In a warm family services room at the Kevin O’Grady School in Beverly, 9-year-old Mary Beth Perry sat comfortably in her wheelchair. Dressed in a pink sweater and sporting a pretty purple bow in her hair, she was ready for some music. Her nurse, Jill, asked her for a selection.
Mary used her hand to press a switch on her wheelchair, activating her electronic “talker” device. “That’s the one I want.” The voice responded, and soon, Christmas tunes filled the air — smooth melodies from a classic Charlie Brown special.
“Mary is having a great day,” her mother, Shannon, shared. “Actually, it’s been a fantastic week.” Good days are special for the Perry family. They face challenges that many cannot imagine.
The Kevin O’Grady School, part of the Northshore Education Consortium, has been a lifeline for Mary and her family. Fifty years ago, schools like this did not exist, and Mary might have had a very different life.
In 1975, a law was passed that ensured children with special needs could attend school. This change opened doors for families, providing options other than private care or institutions. “Over the years, special education has moved from being hidden away to being more inclusive,” said Catherine S. Cooper, a leader in education advocacy.
This year, the Massachusetts Organization of Educational Collaboratives (MOEC) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of this progressive step in education with monthly stories spotlighting the advancements and achievements in special education.
MOEC connects public educational service agencies across the state to provide essential programs for students with varying needs. “We are proud representatives of 24 educational collaboratives in Massachusetts, all dedicated to delivering exceptional special education services,” noted MOEC Executive Director Joanne Haley Sullivan.
As part of this celebration, stories will highlight real successes among students and the daily realities collaborations encounter. For example, a boy who once faced expulsion for bringing a weapon to school turned his life around at the North River Collaborative, eventually becoming the school’s head custodian. Another story features students on the autism spectrum who regained their educational footing and now work with the same collaborative that helped them.
Mary’s story is one among many that demonstrate the power of these collaborations. As a student described as “medically complex,” Mary relies on a wheelchair, is non-verbal, and has severe cerebral palsy. She needs constant support. “Mary has a nurse with her everywhere she goes in the school,” Shannon explained. Any assumptions about what Mary can learn do not take into account her ability and desire to engage with her education.
Mary enjoys going to school. It is a safe place where she can thrive. “She loves the atmosphere,” Shannon said. “This is where Mary shines.” The Kevin O’Grady School caters to students aged 3 to 22 with diverse needs, ensuring each child receives the care and education they deserve.
Mary’s progress is evident. She has learned to use her communication device to express her choices and interact with others. “She participates actively in class,” said her teacher Sarah Schocker. Each day, Mary makes choices, answers questions, and engages with her peers, fostering her independence.
The school follows a mission to ensure every student feels included. “It’s our core value that all students deserve a quality education in an environment where they belong,” said Francine H. Rosenberg, Executive Director of the Northshore Education Consortium.
Before attending this school, Mary often felt different, labeled by her disabilities. At Kevin O’Grady, she is simply “Mary.” Shannon appreciates being part of a supportive community. “Here, we are not outliers; we are all in it together,” she remarked. “Mary’s life matters.”
As the conversation wrapped up, Mary was wheeled back to her classroom, a place filled with joy and laughter. “We want her to live fully and happily. School is everything to her,” Shannon said, a mother’s pride shining through.
“It’s Mary’s world,” she concluded. “We’re just living in it.” The support available at the Kevin O’Grady School is invaluable. It shows the true impact of inclusive education, allowing students like Mary to thrive.
In 2025, MOEC is shining a light on the powerful stories of collaboratives, reflecting on how they have evolved to support our most vulnerable students over the years. These stories remind us of the importance of community and support in education.
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Massachusetts Organization of Educational Collaboratives,MOEC
