We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering learning environment for all students. We offer a combination of educational and related services as determined on an individual basis to meet the unique needs of the student, from early childhood through transition. Our goal is to ensure every student has access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed and reach their fullest potential. All special education programs within our district are aligned to the Local Control Accountability Plan (LCAP) goals to ensure all students have access to a challenging curriculum, cultivate social-emotional development, and prepare students with the knowledge and skills for success beyond high school graduation.
Eligibility Criteria
A student, ages 3 through 22, having one or more of the following fourteen federally defined disabling conditions that adversely affect his or her educational performance may be eligible to receive special education services:
Eligibility for special education services is determined through an assessment process that identifies one or more impairments that prevent a student from accessing his or her education. A student may be performing significantly below the district's standards and additional services may be necessary for the student to access their education.
Referral for Evaluation for Special Education Services
Important procedural steps are required for a student to be identified for special education services, including starting with a Student Study Team (SST) meeting. For parents who suspect their student has difficulties in school, best practice is to provide various levels of intervention to students struggling academically or behaviorally. Parents are encouraged to start by discussing their concerns with their student’s classroom teacher and try to address them together. If concerns persist, parents can ask the student’s teacher to participate in a Student Success Team (SST). Each school has an SST, usually consisting of the student’s teacher, the parent, and other professionals, who review interventions available to the child and make intervention recommendations prior to assessing for Special Education. Based on the success of the interventions, the SST may ultimately recommend students for additional assessments.
Parents who want their student to be evaluated for special education services, must make a referral in writing to their student’s school or the LUSD Special Education department. The referral should:
Services
Special education for eligible students provides necessary specially-designed instruction, aids, and services, as determined by the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. Children with disabilities younger than three are served by an IFSP (Individualized Family Service Plan). Special education services can include:
Extended School Year (ESY) services are offered to students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) indicating the need for services beyond the school year. ESY determination is made by the IEP team, based on criteria such as regression, recoupment, critical skill areas, and the nature/severity of the disability.
Transportation
LUSD provides transportation to students eligible for special education services with transportation needs outlined in their Individual Education Program (IEP). Transportation needs are determined by the IEP team, typically consisting of parents, teachers, school administrators, and other relevant professionals. The team assesses student's unique needs and considers factors such as the severity of disabilities, medical requirements, and the current educational setting.
Resources