The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Department of Education
350 Main Street, Malden, Massachusetts 02148-5023
Telephone: (781) 338-3700
TTY: N.E.T. Relay 1-800-439-2370
February 17, 2006
Patricia Cronin, Superintendent Director
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
100 Hemlock Road
Wakefield, MA 01880
Re: ‘06Mid-cycle Coordinated Program Review Report
Dear Superintendent Cronin:
Enclosed is the Department of Education's ’06 Mid-cycle Coordinated Program Review Report. This
report contains findings based on onsite monitoring activities conducted to verify the implementation status
and effectiveness of corrective action activities approved by the Department that were intended to address
findings of noncompliance included in the Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School ’03
Coordinated Program Review Report issued on August 29, 2003.
As you know, one component of the Department’s Mid-cycle Review process is the review of your
district's self-assessment in the area of English learner education (ELE). The purpose of this activity is to
determine if your district is beginning to implement the significant changes in M.G.L. Chapter 71A, this
state’s law governing the education of limited English proficient students that was adopted by voters as
Question 2 in 2002. The Department has reviewed your district’s ELE self-assessment documents and is
providing you now with advisory comments and actions to be implemented in anticipation of your
district’s next scheduled Coordinated Program Review. Where indicated in our report, your district is
urged to request technical assistance in areas that, based solely on your self-assessment documents, were
found not likely to be fully implemented. To secure assistance, you may consult with your Mid-cycle
Review Chairperson or call Robyn Dowling-Grant in Program Quality Assurance Services at 781-3383732. You may also consult with staff in the Department’s Office of Language Acquisition and
Achievement at 781-338-3534 and obtain additional ELE guidance documents through the Department’s
web site at http://www.doe.mass.edu/ell/.
While the Department of Education found certain special education noncompliance issues to be resolved,
others were partially corrected, not addressed at all and/or the Department’s onsite team identified new
issues of noncompliance. In areas where the district has failed to implement fully its approved Corrective
Action Plan, the Department views these findings to be serious.
As the Department previously informed you, in cases where a district fails to fully and effectively
implement a Corrective Action Plan, which was proposed by your district and approved by the
Department, the Department must then prepare a Corrective Action Plan for the district, which must be
implemented without further delay. You will find these requirements for corrective action and further
progress reporting included in the attached report together with any steps that must be taken by the district
to fully implement new special education requirements. Please provide the Department with your written
assurance that the Department's requirements for corrective action will be implemented by your school
district within the timelines specified. Your statement of assurance must be submitted to the Department's
Onsite Chairperson by March 10, 2006.
Your staff's cooperation throughout these Follow-up Monitoring activities is appreciated. Should you
require additional clarification of information included in our report, please do not hesitate to contact the
Onsite Team Chairperson at 781-338-3703.
Sincerely,
Dean Paolillo, Coordinated Program Review Follow-up Chairperson
Program Quality Assurance Services
John D. Stager, Administrator
Program Quality Assurance Services
c:
David P. Driscoll, Commissioner of Education
Gloria Mezikofsky, District Program Review Follow-up Coordinator
Encl.: Mid-cycle Coordinated Program Review Report
2
MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
MID-CYCLE COORDINATED PROGRAM REVIEW REPORT
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
ONSITE VERIFICATION OF CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
AND/OR IDENTIFICATION OF ADDITIONAL FINDINGS REQUIRING CORRECTIVE ACTION
Date of Coordinated Program Review (CPR): November 18-22, 2002
Date of Coordinated Program Review Corrective Action Plan Approval:
Dates of Corrective Action Plan Progress Reports:
Dates of this Mid-cycle Review Onsite Visit: January 9, 2006- January 11, 2006
Date of this Report: February 16, 2006
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Yes
Documentation
and student record
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Special Education
Requirements
(including new
IDEA-2004
Requirements
SE 6
Transition activities were
documented in student IEPs.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
February 16, 2006
Page 1 of 25
Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

review
Determination of
Transition
Services
SE 8
IEP Team
composition and
attendance
Method(s) of
Verification
No
Student Record
Review
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Yes
While a person with the
authority to commit the
resources of the district
attends re-evaluation and
initial Team meetings, at
annual reviews the assigned
chairperson is also the
special educator or liaison of
the student does not have the
authority to commit the
resources of the district.
