Thank you for your interest in the SESP Program.   Our volunteers make a significant difference in the lives of children with special education needs.

                        What is the commitment level?

Volunteering 10 – 20 hours in a school year can ultimately improve a child’s future.  The time and level of commitment is quite flexible allowing you to accommodate your changing schedule.

                    Who does the SESP Program serve?

We serve children who are in state custody and have no parent or guardian available to act on their behalf.   These children cannot receive the special education services they need until a concerned adult is willing to accept the role as their Special Education Surrogate Parent. 

                   How do I become an SESP Volunteer?

To start the process of becoming an SESP, please download, complete, sign and submit the Volunteer Application.   A three-hour Orientation Training is required, offering you the tools needed to create a positive change in a child’s education.   Also required is the completion of a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check.  In order to complete the CORI process, we must obtain a copy of a government issued photo ID (i.e. drivers license, passport, etc.).  You can complete the CORI process at any of our scheduled Orientation Training dates and locations, or at our Westboro office.

Once again, thank you for your interest.  If you have any questions about the application process or about the SESP Program, please call 508-792-7679 or email sespp@earthlink.net for more information.

Mentor Program - This program is designed for newly appointed , first-time volunteers who may be matched with a more seasoned SESP for a period of time. The mentor's role will include providing case specific advice, guidance on various types of programs, problem solving and communication strategies, advocacy tips, and general enouragement and support.

Quarterly Regional Support Forum - This support forum gives volunteers an opportunity to meet other volunteer SESPs in their general area to discuss key issues, address questions or share their experiences as a volunteer. There is currently one support forum in each of the five Massachusetts districts. Please visit our Training Schedule for locations, dates and times when the groups will meet.

SESP Program Day Conference - Every year, the SESP Program invites all volunteers to attend a day planned especially for them! It includes a variety of workshops, all on important topics in which we face while representing the children we serve. In past years, we have had incredible keynote speakers, informative panel discussions, raffels and lunchtime (provided by SESPP) entertainment!