Office of Student Services

  • 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 not much fanfare.  That law would become IDEA and open the school doors for children who had been kept outside. 

    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’s a mindset and all of our shared responsibility. 

    We are especially excited about the powerful 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 is enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional 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, family engagement and beyond, 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 your 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, resources and provide support.

    Here is to our shared commitment in FY 26  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

    9/2/25

     

  • 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 at all levels from preschool through completion of secondary education, or until transition to adult services. For additional resources and a more comprehensive understanding of services, please visit the Special Education webpage by clicking here.
     
    Student Health
    Student Health is provided for Brookline students through an array of medical services, including nurses at each building and a consulting school physician. Psychological services are available to meet the school-based assessment and mental health needs of students. To be directed to the Student Health Services webpage, please click here.
     
    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/career, social/emotional growth of all students, PreK-12. Our counselors advocate for equity, access, and success for every student by collaborating with faculty, parents, and the community.  We are committed to ensuring that students are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be effective and responsible citizens, productive workers, and life-long learners as members of a changing society. To be directed to the Counseling and Clinical Services webpage, please click here.