About Katy

A Different Kind of “Special” Education

For over 25 years, Katy Boucher has worked to redefine "special" in a way that truly serves every child. Her belief is simple and powerful: when we proactively design learning environments to be inclusive and responsive to diverse brains, the need for reactive special education services naturally fades for many students. This belief isn’t just a philosophy; it’s the driving force behind her work.

From Belief to Action

As the founder and director of The Accord School, a fully accredited middle school in Norwell, Massachusetts, Katy has built a place where neurodivergent students are truly seen, understood, and valued. Here, students thrive in an environment designed for their unique abilities.

Her work also includes founding Skills for Living, a nationally recognized center that spent over a decade advancing social education for neurodiverse learners and inspiring programs across the country. Recently, Katy and her team have launched The Accord Center, a warm, welcoming, and delightfully quirky community center that continues the important work of Skills for Living.

Resources and Tools

Katy is the developer of the Friendship Bridge model, which helps social learners build meaningful connections. She is also the creator of the upcoming Path to Connection: Neuro-Inclusive Social Learning Made Practical, a collection of resources for busy educators. The program features a comprehensive online course and an anthology of low-prep, high-engagement lessons. Katy’s tools give educators and families what they need to support every child’s unique strengths.

A Voice that Connects

Katy has a knack for translating complex topics into practical, heartwarming, and often laugh-out-loud lessons. On stage or in a workshop, her authentic humor and engaging presence ensure audiences leave feeling understood, equipped, and energized for positive change.