Student Services & Special Education

Welcome Letter from Dr. Karen Shmukler, Interim Deputy Superintendent for the Office of Student Services

Dear Families,

As we open the doors to a new school year, I want to extend a heartfelt welcome to each of you. It is a privilege to serve as the Interim Deputy Superintendent of Student Services, and I am honored to partner with you as we continue building inclusive, equitable, and thriving learning environments for all our students.

Almost 50 years ago, twenty-four pages would change millions of lives. When President Ford signed Public Law 94-142—the Education for All Handicapped Children Act—on November 28, 1975, there was little fanfare. That law would become IDEA and open school doors for children who had previously been excluded.

We strive each day to create schools where all students belong—where they feel safe, seen, and supported to thrive. Our commitment to equity, access, and inclusion has never been more focused or more urgent. Inclusion is not a program or a place; it is a mindset and a shared responsibility.

We are especially excited about the collaborative work happening at the elementary level in literacy. This year marks the rollout of the district’s new evidence-based literacy curriculum, K–8—an initiative rooted in the science of reading and designed to ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, develop the foundational skills and confidence they need to become strong, joyful readers.

As part of this initiative, we are investing deeply in our special education teachers through robust, ongoing professional development. This training enhances our ability to deliver high-quality, research-driven reading instruction that meets the diverse needs of learners.

Alongside our literacy efforts, we continue to provide innovative and wraparound services to support the whole child. From mental health prevention, services, and supports to related services, inclusive classroom practices, transition planning, and family engagement, we are committed to ensuring that every student receives what they need to succeed.

Our families are essential partners in this work. Your insight, advocacy, and trust help shape a school system that truly works for every student. I encourage you to learn more about and join the Brookline Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC). SEPAC is a group of caregivers of students in special education who collaborate to advocate, share information, provide resources, and support one another.

Here is to our shared commitment in FY26 to creating schools where every student can grow, learn, and shine. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your school-based team from the Office of Student Services if there is anything we can do to support you and your child.

In service and care,

Karen

September 2, 2025

Office of Student Services

The Office of Student Services provides a broad spectrum of specialized services to meet the needs of students across the district, including:

Special Education

Within Special Education, students receive academic and therapeutic interventions from preschool through completion of secondary education, or until transition to adult services. For additional resources and a more comprehensive understanding of services, visit the Special Education webpage.

Student Health

Student Health services are provided through an array of supports, including nurses in each school and a consulting school physician. Psychological services are also available to meet students’ assessment and mental health needs. Visit the Student Health Services webpage.

School Counseling and Mental Health

The Public Schools of Brookline Counseling and Clinical Services provides a comprehensive school counseling program that promotes the academic, college and career, and social-emotional growth of all students in grades PreK–12. Counselors advocate for equity, access, and success for every student by collaborating with faculty, families, and the community.

The program is committed to ensuring that students develop the knowledge and skills needed to be effective and responsible citizens, productive workers, and lifelong learners in a changing society. Visit the Counseling and Clinical Services webpage.