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Published 10/7/25 10:57AM

Become a Special Education Decision-Maker for a Child/Youth in State Custody

Federation for Children with Special Needs
Hybrid, Volunteer must be in Massachusetts, US
I Want to Volunteer

    • Details

    Start Date:
    October 7, 2025
    End Date:
    October 7, 2026
    Available Times:
    Weekdays (daytime)
    Time Commitment:
    A few hours per month
    Commitment Details:
    At least one year 3-4 hours per month
    Recurrence:
    Recurring
    Volunteers Needed:
    100
    Cause Areas:
    Children & Youth, Civic Engagement, Disability, Education
    Benefits:
    Training Provided
    Participation Requirements:
    Driver’s License, Background Check, Attend Orientation
    Age Requirement:
    18+
    Other Requirements:
    resident of Massachusetts

    Description

    Become a Special Education Decision-Maker for a Child/Youth in State Custody

    YOU can make a difference in the life of a child/youth in state custody!

    Volunteers known as Special Education Surrogate Parents (SESPs) serve as appointed special education decision-makers for students in the custody of the Department of Children and Families (DCF). SESP volunteers have the legal authority of a parent or legal guardian to attend special education team meetings, approve or reject Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and, if necessary, file a complaint or appeal. Volunteer SESPs dedicate about 3-4 hours a month to their role.

    Location

    Hybrid
    Volunteer must be in Massachusetts, US
    Associated Location
    Boston, MA, USA

    How to Volunteer for This Opportunity

    Step 1: Fill out online volunteer application.

    SESP Online Application – Federation for Children with Special Needs

    Step 2: Register for Special Education Surrogate Parent Orientation Training Part 1, held virtually on Zoom. Find an upcoming Orientation training by following the calendar link below.

    https://fcsn.org/events/

    Step 3: Complete asynchronous Orientation Part 2 on our virtual learning platform.

    https://fcsnlearning.learnworlds.com/course/rtsc-orientation-part2

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