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 Revises Standing Order 23-1.
Order: BSEA 23-1 has been REVISED effective October 16, 2023.
Standing Order 23-1R
Effective October 16, 2023
Electronic Filing
Except as provided in Section A3 below, all Hearing Requests, motions, pleadings, documents, correspondence, and other written communications must be filed by email unless (a) otherwise ordered by the Hearing Officer; or (b) a party lacks access to appropriate or sufficient electronic medium. All Hearing Requests, motions, pleadings, documents, correspondence, and other written communications submitted to the BSEA must be simultaneously copied to all other known parties.
Read the full Order...
Please see the Standing Orders web page for all BSEA Standing Orders.
Recent News
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
Contact Us
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Malden, MA 02148