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Neurological Impairment Department of Education: Neurological Impairment Defined This page holds the current legal definition for neurological impairment according to Massachusetts special education law. Resources for Teaching Children with Neurological Disorders This resource connects children and parents with information on strategies for helping children in the classroom, the process of diagnosis, modified lesson plans, and general advice. This page presents different resources specific to each neurological disorder, and though it may be 10 years old, the advice provided is a great place to start. HEADS UP to Youth Sports: Concussion Information from the CDC The HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports initiative offers information and training regarding concussion prevention, recognition, and response. Specific guides are presented for coaches, parents, sports officials, and young athletes. Helping Kids with Neurological Disorders in the Classroom This resource provides recommendations for parents on how to advocate for their child’s needs in the classroom and information on options to explore beyond the regular classroom. While this page is over 10 years old and specifics may vary today, its empowering advice on advocacy remains relevant and useful. Introduction to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in Children and Resources for More Information This page offers a great overview of what a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is, the common signs of a TBI and difficulties children may encounter, and information about what help is available. The site provides information and tips for both parents and educators looking to learn more about how best to support their student. What Is a Neurological Disorder? This page from the Child Neurology Foundation (CNF) outlines the definition and causes of neurological disorders, along with an overview of brain development and functioning. The CNF’s Peer Support Program is a great option for parents looking to learn and connect with parents who have been on a similar journey with diagnosis, treatment, and management. More information can be accessed here https://www.childneurologyfoundation.org/peer-support/ . What Parents Need to Know About Concussions in Kids’ Sports This page presents a great overview about concussions in kids’ sports, including what occurs inside the brain, signs of concussions to look out for, and guidelines for recovery. Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/18/2025 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

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Down Syndrome About Down Syndrome The National Down Syndrome Society is a human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS focuses on engaging in activities, events and programs on topics within three primary areas of programming: Resources and Support, Policy and Advocacy, and Community Engagement. NDSS also creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, along with their families and caregivers. Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

Physical Impairment Department of Education: Physical Impairment Definition This page houses the current legal definition of physical impairment according to Massachusetts special education law. Teaching Students with Physical Disabilities This page provides a variety of strategies for teachers to assist them in meeting the needs of the greatest number of learners. Suggestions are offered specifically for different settings or school activities, such as exams or field trips, as well as for different points during the school year (before the class starts, the first few days, while in session, etc.). Types of Physical Disabilities This resource provides an overview of common types of physical disabilities with myths about each of them. The information is presented in a beginner-friendly format with easy-to-digest descriptions of their physical characteristics, causes, and signs and symptoms to look out for. Information for Parents on Cerebral Palsy This resource provides an overview of cerebral palsy, the types and causes, and treatment options and organizations. This is a great place to start for parents starting their information gathering or teachers looking to understand their students’ needs. Implications for Learning and Common Accommodations This page lists a variety of difficulties students with physical impairments may experience in the classroom, along with an appropriate accommodation. This resource comes from a team of postsecondary institutions based in Canada, so its recommendations are geared towards older students and the professional language may be a bit difficult. Older students and their families can use these suggestions when advocating for accommodations in the classroom, and teachers can use the suggestions for how to develop a classroom environment meeting all students’ needs. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: About Cystic Fibrosis The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s website offers information regarding the disorder, treatment options, and current research. Its Compass service helps individuals living with cystic fibrosis and their families navigate insurance options, find financial resources, and tackle other life issues. Parents and families can learn more at https://www.cff.org/Assistance-Services/About-Compass/What-Is-Compass/ . Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/03/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

Health Impairment Topics: Asthma Epilepsy ADHD Department of Education: Health Impairment Defined This page presents the current legal definition of health impairment according to Massachusetts special education law. Health Impairment Overview This site gives a great overview of what is considered a health impairment, specific health impairments, and how to address them, especially in the context of school. Information about accessing services to help children with health impairments is also provided, which makes this a great introductory source for parents and educators. Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

