Special Education Student and Family Support (SESAFS)

OUR PURPOSE

To encourage honest and effective communication, understanding, and mutual respect in a supportive partnership inclusive of all students, caregivers, educators, within the school community to ensure the delivery of appropriate services and supports to students within the capacity of SSAES Faculty and Staff. We work directly with district administrators to address education related challenges, provide guidance for family-district communication, and provide families access to resources.
 
What we do: 

• Provide a safe space to discuss your questions and provide guidance, support, and resources for families

• The SESAFS Members can provide guidance at any stage: if you are considering an evaluation for your child, in the process of completing an evaluation, or receiving results from the evaluation.

• Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and information to best support and advocate for your child’s education.

What we don’t do:

• We do not diagnose disabilities.

• We do not conduct evaluations.

• We do not issue Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

 

SESAFS is a sub-committee of the Education Committee and overseen by Dr. Palandjian, Head of School along with the following Committee Members:

Alina Nalbandian, OTR/L, M.Ed has worked as an Occupational Therapist for 23 years and is a proud mother of two SSAES students. Initially, Alina  started her career out at a private special education school for 5 years before moving into the public school system. Currently, Alina works with students in kindergarten through high school in a Massachusetts school district where she works with students on IEPs and 504 plans. Within her role, Alina consistently participates in evaluations, IEP implementation and review, and 504 meetings. 

 

Taline Sarian, M.Ed has worked as an Integrated Preschool Teacher for 11 years in a Massachusetts public school system. She works with students ages 3-5 years old with disabilities (on IEP’s), as well as general education students. She has a background in early childhood, special education, and holds a pre-k through second grade license. Within her role, Taline writes and implements IEP’s, and participates in educational assessments. At SSAES, Taline serves as Co-Chair of the Education Committee.

 

Stephanie Grossman, First Grade Teacher lives in Norfolk County. She graduated from Bridgewater State College in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology. Stephanie has taught kindergarten and first grade and enjoys teaching the FUNdations curriculum! Ms. Grossman holds an educator licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in Early Childhood and a Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Endorsement. In addition to her professional expertise, Stephanie enjoys singing and is known for her kindness and positive attitude. She looks forward to teaching first grade at SSAES!