There is inconsistent
participation of regular
educators at annual review
The district will identify
and train the chairpersons
that attend the annual
review meetings regarding
their authority to commit
the resources of the school
district.
The school is using “Transition
Planning Charts” to document
desired outcomes, action plans
to achieve the desired
outcomes and any special
education needs as required by
IDEA 2004. In addition, the
district has developed its own
“Life After High School”
questionnaire to solicit student
input in preparing for post
secondary work and living.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 2 of 25
The district should
consider the creation of an
Education Team Facilitator
position(s) that attends
initial, re-evaluation and
annual review Team
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
meetings and re-evaluation
Team meetings. At some
annual review Team
meetings, only the Team
chairperson, parent and
student attended the Team
meeting.
In addition, the Department
recommends identifying and
distinguishing regular
teachers, vocational teachers
and special educators
distinctly on the Team
attendance sheet.
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
meetings and has full
authority to commit the
resources of the school
district.
In addition, the district
must inform all
chairpersons of the
requirement of teacher
attendance at Team
meetings. The district will
conduct a sample record
review of three student
records per chairperson and
review the Team
attendance sheets to
confirm teacher attendance.
If the review indicates
regular education teachers
are not attending Team
meetings, the district will
indicate to the Department
any corrective action taken
to address the issue of
noncompliance.
The district’s corrective
action is due May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 3 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Student Record
Review
SE 12
Frequency of reevaluation
SE 13
Progress Reports
and content
Method(s) of
Verification
No
Student Record
Review
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Yes
The review of student
records indicates that
progress reports are not
always completed which
address each annual goal
specified on the IEP.
Furthermore, some of the
completed progress reports
did not specifically address
the goals of the IEP and do
not indicate whether
progress is sufficient to meet
the student’s annual goal.
The district will conduct
staff training regarding the
completion of progress
reports and the content
requirements of progress
reports. The signed
attendance sheet and
training agenda will be
forwarded to the
Department. In addition,
the district will conduct its
own record review,
selecting a sample of three
student records from each
chairperson’s case load and
The review of student records
indicate the district is
conducting three year reevaluations, the Department
noted that in a few instances,
parents requested to waive the
three year re-evaluation when
the student’s graduation was
imminent.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 4 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
review a sample of
progress reports to ensure
staff are implementing
progress report
requirements.
The district’s corrective
action is due May 1, 2006.
SE 14
Review and
revision of IEPs
Partial
SE 25B
Resolution of
disputes
Yes
Student Record
Review
Interview &
Documentation
Annual reviews were contained
in the student record. However,
some concerns were noted
regarding the participation of
Team members at annual
reviews as noted under the
comments in SE 8.
Furthermore, see additional
comments to the right.
Partial
Team chairpersons do not
have the authority to commit
the resources of the district
at the annual review Team
meeting and must consult
with the district’s
administrators before
committing to any increases
in service or significant
change to the IEP that may
affect the delivery of service.
The district is aware of the
need of resolution meetings
before proceeding to the BSEA
but has not had any at this
time.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 5 of 25
See SE 8 above.
The district’s corrective
action is due May 1, 2006.
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
SE 30
Notice of
procedural
safeguards
SE 46
Procedures for
suspension of
students with
disabilities more
than 10 days
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Yes
No
Method(s) of
Verification
Documentation
and Student
Record Review
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Student records indicate that
the special education
director is notified of any
disciplinary actions
involving special education
students. Student records
contained copies of
detention and suspension
notices and hearing notices.