Developmental Delay Department of Education: Developmental Delay Defined This page holds the current legal definition for this disability category from the special education law of Massachusetts. Developmental Disabilities Basics Easy to digest information for parents about its causes and risk factors, who is affected, and the difference between developmental monitoring and screening. Basics on Developmental Delays This resource contains general and useful information for parents and caregivers who are concerned about a child’s development, as well as when/how to inquire with a pediatrician about a developmental evaluation. Reading Rockets: Classroom Strategies for Reading Delays Reading delays are one of the most common forms of developmental delays. This resource for parents and educators comes from the Reading Rockets project, which is guided by an advisory panel of special education experts and received the top honor in the Library of Congress Literacy Awards Program in 2016. The page explains when and how to use its research-based classroom strategies for building literacy skills. It also addresses key skill areas, including phonics, comprehension, fluency, phonological awareness, writing, and vocabulary. Check out the rest of the website and explore more reading resources at https://www.readingrockets.org . Developmental Delays: What You Need to Know This site briefly explains the five main areas of development, risk factors for developmental delays, and the difference between developmental delays and developmental disabilities (which children don’t outgrow or catch up from). The information is provided by an experienced classroom teacher and early intervention specialist and reviewed by a developmental behavioral pediatrician. Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

Emotional Impairment Department of Education: Emotional Impairment Defined This page holds the current legal definition of an emotional impairment according to the special education law from the Massachusetts Department of Education. Mental Health and Therapeutic Services This is the home page for Wediko Children’s Services, which works with students who are facing obstacles in their lives due to a broad spectrum of social, behavioral, emotional, and learning challenges. Wediko connects with the students, their families, and their teachers to provide them with empowering opportunities. Its services include a residential treatment center, a summer camp, community- and school-based programs. Navigating the Education System: Information for Parents of Children with Mental Health, Behavioral, or Emotional Disorders This resource provides information and quick important facts for parents navigating the education system with their child experiencing emotional impairment. Federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 are briefly explained, along with the services and accommodations they guarantee. Lives in the Balance & Dr. Greene’s Approach to Supporting Behaviorally Challenging Students Lives in the Balance is a non-profit organization founded by child psychologist Dr. Ross Greene and based on his collaborative and active solutions approach. It offers a variety of educational resources and support to families and teachers, and its advocacy efforts address the systemic issues with counterproductive punitive interventions. The general resource page can be accessed here https://www.livesinthebalance.org/resources-cps , and it covers a variety of topics for both parents and educators. Supporting Students’ Mental Health During Remote or Hybrid Learning This resource offers educators a variety of tips for how to support their students’ mental health, especially when they aren’t seeing them face-to-face every day. Though learning has been returning to an in-person setting as the pandemic evolves, these strategies remain relevant as students face their emotional and social challenges. Teachers are encouraged to emphasize social emotional learning, strengthen students’ relationships with each other, incorporate hands-on activities, and introduce mindfulness and relaxation techniques in the classroom. Mental Health Resources This site provides links to the many organizations dealing with mental health in terms of education, intervention, and assistance. Specific resources focusing on particular disorders are included, along with links to general information and mental health services. There’s also a great quick-read fact sheet that dives into the specific disorders here: https://www.parentcenterhub.org/emotionaldisturbance/ . Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

English Language Learners The Massachusetts Blueprint for English Learner Success The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has developed a vision for the education of English language learners that utilizes students' cultural and linguistic backgrounds as the assets that they are and provides support that allows all students to excel. This vision is then broken down into four "distinct" pillars that can be assessed on each level of the education system to reinforce the ideology of each pillar. The TESOL International Association The TESOL International Association has developed a toolkit for ELL educators to help engage the families of ELL students in classrooms, schools, and communities. The toolkit provides a detailed outline of nine specific modes of engagement as well as specific resources, examples, and materials for each mode of engagement. Colorín Colorado Colorín Colorado, a national website serving educators and families of ELL students, describes the ways in which technology can be used to engage multilingual families, especially during a time when virtual learning is not uncommon. The article provides different ideas for technological engagement through the likes of Facebook, Zoom, and texting apps with steps and suggestions for each platform as well as examples of past successful implementations. Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

