Overview The Massachusetts Association of 766 Approved Private Schools (maaps) was founded in 1975 as a statewide association of approved special education schools dedicated to providing educational programs and services to students with disabilities. MAAPS members are approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education under the state's special education law, Chapter 766. MAAPS represents 80+ member schools serving thousands of students with disabilities from across Massachusetts and beyond. Mission "To represent private special education schools in their goal of providing the highest quality education to students with special needs”. Membership in MAAPS signifies a commitment to excellence and ethical integrity. MAAPS is concerned that all children with special needs have access to appropriate, high quality educational experiences and treatment options which are necessary for their individual growth and development.