However, in reviewing the
student records, the district
proceeded to place an
eligible student in a 45 day
Interim Alternate Education
Setting though the student
was not in the possession of
a dangerous weapon or
drugs. Furthermore, the
The district will review
with the principal the
procedures for placing a
student in an IAES. The
district will provide its
written assurance that the
placement of students in an
IAES was reviewed with
the building principal.
Written statements signed by
parents indicated that the
parent had received a copy of
the Notice of Procedural
Safeguards were contained in
the student records.
Yes
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 6 of 25
The district’s corrective
action is due May 1, 2006.
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
district did not proceed to
the BSEA to demonstrate
“dangerousness.”
Other Special
Education
Requirements
Originally Cited
in CPR Report
SE 1
Assessments
No
Student Record
Review
Yes
Student records indicate
psychological evaluations
and achievement testing
conducted by the school
psychologist are the primary
sources for the determining
eligibility of students.
Teacher assessments and
educational status
assessments are not
consistently completed.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 7 of 25
The district will review
required evaluation
elements with its staff. Reevaluation and initial
evaluation records will be
reviewed to ensure staff
members are completing
educational status
assessments and teacher
assessments. The district
will provide the training
agenda and written
assurance that the training
was completed to the
Department.
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

SE 2
Required and
Optional
Assessments
No
SE 4
Reports of
Assessment
Results
Partial
Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Student Record
Review
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Yes
Partial
Student Record
Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
See SE 1.
See SE 1 above.
While the district’s
established special education
protocols indicate a parent
may request written copies
of the testing reports prior to
the Team meeting and some
examples of the district
notifying parents in writing
of their right to review the
summary of the assessments
at least two days before the
Team meeting were
provided, the review of
student records indicated
that written notification was
not always provided.
The district will review the
requirement to offer parents
the summaries of
evaluations at least two
days before the Team
meeting. The district will
review its protocol for
ensuring parents are aware
that they may receive the
summaries of the
evaluations at least two
days before the Team
meeting. The district will
provide evidence (staff
training agenda sheet and
attendance sheet) to the
Department by May 1,
2006.
“Transfer of Rights”
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 8 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
SE 7
Transfer of
Parental Rights
SE 9
Eligibility
Determination
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Yes
Partial
Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Review &
Documentation
notifications were contained in
the applicable student records.
Student Record
Review,
Documentation &
Interviews
Student records examined by
the Department did not contain
any waivers of the 30-day
timeline for the completion of
evaluations as previously noted
in the Department’s
Coordinated Program Review
of August 2003. The district is
using the eligibility
determination flow chart.
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Partial
IEPs are not immediately
issued, sometimes taking a
week to provide to the
parents. Student records and
interviews indicate that
summary sheets indicating
the major goals and services
agreed upon by the Team are
not provided to the parents
in circumstances in which
the IEP could not be issued
immediately following the
Team meeting.
The district will review the
requirements for the
development and provision
of an IEP. The district will
conduct its own internal
monitoring, sampling the
student records from each
staff person’s caseload to
ensure IEPs are issued
immediately or within 3-5
days of the Team meeting
if the district has provided
a written summation of the
agreed upon goals and
services to the parent.
Evidence of the training
and the results of the
student record review
(including the number of
records reviewed, the rate
of compliance and
additional corrective action
steps if necessary) will be
provided as part of the
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 9 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
May 1, 2006 progress
report.
SE 10
End of Year
Evaluations
Yes
Interviews,
Documentation
& Student Records
The district is completing
evaluations before the close of
the school year when the
evaluations are received within
30-45 school days of the end of
the school year.
SE 11
Independent
Educational
Evaluations
Yes
Documentation &
Interviews
The district has developed
procedures consistent with
state and federal requirements.
Staff interviews indicate that
Independent Education
Evaluation (IEE) requests have
not been received since the
Department’s last coordinated
program review.
