Special Education Services
Students with special needs will not be discriminated against based on sex, handicap, race, color, national origin, or lack of English skills. Reasonable accommodation must be available for student placement. Parents, community members, and others can refer children for possible special education services if the child is suspected of having a learning disability or any handicapping condition. Special education services are considered only after the resources of the regular program have been considered and utilized where appropriate. Decisions regarding program placement and individual educational objectives for students requiring any special education services are made with the parents' active participation and authorization.
If eligible for a Special Education Program, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed to meet the child's educational needs and will be reviewed annually. Detailed information is available from Pupil Instructional Services at the Education Service and Support Center at (619) 425-9600, Ext. 181700.
For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions page here.
Extended School Year
An Extended School Year program is scheduled in June for students in all schools for whom this service is in their IEP. Transportation may be provided for eligible students in accordance with IEPs.
South County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA)
The South County SELPA coordinates special education program development and student placements for more than 11,000 students from birth through age 22. SELPA is responsible for monitoring compliance with state and federal mandates. Please see the Web Links and Resources section below for more information on the South County SELPA and future SELPA Superintendent Council meetings.
The Role of the Psychologist
Psychologists have an important role as members of schools' Student Study Teams. They conduct psycho-educational studies of students who may require special education services. They also serve as consultants to teachers and parents. Requests for psychological services are made through the principal.
District psychologists serve as members of a Crisis Team and respond to the needs of students, parents, and staff in times of crisis.
Forms and Documents