The Bureau of Special Education Appeals , which derives its authority from both federal and Massachusetts statutes and regulations (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; "IDEA"; MGL ch.71B; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) conducts due process hearings and renders Rulings and Decisions concerning eligibility, evaluation, placement, individualized education programs (IEP), provision of special education and procedural protections for students with disabilities.
Who we serve
Parents, students, school districts, private schools and state agencies in matters concerning eligibility, evaluation, placement, individualized education programs (IEPs), special education services and procedural protections for students with disabilities.
The Massachusetts Bureau of Special Education Appeals (BSEA) does not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, color, age, national origin, religion, creed, ancestry, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status, or political affiliation, in admission or access to, or the operation of its policies, programs, services, or activities, or in hiring or employment practices.
Standing Orders:
BSEA Standing Order 25-1.
Effective September 22, 2025
Decorum
This Standing Order is issued consistent with Rule IX A and B of the Hearing Rules for Special Education Appeals and 801 CMR 1.01(10)(d)1.
- The Hearing Officer has the authority and obligation to ensure that appropriate standards of conduct are observed so that the hearing is conducted in a fair and orderly manner; to regulate presentation of the evidence and issues; and to ensure an adequate and comprehensible record of the proceedings. The Hearing Officer also has the authority to manage the proceedings in a manner that ensures efficiency, avoids unnecessary delay, and promotes fairness.
All Parties, their authorized representatives, witnesses and other persons present at a hearing shall conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the standards of decorum commonly observed in any court. Any form of disruptive conduct—such as speaking out of turn, making inflammatory or derogatory remarks, engaging in personal attacks, displaying aggressive or threatening behavior, disregarding or disobeying orders or instructions of the Hearing Officer or otherwise interfering with the orderly conduct of the hearing—will not be tolerated.
Please see the Standing Orders web page for all BSEA Standing Orders.
Recent News
Public Hearing on BSEA#2601884
In. Re: Dudley-Charlton Regional School District
Thursday October 9, 2025
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Worcester Superior Court
Courtroom 7
225 Main Street, Worcester, MA
Posted on: October 7, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
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May 2025 BSEA Updates Settlement Conference Process
Parties may request a Settlement Conference if the following conditions apply:
- A hearing request has been filed.
- All parties voluntarily agree to participate in the process.
- The hearing officer endorses the process for use in the individual case.
It is no longer a requirement that both parties have legal representation to participate in this process.
Visit our webpage to learn more about Settlement Conferences.
July 31, 2024 Public Comment/Revised Documents
In February 2024, the BSEA issued proposed revisions to several publications, the Hearing Request Form and proposed a new Mediation Manual. Public comment was sought on these documents through March 25, 2024. Written comments were received, and comments were also presented in person and virtually via two public meetings of the BSEA Advisory Council. The BSEA has reviewed all public comments received and now issues the following finalized revised documents:
- Hearing Rules for Special Education Appeals (“Hearing Rules");
- Hearing Request Form;
- Pro Se Litigant Guide; and
- BSEA Reference Manual.
The BSEA is also issuing a finalized new Mediation Manual.
These finalized documents can be accessed on the Forms and Publications page of our website.
Additionally, below are two documents outlining the changes made from the documents posted in February 2024.
Translated versions of all documents are also available and will be posted shortly. If you need to have these documents translated into a language not posted, please contact us, and we will provide it at no cost.
Summary of Public Comments Received on the Mediation Manual and BSEA Responses
Summary of Public Comments Received on the Revised Documents and BSEA Responses
Search BSEA Decisions and Rulings
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Malden, MA 02148