Meet the Advisory Board Nancy Dungan Executive Director, and Co-Founder at Decoding Dyslexia Nancy is a reading and dyslexia specialist with a combined MA in psychology and in school counseling; trained in assessments, evaluations, scientific research evaluation, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T.). She often provides families, educators and advocates with the information they need to address learning disability, including dyslexia, school anxiety, frustration and poor academic performance. She is currently the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Decoding Dyslexia Massachusetts. Nancy was appointed by MA DESE to the Subject Matter Knowledge Committee for Reading Specialist Licensure in MA. She serves on the Governor’s Early Literacy Expert Panel for MA; the Advisory Group for the International Foundations for Effective Reading Instruction; and the National Center for Improving Literacy. She received the 2019 International Dyslexia Association MA Branch Garside Award for her advocacy work. She has presented professional development and workshops to educators, advocates, attorneys, policy makers, and families, connecting the legal obligations of I.D.E.A. for reading with the decisions made on the national, state and local level. Julie Watt Faqir Executive Director of the Home Care Aide Council Julie served as the Senior Legislative Aide to Representative Chris Walsh from Framingham. In this position, she was integral in planning and executing legislative, budgetary and policy positions for the representative. The establishment of The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families was a priority of Representative Walsh and something that Julie was very much part of on a daily basis. She strongly believes in the value of supporting students and their families in their efforts to obtain a quality education. She feels privileged to officially join the advisory board of the Chris Walsh Center. Professionally, she is the Executive Director of the Home Care Aide Council and leads the policy and legislative agenda for the organization and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Council. Julie received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and her law degree from the University of La Verne. Ana Maria Program Manager for the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute Ana Maria is the Program Manager for the Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Her responsibilities include working with the Program Head, supporting faculty and students, collaborating across campus, and managing budgetary and financial matters. She previously worked at Becker College as the Director of Teaching & Learning Innovation. She holds a B.A. in Art Education from C.W. Post Long Island University, an M.A. in Diplomacy from Norwich University, and earned her Ed.D. in Leadership & Innovation from St. Thomas University. Before moving to Massachusetts, she served as a Foundation Board Member for Saratoga Bridges, contributing to fundraising efforts and outreach endeavors. She is deeply devoted to empowering disabled people with meaningful opportunities to achieve their dreams. Her oldest son is autistic (now enrolled in college), and her experiences serving on various school committees in New York and Massachusetts have led her to advocate for him and other families needing to navigate an often-confusing system. Ana Maria lives in Shrewsbury with her husband, three children, and father. Julie Watt Faqir Executive Director, and Co-Founder at Decoding Dyslexia Julie served as the Senior Legislative Aide to Representative Chris Walsh from Framingham. In this position, she was integral in planning and executing legislative, budgetary and policy positions for the representative. The establishment of The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families was a priority of Representative Walsh and something that Julie was very much part of on a daily basis. She strongly believes in the value of supporting students and their families in their efforts to obtain a quality education. She feels privileged to officially join the advisory board of the Chris Walsh Center. Professionally, she is the Executive Director of the Home Care Aide Council and leads the policy and legislative agenda for the organization and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Council. Julie received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and her law degree from the University of La Verne. Gail Palmer Parent Gail Palmer has worked as an independent consultant with various companies and organizations on strategic planning, marketing, sales, and business development for over 20 years. As a parent of two children diagnosed with Dyslexia, her own personal experience navigating the special education system led her to contact her legislator Chris Walsh, and advocate for a way to offer support to other struggling families. This kicked off the process of establishing the Chris Walsh Center at FSU. Another grassroots effort in which she has been involved is Decoding Dyslexia of MA. Whereby, she lobbied legislators in the house and senate and provided testimony in support of new legislation for early literacy screening that went into effect in 2018. She strongly believes in the value of supporting students and their families in their efforts to obtain a quality education. To support this purpose; she currently serves on the steering committee for the Child Find Project – MA. She feels privileged to officially join the advisory board of the Chris Walsh Center. Sheryl Goldstein Chair of the Framingham Disability Commission, Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination Advisory Board, Framingham Age and Dementia Friendly Coalition Sheryl Goldstein is one of the founding members of the center since its inception in 2015. Over the past two decades, she has spent much of her professional attention on advocacy within school systems, especially where it pertains to students with differentiated learning styles and disabilities. In addition to being a 2018 recipient of the prestigious Unsung Hero Award from the Massachusetts Commission for the Status of Women, she also sits on the Framingham Disability Commission (Chair 2021-2024) and on the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination Advisory Board. Sheryl has an undergraduate degree from Northeastern University in Communications, a Master's Degree in Social Work from Simmons University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Sheryl, her husband, two daughters, and dog Coco live in Framingham. Heidi Kaufman YMCA Executive Director of Education Heidi Kaufman has been working with young children and their families for 30 years and has held her current role as Executive Director for Education at the MetroWest YMCA since 2001. At the Y, she serves as a member of the senior leadership team; supervises all of the EEC licensed programs including the Early Learning Center, After School programs, and summer learning programs. She leads the Y’s opportunity gap work; manages all the related contracts and grants; and provides assistance, expertise, training, and supervision as needed both within the Y and in the community. In addition, Heidi is the Chair of the Youth Policy Committee for the Alliance of Massachusetts YMCAs and often represents the YMCAs of Massachusetts in state and regional task forces and committees. Heidi holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Education from Lesley University, a Master of Social Work Degree from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Bachelor of Arts from Brandeis University. The center planning committee began with the efforts of community members like you, and we continue to rely on the work of volunteers who support us on a regular basis. If you would like to nominate yourself or someone else for our Advisory Board, or wish to participate in another way, please contact us at chriswalshcenter@framingham.edu .

