We believe everyone can learn and succeed.
CES specializes in programs that support children, families, and communities. We know that everyone is a learner from the day they are born, and we know how to create classrooms and other environments in which every learner can thrive. Among the specialized programs that CES provides are:
- Early Childhood
- After School/21st Century Programs
- Special Education programs and services
- Special Education Surrogate Parent Program
- Alternative pathways to high school graduation
- Education for youth in the care of DYS
- Migrant Education
- Workforce and Skills Development for youth
- Programs supporting Healthy Families and Communities

Mount Tom Academy
Mount Tom Academy is a student centered, individualized pathway to high school graduation and beyond, matched to each student’s own learning style, in a small classroom setting. Through a partnership with Holyoke Community College, Mount Tom Academy is located on the HCC campus.
Early Childhood
Whether you are a parent looking for support and answers to your many questions, or an early childhood educator looking for professional growth opportunities, we can help.
21st Century After School Programs
The 21st Century After School Programs incorporate a balance of fun activities in a safe, supportive environment. Through our programs, students strengthen their academic skills, deepen communication skills with adults and peers, and engage in project-based learning and cross-curricular activities.
HEC Academy
HEC Academy is an approved public day special education program in Northampton, MA that offers a small-school learning environment for high school students with social-emotional or behavioral challenges, autism spectrum disorder, and/or learning disabilities; or who are experiencing school refusal.
Special Education Services
Our staff of highly qualified professionals is available to provide direct and consultative services to support local programming efforts. CES offers services for occupational therapy; vision, orientation, and mobility; and assistive technology.
Occupational Therapy Center
The OT Center has been providing services to the Pioneer Valley community since its opening in January of 2000. The Center offers a full range of occupational therapy (OT) services for young children, youth, and adults; in a comfortable, welcoming setting.
DYS Education
The Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) is a partner to the Massachusetts Department of Youth Services (DYS) in creating access statewide to high-quality secondary and post-secondary education, career exploration, and workforce development opportunities for youth in the care and custody of DYS.
SEIS
The Collaborative for Educational Services (CES) is the Contracted Provider for SEIS, a program of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Since July 2008 we have worked with DESE to coordinate and deliver special education services to students in the care of the Department of Youth Services (DYS), Department of Mental Health (DMH), Department of Public Health (DPH), and the County Houses of Correction (CHC).
Migrant Education
The Massachusetts Migrant Education Program (MMEP) supports migratory children and youth to overcome educational disruption, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, various health-related problems, and other factors that may inhibit their ability to succeed in school.
SESPP
The Massachusetts Special Education Surrogate Parent Program (SESPP) appoints trained volunteers across the Commonwealth to act as special education decision-makers for students who have no parent or legal guardian.
Workforce Development
CES partners with school districts to plan and implement a variety of workforce and career development programs for students, including programs for skills training, career development, and internships, to support students who are ready to pursue their career aspirations.
Healthy Families and Communities
The CES Healthy Families and Communities team has over sixteen years of experience at the local level, planning, coordinating, and supporting effective public health and prevention programs addressing health, nutrition and food insecurity, fitness, underage substance abuse prevention, school climate and bullying, and trauma-informed communities.