Creating Inclusive Experiences at the Blackstone

Inclusion partnerships bring new opportunities for joy at the Blackstone School

This year, Equitable School Partnerships of Boston partnered with the Blackstone School to strengthen community engagement and fill opportunity gaps through enriching partnerships. Working closely with Principal Courtney Sheppeck, the ESP team supported a range of initiatives, with a particular focus on enhancing learning experiences for students with special needs.

At the Blackstone, 28% of students have identified disabilities, and the school includes Multi-Disability strands and center-based learning classrooms. Supporting these students was a key priority when ESP facilitated two new initiatives: a music therapy program and adaptive play equipment for recess. 

"The best part of the week" as one Blackstone teacher described the Music Therapy program provided by CMCB faculty member A.J. Gaudreau.

The music therapy program was implemented in partnership with Community Music Center of Boston (CMCB), a long-time ESP partner. Through this collaboration, CMCB faculty member A.J. Gaudreau leads two weekly sessions using instruments, songs, and sensory materials. A.J. engages students in ways that support communication, personal connection, and self-expression. One teacher described the class as “the best part of the week,” noting how deeply students interact with both the instructor and one another during and after the class. These music therapy sessions spread joy, enhance learning, and support social skills for students in these classrooms.

ESP also funded the purchase of a sensory-friendly sand table and related materials for students with disabilities thanks to a Boston Small Community Grant. For many students in the Multi-Disability strand, the traditional playground is not accessible. The new sand table provides a safe, developmentally appropriate recess option, ensuring that more students can participate in play. Madelon Morin, Director of Special Education at the Blackstone, said,

"Our new inclusive sand table is a powerful addition to our

Multi-Disability (MD) program, creating equitable access to sensory play, communication, and meaningful peer interaction. It ensures all students — regardless of ability — can fully engage, explore, and experience the joy of inclusive play."

Together, these initiatives reflect ESP’s commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the targeted learning experiences they need to thrive. ESP is proud to support the Blackstone in creating a more equitable educational environment through these thoughtful partnerships and resources.