Mass Association of Approved Private Schools to Host Conference in Marlborough this Week

The Massachusetts Association of Chapter 766 Approved Private Schools (maaps) will host their annual Leadership Conference at the here in Marlborough this Thursday and Friday that will focus on an array of issues facing educators.

"This conference is a culmination of a year-long planning process focused on trying to inform our members of evidence-based practices and academic and clinical practices," said Jim Major, executive director of the organization. "We have speakers from all over the country who are recognized experts in their fields."

Bullying will be one of the major topics discussed during this conference that earlier this week had more than 600 participants scheduled to attend.

"We want to put together the best anti-bullying plans," continued Major. "But bullying is just one of the topics that will be discussed."

Maaps' mission is to "represent private special education schools in their goal of providing the highest quality education to students with special needs. To fulfill this mission, maaps advocates to improve the environment in which Chapter 766 approved private schools work and helps them manage more effectively by offering information, training, and consulting."

Gerri Dansky, maaps' director of member development and assistance, said on Thursday the organization will host leaders in special education from across the state including education directors, clinical directors and executive directors. Friday's program will welcome staff from private and public schools and alike for a series lectures and breakout workshops. 

Special speakers from across the country will join MAAPS including Anne Gillian from the state's Department of Education, and Massachusetts House Majority Whip Charley Murphy (D -- Burlington), who will receive their public service award at a banquet lunch on Friday. 

Major said they chose the Marlborough location because of the city's central location, and spacious facilities that the Best Western conference center provides them.

All educators are welcome to attend the conference that will include professional development workshops that teachers need to collect on a yearly basis, said Dansky. 

Costs involved for those interested in attending the conference on Friday: $140 for MAAPS members; $210 for non-members. 

Those interested in attending should register on the organization's website. 

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