1.18.08 Legistator Visits The Kathleen Thornton School

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For further information, contact:
Jim Fay, Director of Education
413-783-0567

Ben Swan Visits Special Education Program

In spite of the weather and other competing demands on his time, State Representative Ben Swan came out to support the Kathleen Thornton School in Springfield. The school, a program of The Children's Study Home, serves children with special needs.

Ben Swan met with the children and staff and promised to continue supporting the organization in its long tradition of serving the local community. During his visit Rep. Swan also expressed his support of Senate Bill 65, which was filed by State Senator Gail Candaras. If this bill becomes law, it would set up an independent review of contracted financial rates through the Division of Health Care Finance and Policy, thereby ensure more adequate and proportional rates for nonprofit services.

The Kathleen Thornton School has been serving special needs children since 1966 and is a program approved by the Massachusetts Department of Education, as a private elementary school. In addition to providing a smaller classroom and a more individualized education to our students, the school provides a number of additional services that support children with complex issues. Students receive individual therapy through our Clinical Services department and have access to an onsite nursing staff. Rep. Swan also spoke with school administrators about the concerns regarding declining enrollment.

Students come to the school from Springfield Public Schools and neighboring school districts. Students enrolled in the school often have emotional and behavioral issues addressed through skills development and individualized treatment plans.

For further information call Jim Fay at 783-0567.