Epilepsy Toolbox for Living with Epilepsy Whether you are new to epilepsy and seizures, wondering about available treatments, or have questions about advocacy, this toolbox will have a resource to offer you. From the Epilepsy Foundation, this page has resources for those managing epilepsy, looking to help a loved one, and educational tools. Epilepsy Resources for Educators This resource will provide educators with basic information to have familiarity with seizure and epilepsy symptoms to be an ally to students and parents in the classroom. Seizure education classroom training and informational kits are available upon request. Raising a Child with Epilepsy This packet provides information and support to parents raising a child with epilepsy. This resource comes from the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota, which is committed to epilepsy education, connecting families with support, and empowering parents and teachers with vital information. It has a whole library of resources on topics ranging from seizure recognition and response to treatment options can be accessed at https://www.epilepsyfoundationmn.org/support-training/resource-library/ . Back to Topics Page This page was last updated on: 03/02/2026 Have any resource suggestions? Click Here to email us.

A center at Framingham State University who provide information for families and educators about the continuum of educational support available to students with disabilities, students who are gifted, and students with unmet needs. We will offer support, workshops and other programming for families, educators, student support professionals, administrators, and advocates in the MetroWest area. The center also will engage in scholarly research, educator preparation, and professional development. Supporting Educators. Empowering Families. Strengthening Communities. The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families at Framingham State University serves as a trusted resource for families, educators, and community members navigating the diverse educational needs of children and students across Massachusetts. We provide guidance, programming, and professional learning across the full continuum of educational support — for students with disabilities, students who are gifted, and students whose needs may be unmet. Explore Our Resources Get Support Up Coming Regestration 📅 April 16, 2026 📍 McCarthy Center Forum Room ⏰ 8:00 a.m. – 4:00p.m. 🎓 Instructions UpComing Regestration 🎈 November 5th, 2026📍 At 7 Pm⏰ More About Event What We Offer The Chris Walsh Center provides a range of services designed to meet families and educators where they are: Caregiver Consultation Individualized guidance for families navigating educational systems, services, and decision-making. Intake Form Caregiver Support Groups Facilitated spaces for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and build community. Join our mailing list to stay updated on upcoming groups. Contact Us Professional Development Research-informed workshops and training opportunities that support inclusive, effective educational practice. Chris Walsh Center Award Winners Chris Walsh Center founder award Individualized guidance for families navigating educational systems, services, and decision-making. Award Winners Defy gravity award For Innovative Teaching and Impact Award Winners Lift every learner award For Advocacy And Community Engagement Award Winners CareGiver award For strenght , Perseverance. and inspiring Other Families Award Winners Get Involved or Get Support We welcome families, educators, community members, and partners to engage with the Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families. Learn about upcoming workshops and events Connect with support services and caregiver resources Partner with us through research, professional development, or community collaboration Support our mission through sponsorships or philanthropic giving, helping us expand access to programs and services for families and educators across Massachusetts Donate You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone The Chris Walsh Center is here to help. Education can be complex — especially when students have unique strengths or unmet needs. At the Chris Walsh Center, our goal is simple: to ensure that families and educators feel informed, supported, and empowered. Whether you are seeking guidance, professional growth, or connection, the Center is here to help.