SE 18 A
IEP Development
Partial
Student Record
Review
The initial finding of the
Department’s onsite team
noted concerns with a person
with the authority to commit
the resources of the district,
Team attendance sheets
Partial
In a few instances,
developed IEPs specified
special education services on
the service delivery grid and
documented the necessary
classroom accommodations
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 10 of 25
The district will conduct
training with the staff
responsible for the
development of the IEPs
and review the requirement
to ensure that “specially
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
reviewed at the mid-cycle
indicate that the Team
chairperson /special education
director attended the Team
meeting and is vested with the
authority to commit the
school’s resources.
The Department notes
considerable improvement in
the conducting of Functional
Behavior Assessments to
develop student behavioral
intervention plans.
SE 18B
Placement
Determination
Yes
Student Record
Review
PL1 forms were contained in
the student records with
parental signatures. Placement
forms corresponded with the
determination of IEP services.
SE 19
Extended
Evaluations
Yes
Documentation
& Interviews
The district has developed
procedures for ensuring the
appropriate use of extended
evaluations. Interviews
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
but did not document the
specially designed
instruction (content,
methodology or modified
performance criteria) needed
by the student.
designed instruction” is
appropriately documented
on the student IEP. The
district will provide
evidence of the staff
training to the Department.
In addition, the district will
select a sample of student
records to ensure that Team
members are appropriately
documenting the student’s
specially designed
instruction. The district’s
corrective action is due
May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 11 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
indicated the district has not
needed to extend evaluations
since the Department’s
Coordinated Program Review.
SE 20
LRE
Yes
Documentation,
Student Records &
Interviews
The district has instituted a full
inclusion model (in some
instances, using a co-teaching
model) in its special education
continuum; ensuring a full
continuum of services.
SE 21
Extended Day
Yes
Documentation,
Student Records &
Interviews
IEPs selected and reviewed by
the Department identified
whether extended school days
or school years were necessary
for the student to make
effective progress. Of the IEPs
examined, none of the IEPs
indicated the need for an
extended day or year program.
The Department notes that the
district has indicated that at
this time, no students at the
school have need of an
extended day or year program.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 12 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
SE 22
IEP Availability
Yes
Documentation &
Interviews
The district indicates it
provides a “confidential
summary sheet” to teachers
regarding their responsibilities
and teacher signature on the
memo that indicates the teacher
understands their responsibility
and has received the summary
sheet(s). The Department
recommends that the district
ensure that teachers are
afforded actual access to the
IEP itself as part of the
district’s protocol.
SE 25
Parental Consent
Yes
Student Record
Review
The parent or guardian of the
student signed evaluation
consent forms, student IEPs
and PL 1 forms. In instances
were the IEP was not signed
within 30 days, the school’s
liaison provided written notice
to request parental action on
the unsigned IEP and
placement.
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 13 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
SE 28
Provision of IEP
and Notice
Yes
Student Record
Review
IEPs are provided with the
required accompanying N1
notice.
SE 32
PAC
Yes
Documentation
The district has established a
PAC and involves the PAC in
reviewing special education
policies and program elements.
Documentation indicates the
PAC has established bylaws.
SE 33
Involvement in
the General
Curriculum
Partial
Documentation &
Student Record
Review
IEPs reviewed by the
Department indicate that
students are provided the
necessary accommodations to
participate in the general
education setting.
SE 34
Continuum of
Services
Yes
Documentation,
Student Records &
Interviews
See SE 20 above. The district
has developed an inclusion
model for students that did not
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Partial
The Department did note a
few instances in which a
student was receiving special
education services and
accommodations, but the
district did not document the
specially designed
instruction on the IEP itself.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 14 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
See the corrective action
under SE 18A.
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
exist and was one of the
concerns noted in the
Department’s last coordinated
program review. The district
also provides a resource model
and sub-separate programming
for students. In addition, the
district has a range of related
services available to students;
including counseling services.
