About Bay State Advocacy:
Melissa Carriveau, M.S.Ed., has been a certified special education teacher in MA for almost 30 years. Melissa has taught and supervised special education programs in both residential and public schools across Central and Metrowest Massachusetts. For the past 23 years she has consulted to numerous districts and families across multiple states to assist in improving progra
ms for children with special needs. Melissa was assigned as a trainer through the MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to instruct schools on how to write effective Individualized Education Programs (IEP's). Melissa has also been trained in special education law as a parent consultant by the Federation for Children with Special Needs, and through Wright's Law. She is available to individuals and groups, particularly to guide families and new educators on the special education process and IEP development. Finally, in her former position of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) supervisor and in her consultation work in districts as an Autism Specialist, Melissa has helped students with autism who are ready to fade out of ABA programs back into traditional school systems, home life and the community. Several of her clients were able to completely fade special education support and are now successfully attending college, engaged in meaningful/professional employment, and independently living in their communities. In addition to her professional work, Melissa is also a parent, foster parent and special education surrogate parent. Several of the children she has parented have been students with disabilities. Melissa is available to consult directly with families and schools regarding learning, behavioral, social, and communication needs. Melissa also serves as an educational advocate by helping families navigate the special education process. She can assist in reviewing documents, attending education meetings, coordinating school and home services, as well as observing students in academic settings to provide guidance on the types of services and programs that can meet the student's needs and the suitability of the current program. Melissa offers a free initial 30 minute consultation to prospective clients. Please call or email to set up an appointment.
