines, and have changed their staffing measures, all while caring for students with unique needs.

"Teachers, staff, and administrators in special education residential schools became essential staff in the midst of one of the most challenging public health crises we have ever seen," said Representative Danielle W. Gregoire, (D-Marlborough), House Chair of the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight. "Not once during this pandemic did these schools shut their doors to their students and the dedication and commitment shown by their heroic staff over the last few months is truly remarkable. I am grateful that the Commonwealth is making a significant financial investment to ensure that the education and care of some of our most vulnerable constituents continues."

Schools receiving funding relief are Amego, Inc., Archway, Inc., Boston, Higashi School, Inc., Brandon Residential Treatment Center, Inc., Cardinal Cushing Centers Inc., Chamberlain International School, Crystal Springs, Inc, Devereux Foundation, Doctor Franklin Perkins School, Evergreen Center Inc., Fall River Deaconess Home, Hillcrest Educational Center Inc., Italian Home for Children, JRI, Judge Rotenberg Educational Center, Inc., Latham Centers, Inc., League School of Boston Inc., MAB Community Services, McAuley Nazareth, Melmark New England, Melmark Inc., New England Center for Children, Perkins School for the Blind, St. Ann's Home, Inc, Stetson School, Inc., Stevens-Children's Home, The Guild for Human Services, Inc., The Home for Little Wanderers, The Learning Center For The Deaf, Inc., The May Institute, Inc., Walker, Inc., Wayside Youth & Family Support Network, Inc., and Whitney Academy.

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