SE 43
Behavioral
Interventions
Yes
Student Record
Review
The district conducts
functional behavior
assessments when necessary.
Selected IEPs focusing on this
criterion indicate that Behavior
Intervention Plans are
developed for students.
SE 45 Procedures
for up to 10 days
of Suspension
Yes
Student Record
Review
Student records indicate that
the special education director
is notified of any disciplinary
actions involving special
education students. Student
records contained copies of
detention and suspension
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 15 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
notices and hearing notices.
Concerns, however, were noted
in a related criterion under SE
46 above.
SE 47
Procedures for
Suspension of
Students not yet
found Eligible
Yes
Documentation
The district “operational
protocols” and procedures are
consistent with the
requirements of federal law.
SE 49
Related Services
Yes
Documentation,
Student Records &
Interviews
See SE 34 above.
SE 50
Responsibilities of
Principal
Yes
Documentation
The district has developed a
district curriculum
accommodation plan in
consultation with the Parent
Advisory Council. The
district’s special education
protocols further outline the
responsibilities of the principal
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 16 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
as it relates to home and
hospital programs and
disciplining students with
special needs.
SE 53
Paraprofessionals
Partial
Documentation
District documentation
indicates that teacher assistants
were provided infrequent
training in the behavior
management of students.
Furthermore, district
documentation indicates
periodic “in-house” meetings
with teacher assistants to
provide professional
development. Again, the
primary focus of the
documentation provided
indicates training in behavioral
support.
Partial
Paraprofessionals within the
district hold other
responsibilities aside from
assisting in managing the
classroom behavior of a
student with special needs.
The district should endeavor
to provide training in other
aspects of their
responsibilities, such as
training paraprofessionals in
working with students with
the specific types of
disabilities.
The district will provide its
professional development
plan for paraprofessionals
that demonstrates more
comprehensive training in
working with students with
different disability
populations. The district’s
corrective action is due
May 1, 2006.
SE 54
Professional
Development
Partial
Documentation
The district has developed a
yearly professional
development plan that provides
regular educators, special
educators and vocational
Partial
The district should endeavor
to fully document its “inhouse” training and
contracted professional
development activities.
The district will provide
document its in-house
training activities and
provide a list of those
activities to the Department
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 17 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
instructors with training in
better services disabled
students in the CTE and
academic programs within the
district.
SE 56
Program
Evaluation
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Furthermore, see the
recommendations under SE
53 above.
for verification. The
district’s corrective action
is due May 1, 2006.
The district has developed
an extensive evaluation plan
for all aspects of its special
education program, primarily
through the use of staff
surveys and questionnaires.
What is not clear, however,
is how the acquired
information is used in
determining changes in the
special education program.
In addition, it is not clear
that data compiled from
MCAS performance and IEP
annual reviews (for example,
to note trends in program
need) is used in evaluating
the program and making
substantive changes.
The district will examine its
program evaluation
activities and identify how
it uses surveys, MCAS data
and information gathered
through annual reviews to
evaluate, re-design or
develop Special Education
programs. The district must
provide specific examples
of how this information is
used in its evaluation of its
special education program.
The district’s corrective
action is due May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 18 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
MOA 4
Disproportionality
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Review of data
reports
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
The district was not cited for
noncompliance in this area.
The Department notes that
currently the district has a high
rate of students identified as
having a Specific Learning
Disability. As a regional
vocational school, its member
districts identify the majority
of the students who enter the
school, and the representation
may not be reflective of
practices and procedures at the
vocational school.
Civil Rights
(MOA) and Other
General
Education
Requirements
MOA 1
Identification of
LEP Students
Yes
Please see ELE 3 below.
Please see ELE 3.
MOA 2
Yes
Please see ELE 5 below.
Please see ELE 5.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 19 of 25
Criterion
Number
and
Topic
(Refer to full text
of 2005-2006 CPR
requirements)
Approved
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined to
be
Substantially
Implemented
and Effective
Or
New IDEA
Requirements
Implemented

Method(s) of
Verification
Basis of Findings
Regarding Corrective
Action Plan Activities
Or
Basis of Findings
Regarding
Implementation of New
IDEA Requirements
Corrective
Action Plan
Determined Not
Fully
Implemented
Or
Additional Issues
Have Been
Identified

Basis of Findings
Regarding Incomplete
or Ineffective
Implementation of
Approved Corrective
Action Plan
Or
Basis of Findings of
Additional
Noncompliance
Program
Modification for
LEP Students
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 20 of 25
Required Corrective
Action, Timelines for
Implementation,
and Further Progress
Reporting
Requirements
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District
English Learning Education (ELE) Requirements
Mid-Cycle Review Advisory Comments Resulting From The Department’s Review Of Local Self-Assessment Documents
(Please refer to full text of 2005-2006 CPR-ELE legal requirements and related implementation guidance at
http://www.doe.mass.edu/pqa/review/cpr/instrument/chapter71A.doc )
ELE Criterion
Number
and
Topic
Advisory Comments Resulting from the Department’s
Review of Local ELE Self-Assessment
Document Submission
Required Corrective Action, Timelines for Implementation, and Further
Progress Reporting Requirements to be Implemented in Anticipation of the
District’s Next Scheduled Coordinated Program Review
ELE 1
Annual
Assessment
The district is conducting required MEPA and MELA-O
assessments.
ELE 2
MCAS
Participation
English Language Learners are participating in MCAS.
ELE 3
Initial
Identification
The Application For Admission form that asks for the
parent/guardian primary language does not constitute a home
language survey.
The district should examine the standards found at
www.doe.mass.edu/ell/identify_lep.html and reference the example home
language surveys under Appendix 1. The district will design a comparable home
language survey and provide the Department with copies of its home language
survey in the languages of school. The district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
The district did not submit appropriate waiver procedures.
The district will develop waiver procedures consistent with the requirements of
M.G.L/ c. 71A s5. The district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
ELE 4
Waiver
Procedures
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 21 of 25
ELE Criterion
Number
and
Topic
Advisory Comments Resulting from the Department’s
Review of Local ELE Self-Assessment
Document Submission
Required Corrective Action, Timelines for Implementation, and Further
Progress Reporting Requirements to be Implemented in Anticipation of the
District’s Next Scheduled Coordinated Program Review
ELE 5
Program
Placement and
Structure
The district did not provide a description of its
implementation practices.
The district will provide a description of its ELL program, provide evidence of
teacher licensure or professional development for ELE teacher providing
Sheltered English Immersion and the district’s English language development
curriculum. The district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
ELE 6
Program Exit
and Readiness
The district did not provide a description of its implementation
practices.
The district will provide the Department with an explanation of its program exit
criteria. The district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
ELE 7
Parent
Involvement
The district did not provide a description of its implementation
practices.
The district will identify how it involves parents of English Language Learners in
matters pertaining to their child(ren)’s education. The district will identify how
parental involvement is encouraged and whether it’s through a separate parent
council, school council or other means. The district’s corrective action is due May 1,
2006.
ELE 8
Declining Entry
to a Program
The district did not provide a description of its implementation
practices.
The district will provide the Department with a description of its implementation
practices that must include how the district provides English language support to
students whose parent(s) has declined entry into an SEI or other ELE program.
How does the district respond to student needs if a student who has “opted out” is
not progressing? How does the district ensure these students have access to the
general curriculum ( i.e. have teachers been trained on second language
acquisition? Does the district have ESL support from licensed providers?). The
district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
ELE 9
Instructional
Grouping
The district did not identify its instructional groupings for ELL
students.
The district will identify whether it uses mixed age groupings. The district’s
corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 22 of 25
ELE Criterion
Number
and
Topic
ELE 10
Parental
Notification
Advisory Comments Resulting from the Department’s
Review of Local ELE Self-Assessment
Document Submission
Required Corrective Action, Timelines for Implementation, and Further
Progress Reporting Requirements to be Implemented in Anticipation of the
District’s Next Scheduled Coordinated Program Review
The district did not provide examples of its parent notification
letters.
The district must develop notices to parents for students who are placed in an ELE
program. The notices must be provided to the parent in his or her primary
language and in English and must inform parents of the following:
1.)
2.)
3.)
4.)
5.)
6.)
The reasons for identification of the student as LEP.
The child’s level of English proficiency.
Program placement and method of instruction.
How the program will meet the needs of the student.
The specific exit requirements.
The parent’s right to apply for a waiver or decline entry into the program.
Sample copies of the notification letter will be provided to the Department. The
district’s corrective action is due May 1, 2006.
ELE 11
Equal Access to
Academic
Programs and
Services
The district provided translated documents of its program of
study and applications to demonstrate equal access to district
programs and services.
ELE 12
Equal Access to
Nonacademic
and Extracurricular
Programs
See ELE 11 above. In addition, the district provided samples
of translated copies of nonacademic enrichment activities.
ELE 13
Follow-up
Support
The district did not provide a description of its implementation
practices.
The district must develop follow up support procedures for students who exit an
SEI program. The district will provide its procedures and practices for providing
support and monitoring of the student’s progress. The district’s corrective action is
due May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 23 of 25
ELE Criterion
Number
and
Topic
ELE 14
Licensure and
Fluency
Requirements
Advisory Comments Resulting from the Department’s
Review of Local ELE Self-Assessment
Document Submission
Required Corrective Action, Timelines for Implementation, and Further
Progress Reporting Requirements to be Implemented in Anticipation of the
District’s Next Scheduled Coordinated Program Review
The district did not provide data on the licensure and fluency
of its staff that provide its SEI program.
The district will provide a description of the criteria used to determine the English
language fluency and literacy of its teachers. The district’s corrective action is due
May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
Page 24 of 25
ELE Criterion
Number
and
Topic
ELE 15
Professional
Development
Requirements
ELE 16
Equitable
Facilities (To be reviewed
during next
CPR visit)
Advisory Comments Resulting from the Department’s
Review of Local ELE Self-Assessment
Document Submission
The district provided insufficient information regarding SEI
training activities for its teachers.
Required Corrective Action, Timelines for Implementation, and Further
Progress Reporting Requirements to be Implemented in Anticipation of the
District’s Next Scheduled Coordinated Program Review
The district must examine the four training categories in the Department’s April
2005 memorandum located on the internet at
www.doe.mass.edu/ell/sei/attach1.html and develop an appropriate professional
development plan for its SEI teachers. The plan will be provided to the
Department by May 1, 2006.
The district should continue to examine its SEI classroom
locations to ensure continuing compliance.
ELE 17
DOE Data
Submission
Requirements
and Program
Evaluation
The district submitted its data to the Department. It is unclear,
however, if the district has developed program evaluation
procedures.
The district must develop a plan for evaluating its ELE program. The district plan
and evaluation activities will be provided to the Department by May 1, 2006.
ELE 18 Records
of LEP
Students(To be reviewed
during next
CPR visit.)
MELA-O scores were contained in the student record in the
sample student records reviewed by the Department. Home
language surveys, however, were not contained in the student
record or other assignments used by the district (such as the
MEPA). Report cards were not contained in all the student
records reviewed by the Department. MCAS testing data was
not contained in the records examined by the Department.
Notices of placement were not contained in the records
examined by the Department.
The district will review its student records to ensure the required elements noted
to the left are contained within the records. A sample of 10 records should be
reviewed and the results reported to the Department by May 1, 2006.
Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School District Coordinated Program Review Mid-cycle Report
January 29, 2006
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